connecticut coastal towns to visit

Best Connecticut Coastal Towns

Our picks for the best Connecticut coastal towns offer a winning combination of culinary delights, breezy scenery, and waterside experiences.

By Kim Knox Beckius

Jul 01 2022

Stony Creek in Branford, CT | Best Coastal Towns in Connecticut

Clustered together yet distinct in character, the best Connecticut coastal towns are an attractive mix. As with neighboring Long Island Sound, where a churning of salt water and fresh water yields a unique ecosystem that supports diverse species, each shoreline community summons its own devotees with a singular swirl of culinary delights, breezy scenery, and waterside experiences.

5 Best Connecticut Coastal Towns

The restful rhythm of gently sloshing Long Island Sound. The heart-palpitating sight of a glossy ibis in flight. The joy of finding the perfect read with the help of an actual human bookseller. Simple pleasures make Madison a magnet among Connecticut coastal towns. Its throwback downtown is as beloved as its four town- and state-owned beaches. Hammonasset Beach State Park — Connecticut’s largest sandy expanse — isn’t just a place to bury your sunscreened nose in that novel you selected at R.J. Julia . Stroll the boardwalk. Visit Meigs Point Nature Center . Hike or bike through the 460 marshy acres that are a haven for shorebirds and a heaven for birdwatchers, who flock to the Audubon Shop in town to gear up. You can splurge on a stay at Madison Beach Hotel , or — if your budget is leans more toward whole bellies at the Clam Castle than bright, fresh French bistro fare at Bar Bouchée — pitch a tent at Hammonasset for the night.

Spend any amount of time in this historic shipbuilding village at the mouth of the Mystic River, and you’ll leave with a deeper appreciation for the 71 percent of our world that is salt water. If you’ve heard Mystic (arguably the most popular of the many Connecticut coastal towns) is overcrowded, don’t be deterred. With the wind in your hair on a Schooner Argia sail, you’ll feel nautical miles from civilization. Below the deck of the Charles W. Morgan whaling ship at Mystic Seaport, it’s quiet enough to sense the presence of rumored ghosts. And if you book the “Paint with a Whale” encounter at Mystic Aquarium , you’ll be aware of only one other creature: the beluga adorning the canvas you’re holding. Sure, you may have a wait for a coveted table on the deck at Red 36 or in the Treehouse at Oyster Club , but you can occupy that time by sipping a local brew and enjoying the view.

Plan Your Perfect Summer Adventure: Get The Free Ultimate New England Summer Guide!

SEE MORE:  Things to Do in Mystic, CT | Coastal Weekend Getaways

Old Saybrook

Connecticut’s oldest shoreline town sits at the crossroads of New England’s longest river and Long Island Sound. This might be a radically different place if Yale University had remained where it was founded. Instead, Old Saybrook is a posh yet friendly residential community where you can vacation like a local. Even though nonresidents can’t park at Town Beach , in-the-know out-of-towners stroll there at low tide from Harvey’s Beach , which is open to day visitors. Stay at Saybrook Point Resort , and you’re steps from the site of Connecticut’s first fort and from the Old Saybrook Causeway , the town’s most scenic walk. You’ll be close to restaurants, shops, and the Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center , an intimate theater named for the late Oscar winner who once called this seaside village home.

SEE MORE: Old Saybrook, Connecticut, in Autumn

Stony Creek

If you think tiny houses rate high on the cuteness scale, wait until you discover this teeny coastal community in the southeast section of Branford . The village’s lone lodging establishment —  Thimble Islands B&B  — has just two romantic, water-view rooms. You could probably throw a Frisbee farther than the length of Stony Creek Beach . And there’s only one retail building: It’s home to a gift shop and a market that multitasks as breakfast spot, deli, and pizzeria. Some visitors are content to claim a bench in Madera Park and watch the boats come and go, but most can’t resist embarking on one of Connecticut’s biggest adventures. Three competing tour boats depart from the town dock on island-peeping voyages. The pink granite Thimble Islands may be petite — only 23 of 100-plus are habitable — but you’ll be enthralled as your captain navigates close to exclusive homes and shares tales of broken hearts, the Great Hurricane of 1938, and still-unrecovered pirate treasure.

The city meets the sea in this A-lister town, one of the most affluent suburbs in America. But back in 1914, when State Park Commission official Albert Turner walked the entire Connecticut shore in search of a prime site for a park, Westport was a farming community. It took 23 years for the state to acquire lands from reluctant owners to create Sherwood Island State Park , ensuring Westport’s desirable beachfront would belong to everyone. Westport is remarkably outdoorsy, considering it’s just an hour’s train ride from New York’s Grand Central Station. Refuel at Black Duck Café , a floating barge restaurant and bar that’s something of a celebrity, too. Westport is also a hot spot for theater and live music — especially in the summer, when the riverside Levitt Pavilion for the Performing Arts hosts “50 Free Nights under the Stars.”

SEE MORE:  Chowdafest | An Annual Celebration of Chowder in Westport, Connecticut

Are there any Connecticut coastal towns you’d add to the list? Let us know!

This post was first published in 2017 and has been updated. 

SEE MORE: 10 Prettiest Coastal Towns in New England The Sound of Spring on the Connecticut Shoreline

Kim Knox Beckius

Kim Knox Beckius is Yankee Magazine's Travel & Branded Content Editor. A longtime freelance writer/photographer and Yankee contributing editor based in Connecticut, she has explored every corner of the region while writing six books on travel in the Northeast and contributing updates to New England guidebooks published by Fodor's, Frommer's, and Michelin. For more than 20 years, Kim served as New England Travel Expert for TripSavvy (formerly About.com). She is a member of the Society of American Travel Writers (SATW) and is frequently called on by the media to discuss New England travel and events. She is likely the only person who has hugged both Art Garfunkel and a baby moose.

• North America
• Connecticut
• Must Visit Coastal Towns In...

Must-Visit Coastal Towns In Connecticut

Connecticut has a total of 24 towns along its shoreline on Long Island Sound, each offering something a little different. From the historic seaport of Mystic to swanky Westport and Greenwich; or quaint Old Saybrook to beachy Madison and artsy Old Lyme, here are just a few to explore.

Mention the name Mystic and a few things come to mind. First could be the Julia Roberts movie Mystic Pizza . The actual pizzeria that inspired the movie still exists and visitors can grab their own ‘slice of heaven’. It also conjures up images of the historic Mystic Seaport. A leading maritime museum, visitors can board preserved ships including the world’s only surviving wale ship, the Charles W Morgan.

At Mystic Aquarium the must-see attraction is the sweet-faced Beluga whales, whose habitat is the largest in the US. The historic downtown area of Mystic is a food-lover’s dream with diverse restaurants, as well as shopping and a variety of other attractions.

Originally a farming community, today Westport is one of Connecticut’s most prosperous towns. Overlooking the Saugatuck River, the downtown area has a little of everything with independent boutiques, high-end international retailers, local chains, restaurants and galleries. It blends New England charm with cosmopolitan appeal.

Along with shopping, for the sunseekers there is Sherwood Island State Park, Compo Beach and places to rent kayaks. Actor Paul Newman called Westport home until his passing in 2008. During that time he was active in the community, involved in Westport Country Playhouse and opening the Farmers’ Market.

