Best Beaches in Connecticut
brought to you by Josh Cellars Seaswept
Connecticut may be a small state, but it boasts a stunning coastline along the Long Island Sound, offering a variety of beautiful beaches perfect for a day trip or a relaxing weekend getaway. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly spot, a quiet retreat, or a lively beach scene, Connecticut has something for everyone. While beach season is coming to an end soon, the off-season is one of my absolute favorite times of the year to go to the beach.
Here are some of my personal favorite beaches in the state that you won’t want to miss.
Hammonasset Beach State Park - Madison
One of Connecticut's largest and most popular beaches, Hammonasset Beach State Park stretches over two miles of sandy shoreline. This beach is perfect for families, offering plenty of space for sunbathing, picnicking, and playing in the surf. The park also features a boardwalk, nature trails, and the Meigs Point Nature Center, where visitors can learn about the local wildlife. With ample parking and facilities, Hammonasset is an ideal destination for a full day of fun in the sun. Because this is a state park, it’s open to Connecticut residents for free all year round. Here’s a fun tidbit: "Hammonasset" translates to "where we dig holes in the ground," an Eastern Woodland Indian term that describes the farming area along the Hammonasset River.
Waterford Beach Park - Waterford
Encircled by water on three sides, Waterford is home to two must-visit beaches. Waterford Beach Park stands out as one of Connecticut's last untouched natural beaches, featuring a well-preserved dune system and a stunning tidal marsh. With its calm waves and fewer crowds, it’s a serene retreat for those looking to relax. The town's other beach, located at Harkness Memorial State Park, offers more than just sand. Visitors can explore the grand Roman Renaissance Revival-style mansion and stroll through beautifully landscaped gardens. However, while you can fish or sunbathe, swimming at this beach is not allowed. Daily beach passes to park on-site are needed from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
Tod’s Point - Old Greenwich
Greenwich Point Park, spanning 147.3 acres in Old Greenwich, CT, is a cherished town-owned beach and recreation area, affectionately known to locals as "Tod's Point." Once the estate of J. Kennedy Tod, the park still features several historic buildings, including the Innis Arden Cottage, Seaside Garden, Cowbarn Building, and the iconic Chimes Building. Visitors can enjoy a variety of amenities, such as concessions, restrooms, picnic areas, and scenic walking trails. The park is also home to the Old Greenwich Yacht Club, complete with a boat yard and launch facilities for boats and kayaks. This is one of my favorite places to go for a walk in Fairfield County - the views are absolutely stunning and you can even catch glimpses of New York City. Park passes to Tod’s Point are required from May 1st - October 31st.
Summer in New England has always been synonymous with salty breezes, sandy toes, and a laid-back, coastal lifestyle. My latest beach getaway was taken to the next level with the new Josh Cellars Seaswept, a crisp white wine crafted for those perfect summer days. And it gets even better—Josh Cellars has partnered with Connecticut's own lifestyle brand, The 203 to launch a fantastic collection of summer must-haves inspired by Seaswept. The lineup includes everything from double bottle wine totes (my personal fave!) to cozy throw blankets, stylish hats, tees, and more. Check it out here!
Walnut Beach - Milford
Walnut Beach in Milford, Connecticut, is a charming coastal retreat known for its soft sandy shores and peaceful ambiance. Offering stunning views of Long Island Sound, it's a favorite spot for beachgoers, swimmers, and those looking to relax by the water. A pedestrian boardwalk winds through tidal marshes and sand dunes, making it an ideal spot for sunset strolls. For a truly unique experience, visit nearby Silver Sands State Park between September and April when you can explore the nearby Charles Island Natural Area Preserve (closed in summer to protect nesting shorebirds). During low tide, a sandbar emerges, creating a natural walkway from Silver Sands to Charles Island. Stop by quaint Walnut Beach creamery for some ice cream after your beach day!
Compo Beach - Westport
Compo Beach in Westport, Connecticut, embodies the charm of New England with its expansive sandy shores, tranquil waters, and stunning views of Long Island Sound. A beloved spot for both locals and visitors, this beach has something for everyone. Its array of amenities—picnic areas, a playground, and a scenic walking path—make it perfect for sunbathing, swimming, family barbecues, or a leisurely stroll. The beach is open year round, and a daily fee is charged to park from May 1 through Sept. 30 (unless you have a Westport beach pass).
West Beach – Stamford
Nestled along Stamford’s coastline, Cummings Park spans 79 acres and West Beach covers 26 acres. Although separated by a small neighborhood, the two parks are linked by Cummings Marina. Together, they offer a diverse array of amenities, including two beaches, a pond, six ball fields, adjacent soccer fields, six tennis courts, a basketball court, and a restroom building nearby. The parks also feature a pavilion with restrooms, concession stands, beach volleyball courts, and expansive open lawns, making them a hub for outdoor recreation. This may not be considered one of the best beaches in Connecticut, but as a resident of Stamford, West Beach is my go-to beach throughout the year. A daily fee is charged to park from May 1 through Sept 30 unless (unless you have a Stamford beach pass).
Harvey’s Beach - Old Saybrook
Situated at the confluence of the Connecticut River and Long Island Sound, Old Saybrook combines abundant natural beauty with quaint small-town charm. Harvey's Beach in Old Saybrook, Connecticut, is a hidden gem along the Connecticut shoreline, offering a serene and family-friendly atmosphere. Known for its soft sands and shallow waters, this small beach is perfect for wading, building sandcastles, and enjoying stunning sunsets over Long Island Sound. With amenities like picnic areas, a playground, and seasonal events, Harvey's Beach is an ideal spot for a relaxing day by the water. Whether you're a local or just passing through, it's a charming destination that captures the essence of a classic New England beach experience.
Eastern Point Beach - Groton
This quaint, family-friendly beach is located at the mouth of the Thames River. It features showers, picnic tables, a concession stand, and a playground. The shallow water along the shoreline and seasonal lifeguard supervision make it a popular spot for families. You can purchase seasonal parking stickers annually, available for both residents and non-residents, or opt for a daily parking fee.