Beach Closures in Massachusetts: Why Some Spots Stay Shut
The long-awaited summer sun is finally here—but for beachgoers in Massachusetts, the season’s warmth comes with a frustrating catch. Five beaches across the state are currently off-limits due to water quality concerns, leaving eager swimmers and sunbathers searching for alternatives.
Where Are the Closures?
As of Friday morning (June 6), the following beaches remain closed until further notice:
- Damon Pond Beach (Ashby)
- Eagle Lake (Holden)
- Fearings Pond Beach 2 (Plymouth)
- Lake Wyola (Shutesbury)
- Cochituate State Park Beach (Natick)
Each closure stems from elevated bacteria levels, posing potential health risks like stomach issues, infections, or rashes—hardly the summer experience anyone wants.
Why the Shutdowns?
The reasons behind the closures vary:
- Cochituate State Park Beach is battling a harmful cyanobacteria bloom, a type of harmful algae that thrives in warm conditions.
- Eagle Lake saw excessive bacterial counts, triggering its shutdown.
- The remaining three beaches (Damon Pond, Fearings Pond, and Lake Wyola) were closed under vague “other” circumstances—with no further details provided by state health officials.
A Glimmer of Hope
Before you abandon plans altogether, there’s a silver lining: Malibu Beach in Boston (near Savin Hill on Morrissey Boulevard) has reopened after its recent closure. However, officials warn that beach reopenings hinge entirely on water quality improvements—meaning any closure could last days, weeks, or longer.
Stay Informed Before You Go
If your weekend plans include a lakeside visit, check the latest updates from the Massachusetts Department of Public Health before heading out. While the allure of swimming in Massachusetts’ natural beauty is strong, safety—and clean water—should always come first.