Old Saybrook

Sitting at the mouth of the Connecticut River, overlooking the point of Long Island, is the state’s oldest shoreline town. The original birthplace of Yale, the town’s historic character has been carefully preserved. A walk down Main Street to the Fenwick Historic district is filled with opportunities to admire the classic homes, visit antique shops, boutiques or dine in one of the many restaurants.

Katharine Hepburn once called Saybrook home and is honored by the performing arts centre known to locals as ‘The Kate’. Snap a shot of the picturesque bleached white Lynde Point Lighthouse and make sure to enjoy a traditional Connecticut lobster roll before leaving.

One of the main draws of Madison is the popular Hammonasset Beach State Park , which has two miles of beach, wetlands, woodlands, a boardwalk and nature centre. Its charming downtown area is pedestrian-friendly with a number of restaurants, caf é s, boutiques and The Audubon Shop.

A popular haunt is RJ Julia Booksellers, praised as one of the best independent bookstores in the country. In the past it has hosted famous authors such as Anne Rice and Hillary Clinton. Make sure to stop by the Madison Art Cinema, Madison Green Historic District and the Deacon John Grave House.

Home to hedge funds and financial service companies, affluent Greenwich is where Manhattanites move when they want to live in the ‘ suburbs ‘. The tree-lined main street Greenwich Avenue is lined with an array of high-end shops and boutiques, along with popular chain stores, cute caf é s and elegant restaurants. The small park makes for great people-watching.

Along with shopping, visitors can take in a match at its polo club, explore the nooks and crannies in adorable Diane’s Books, stroll Bruce Park and then visit the accompanying museum or enjoy one of the four beaches.

Named after Lyme Regis in England, this beach town is famous for its past and present connection to the arts. In the early 1900s it was home to an artists’ community at Florence Griswold’s boarding house and the burgeoning American Impressionist movement. Today it has an art school, many galleries and still attracts practising artists.

Located some 10 minutes from town is Sound View Beach, which is accessible to the public (unlike others which are private), where visitors can swim, enjoy homemade ice cream at Old Lyme Ice Cream Shoppe or ride the carousel.

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.

Places to Stay

The best cheap hotels to book in connecticut, usa.

The Best Resorts in Connecticut, USA

The Best Spa Hotels to Book in Connecticut

The Best Hotels to Book in Connecticut

The Best Pet-Friendly Hotels to Book in Connecticut

The Best Beach Hotels to Book in Connecticut

The Best Bed and Breakfasts to Book in Connecticut

The Best Vacation Rentals to Book in Connecticut

The Best Hotels With Pools to Book in and Near Connecticut

The Best Luxury Hotels to Book in Connecticut, USA

The Best Places to Go Camping in Connecticut, USA

The Best Romantic Hotels to Book in Connecticut

Culture trip spring sale, save up to $1,100 on our unique small-group trips limited spots..

• Post ID: 1001538474
• Sponsored? No
• View Payload

Ct’s Coastal Gems – The Best Beach Towns In Connecticut

Categories Towns , Beach Travel , Travel

Connecticut may be a small state, but it is home to some of the most picturesque and charming beach towns on the East Coast. Nestled along the coastline, these coastal gems offer a serene escape from the bustling city life.

In this article, we will explore the best beach towns in Connecticut – from the historic charm of Mystic to the upscale elegance of Westport and the tranquil beauty of Madison, Old Saybrook, and Guilford.

Mystic, with its rich maritime history and quaint downtown, captivates visitors with its old-world charm.

Westport, on the other hand, boasts stunning beaches , sophisticated shopping, and a vibrant arts scene.

Madison, known for its pristine sandy shores and charming coastal community, is a haven for beach enthusiasts.

Old Saybrook, with its picturesque lighthouse and picturesque Main Street, exudes a timeless New England charm.

Lastly, Guilford offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and historical significance, with its scenic beaches and well-preserved colonial architecture.

Whether you’re seeking relaxation, outdoor activities, or cultural experiences, these coastal towns have something for everyone. So, pack your sunscreen and beach towel, and get ready to explore Connecticut’s hidden coastal treasures.

Key Takeaways

• Mystic has a rich maritime history, a quaint downtown area, and is home to the largest maritime museum in the US.
• Westport offers stunning beaches, sophisticated shopping options, a vibrant arts scene, and the popular Compo Beach with soft sand and breathtaking views.
• Madison boasts pristine sandy shores, a charming coastal community, a vibrant art scene, and a variety of delectable seafood restaurants to enjoy.

– Old Saybrook offers timeless New England charm, a picturesque lighthouse, a historic Main Street, and the opportunity for water activities such as boating and kayaking at Harvey’s Beach.

Mystic, a captivating coastal town in Connecticut, boasts a serene ambiance and picturesque waterfront that enchants visitors with its timeless beauty and peaceful charm.

With its rich maritime history, Mystic offers a range of attractions that cater to both history enthusiasts and nature lovers. One must-visit destination is Mystic Seaport, the largest maritime museum in the United States. Here, visitors can explore restored 19th-century ships, stroll along the historic village, and gain insight into the region’s shipbuilding heritage.

Another popular attraction is the Mystic Aquarium, home to a diverse array of marine life, including beluga whales, penguins, and sea lions. Visitors can engage in interactive exhibits, educational programs, and even enjoy up-close encounters with these fascinating creatures.

Whether you are seeking cultural enrichment or a tranquil coastal escape, Mystic has something to offer for everyone.

One can relax on the beautiful Compo Beach, which features soft sand and stunning views of the Long Island Sound.

Additionally, downtown Westport provides opportunities for exploration with its charming shops, restaurants, and art galleries.

Outdoor enthusiasts will also appreciate the town’s abundance of outdoor activities, such as hiking in the nearby nature preserves or kayaking along the Saugatuck River.

Relax on Compo Beach

Nestled along the scenic coastline of Connecticut, Compo Beach offers a tranquil oasis where visitors can unwind and bask in the serene beauty of the ocean.

With its pristine sandy shores and clear blue waters, Compo Beach is the perfect destination for those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation.

Water Activities:

• Compo Beach provides ample opportunities for water activities, such as swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding.
• The calm and gentle waves create an ideal environment for beginners and experienced water enthusiasts alike.

Whether you prefer to soak up the sun on the soft sand or take a dip in the refreshing waters, Compo Beach has something to offer everyone.

The beach is well-maintained and offers amenities like picnic areas, volleyball courts, and a playground for families to enjoy.

So, take a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and indulge in the freedom and tranquility that Compo Beach has to offer.

Explore Downtown Westport

Located in a vibrant and bustling area, downtown Westport offers a myriad of opportunities for exploration and discovery. For instance, visitors can immerse themselves in the local arts scene by visiting the various galleries and attending live performances at the renowned Westport Country Playhouse, allowing them to experience the transformative power of creativity and art firsthand. Additionally, downtown Westport is a haven for food enthusiasts, with a wide range of local cuisine to explore. From sophisticated farm-to-table restaurants to charming cafes and bakeries, there is something to satisfy every palate . Moreover, the downtown area is a shopper’s paradise, with an array of unique boutiques and specialty stores showcasing everything from high-end fashion to one-of-a-kind artisanal crafts. Whether you’re seeking a culinary adventure or a retail therapy session, downtown Westport has it all.

