Constitution Beach is a small public beach off Barnes Avenue in East Boston, Massachusetts, about four miles from downtown Boston. It sits on the edge of Boston Harbor beside Logan Airport, and aircraft taking off and landing are a defining feature of the setting. The beach is a short crescent of tan sand facing a sheltered stretch of harbor, so the water is usually calm and shallow near the shore, with the cool grey-green colour typical of the harbor. It is not a surf beach, and its modest size gives it a neighbourhood feel rather than that of a major destination. The surrounding park includes a playground, grassy areas, picnic space and sports fields, and the beach is used mainly by East Boston families, school groups and local residents on warm days. Lifeguards are posted during the summer season, and restrooms are available. There is no large concession area, so visitors typically bring food or buy supplies in the East Boston neighbourhood nearby. Views across the water take in the harbor islands and, on clear days, parts of the Boston skyline, while the nearby airport adds a constant backdrop of jets. Access is easy by public transit. The MBTA Blue Line stops at Orient Heights station, from which the beach is a short walk, and the Blue Line ride from downtown Boston takes about fifteen minutes. Street parking and small lots serve drivers, but spaces are limited on hot weekends. The area around the beach is flat, and a paved path runs along the shore. Visitors planning to swim are advised to check posted water quality notices, which are monitored during the season. The beach works well as a quick, inexpensive summer outing for people staying in the city.
| Distance | 4 miles from downtown Boston |
|---|---|
| Getting there | Blue Line to Orient Heights |
| Difficulty | easy |
| Best season | June-September |
| Address | Barnes Ave, East Boston, MA 02128 |
Amenities
- Lifeguards
- Playground
- Restrooms
Good to know
- Best for
- families, swimmers, sunbathers, photographers
Location
Barnes Ave, East Boston, MA 02128
42.3873, -70.9981 View on map
Highlights
- Sheltered harbor beach with calm, shallow water
- Short walk from Orient Heights on the Blue Line
- Playground, picnic areas and sports fields beside the sand
- Close-up views of aircraft near Logan Airport
- Harbor island and skyline views on clear days
Tips for visiting
- Take the Blue Line to Orient Heights and walk to the beach to avoid limited parking.
- Arrive early on hot weekends when nearby street parking fills.
- Bring food and drinks, as the beach has few concessions.
- Check posted water quality notices before swimming.
- Expect aircraft noise throughout the day because of the nearby airport.
When to visit
June to September, on weekday mornings or late afternoons. Hot weekends draw local crowds.
Accessibility
The park and shoreline path are flat. Beach wheelchair availability and step-free routes onto the sand should be confirmed locally.
Frequently asked questions
How do I get to Constitution Beach by transit?
Take the Blue Line to Orient Heights station and walk a short distance to the beach off Barnes Avenue.
Are there lifeguards?
Lifeguards are posted during the summer season, and restrooms and a playground are available.
Is the water calm?
Yes. The beach faces a sheltered part of the harbor, so waves are small and the water is shallow near the shore.
Is Constitution Beach near the airport?
Yes. It sits beside Logan Airport, so aircraft are visible and audible throughout the day.