Joe Moakley Park

A Waterfront Site with History

Originally designed in 1916 by landscape architect Arthur Shurcliff, Joe Moakley Park was actually part of Frederick Law Olmsted's grand vision to connect Boston's Emerald Necklace to South Boston's Marine Park. Pretty cool historical roots, right?

Sprawling across 60 acres along the waterfront, this recreational space has been serving South Boston and beyond for generations. It reflects thoughtful urban planning that focused on creating neighborhoods with plenty of space for people to play and gather.

Ocean Views That Don't Disappoint

Nestled right next to Carson Beach, the park treats you to some seriously picturesque views of Boston Harbor and the city skyline. There's something special about that refreshing ocean breeze that just makes everything better.

Being so close to the water has its challenges though. The coastline location makes the park vulnerable to flooding, which is why there are ongoing efforts to boost its coastal resilience and protect the surrounding neighborhoods.

Sports Galore

If you're into sports, there's plenty to keep you busy here. The park features multiple athletic fields for baseball, softball, soccer, and football (the football field even has floodlights for evening games - nice touch!).

You'll also find basketball and tennis courts, a running track, and beach volleyball courts. Local leagues and intramural teams often gather here for games, especially on weeknights, creating a lively atmosphere.

The expansive open spaces make this spot fantastic for jogging, running drills, or jumping into casual pick-up games. While the fields are generally well-kept, just be aware that you might encounter some uneven terrain in spots.

Family-Friendly Fun

Got kids? The Dorothy Curran playground is a hit with children of various ages, while the Preble Circle tot lot caters especially to the little ones.

When summer heats up, the popular splash pad becomes the place to be. Nothing beats watching kids squeal with delight as they run through the water jets on a hot day.

Getting Around and Settling In

Tree-lined walking paths meander around the park, great for leisurely strolls along the coast. Plenty of benches and seating areas let you take a breather and soak in the surroundings.

Getting here is a breeze thanks to two train line stops nearby, including Andrew Station. While there is parking available, it can fill up fast during busy times, especially at the beach lot, so plan accordingly.

You'll come across portable toilets at several locations throughout the park, however they're limited in number and the maintenance can be hit or miss - just something to keep in mind.

Beach Day, Anyone?

One of the perks of Moakley Park is its location right next to Carson Beach. The sandy shoreline is excellent for stretching out with a good book or playing in the sand. Those harbor views don't hurt either.

The beach area features soft sand and interesting beach rocks to explore. Just a heads-up that water quality can vary, so it's smart to check conditions before taking a dip.

Looking to the Future

As of 2025, Moakley Park is in the midst of a significant redesign. The new vision aims to balance recreational spaces with community gathering areas and much-needed flood protection.

The plans incorporate clever strategies for managing stormwater and urban heat, plus the creation of more diverse landscapes, including a "coastal park" specifically designed to handle storm surges.

Locals are hopeful that the renovation will address some maintenance issues while preserving what makes this park special - the space where people can play, exercise, and connect.