Carson Beach

Carson Beach is a public city beach along William J. Day Boulevard in South Boston, Massachusetts, about three miles from downtown Boston. It is part of a continuous run of shoreline on Dorchester Bay that also includes Pleasure Bay and Castle Island, and it is one of the most convenient places to swim within the city limits. The beach is a long, relatively narrow ribbon of tan sand and fine gravel backed by a paved walkway, and the water is the typical cool grey-green of Boston's inner harbor waters, generally calm because the bay is partly sheltered from the open Atlantic. Waves are small, which suits wading children and casual swimmers more than surfers. The atmosphere is that of a neighbourhood beach: families from South Boston and nearby districts, groups with coolers, volleyball games and walkers on the promenade. The beach has lifeguards during the summer season, restrooms and a playground, and the wide boulevard and promenade give a view across the bay toward the harbor islands and the Boston skyline in clear weather. There is no large concession complex, so visitors typically bring their own food and drinks, although shops and restaurants are available a short distance away in South Boston. Access is by several routes. The MBTA Red Line to JFK/UMass connects with a bus to the beach, and Silver Line service in the area offers another way to approach the shoreline. Drivers can use street parking and lots along William J. Day Boulevard, which fill on hot weekends. The promenade is flat, and the beach connects on foot to Pleasure Bay and the Castle Island loop, making it easy to combine a swim with a walk to historic Fort Independence. Swimming conditions are monitored by public agencies during the season, and visitors are advised to check posted water quality notices before entering the water, particularly after heavy rain.