Enjoy Outdoor Activities

Surrounded by natural beauty, visitors can partake in a variety of outdoor activities in Westport. The town boasts a number of hiking trails that cater to all skill levels.

One popular trail is the Saugatuck Trail, which winds through picturesque woodlands and offers stunning views of the surrounding area.

For those who prefer water sports, Westport provides ample opportunities for kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing. The calm waters of the Saugatuck River are perfect for beginners, while more experienced water enthusiasts can venture out into the Long Island Sound for a thrilling adventure.

Whether you choose to explore the lush trails or dive into the refreshing waters, Westport offers a wealth of outdoor activities for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

Madison is not only known for its natural beauty but also for its vibrant art scene and delectable seafood restaurants.

When it comes to dining, Madison offers some of the best seafood restaurants in Connecticut. From cozy waterfront eateries to upscale dining establishments, there is something to satisfy every seafood lover’s palate. Freshly caught fish, succulent lobster, and mouthwatering clam chowder are just a few of the culinary delights that await visitors in Madison.

Additionally, Madison boasts a vibrant art scene. The town is home to numerous galleries and studios, showcasing the works of talented local artists. Whether you are interested in paintings, sculptures, or photography, there is a wealth of artistic talent to explore and appreciate in Madison.

With its combination of stunning natural landscapes, delicious seafood, and thriving art scene, Madison truly stands out as one of Connecticut’s coastal gems.

Old Saybrook

One can relax on the picturesque Harvey’s Beach, a sandy stretch of shoreline that provides a serene atmosphere for sunbathing and swimming.

Additionally, the town boasts a rich history, with numerous historic sites to explore, such as the General William Hart House and the Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center.

Finally, those seeking more adventure can partake in various water activities, including boating, fishing, and kayaking in the nearby Connecticut River.

Old Saybrook truly offers something for everyone, making it a desirable destination for a day trip or weekend getaway.

Relax on Harvey’s Beach

Located on the scenic shoreline of Long Island Sound, Harvey’s Beach offers visitors a tranquil and picturesque setting to unwind and enjoy the beauty of nature. With its soft sandy shores and gentle waves, this beach is perfect for those seeking relaxation and a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Here are three reasons why Harvey’s Beach is a must-visit destination:

• Beachfront Activities: From swimming and sunbathing to building sandcastles and playing beach volleyball, Harvey’s Beach provides endless opportunities for beachfront fun and recreation. Whether you prefer to take a leisurely stroll along the shoreline or engage in more active water sports, this beach has something for everyone.
• Nearby Dining Options: After a day of sun and surf, satisfy your hunger at one of the many nearby dining options. From casual seafood shacks serving up fresh catches to upscale waterfront restaurants offering gourmet cuisine, Harvey’s Beach is surrounded by a variety of culinary delights that will please even the most discerning palate.
• Freedom and Serenity: Harvey’s Beach offers a sense of freedom and serenity that is hard to find elsewhere. The peaceful atmosphere, coupled with the stunning natural beauty, creates the perfect backdrop for relaxation and reflection. Whether you’re seeking solitude or quality time with loved ones, this beach provides the ideal space to unwind and escape the pressures of everyday life.

Visit Harvey’s Beach and experience the ultimate coastal getaway in Connecticut.

Explore the Town’s Historic Sites

Nestled within the town is a collection of well-preserved historic sites that offer a glimpse into the rich heritage and cultural significance of the area.

For those looking to delve into the town’s history, exploring lighthouse tours is a must-do activity. The picturesque coastline is dotted with several lighthouses, each with its own fascinating story. Visitors can learn about the role these beacons played in guiding ships safely to shore and marvel at their architectural beauty.

Additionally, the town boasts several historic mansions that are open for public tours. These grand homes offer a window into the opulent lifestyles of the past and showcase exquisite craftsmanship and design. Walking through the halls, visitors can imagine the elegance and sophistication that once permeated these stately residences.

Exploring the town’s historic sites is a captivating way to connect with the area’s past and appreciate its cultural significance.

Enjoy Water Activities

One can experience the thrill of water activities in the town, as it offers a striking contrast to the tranquility of its historic sites.

With its pristine coastline and crystal clear waters, this beach town is a haven for water sports enthusiasts. Whether you enjoy surfing, paddleboarding, or kayaking, there are plenty of opportunities to get out on the water and soak up the sun.

The town’s beach volleyball courts are also a popular spot for both locals and visitors alike. Whether you’re a seasoned player or just looking for some fun in the sand, beach volleyball offers a great way to stay active and enjoy the beautiful surroundings.

So, grab your board or volleyball and dive into the exciting world of water activities in this charming coastal town.

The scenic shoreline of Guilford offers a variety of outdoor activities for beachgoers and nature enthusiasts alike. From swimming and sunbathing on the soft sandy beaches to exploring the tide pools and sand dunes, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

The town’s proximity to various hiking trails and nature preserves also allows visitors to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the area. Whether you’re seeking relaxation or adventure, Guilford’s tranquil atmosphere and scenic surroundings make it a perfect destination for those seeking a coastal escape.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some popular activities to do in mystic, connecticut besides visiting the mystic seaport and mystic aquarium.

Popular outdoor activities in Mystic, Connecticut, besides visiting the Mystic Seaport and Mystic Aquarium, include kayaking and paddleboarding. Mystic’s picturesque coastline provides ample opportunities for adventurous water sports enthusiasts to explore its scenic beauty.

Are there any annual events or festivals that take place in Westport, Connecticut?

Westport, Connecticut hosts several annual music festivals, attracting music enthusiasts from all over. Additionally, Madison, Connecticut is renowned for its top-rated seafood restaurants, offering a delectable culinary experience for seafood lovers.

Can you recommend any local restaurants or eateries in Madison, Connecticut that are known for their seafood?

Madison, Connecticut offers a variety of seafood restaurants known for their exceptional cuisine. Some popular options include Lenny & Joe’s Fish Tale, The Clam Castle, and Donahue’s Clam Castle. In addition to Mystic Seaport and Mystic Aquarium, visitors can explore attractions like Olde Mistick Village and Mystic Arts Center.

Is there a specific time of year when Old Saybrook, Connecticut is particularly crowded with tourists?

The best time to visit Old Saybrook, Connecticut is during the summer months, particularly from June to August, which is the busiest tourist season. During this time, the town is crowded with tourists enjoying the beaches and other attractions.

Are there any hiking trails or outdoor recreational areas in Guilford, Connecticut that are worth exploring?

Guilford, Connecticut offers several hiking trails and outdoor recreational areas worth exploring. Nature enthusiasts can enjoy the scenic views and tranquility of places like Westwoods, Bluff Head, and the Guilford Lakeshore Trail.

Connecticut’s coastal towns offer a captivating blend of history, charm, and natural beauty.

Mystic, with its quaint streets and iconic seaport, is a treasure trove of maritime history.

