Gloucester Beachgoers Face Higher Fees and Reservations This Summer

Gloucester Beachgoers Face Higher Fees and Reservation Requirements this Summer Gloucester, MA – Beachgoers visiting Gloucester this summer will encounter new fees and reservation requirements. The changes, implemented by the city, aim to manage the influx of visitors to popular beaches like Good Harbor and Wingaersheek. The new system requires non-residents to pay for parking through the Blinkay app, with reservations needed up to ten days in advance. Weekend and holiday parking rates at Good Harbor Beach have increased from $35 to $45, while weekday rates are $40. Similar increases are in place at Wingaersheek Beach. Residents can still access the beaches with a $20 sticker. "It's quite a lot," said one young beachgoer, "but if it helps maintain this space, then I think it's okay." A resident senior citizen interviewed at the beach expressed mixed feelings. "Residents get to park for free, which is lovely," she noted. "However, if I want to go elsewhere, I've got to pay." City officials hope the changes will not deter visitors. "Our expectation is people will still come," said a city official. "If they don't, we'll adjust our prices next season." The new system represents a significant change for Gloucester beaches, balancing the need for revenue with the desire to maintain access for both residents and tourists. The use of a reservation app reflects a broader trend of managing access to popular destinations during peak seasons.