A small, sheltered sand beach on the Taunton River next to a well-used town playground, with three ball fields and basketball courts sharing the grounds. It draws families more than swimmers, since the tidal river water can turn cloudy after rain.
What to expect
Swimming
Allowed water tested by the state
Hours
Memorial Day through Labor Day. Weekends 8am to 6pm; weekdays 9am to 5pm once school lets out in late June.
From Memorial DaySeason
Staffed beach season runs Memorial Day through Labor Day; the playground stays open to the public outside that window, weather permitting
From Memorial DayAccessibility
The sand is reached by staircases down from the park, so there is no step-free route to the beach itself. The upper grounds and playgrounds are flat. Accessible parking is not confirmed, so ask the Recreation Department.
Lifeguard
On duty daily 11am-5pm in season
Dogs
Dogs are not allowed anywhere in the park, not just on the sand
Fishing
Allowed year-round
Kayak
Allowed ice-free months
Managed by
Somerset Recreation Department
508-646-2808 · WebsiteGetting in
Access points along this beach
South Street entrance and lot
Beach stairs
Stairs down the bluff; no ramp to the sand.
Gravel boat ramp
Informal small-craft and paddler access
What's here
Facilities
Restrooms
Beach restroom/changing building
Concessions
Snack stand on site but not always staffed · seasonal
Picnic area
Charcoal grills and picnic tables
Changing rooms
Small changing area at the restroom building · seasonal
Not here
No showers
Outdoor rinse shower at the restroom building. Not confirmed as in service, so ask at the snack stand.
Tides & weather
Tide and sun: NOAA astronomy · forecast: NWS, up to 7 days
Show the full year
Average water temperature at Pierce Beach by month, in °F| Month | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|
| Water °F | 41° | 39° | 43° | 49° | 58° | 68° | 76° | 75° | 70° | 62° | 54° | 45° |
|---|
Monthly averages from NOAA, Fall River (2022 to 2024). Today's reading is in the conditions above.
Common questions
Is Pierce Beach in Somerset 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 the water good for swimming?
There's a lifeguard-watched swim area in season, but the beach sits on the tidal Taunton River so clarity depends on recent rain and runoff.
No, dogs are prohibited throughout the park, including the playground and ball fields, not only on the sand.
Can a group reserve the picnic area?
Yes, groups apply through the Recreation Department's Pierce Beach picnic area permit for a specific date over the summer.
Are there restrooms at Pierce Beach?
Public restrooms are listed near the beach. Seasonal hours are common, so they may be closed off-season.
What's the water temperature at Pierce Beach?
Water at Pierce Beach averages about 39°F in February and 76°F in July, based on NOAA readings at Fall River from 2022 to 2024. For today's temperature, see the conditions above.
What rules should I know at Pierce Beach?
Water can turn cloudy after rain since the beach sits on the tidal Taunton River. Dogs are not allowed anywhere in the park.
Is there an entry fee at Pierce Beach?
No, entry is free.