Westport boasts stunning beaches and a vibrant arts scene, while Madison entices visitors with its picturesque shoreline and charming downtown.

Old Saybrook’s sandy beaches and historic Main Street make it a delightful destination, and Guilford’s colonial charm and beautiful scenery make it a must-visit town.

With their unique attractions and coastal allure, these beach towns in Connecticut are true gems.

As William Shakespeare once said, ‘Like a jewel in an Ethiope’s ear,’ these towns shine brightly amidst the coastal landscape.

Travel X Britt

Best Connecticut beach towns: 15 of the most beautiful you need to experience now

Connecticut is full of great beaches that are perfect for anyone to enjoy. Today, you will learn about the best Connecticut beach towns that will not disappoint.

From private town beaches to the Long Island sound, there are options for everyone’s interests.

Whether you are from the East Coast or are looking for a new summer destination, this list will give you ideas on what area to experience first.

In this post you will learn:

• The best coastal towns in Connecticut
• Parking permit, restrictions, and non-resident info
• What to do in these charming beach towns
• Beautiful beaches

So if you are ready to plan your Connecticut trip well informed, keep on reading!

Make sure you add this to your East Coast bucket list. The state of Connecticut is known to be the nutmeg state and is a special place for beach lovers.

Connecticut beach towns

Connecticut Coastal towns are incredibly peaceful. Why? Because most of the towns have a city center apart from the beach. That means you won’t find tons of crowded boardwalks and loads of shops at every beach destination.

This is perfect for the quiet beachgoer who doesn’t want noisy distractions. Instead, you can find the ambiance in the downtown area and enjoy the beach apart, peacefully.

Milford Connecticut: A great Connecticut beach town for the family

Milford is located in New Haven County and is the sixth eldest town in the state of Connecticut. This cute cozy area is known to be one of the best charming beach towns in Connecticut.

It is one of the best beach towns because it has lots of outdoor activities. You can easily choose from 5 of their beaches, there’s Walnut Beach, Middle Beach, Anchor beach, Gulf beach, and Woodmont beach.

Walnut beach is almost like a crescent shaped beach and is pretty. There are some rocks though.

Milford’s coastline is about an impressive 17 miles. These beaches border the infamous Long Island Sound.

This area is perfect for chill beach lovers as it has a very laid-back vibe. After all, the Long Island sound is insanely popular during the summer. If you are traveling to Milford with kids, make sure you add Silver Sands State Park and Eisenhower park to the list.

Silver Sands state park has a parking permit fee of $22 for non-residents. The park has walking areas, biking areas, boardwalk areas, and swimming areas. Milford has the longest boardwalk.

At Eisenhower park, you can find a tennis court, playground, and a splash pad. Perfect place for the whole family !

Charles Island

Another fun activity is to visit Charles Island. This is a 14-acre island right next to Milford. The good news is you can walk, you just have to make sure the tide is low. It’s only 0.5 miles from the coast of Milford.

Charles Island is pretty and a great activity to do if you are in the Milford area.

If your traveling party enjoys wildlife, make sure you add Audubon Coastal Center at Milford Point too, this is a great place to view wildlife and birds from the center’s deck.

In addition to outdoor activities, Milford has good restaurants, one of the award winning is named Bin 100. It is the best in town and has a tasty Mediterranean menu. For adult drinks, make sure you go to Dockside which is a waterside pub & brewery with a nice view of the Housatonic River.

And if you are not a drinker, it’s a cute place to hang out by the water for a soda or some appetizers.

Other popular restaurants in Milford include Seven Seas and The Corner restaurant.

One of the most upscale Connecticut beach towns – New London

New London, CT, is an upscale seaside town.

It is located on the Thames River and was first settled in 1651. The town has been home to many wealthy people throughout its history because it served as the site for many colonial trading ports.

The climate in New London is typically temperate with four seasons that are usually cool or cold with hot summers and cold winters. The best main attractions in New London are Ocean beach park , Fort Trumbull State Park , and Lyman Allyn Art Museum .

At Ocean beach park, you’ll find a beach, a miniature golf course, an Olympic sized swimming pool, waterslides, and more. Parking permits are 20$ on weekdays and $25 on weekends. It’s home to beautiful beaches.

New London is also home to one of the most popular beach destinations in Connecticut.

Ocean Beach Park is a hit for families so if you have kids, you can put this at the top of your list .

At Fort Trumbull State Park, you can take in views of the Thames River, fish, or enjoy the boardwalk. The park is free to enter.

If you are looking for art and culture, make sure you make a stop at Lyman Allyn Art Museum. The collection has over 17,000 pieces of art from all over the world.

Fairfield: A beautiful Connecticut beach town

Fairfield Connecticut is absolutely beautiful and has lots to do for a fun-filled weekend with friends or family. In Fairfield, they really utilize the 5 miles of Connecticut coastline the area has.

Along Fairfield’s coast, you’ll find 5 pretty beaches, these are South Pine Creek, Southport, Sasco, Penfield, and lastly Jennings Beach which is the most well-known and has a rockier shore. During the summer there is also a family movie night.

If you are in Fairfield Connecticut during the weekend, make sure you stop at the local Fairfield Farmers Market. The market takes place every Saturday from June – to October and offers homemade kombucha to incredibly fresh produce.

Adding on to where to shop, make sure you visit Snappy Gator for beachwear and Glitter & Grime for kidswear.

Fairfield area doesn’t disappoint with top-notch food either. Some popular restaurants in Fairfield Connecticut include Colony Grill and Saugatuck Sweets.

Parking in the area can be a little pricy, for non-residents it’s $40 on weekdays, and $50 on weekends.

Fairfield is one of the best beach towns in Connecticut with its activities, calm waters, and prime location. The town sits between Stamford and Bridgeport.

Stamford might sound familiar as it’s home to Chelsea Piers and a 50 meter Olympic sized swimming pool in the area.

No one can deny the pier at Calf Pasture Beach in Norwalk is absolutely stunning! Calf Pasture is definitely the most popular beach in the area with lots to do right on-premise. The area used to be extremely popular for oysters and making hats back in the 19th century.

You can rent a boat for the day or visit a nearby popular restaurant such as Ripka’s beach cafe. In addition to that, if you are traveling with family you can entertain the kids with activities such as baseball, skateboarding, or the traditional playground.

You can also play mini golf at the infamous Norwalk cove Marina mini golf. The views at the mini golf course are the gorgeous Long Island sound.

This is one of the cutest beach towns in Connecticut because it’s very homey. Norwalk also has beautiful beaches for different kinds of travelers.

Parking permits for non-residents in Norwalk has a similar rate to other nearby charming beach towns. Weekdays are $40 and $65 for holidays and weekends.

While in the area, make sure you visit South Norwalk (aka SoNo) which is known for housing good restaurants in town.

The most popular restaurants in Norwalk include Pontos Taverna, Osteria Romana, Valencia Luncheria, and Brasitas. Make sure you check them out! They all range from $$-$$$.

If you’d like to shop, there is now Soho Collection which is Norwalk’s newest mall.

Whether you’re a family, a couple, or even a solo traveler , Norwalk has something for everyone.

