1. Calf Pasture Beach - 1 hour from NYC
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Location:
Calf Pasture Beach Rd., Norwalk, Connecticut 06851Recommended For:
Families, picnickers, kayakers, beachgoers, and anyone seeking a relaxed coastal day trip with modern amenities.What I Love: ♥
Historical charm, scenic water views, and abundant activities from sunbathing to kayaking the Island Kayak Trail.- Swim and sunbathe along the lifeguarded stretch of Long Island Sound.
- Rent kayaks or paddle along the Island Kayak Trail for coastal exploration.
- Fish from the pier or enjoy casual seaside strolls along the waterfront.
- Play at the kids’ playground, sports courts, or relax in designated picnic areas.
Cost:
Entry is free; nonresidents pay a parking fee which varies by season.Best time to visit:
Late spring through early fall for warm weather, active facilities, and kayak-friendly waters.Local tips:
Arrive early on weekends for best parking. Bring your own grill for picnicking. Dogs are not allowed during summer season. Check the city’s official beach page for up-to-date amenities and seasonal rules.Distance:
About 50 miles northeast of New York City—roughly 1 hour by car, traffic permitting.How to Get to Calf Pasture Beach:
Drive via I-95 to Exit 16 in Norwalk, then follow signs to Calf Pasture Beach Rd. Limited public transportation is available. GPS: Calf Pasture Beach2. Clinton Town Beach - 40 minutes by car from New Haven
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Location:
201 Killingworth Turnpike, Clinton, Connecticut 06413Recommended For:
Families, swimmers, sandbar explorers, shoreline anglers, and dog owners looking for a scenic coastal outing.What I Love: ♥
Unique sandbar walks at low tide, fishing from a stone bridge, and the beach’s welcoming vibe for boaters and locals alike.- Swim and sunbathe during high tide along the sandy shoreline.
- Walk out to the exposed sand bars during low tide for a one-of-a-kind beach stroll.
- Fish off the old stone bridge spanning the Hammond River.
- Launch your boat and arrive by water for a breezy coastal visit.
Cost:
Seasonal access rules apply: residents need a pass; nonresidents must pay a parking fee during the summer season (June through Labor Day).Best time to visit:
Summer months (June to September) offer warm weather, beach services, and the full recreational experience.Local tips:
Dogs are welcome but must stay on a leash and are not permitted on sandy areas. Check tide times for the best chance to explore sandbars. On-site food concessions make lunchtime easy.Distance:
About 25 miles east of New Haven, approximately 30–40 minutes by car via I-95.How to Get to Clinton Town Beach:
Drive via I-95 to Exit 63 in Clinton, then follow signs toward the coast. Ample signage leads directly to the beach facility. GPS: Clinton Town BeachRomantic Connecticut Beaches:
3. Hammonasset Beach State Park - 30-minute drive from New Haven
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Location:
1288 Boston Post Rd, Madison, Connecticut 06443Recommended For:
Families, campers, beach lovers, nature enthusiasts, and anyone seeking a scenic and spacious coastal escape.What I Love: ♥
Expansive sandy beach, boardwalk strolls, ocean swimming, and the hands-on learning at Meigs Point Nature Center.- Swim in the refreshing waters of Long Island Sound along two miles of shoreline.
- Sunbathe on the wide, sandy beach perfect for a relaxing summer day.
- Stroll the scenic boardwalk and take in views of dunes and sea grasses.
- Camp at one of over 500 campsites to extend your stay in nature.
- Learn through hands-on exhibits and programs at the Meigs Point Nature Center.
Cost:
Admission is free for Connecticut-registered vehicles; out-of-state vehicles pay a day-use fee. Campsite fees vary by site and season.Best time to visit:
Late spring to early fall offers the best weather for beachgoing and camping; summer is peak season for activities and educational programs.Local tips:
Arrive early on weekends and holidays to secure parking. Bring binoculars for birdwatching and check the Nature Center’s schedule for free family-friendly programs.Distance:
Approximately 20 miles east of New Haven, about a 30-minute drive via I-95.How to Get to Hammonasset Beach State Park:
Drive via I-95 to Exit 62 in Madison. Turn south onto Route 450 (Boston Post Rd) and follow signs to the park entrance. GPS: Hammonasset Beach State Park4. Harvey's Beach
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Location:
Great Hammock Rd. (Route 154), Old Saybrook, Connecticut 06475Recommended For:
Families, beach lovers, yoga enthusiasts, and visitors seeking a charming, compact coastal spot with white sands and gentle surf.What I Love: ♥
Gleaming white sand, community beach activities, and a cozy setting that feels both welcoming and serene.- Swim safely under lifeguard supervision from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
- Relax on soft sand with easy access to snacks and a bathhouse.
