A small beach fronting Pickman Park near Salem State University, muddy at low tide and nearly gone at high tide. Parking nearby is largely resident-only because of the college crowd.
What to expect
Swimming
Allowed water tested by the state
Dogs
Salem requires dogs off the owner's property to be leashed and under control; a dog at large on a public beach, park, or mall draws a $50 fine.
Managed by
Salem Park, Recreation & Community Services
978-744-0924 · WebsiteGetting in
Parking
Free lot
Costfree
Street parking
Details unconfirmed
Street parking
Costfree
largely resident-permit parking near Salem State
Access points along this beach
Tides & weather
Tide and sun: NOAA astronomy · forecast: NWS, up to 7 days
Common questions
Is Pickman Beach in Salem 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.
Is there parking at Pickman Beach, and what does it cost?
Free lot (free). Street parking
What rules should I know at Pickman Beach?
Ground near the water gets very muddy at low tide; beach nearly disappears at high tide.
Can you swim at Pickman Beach?
Yes. Pickman 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 Pickman Beach?
Salem requires dogs off the owner's property to be leashed and under control; a dog at large on a public beach, park, or mall draws a $50 fine.