Town of Monterey Monterey Town Beach

78 Tyringham Rd, Monterey, MA

About Monterey Town Beach

The Monterey Town Beach is a popular swimming area in Lake Garfield, the town's largest lake. Up-close parking along Tyringham Road is reserved only for Monterey residents with a valid parking sticker. However, there is typically a grassy parking area north of the beach that non-residents can use. This beach is heavily used in the summer as residents gather at the sandy shore, relax on the grass, or utilize one of the many picnic tables for an outdoor lunch. Lake Garfield is considered one of the most beautiful lakes in the Berkshires, making the beach an excellent spot to take in the natural beauty of Western Massachusetts in a relaxed environment.

The swimming area is guarded by a certified lifeguard in the summer, typically from noon to 6pm. Docks are occasionally placed about 50 feet from the beach, perfect for jumping or taking a quick break from swimming. For those looking to explore more of the lake, the Lake Garfield Boat Launch is adjacent to the beach, where visitors can begin a kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding, or motorized boating excursion into the lake. While the lake appears small from the beach, traveling around the inlet seen from the shore will reveal a large, beautiful open water space.

Additionally, a small pond called Brewer Lake is across the street from the beach. While the swampy water is unideal for swimming, a woodsy trail loop around the pond allows visitors to stretch their legs on a mellow walk through a charming forest. Kayakers enjoy boating into the pond through a small culvert that connects it to Lake Garfield under Tyringham Road.

Visitors should review signage at the beach to familiarize themselves with regulations and safety requirements, including parking information.