Heron Beach, known locally as Front Beach, is a narrow strip of sand in Adams Shore, about 75-100 yards long, with a children's playground right next to it. It is a small, quiet swim spot rather than a destination beach.
What to expect
Swimming
Allowed water tested by the state
Season
Open year-round, no gate
Dogs
City ordinance bars dogs (except service animals) from any Quincy-managed beach from May 1 through October 31; no citywide leash exemption is documented for the rest of the year at these beaches.
Banned now · back October 31Managed by
City of Quincy Department of Natural Resources, Park Division
617-376-1253 · WebsiteGetting in
Parking
Free lot
Costfree
On-street, limited
Details unconfirmed
On-street, limited
CostfreeSpacesfew, street only
Access points along this beach
Tides & weather
Tide and sun: NOAA astronomy · forecast: NWS, up to 7 days
Common questions
Is Heron Beach in Quincy open today?
Open, no advisory on record in the latest MA DPH posting (updated 2026-09-13). MA DPH is the authority. Check the status the morning you go.
The adjacent playground makes this a reasonable pick for families with small kids, though the strip of sand itself is short and there's no lifeguard.
Is there parking at Heron Beach, and what does it cost?
Free lot (free). On-street, limited
Can you swim at Heron Beach?
Yes. Heron Beach has no swimming advisory in the latest MA DPH posting (updated 2026-09-13). Check again the morning you go.
Are dogs allowed at Heron Beach?
City ordinance bars dogs (except service animals) from any Quincy-managed beach from May 1 through October 31; no citywide leash exemption is documented for the rest of the year at these beaches.
Is there an entry fee at Heron Beach?
No, entry is free.