Carson Beach

Carson Beach as well as the M and L Street Beaches form a three-mile stretch lining Dorchester Bay, just south of Pleasure Bay and Castle Island. At its most southern point, the beach widens and borders Joe Moakley Park, where you can take a break from the sand to play some pick-up basketball, bring the kids to the playground, or just relax on the grass. The L Street Brownies' annual New Year's Day polar plunge is launched from the Carson Beach during the off-peak months.

It is a public beach and an excellent location for swimming, playing volleyball, walking along the shoreline, or sunbathing and also offers an excellent view of the Boston Financial District. The beach is a popular spot for South Boston residents and their best canine pals.

A great place to take your dog for a walk along the water's edge is on the sandy shores. You can also go looking for sea glass to bring home as a souvenir of your amazing beach trip. You can bring a snack or light meal from home to share with Fido and the entire family, or there is a nearby concession stand selling food and beverages if you're in the mood for something smaller. Refillable water bottles and trash bags should be brought along.

• Getting there: Take the Red Line to the JFK/UMass station, approximately a half-mile away.
• Google rating: 4.3/5.0
  
• Address: Babe Ruth Road and William J. Day Boulevard Boston, MA 02127