- Join a beach yoga class or try your hand at kite flying lessons.
- Play at the on-site playground, perfect for young visitors.
Cost:
Entry fees may apply for nonresidents; check with the town for seasonal rates and parking pass requirements.Best time to visit:
Late spring through early fall, especially during summer when lifeguards are present and events are scheduled.Local tips:
Arrive early on weekends—parking is limited. Bring your own umbrella for shade. Check the official website for event calendars and seasonal info.Distance:
About 30 minutes from New Haven via I-95, making it a quick coastal getaway.How to Get to Harvey’s Beach:
Take I-95 to Exit 67 and follow Route 154 to Great Hammock Road. Signage leads directly to the beach. GPS: Harvey’s BeachConnecticut Beaches to Visit with Kids:
5. Hole-in-the-Wall Beach
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Location:
108 Pennsylvania Avenue, Niantic, East Lyme, Connecticut 06357Recommended For:
Nature lovers, paddlers, hikers, families, and anyone looking to enjoy a scenic coastal escape within a protected park environment.What I Love: ♥
The serene mix of coastal access, lush trails, and panoramic Farm River views—all within a conservation-focused park setting.- Swim in the gentle coastal waters for a refreshing day outdoors.
- Kayak or canoe from the beach’s launch area—just make sure to have a boat launch pass.
- Fish or crab along the shoreline for a relaxing recreational outing.
- Hike the natural trails and take in stunning views of the Farm River and surrounding landscape.
Cost:
Entry is free for the general public, but a boat launch pass is required for those planning to canoe or kayak.Best time to visit:
Late spring through early fall for ideal paddling conditions, warm water, and full access to hiking and fishing areas.Local tips:
Bring your own kayak or canoe and purchase a boat pass in advance. Dogs are welcome but must stay leashed at all times. Early morning visits offer the most peaceful views and best light for photography.Distance:
Roughly 45 miles southeast of Hartford—about an hour’s drive along I-91 and Route 9.How to Get to Hole-in-the-Wall Beach:
Take I-95 to Exit 74 toward East Lyme, then follow Route 161 south to Pennsylvania Avenue. The entrance is near McCook Point Park. GPS: Hole-in-the-Wall Beach6. Jacobs Beach, Connecticut
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Location:
140 Seaside Avenue, Guilford, Connecticut 06437Recommended For:
Kayakers, families, beachgoers, seashell collectors, and visitors seeking a relaxing, accessible shoreline experience.What I Love: ♥
Calm waters ideal for kayaking, family-friendly amenities, and a sandy beach dotted with collectable seashells.- Kayak along the gentle shoreline; racks are available for storage while you explore town or relax on the beach.
- Swim during high tide for the best beach experience.
- Play beach volleyball or let kids enjoy the well-equipped playground.
- Stroll the scenic boardwalk or picnic under shaded areas.
- Collect seashells scattered across the sandy shore—fun for all ages.
Cost:
Access fees may apply for nonresidents during peak season. Contact the town for up-to-date pricing and pass requirements.Best time to visit:
Summer months for full amenity access and high tide swimming; early mornings are ideal for peaceful kayaking and shell collecting.Local tips:
Bring your own kayak or rent a storage rack on-site. ADA-compliant facilities make it accessible for all. Visit during midweek to avoid weekend crowds.Distance:
About 20 minutes east of New Haven via I-95, offering a quick coastal getaway.How to Get to Jacobs Beach:
Take I-95 to Exit 59 and follow local roads to Seaside Avenue. GPS: Jacobs BeachUnique Connecticut Beaches:
7. Jennings Beach, Connecticut
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Location:
880 S Benson Rd, Fairfield, Connecticut 06824Recommended For:
Families, swimmers, beach sports lovers, event-goers, and anyone looking for a spacious beach with ample amenities and community charm.What I Love: ♥
Wide sandy shoreline, vibrant family-friendly atmosphere, and a calendar full of community events like fireworks and movie nights.- Swim under lifeguard supervision or take swimming lessons if you’re just starting out.
- Play beach volleyball or enjoy the adjacent skate park and “sand castle” playground.
- Relax with snacks from the concession stand or sunbathe on the extensive sandy beach.
- Sail from the beachfront’s designated sailboat racks.
- Celebrate with fireworks, bonfires, and family movie nights hosted throughout the summer.