Madison Connecticut has some of the most relaxing vibes in the whole state and that’s thanks to Hammonasset Beach State Park. It’s also home to the biggest beach in the state since it expands to 2 miles.

Meigs Point Nature Center  is located within the Hammonasset Beach State Park, this is an absolute must-visit for nature lovers. You might be wondering what to do at Meigs Point Nature Center, there are more than 50 species of local wildlife on display in various exhibits and greatly maintained nature trails.

Hammonasset Beach State Park is easily what attracts the majority of people to the area.

Believe it or not, Madison Connecticut usually averages out a million visitors yearly with a resident count of 18,000. That’s a lot of people but not to fret, the 2-mile beach ensures there’s plenty of room for everyone.

In Hammonasset Beach State Park, you’ll find beach water that’s well maintained and a great place to catch a sunset. If you want to cozy up and catch a sunset, make sure bring a blanket.

At Hammonasset Beach State Park you can easily enjoy long walks on the beach, paddleboard, or kayak. As noticed in the name, Hammonasset Beach State Park is owned by the state of CT.

For free and easy transportation to  Hammonasset Beach State Park , Fort Trumbull State Park, and Sherwood Island State Park check out ParkConneCT for more information.

Madison Connecticut important information

In town, there are 3 other beaches that are considered town beaches. These are East Wharf, West Wharf, and Surf Club.

Madison Connecticut is an insanely beautiful seaside town that has a warm charm to it. It’s hard not to fall in love, even with people too! Don’t be surprised if you start talking to warm residents in coffee shops or bookstores. Madison folks are known to be friendly.

Outside of the coziness, Madison is one of the best beach towns in Connecticut because of its charm.

The most popular restaurants are Bar Bouchee, The Clam Castle, and Lenny & Joe’s Fish tale. Bar Bouchee offers great steak. The Clam Castle offers great lobster rolls. Lenny & Joe’s Fish tale offers great quick seafood eats.

If you like arts & culture, make sure you look into events at the Madison Arts Barn and Madison Art Cinemas. These are 2 different venues that are well known to have top-notch shows the whole year.

There is also a super famous book store RJ Julia Booksellers. It’s a charming place that is located near the Connecticut shore.

Madison is definitely one of the artsy towns in Connecticut.

Old Saybrook

If you are into history or are looking for a romantic getaway, Old Saybrook CT is calling your name. This historical Connecticut coastal town goes all the way back to 1635, when it was first settled.

It’s one of Connecticut’s oldest towns that sits right at the mouth of the Connecticut river. Though it is old, that doesn’t mean the aesthetic compromises. Parking rates are $12 on weekdays and $25 on weekends.

For the best sunset views, make sure you stop at the Breakwater lighthouse. This sunset view will make for a perfect picture, or maybe even a postcard? It’s that pretty. Old Saybrook is home to beautiful beaches and is a perfect option for a sunny beach vacation.

Saybrook point resort is one of the most popular hotels in the area and is highly reviewed.

Old Saybrook has 2 popular beaches that are Harvey’s beach and Indiantown beach. Harvey’s Beach , offers warm, shallow waters and 300 feet of shoreline, making it popular among families.

Not only is  Harvey’s Beach  one of the most beautiful beaches in the state, but you’ll find great amenities and calm, shallow waters that are perfect for wading in as you take in the lovely coastal view.

The non-resident parking fee at town-owned  Harvey’s Beach  in Old Saybrook is a small price to pay for access to this pretty patch of sand. 

Conveniently near the beaches, you’ll find Main street. This area has a major New England feel to it, small but it’s incredibly charming. It’s a charming seaside town.

On Main street, you’ll find delicious restaurants/cafes and noble antique shops. Next, head over to the infamous Fenwick Historic district. Fenwick is home to the cutest (and some of the oldest) cottages that were built more than 100 years ago.

Adding on to history, feel free to stop at “The Kate,” which was named after Katherine Hepburn and is now the performing arts center for shows. Old Saybrook is hands down one of the best Connecticut towns to visit.

East Lyme Connecticut is known for Rocky Neck State Park and its mile-long Niantic Bay Boardwalk. Within East Lyme are 2 areas: Niantic and Flanders which are also known as villages.

In Niantic, you have the Niantic bay, Niantic River, and the Long Island Sound. These activities are what have caused Niantic to become more popular. Locals call Niantic a “shoreline secret,” so if you are looking for a hidden gem , definitely put Niantic on your list.

As mentioned previously, the Long Island Sound is a local favorite.

Adding on, if you like sweets, make sure you stop at the 1950’s style candy and ice cream store Gumdrops & Lollipops in Niantic. They also now serve breakfast now.

Next within East Lyme is the Flanders Fishmarket. If you like seafood, this is a must-stop. It’s an award winning restaurant and seafood market. LOTS of fresh fish!!

Rocky Neck State Park is in East Lyme and has a specific crescent-sized beach that goes out for .5 mile long. East Lyme parking fees for non-residents are $40 weekdays and $50 weekends and holidays.

Last but certainly not least, the infamous hole-in-the-wall beach is a must-see. This beach is only attainable through a tunnel that is located under railroad tracks. Hence the name of the beach :).

No denying it’s a pretty beach with white fine sand. It’s quirky, cool, and a unique way to enjoy a beach. At the hole-in-wall beach, you have the Niantic Connecticut boardwalk nearby and the McCook Point Park. That’s more options for things to do!

Westport, Connecticut is a beautiful oceanfront town that overlooks the Saugatuck River. It has 3 beaches in the area that are Compo Beach, Old Mill, and Sherwood Island State Park.

One of the best things to do in Westport is to stroll the theme gardens at Gilbertie’s Herb Garden, the largest herb grower on the east coast.

Stay for one of their demonstrations or workshops, and seasonal events. Stop at the favorite “joint” in town, Black Duck Cafe for lunch or dinner, which is located on the scenic  Saugatuck River . Saugatuck River  offers a boardwalk and multiple athletic facilities.

Compo Beach

Compo Beach is the town beach and is known to be clean and well kept. This is a cute local option to enjoy. Parking runs similar to the other charming beach towns that are on this list.

Sherwood Island State Park

If you’re looking for a beautiful and natural place to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life, look no further than Sherwood Island State Park. This park is located in Westport, Connecticut, and offers stunning views of Long Island Sound.

Visitors can enjoy hiking, biking, fishing, or simply relaxing on the beach. There’s something for everyone at Sherwood Island State Park!

From May 1st – To September 30th, non-residents will pay $45 for weekdays and $70 for weekends.

Just a short walk away from Compo beach is Old Mill. Old Mill is another small beach with a unique shape. During the summer you will need a parking pass to access it.

Did you know this park is one of the first state parks in Connecticut? It was built in 1914 and wasn’t opened to the general public until 2000.

The best restaurants in Westport Connecticut are Finalmente Trattoria, Via Sforza Trattoria, and The Spotted Horse Tavern. Make sure you make a stop at these insanely delicious restaurants while visiting Westport! You will not regret it.

When you are not enjoying the outdoors, head down to Main street in Westport where you’ll find tons of shops. Nearby is the renovated Westport Library that beautifully faces the Saugatuck River.

For more culture and entertainment, look into the Levitt Pavilion where they offer free concerts from time to time.

