With its location along Boston Harbor, the city of Boston has ample access to beaches galore, many of which are accessible through the Harborwalk trail that circles the harbor. As of January 2011, just a few miles remain to completely connect the 47-mile network. Whether you head north or south from the center of Boston, you are sure to find many beaches to enjoy.
Located in South Boston, Carson Beach features a bath house with showers, changing rooms and toilets. The park also offers a picnic shelter and tables, a playground and a bocce court. Anglers can try their luck off the Mother's Rest fishing pier, or head out in a boat from the park's marina. Lifeguards are on duty at the park.
Pleasure Bay beach is a short walk from downtown Boston along the Harborwalk, and thus a popular spot for sunbathers to lie in the sand. Amenities are few at this beach, and include only a foot shower and water fountains and no lifeguards. The walk along Pleasure Bay will also put you in touch with the path for Castle Island, the home of Fort Independence. The 1850's fort is on the National Register of Historic Places and is open for tours during the summer months.
Located just five miles north of Boston is Revere Beach, which touts itself as America's first public beach. The beach has enjoyed a long history, and was once known as the "Coney Island of the East." The 2-mile long stretch of sand offers shade pavilions and a bathing house and hosts the famous New England Sand Sculpting Festival every July. The beach is accessible via public transportation on the MBTA Blue Line.
Located just north of Logan Airport is Winthrop Shore Reservation, a hotspot for recreation. Visitors to the beach enjoy swimming, fishing and picnicking. The beach's location just outside of Boston Harbor makes the waves stronger than other beaches in the area. Restrooms are on site. Lifeguards are on duty from late June through September, weather permitting, though the beach is open year-round. Winthrop is also accessible via MBTA public transportation.
