Connecticut may not be known as a beach destination, however, this beautiful northeastern state is home to a number of great beaches. After exploring the state’s top attractions, head to one of Connecticut’s local city parks and state parks for a fun beach day. You can bask in the sunshine along a sandy shore at one of these best beaches in Connecticut.
Harvey’s Beach, Old Saybrook
If you’re looking for a white sand beach in Connecticut, then Harvey’s Beach is the one for you. At only 100 yards long, this small beach in Old Saybrook is a popular option for families during the summer months. This beach is more than just a sandy shore. Harvey’s Beach has plenty of amenities, like a playground, changing and restroom facilities, and a lifeguard on duty during the summer season. From Memorial Day to Labor Day, the beach also plays hosts to a number of scheduled events like yoga classes and movie nights.
Clinton Town Beach, Clinton
Clinton Town Beach, or simply referred to as Town Beach by locals, is a popular swimming spot during high tide. If you’re not much of a swimmer, you may enjoy visiting this Connecticut beach during low tide, where beach visitors can actually walk out to the sand bars. Clinton Town Beach is a family-friendly attraction, as there are plenty of amenities for kids to enjoy here, including a splash pad and playground.
Rocky Neck State Park, East Lyme
Enjoy the cool, clear water found at the beach at Rocky Neck State Park. This state park in East Lyme is also home to hiking trails, campsites, and fishing spots, and is a great place to spend a weekend away. The beach has everything you would need, like concession stands and bath facilities. Keep an eye out for wildlife that lives near the beach at Rocky Neck, such as ospreys, herring, and cranes.
Sherwood Island State Park, Westport
Another state park to consider for a beach day is Sherwood Island State Park, which is Connecticut’s first-ever state park. Cool off after your hike here by enjoying the sandy beach. The striped sand at Sherwood Island is what makes this Connecticut beach so unique. Tan, red and even black sand granules are found along the shore, which derives from the area’s natural mineral deposits of garnet and magnetite. Spanning over 200 acres, this state park has plenty to offer outdoor lovers no matter what time of year. However, the mile-long beach is definitely the main draw here.
Hammonasset Beach State Park, Madison
Enjoy the sand and sun along the beach at Hammonasset Beach State Park. This Connecticut state park is actually the largest in the state, with over two miles of sandy shoreline and 500 campsites. Walk along the boardwalk, cast your fishing line, launch your kayak, or simply relax along the breezy shore here. Since Hammonasset is home to the largest stretch of coastline in Connecticut, it is a popular spot for beach dwellers, drawing over a million visitors a year. There’s a lively beach scene here, however with so much beach to explore you’re bound to find a nice quiet spot to enjoy a summer day.
Calf Pasture Beach, Norwalk
Calf Pasture Beach in Norwalk will please a wide variety of beach dwellers, from picnickers to fishermen alike. Home to a fishing pier, playground, sports amenities, hiking trails and a skate park, everyone in the family can enjoy a day at this Connecticut beach. If you’re visiting during the summer months, consider checking out the summer events, which vary from free concerts to car shows.
Silver Sands State Park, Milford
Silver Sands State Park is a unique nature preserve that accommodates beach lovers every summer. In order to protect nesting bird species in the area, this beach is only open to visitors from May 1st to August 31st. Birding enthusiasts will truly enjoy spending a summer day on the beach at Silver Sands. Low tide is a unique time to visit the beach, as the exposed sandbar grants passage to an offshore island. This beach also features a mile-long boardwalk that stretches to Walnut Beach Park.