Greenwich is one of the Connecticut beach towns close to NYC

Greenwich Connecticut is a very prestigious area, when most people think of it, they don’t really think of a beach town. They usually think of upscale art galleries, luxury stores, and superb restaurants.

However, don’t get things confused. Greenwich Connecticut is a beautiful beach town. It’s also one of the Connecticut beaches that’s near NYC.

This area is often called a New York commuter town considering it’s only an hour away by train from Grand Central. A lot of people who live in Greenwich work in New York City.

Make sure you visit Greenwich Point Park which has a beach with impressive cityscape views of Manhattan. You’ll need a pass from the civic center to enter. In this gorgeous area, you can also take the seasonal ferry to Island beach.

Another popular siting in Greenwich is Greenwich harbor. It’s a great place to catch the sunset and go for a walk.

Island beach is owned by Greenwich town and offers a 3.9-acre island. It’s a great way to spend the day, you will need ferry tickets and beach passes to go.

The centers are only open on weekdays so make sure you prepare your trip ahead of time. The fee to park is $35 per car with an add-on of $7 for any individual that’s over 5 years old.

Stony Creek – One of the most epic Connecticut beach towns

Stony Creek beach is in the cute town of Bradford Connecticut. The beach might be small but it sure is cute, locals and visitors alike enjoy Stony.

It is known to have clean water and nice fine sand. By Madera Park, you can find a space to bring kayaks, canoes, and boats out.

Many people head to Stony Creek beach to go on a cruise to Thimble Islands. Thimble Islands is a very beautiful archipelago with some houses. The houses on the island are known to be beautiful summer Victorian houses. Stony creek is one of the best Connecticut shores.

If you can definitely take a trip, it’s a beautiful thing to view, everyone loves it. Rates for the Thimble island cruise as of 2020 are $13 for adults, $6 for children, and $12 for seniors.

You also can do 2-hour private boat tour that’s $450 on weekdays and $500 on weekends.

People visit Mystic Connecticut to experience authentic New England culture. It’s one of the best towns in Connecticut in regards to authenticity.

The town itself is a major hot spot, and tons of people have been moving in over the years. It’s beautiful and was once home to one of the major ports in the state.

If you enjoy marine history, definitely make a stop at the town’s seaport museum. Close by there is also another museum of ships.

At Williams Beach park, you’ll find Mystic’s beach. However, if you would like more beach options, there are tons of beaches a few miles away.

Mystic is known for the beachy vibe and its famous port. Today, the port is still booming and you’ll find boats all along the area. Feel free to go on a boat and enjoy the city’s beautiful seaside views.

Guilford: An old historical Connecticut beach town

Like some of the other beach towns on this list, Guilford is very old and has a historical vibe. A lot of the homes in Guilford was built from the 17-19th century.

These houses border other important streets in town, such as the Town Green which is a small village that runs about 12 miles long and 5 miles wide.

Head to Jacobs beach for water activities such as swimming and kayaking. Non-residents have to pay for a daily visit. Residents are $35, non residents are $70. Due to COVID-19, it´s not clear if there are lifeguards on duty.

Outside of the beach, check out Guilford’s culture scene. In town, there are small but charming museums that are Thomas Griswold house, Henry Whitfield State Museum, and Hyland house.

In addition to culture, Guilford has a ton of cute stores and ambience to check out. Stores in the area range from art galleries, boutiques, antique shops, and restaurants. All around lots of green trees that border the streets. Really pretty!

Putnam Connecticut is another one of the best towns to visit in Connecticut. It’s full of culture, beauty, nature, and things to do! The town is located by the Quinebaug River and is very green and lights up with foliage during the fall.

Though Putnam doesn’t have a beach exactly, many go to the Putnam river trail to swim, bike, and hike. It’s pretty and is friendly with pets too.

Outside of nature and recreation, Putnam is buzzing with culture. Just walk through the quaint streets of Putnam, and you’ll easily love the charm. Check in with the Complex Performing & Creative Arts Centre and the Bradley Playhouse to see what events are going on prior to your trip.

Old Lyme: One of the best Connecticut coastal towns

Old Lyme is one of the most popular Coastal towns in Connecticut. Once Memorial Day weekend hits, many people head over to Old Lyme to get settled in their beach rentals and start their summer.

The town has a beautiful landscape with a colonial aesthetic.

If you happen to be on the list of renters, you’ll get access to Old Lyme’s private town beaches. On the other hand, Sound view beach grants public access all summer long.

The other beach that’s accessible is, White Sands. It is open to the public for non-residents and residents but after Labor day. White sands, unfortunately, doesn’t offer parking during the summer for visitors.

Don’t miss the Old Lyme ice cream shoppe & cafe if you like dessert! It’s one of the best ice cream shops in the area.

Other fun things to do in Old Lyme Connecticut involve exploring the Florence Griswald museum and exploring its neighbor, Old Saybrook.

Clinton: An artsy Connecticut beach town

Clinton Connecticut screams tranquility. National Register of Historic Places recently added Eastern Clinton to their list. It’s absolutely breathtaking. If you are traveling with kids, they will love Clinton!

For water activities, head to Clinton town beach. You can go swimming or paddleboarding there.

There are tons of family-friendly activities in the area, especially the Cedar Island marina. At Cedar island, you’ll find an oceanfront restaurant, a heated pool, leisure areas, and even free transportation with the shuttle bus.

In addition to that, there is Clinton art gallery. This offers art pieces from over 30 creators. Similar to other areas on this list, the parking fee for non-residents is $50 on weekdays and $75 on weekends (includes Fridays).

It’s a beautiful place for the family to enjoy the day in the sun. For places to eat, consider Lobster landing or Chamard Vineyards Bistro.

Most affordable Connecticut beach towns

The most affordable Connecticut beach town is Westport, Connecticut. In fact, in 2018, NBC did a survey and found West Port Connecticut to be the cheapest beach town in all of America in regards to housing, taxes, and more.

Next up are East Lyme and Norwalk in terms of affordability and property taxes. The majority of homes in this area are below 1 million.

Beaches in Connecticut with boardwalk

When you think of a beach in America, many people think of a boardwalk too. Here are the best beaches in Connecticut with a boardwalk:

New London Ocean beach park

If you don’t want to walk a lot, keep it short and sweet with this boardwalk. It’s only half a mile long.

Milford Silver Sands State park

The boardwalk goes all the way from the beach back to the parking lot. Enjoy the views along the way. It’s a nice walk.

Niantic Bay

This is known to be a quieter boardwalk, so if you are looking for fewer crowds, definitely consider this boardwalk. It’s also right near the train station.

Milford Walnut beach

The Connecticut boardwalk at Walnut beach offers great ocean views or a comfortable place to walk for a short distance.

Bridgeport Captains Cove

This boardwalk isn’t as quiet as the rest since there are shops and restaurants all over. Perfectf or the busy bees who want something to do on the boardwalk.

Milford Audobon Center

Milford has a thing for boardwalks, at the Audobon center enjoy the views while trying to view wildlife.

Norwalk Calf Pasture beach

People love Norwalk and they love the boardwalk and port in this Connecticut area too. It’s simply beautiful.

