Salem Willows Beach
Salem, MA
Salem Willows Beach sits inside the Salem Willows park at 165 Fort Avenue, on the tip of Salem Neck. The sand runs along the water beside the pier, arcade, and take-out counters that have kept the park busy since 1880. Views look across Beverly Harbor toward Salem Sound. Check posted signs before swimming.
The pier, arcade, and long history make it a North Shore staple, but summer parking gets tight and the beach itself is small next to the park around it.
How we score beachesPark in the main lots and walk, since the restaurant row meters have shorter limits. Come on a weekday evening if you want the arcade without the weekend line.
Paid lots and metered spaces surround the park from April through October, with posted time limits and payment by meter or the Passport app. Check current signs for rates.
Paved lots and park paths sit close to the beach, but the last stretch to the water is sand and rock. Park renovation work has been ongoing, so routes can shift.
Dogs are allowed in the park on a leash but not on the beaches during the summer season, so check posted signs for off-season rules.
Summer weekends bring arcade crowds and full lots. Salem Sound stays cold into June, and fall evenings are quiet and often clear.
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