Cost:
Entry fees and parking passes may apply, especially for nonresidents during peak season. Contact the Parks and Recreation Department for current rates.Best time to visit:
Summer months for full access to lifeguards, events, and all amenities. July 4th is especially festive with fireworks and family fun.Local tips:
Arrive early for event nights—parking fills up quickly. Don’t miss the playground if visiting with kids, and check town listings for updated event schedules.Distance:
About 30 miles southwest of New Haven, roughly a 45-minute drive via I-95.How to Get to Jennings Beach:
Take I-95 to Exit 22, head south on N Benson Rd, then follow signs to S Benson Rd and the beach. GPS: Jennings Beach8. McCook Point Park
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Location:
Niantic, East Lyme, Connecticut 06357Recommended For:
Families, nature lovers, beachgoers, and anyone seeking a blend of coastal scenery, park amenities, and community events.What I Love: ♥
Dual beaches, bluffside views over Niantic Bay, summer concerts, and the peaceful mix of boardwalks, trails, and picnicking spots.- Relax on the sandy shores of McCook Point Beach or Hole in the Wall Beach.
- Stroll the boardwalk and explore scenic walking paths with bay views.
- Picnic under shaded areas with water views and convenient restroom access.
- Attend summer shows and concerts hosted in the park’s open-air setting.
Cost:
Free access year-round; from Memorial Day to Labor Day, beach passes are required. Passes can be purchased at McCook Beach (weekends) and Hole in the Wall Beach (daily).Best time to visit:
Summer for beach activities and events, or fall for quiet trails and coastal views without crowds.Local tips:
Visit early on weekends to secure parking and explore both beaches. Concerts and events are family-friendly—bring lawn chairs or blankets. Check the East Lyme Parks and Recreation site for event schedules and updates.Distance:
About 40 miles southeast of Hartford, roughly a 50-minute drive via I-91 and Route 9.How to Get to McCook Point Park:
Take I-95 to Exit 74, then follow Route 161 south into Niantic. Look for signs directing you to McCook Point Park. GPS: McCook Point ParkIf you are a photographer, don't miss:
9. Misquamicut Beach, Westerly, RI - 15-minute drive from Mystic
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Location:
257 Atlantic Avenue, Westerly, Rhode IslandRecommended For:
Beachgoers from Rhode Island and Connecticut, families, swimmers, and festival lovers seeking a lively shoreline destination with amenities and events.What I Love: ♥
Expansive sandy shoreline, seasonal music festivals, and convenient facilities like a gift shop and shady gazebos just steps from the surf.- Sunbathe on over half a mile of sandy beachfront with ocean views.
- Swim in lifeguard-monitored waters during summer hours.
- Relax beneath shady gazebos or stroll through the on-site gift shop.
- Snack at the concession stand or use the bathhouse to freshen up after a day in the sun.
- Attend Springfest or Fallfest—annual music festivals that draw locals and tourists alike.
Cost:
Daily parking fees apply for residents and nonresidents. Visit the official site for updated pricing and seasonal pass details.Best time to visit:
Late May through early September for warm waters, lifeguard service, and full amenity access. Spring and fall are great for festival-goers.Local tips:
Arrive early during summer weekends to avoid long parking lines. Festival weekends can be busy—plan lodging and passes ahead of time.Distance:
About 10 miles east of the Connecticut-Rhode Island border; roughly a 15-minute drive from Mystic or 1 hour from Providence.How to Get to Misquamicut Beach:
Drive via Route 1 or Route 78 into Westerly, then follow signs to Atlantic Avenue. GPS: Misquamicut Beach10. Ocean Beach Park
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Location:
98 Neptune Avenue, New London, ConnecticutRecommended For:
Families, beach lovers, swimmers, kids, and visitors looking for a full-featured resort-style coastal experience.What I Love: ♥
White sugar sand beach, Olympic-size pool, classic amusement rides, and a vibrant mix of nature, food, and fun—all in one seaside destination.- Swim in the Atlantic Ocean or take laps in the 50-meter Olympic freshwater pool.
- Play on the mini-golf course, ride the carousel, or enjoy classic arcade games.
- Explore the Nature Walk and spot birds from the observation deck.
- Relax on the soft, white sand beach—ideal for sunbathing or sandcastle building.
- Eat at the Boardwalk Cafe Food Court, which serves meals, snacks, and ice cream.
Cost:
Admission and parking fees apply during the season. Visit the official site for rates, passes, and special event pricing.Best time to visit:
Memorial Day through Labor Day for full park access, rides, food services, and family-friendly programming.Local tips:
Arrive early for parking near the boardwalk. Bring cash for arcade tokens and pack water shoes if exploring rocky shore sections. Check the website for special event nights and fireworks.Distance:
About 50 miles southeast of Hartford, around 1 hour via I-91 and Route 2 or I-395.How to Get to Ocean Beach Park:
Take I-95 to Exit 83 in New London, then follow Ocean Avenue to Neptune Avenue. Ample signage leads to the entrance. GPS: Ocean Beach ParkPlan Your Trip