Fort Phoenix State Reservation

Fort Phoenix State Reservation is a well-loved beach and park located on outer New Bedford Harbor in Fairhaven. With sweeping views of Buzzards Bay and a preserved Revolutionary War fort, this state-owned beach and town park are a treasure for local residents who enjoy swimming, walking, and bicycling by the water.

Features

cannons along the water at Fort Phoenix in Fairhaven

Fort Phoenix is home to historic cannons and a fort that was the site of the first naval battle of the Revolutionary War. Today, the town of Fairhaven protects this national landmark.

Visitors of all ages will love Fort Phoenix for its mix of history, beauty, and fun recreational opportunities. Local families flock to Fort Phoenix in summer to spend sunny days on the beach.

Beyond the beach, enjoy Fort Phoenix’s grassy park, which is a great place for a waterfront picnic on a warm evening. But the real draw here is historic Fort Phoenix, managed by the town of Fairhaven. This was the site of the first naval battle of the Revolutionary War. Today, it’s a popular destination for local history buffs.

The hurricane barrier that stretches across New Bedford Harbor is another unique feature at Fort Phoenix to discover. Separating the inner harbor from Buzzards Bay’s open waters, this U.S. Army Corps of Engineers structure is a popular place to take a leisurely stroll. Walk or bike along the half-mile paved walkway and enjoy unique views as boats motor past.

Habitats & Wildlife

Fort Phoenix has a half-mile of sandy beach along outer New Bedford Harbor. From the towering rocks next to the fort, gaze out across Buzzards Bay toward Butler Flats Lighthouse and the Elizabeth Islands. Or climb down to the water’s edge and comb the beach for shells from oysters, clams, scallops, and sea snails.

Property Owned By

Beaches, wooded parks, parkways, and reservoirs — all of these places make up the Massachusetts state parks, operated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation.

Details
Size: 9.3 acres
Hours: Dawn to 10pm
Parking: Three medium/large paved parking lots
Cost: Free
Trail Difficulty: Easy
Dogs: In park only (no dogs on beach)
Facilities: Restrooms (seasonal), Showers (seasonal), Picnic Tables, Playground
Boat Ramp: No
Lifeguards: Yes (seasonal)

Please follow all posted rules and regulations at this property.

Address & Contact Information
Green Street
Fairhaven, MA 02719
41.624812, -70.900204
Fort Phoenix State Reservation: (508) 992-4524
Fairhaven Parks and Grounds Division: (508) 979-4030
Email: fort.phoenix@state.ma.us

Please follow all posted rules and regulations at this property.

Fort Phoenix State Reservation
Fairhaven, MA
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Upcoming Events Near Here

Buzzards Bay Swim – Registration Now Open!
Sat, June 22
6:30AM - 10:30AM
Fort Phoenix State Reservation,
Fairhaven
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Sun, August 18
Woods Hole to Falmouth Heights,
Falmouth
Buzzards Bay Watershed Ride
Sun, October 06
Sakonnnet Point to Woods Hole,
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Nearby Places To Go

Phoenix Bike Trail

The 4.5-mile paved Phoenix Bike Trail is a gateway to Fairhaven's coastal forests and salt marshes.

Pope Beach

A small, secluded spot on Priests Cove, Pope Beach in Fairhaven offers sparkling views of Buzzards Bay.

Fort Taber Park

With a sandy beach, bike path, and fishing pier, Fort Taber Park offers sweeping Buzzards Bay views steeped in history.

Current Issues

Nitrogen Pollution

Nitrogen pollution is the greatest long-term threat to the health of Buzzards Bay. We all contribute nitrogen pollution to our local waterways. Fortunately, we can all do our part to stop it.

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59
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Bay Health: Outer New Bedford Harbor

Find your water quality score in Bay Health ›