Mystic boardwalk and port

Simply beautiful. Mystic Connecticut is epic so if you can check out the boardwalk and port, you’ll be in good shape.

Connecticut beach towns close to NYC

As previously mentioned, Greenwich is one of the best Connecticut beach towns close to NYC. The commute is under 1 hour with the train leaving you in Grand Central in 45 minutes. In addition to Greenwich, Norwalk is also very close to NYC.

Greenwich is one of the beach towns in Connecticut that has a lot of aesthetics. It’s beautiful, the houses are gorgeous, and people love living there due to its proximity to the city.

From Norwalk to NYC it takes about 1 hour and 2 minutes by train.

I hope you enjoyed learning about the best beach towns in the state of Connecticut. There are 15 rock-solid options on this list. If you are from the East Coast, you have more than a reason to visit. Proximity!

Today you learned about the best Connecticut coastal towns, the most affordable beach towns in Connecticut, beaches in Connecticut with a boardwalk, and lots more.

I also shared parking and non-resident info so you know what prices to expect.

If you look for beautiful places to visit in the USA, Connecticut should be top of your list. You’ll learn you don’t always have to go travel far to find gems 🙂

Have you ever heard of any of these Connecticut beach towns, would you ever visit one?

Britt is the founder of travelxbritt.com and has been traveling extensively for over 6 years. After traveling and living abroad in parts of Europe and Asia, she has tons of tried and true professional travel experiences. Everything spoken about in this website has been lived through, experienced, or reviewed.

As a true travel expert, Brittany shares her wisdom onto others. this website is for the modern day traveler who wants to know everything they need to know, BEFORE they go! Thanks for reading and be sure to get in touch if you have any questions.

Similar Posts

Day trip from Porto to Douro Valley : Portugal Must see

Are you looking to make a day trip from Porto to Douro valley? Consider that you have landed in the right place. In this post, you will learn every single thing that you need to know about going to Douro valley from Porto. Today you will learn: How far Douro valley is from Porto and…

Getting from Porto to Guimaraes Portugal: Your best resource

Getting from Porto to Guimaraes Portugal isn’t hard but there are definitely some things you should know prior to planning. This is your best resource on how to plan this trip. Guimaraes is a beautiful small city located in the Northwest of Portugal known as Portugal’s birthplace. It is definitely worth visiting if you want…

Dubai Spanish restaurants: The 5 best you need to try

Craving for some classic Spanish tapas, flavorsome Paella Valenciana, or the mouth-watering Bacalao while in Dubai? With this extensive list of Dubai Spanish restaurants, you have all the information you need. Luckily, you don’t have to travel far. Given the emirate’s longstanding repute as an amicable global city, Dubai leaves you in awe with the…

Things to Do in Lead SD

If you’re looking for things to do in Lead SD, you’ve come to the right place. With so many things to see and do, you’ll never be bored while visiting this beautiful town. From hiking and biking trails to museums and art galleries, there’s something for everyone in Lead SD. So sit back, relax, and…

Visit Poland: A revealing journey through Europe’s most misunderstood country

Plan your visit in Poland, it is one of the geographically largest countries in Europe. That being said, it is one of Europe’s most underrated country. There’s not a lot that your average Joe knows about Poland. Aside from the typical ‘jak sie masz’ Borat accent, and something to do with WW2, Poland hasn’t really…

10 Best Cocktail Bars in Cincinnati : Insanely fun options for your most epic night out !

Looking for a great night out on the town? Check out one of Cincinnati’s many amazing cocktail bars! These establishments offer a unique drinking experience that will leave you wanting more. From artisan cocktails to delicious small plates, these bars have it all. Keep reading for our list of the 10 best cocktail bars in…

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Notify me of follow-up comments by email.

Notify me of new posts by email.

Protect Your Trip »

Best beaches in connecticut.

Stretching more than 330 miles along the Long Island Sound, Connecticut's coast is filled with white sand beaches. While the state's laid-back shores may not be as well known as other New England beach destinations like the Hamptons and Cape Cod, their quiet settings, family-friendly amenities and beautiful scenery make them perfect choices for a relaxing beach vacation. Keep in mind, though, that many Connecticut beaches charge admission or parking fees between Memorial Day and Labor Day, so plan accordingly. To help you find the right option for a future seaside adventure, U.S. News considered factors like accessibility, unique coastal features and kid-friendly attractions to bring you the best Connecticut beaches. Vote for your favorite sandy spot below to determine next year's ranking.

Hammonasset Beach State Park

Westport, ct, clinton, ct, old saybrook, waterford, ct.

Connecticut's largest shoreline park beckons to nature lovers. With more than 2 miles of pristine beachfront, 550-plus campsites and 10 themed gardens, it's no surprise that Hammonasset Beach State Park in Madison receives upward of 1 million visitors every year. This picturesque coastline is an ideal spot for swimming, saltwater fishing and scavenging for seashells. Before packing up for the day, make a pit stop at Meigs Point Nature Center, where more than 50 species of local wildlife are on display in various exhibits.

Measuring approximately 6 square miles, New London is a historic whaling port that has rebranded itself as a fun beach community. At the southern end of the town sits Ocean Beach Park, an illustrious white sand beach. Complete with a kiddie spray park, a miniature golf course and an Olympic-size freshwater pool, this beach park is the perfect destination for a family-friendly vacation. Be sure to visit in summer on a Monday night when the park hosts its seasonal Cruise Nights event, which features antique cars driving past the beach while a live DJ plays classic tunes.

Head to the charming coastal town of Westport if your main objective is to unwind while on vacation. Explore Sherwood Island State Park, which boasts 235-plus acres of wetlands, forested trails and unique tri-colored sand featuring tan, red and black hues. Or, check out other local shores, such as Burying Hill Beach, which is bordered by a canal, and Compo Beach, a long stretch of sand by the Saugatuck River that offers a boardwalk and multiple athletic facilities. But remember, only 100 parking passes for Compo Beach are sold per day, so arrive early to ensure yourself a spot.

Home to a quarter of Connecticut's public coastline, West Haven always offers a spot to lay down your towel and sunbathe. Oak Street Beach, South Street Beach and Seabluff Beach (one of West Haven's largest shores) provide sanctuary to weary travelers who need to recharge. Another popular option is the small sandy beach at Bradley Point Park, where you can stroll along the 1.7-mile-long waterfront path that connects to Sandy Point Beach & Bird Sanctuary . If you plan on visiting the latter, keep your eyes peeled for nesting shorebirds like least terns and piping plovers.

If your perfect beach trip involves soaking up some sun, visit Clinton. The main stretch of sand, Clinton Town Beach, faces the entrance to Clinton Harbor and offers an access area for kayaks, a playground, a dog walking trail and a shaded pavilion, among other amenities. At high tide, spend the bulk of your time wading in the warm water. For visits during low tide, walk out to the expansive sandbars to explore the harbor. Aim to arrive at sunset to witness breathtaking views of the Long Island Sound.

