Salisbury Beach State Reservation
Visitor Guide
3.8 miles of state beach where the Merrimack meets the Atlantic. What parking costs, how to book a campsite, and what to know before you go.
What Is Salisbury Beach State Reservation?
Salisbury Beach State Reservation is a state-run oceanfront park in Salisbury, Massachusetts, where the Merrimack River meets the Atlantic. It has 3.8 miles of coastline, a 484-site campground with hookups and 2 boat ramps on the river, and it is open sunrise to sunset. Parking costs $14 for Massachusetts plates or $40 for out-of-state plates from May 23 through October 12.
The Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) describes it as a place to swim, boat or camp. Just north, the town-run Salisbury Beach Center on Broadway has the summer concerts and fireworks, on the same stretch of sand.
Salisbury Beach at a Glance
The State Reservation and the Beach Center
Salisbury Beach is one beach with two halves, run by two public bodies. Knowing which half you want decides where you park and what you pay.
- The state reservation (DCR), south end: the campground, the day-use lot on State Reservation Road, showers and restrooms, the boat ramps, the nature trail and the jetty at the river mouth.
- The beach center (Town of Salisbury), north at Broadway: the oceanfront stage, the Welcome Center restrooms, the town lot and meters, and the lifeguarded stretch in summer. See the beach center.
What to Do at Salisbury Beach
An ocean beach, a big seaside campground, a river mouth for boats and fishing, and free summer concerts up the beach.
Swimming
3.8 miles of ocean beach. Swimming season runs Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day; lifeguards cover the beach center in summer.
The Beach →
Camping
484 sites with water and electric hookups by the ocean. From $22 a night for Massachusetts residents, booked on ReserveAmerica.
Fees & Booking →
Concerts & Fireworks
Free Saturday bands and fireworks on select summer Saturdays at the beach center stage on Broadway.
Summer Schedule →
Boating & Paddling
Launch a motorboat, canoe or kayak from 2 DCR ramps on the Merrimack River.
Boat Ramps →
The Jetty & Fishing
The Army Corps' 4,118-foot north jetty guards the harbor entrance at the reservation's south end.
River Mouth Guide →
Picnics & Groups
A picnic area, grills, a playground and a reservable pavilion for up to 125 people.
The Pavilion →How to Get to Salisbury Beach
By car on Route 1A, I-95 or I-495, or by commuter rail and bus.
By Car
Set your map to State Reservation Road, Salisbury, MA 01952 for the reservation lot. See the parking guide for state and town rates.
By Public Transit
Take the MBTA Newburyport Line to Newburyport, then the MVRTA bus to Salisbury Beach Center. Details on the parking and directions page.
Park Contact
DCR's Salisbury Beach State Reservation, State Reservation Road, Salisbury, MA 01952. Phone (978) 462-4481. Official notices are on theDCR page.
Salisbury Beach Through the Seasons
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is parking at Salisbury Beach?
At the DCR reservation, $14 for Massachusetts plates and $40 for out-of-state plates from May 23 through October 12. The town's lot at the beach center charges $3 an hour for up to 3 hours or $35 for longer. See parking.
Can you camp at Salisbury Beach?
Yes. DCR's campground has 484 sites with water and electric hookups, booked only through ReserveAmerica. In 2026 sites cost $22 a night for residents or $70 for non-residents, plus hookup fees. See camping.
Are dogs allowed on Salisbury Beach?
Not from April 1 to September 15, except service animals. The rest of the year dogs may go on the beach on a leash.
What are the hours at Salisbury Beach State Reservation?
Sunrise to sunset, according to DCR.
Are there lifeguards at Salisbury Beach?
Yes, in season. The Salisbury Beach Partnership says lifeguards cover the beach center daily from mid-June to Labor Day, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Where is Salisbury Beach State Reservation?
At State Reservation Road, Salisbury, MA 01952, at the mouth of the Merrimack River. DCR's park phone is (978) 462-4481.