Crane Beach Dog Policy, MA | New Rules and Laws 2025
Crane Beach’s dog policy and rules allow visitors to bring their pups during the off-season. The dog rules strictly follow the on-leash regulation. Various activities are available for visitors and their pets at this famous beach, including sunbathing, evening walks, and wave chasing.
This dog-friendly beach in Ipswich, Massachusetts, offers spectacular views and pristine white sands. Swimming, hiking, birdwatching, and other activities are available for visitors. Several restaurants, hotels, and rentals are nearby for accommodations.
Crane Beach Dog Policy, Ipswich, MA
- Dogs must be on a leash.
- There is a ban on dogs during the summer, from April 1 to September 30.
- They are allowed in the winter season from October 1 to March 31.
- Owners must prevent their dogs from chasing wildlife.
- All owners are requested to clean up after their pets.
Crane Dog Beach, Massachusetts
Crane Beach Dog Licensing
Dogs over six months old must be licensed annually. The licensing period starts on January 1 and ends on March 31. A late fee is charged for a delayed permit after March 31. To apply for a license, you must submit a valid rabies vaccination. A dog tag will be provided, which should always be attached to the dog’s collar.
How To Reach Crane Beach
From Rt. 128 North, exit 45B, visitors should take Route 1A north for 8 miles to Ipswich. Follow Rt. 133 East for 1.5 miles. Go along the Northgate Rd. for 0.5 miles. Stick to the Argilla Rd. for 2.5 miles. At the end of the road is the entrance and parking for Crane Beach.
Beachgoers can also avail of service from the Newburyport/Ipswich Commuter line to Ipswich Commuter Station. The CATA manages beach shuttle service from mid-June to Labor Day, including weekends and holidays.
About Dog-Friendly Crane Beach, Ipswich, MA
Crane Beach is located in Crane Estate. It covers a vast area of 1200 acres, and the beachfront is 5.5 miles wide on both sides. This beautiful beach has a maritime forest, dunes, and a view of the Atlantic Ocean.
Crane Beach is one of the most important sites for protecting near-extinction piping plovers. The Castle Neck is home to a stunning pine forest worthy of hiking. A valid permit allows horses on Crane Beach from October 1 to March 31.
The Bathhouse offers first aid and EMT service from Memorial Day to Labor Day. It has a refreshment stand and is the official beach store. The beach has shady picnic tables, boardwalks, and sunset watching.
- Parking: Parking is available at the Town Parking lot. The Baker’s Pasture lot is used as an additional parking space during the summer.
- Things To Do: Hiking, swimming
- Nearby Attractions: Castle Hill on the Crane Estate, Ipswich Museum
- Amenities: lifeguards, bike racks, bathhouse, outside showers
- Dog-Friendly Restaurants: Brown Dog Restaurant
- Dog-Friendly Hotels: Rockport Inn & Suites
- Dog-Friendly Rentals: Ipswich Cottage: Beautiful Views, 5 Mins to Beach, 1 Mile from Cranes Beach
- Dog Boarding: Paws With Inn
- Fees: Members’ entry to the beach is free. Nonmembers must pay $10 for a car, $5 for a motorcycle, and $5 for a foot. Additional charges for dogs apply to $5 per dog.
- Hours: Every day from 8 a.m. to sunset.
- Address: 310 Argilla Road, Ipswich, MA 01938
Accessibility at Crane Beach
The beach has 25 accessible parking spots on a first-come basis. Waterproof beach wheelchairs are available at the beach store in summer and at the entry gates in winter. Visitors with mobility issues can use the beach shuttle till at the main seashore. The place also has wheelchair-friendly restrooms and a bathhouse.
Crane Beach Membership
Members of The Trustees of Reservations receive discounts, program access, and member-only benefits. You can choose from a variety of membership levels.
Who Is The Owner Of Crane Beach?
The Trustees of Reservations own the Crane Estate and its surrounding area.
Crane Beach Entry Pass
Timed Entry Passes for Crane Beach are released bi-weekly on Thursdays for the following two weeks. A pass is mandatory for weekend admissions.
Crane Beach Rules And Regulations, MA
- Fires are prohibited in open spaces. It is restricted to stoves, grills, etc.
- Cutting and removing plants and natural things on the beach is banned.
- Disturbing wildlife and nesting shore birds is forbidden. Feeding the wildlife is strictly against the rules.
- Consumption and possession of alcoholic beverages are forbidden.
- Camping on the beach premises is disallowed.
Conclusion
Crane Beach‘s dog policy allows owners to have fun with their dogs. From March 31 to October 1, both horses and dogs are allowed. This beach is a magnificent place to visit with family. The place sees as many as 350,000 people annually. Enjoy fishing, boogie boarding, skimboarding, etc are allowed.
