A rocky causeway-linked island at the west end of Horseneck Beach State Reservation, with its own free lot, walking trails, and a more relaxed dog policy than the main beach.
What to expect
Parking
Gooseberry Neck lot
Swimming
Allowed water tested by the state
Hours
Open from half an hour before sunrise to half an hour after sunset as published by the National Weather Service, unless posted or permitted otherwise. Fishing, camping, snowmobiling and other authorized nighttime activities are not held…
Dogs
Not allowed in the designated swimming area from May 1 through September 15 unless posted otherwise. Outside that window and that area a dog on DCR land must be caged, bridled, or restrained on a leash or tether no longer than ten feet,…
Banned now · back September 15Birdwatching
Allowed year-round
Getting in
Parking
Gooseberry Neck lot
Details unconfirmed
Access points along this beach
Causeway entrance
causeway crossing from the Horseneck reservation area onto the island
What's here
Facilities
Restrooms
Gooseberry lot area
Tides & weather
Tide and sun: NOAA astronomy · forecast: NWS, up to 7 days
Common questions
Is Gooseberry Island in Westport 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.
Can I bring my dog to Gooseberry even though Horseneck bans dogs in summer?
Yes, Gooseberry Neck has its own, more relaxed leashed-dog policy year-round, distinct from the main Horseneck beach's April 1-September 15 ban.
Are there restrooms at Gooseberry Island?
Public restrooms are listed near the beach. Seasonal hours are common, so they may be closed off-season.
Can you swim at Gooseberry Island?
Yes. Gooseberry Island has no swimming advisory in the latest MA DPH posting (updated 2026-09-13). Check again the morning you go.