47 Massachusetts beaches hit dangerous fecal bacteria levels, causing widespread closures statewide

47 Massachusetts Beaches Regularly Exceed Dangerous Fecal Bacteria Levels
A new report reveals that 47 beaches across Massachusetts frequently exceeded safe thresholds for fecal bacteria in 2024, prompting widespread closures this summer. Environmental groups warn that these high bacteria levels—often linked to stormwater runoff, sewage overflows, and animal waste—pose serious health risks to swimmers, including gastrointestinal illness, ear infections, and skin rashes.
Recent heat waves and heavy rain have exacerbated the problem, with nearly 40 beaches closed on Thursday, Aug. 7 alone. The closures affect coastal, river, and lakefront beaches across the state, from Cape Cod to the North Shore and Western Massachusetts. Environmental advocates are calling for urgent investments in wastewater infrastructure, stormwater management, and public awareness campaigns to reduce contamination and protect public health.
Beaches with the most frequent unsafe bacteria readings (2024)
(percentage = share of water samples exceeding safe limits)
Kings Beach – Lynn/Swampscott — 90%
Malibu Beach – Dorchester (Boston) — 85%
Tenean Beach – Dorchester (Boston) — 80%
Constitution Beach – East Boston — 73%
Wollaston Beach – Quincy — 67%
Revere Beach – Revere — 65%
Carson Beach – South Boston — 60%
Pleasure Bay – South Boston — 59%
Houghs Neck – Nut Island – Quincy — 57%
Horseneck Beach – Westport — 55%
These beaches repeatedly tested above EPA bacteria thresholds, often after heavy rain. The list is dominated by urban beaches with older sewage/stormwater systems, though some rural and Cape Cod locations also saw frequent closures.

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