East Lyme features several stunning beaches worth exploring. Spend several hours on one of two beaches in McCook Point Park before venturing up the nearby bluff for a picnic lunch. Also save time for crabbing at Rocky Neck State Park and relaxing on the white sands of Hole-in-the-Wall Beach, which is accessible via a short tunnel under railroad tracks. Before leaving East Lyme, walk along the Niantic Bay Boardwalk and fish or play beach volleyball at Niantic Bay Beach.

Known as the birthplace of the American helicopter industry and a city with deep ties to the oyster and shipbuilding industries, Stratford boasts two noteworthy shores: Long Beach and Short Beach. Long Beach features magnificent dunes and gorgeous waterfront views, though it lacks basic amenities like concessions and permanent restrooms. The beach is also a haven for birders who flock here to catch a glimpse of nesting piping plovers (a rare species) every summer. Meanwhile, Short Beach appeals to visitors looking to stretch their legs, as it offers a calisthenics course, a playground and courts for various recreational sports.

Anyone yearning for the friendliness of a small town and the resources of a large city should visit Fairfield. Here, you'll find Penfield Beach, a stretch of sand with picnic tables, grills and a playground honoring one of the victims of the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting. Fairfield is also home to 27-acre Jennings Beach, which features a concession stand, volleyball poles and seasonal bonfire pits (rental fees apply). If you're planning an offseason visit to Jennings Beach, don't be alarmed to see domestic animals roaming the shore; between October and March, you can bring dogs and horses with you.

Connecticut's most populous city is home to some of its most beautiful beaches. At Seaside Park, which was designed by the same architectural firm that planned Central Park, you'll discover 3 miles of coastline perfect for reading under an umbrella and splashing in the gentle surf. There's also Pleasure Beach, a triangular barrier island that once contained a popular amusement park before fires destroyed it and the only bridge leading to the mainland. While Pleasure Beach has since reopened to beachgoers keen on swimming, bird-watching and more, keep in mind that getting here requires taking a free water taxi.

For a low-key beach day, head to Norwalk. Within the city's limits are two beaches: Calf Pasture Beach and Shady Beach. Calf Pasture Beach – which is named for the 17th-century settlers who used the land for grazing cattle – draws visitors looking to kayak, swim and enjoy amenities like sand volleyball courts and a skate park. Meanwhile, Shady Beach – which sits immediately east of Calf Pasture Beach – is a great place to have a cookout since the beach offers grills and picnic tables (rental fees may apply on select days).

Located where the Connecticut River meets the Long Island Sound, Old Saybrook provides plenty of natural beauty and small-town charm. Visitors can spend the afternoon shopping on Main Street when they're not passing the time at one of Old Saybrook's pristine beaches. Old Saybrook Town Beach is a small, quiet option ideal for leisurely beach strolls and collecting seashells. Another local favorite is Harvey's Beach, which offers warm, shallow waters and 300 feet of shoreline, making it popular among families.

Surrounded by water on three sides, Waterford offers two can't-miss stretches of sand. Waterford Beach Park is one of Connecticut's only unmodified natural beaches and boasts unique features like an intact dune system and an impressive tidal marsh. Its gentle waves and small crowds make it a haven for anyone seeking peace and quiet. The town's other beach can be found at Harkness Memorial State Park, where visitors can tour the extravagant Roman Renaissance Revival-style mansion and admire multiple gardens when they're not at the shore fishing or sunbathing. But remember, swimming here is prohibited.

Vote to Add these Destinations to the Rankings

Silver Sands State Park

You May Be Interested In

Best Rhode Island Beaches

Best Maine Beaches

Best New Jersey Beaches

Best Cape Cod Beaches

Best Weekend Getaways in New England

Best Small Towns to Visit in the USA

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

Recommended

The 18 Best Napa Valley Wineries to Visit in 2024

Lyn Mettler|Sharael Kolberg April 23, 2024

The 25 Best Beaches on the East Coast for 2024

Timothy J. Forster|Sharael Kolberg April 19, 2024

The 50 Best Hotels in the USA 2024

Christina Maggitas February 6, 2024

The 32 Most Famous Landmarks in the World

Gwen Pratesi|Timothy J. Forster February 1, 2024

9 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in Florida for 2024

Gwen Pratesi|Amanda Norcross January 5, 2024

24 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in the U.S. for 2024

Erin Evans January 4, 2024

26 Top Adults-Only All-Inclusive Resorts for 2024

Zach Watson December 28, 2023

Solo Vacations: The 36 Best Places to Travel Alone in 2024

Lyn Mettler|Erin Vasta December 22, 2023

26 Cheap Beach Vacations for Travelers on a Budget

Kyle McCarthy|Sharael Kolberg December 4, 2023

The 50 Most Beautiful White Sand Beaches in the World

Holly Johnson December 1, 2023

Advertiser Disclosure

Many of the credit card offers that appear on this site are from credit card companies from which we receive financial compensation. This compensation may impact how and where products appear on this site (including, for example, the order in which they appear). However, the credit card information that we publish has been written and evaluated by experts who know these products inside out. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse. This site does not include all credit card companies or all available credit card offers that are on the market. See our advertising policy here where we list advertisers that we work with, and how we make money. You can also review our credit card rating methodology .

The 15 Best Beaches in Connecticut in 2023 [With Detailed Map]

Amar Hussain

Senior Content Contributor

777 Published Articles

Countries Visited: 63 U.S. States Visited: 9

Keri Stooksbury

Editor-in-Chief

32 Published Articles 3126 Edited Articles

Countries Visited: 47 U.S. States Visited: 28

Map of the 15 Best Beaches in Connecticut

1. calf pasture beach, 2. clinton town beach, 3. compo beach, 4. dubois beach, 5. hammonasset beach state park, 6. harvey’s beach, 7. hole-in-the-wall beach, 8. jacobs beach, 9. jennings beach, 10. ocean beach park, 11. pear tree point beach, 12. rocky neck state park, 13. sherwood island state park, 14. silver sands state park, 15. waterford beach park, final thoughts.

We may be compensated when you click on product links, such as credit cards, from one or more of our advertising partners. Terms apply to the offers below. See our Advertising Policy for more about our partners, how we make money, and our rating methodology. Opinions and recommendations are ours alone.

Connecticut is known for a lot of things. It’s home to one of the best universities in the world, and its fall landscape is famous around the country. However, this great state also has some of the best beaches on the East Coast.

Relaxing seaside vacations, exciting getaways in nature, and much more are all possible when you plan a trip to Connecticut’s shores. However, since it’s not usually the first state that comes to mind when people think about vacations on the coast, figuring out where you should go can be difficult. We’ve come up with a list of the top 15 beaches that deserve a spot on your travel bucket list.

The Best Beaches in Connecticut

Calf Pasture Beach isn’t just a sandy place to enjoy some time by the water. It’s also an important part of Connecticut’s history. Initially, this 35-acre area was used for agriculture but then went on to be an important site during the Revolutionary War.

Of course, you don’t have to be a history buff in order to appreciate this part of the state’s shoreline. During the summer, the beach here is manned by lifeguards, so you and your family can splash around in peace. You can also go fishing, play softball, or simply go for a nature walk.

If you plan on taking your dog with you while you travel, remember Calf Pasture Beach has a no-dogs-allowed policy. There is an adjacent pet-friendly stretch of sand, though. Most of the time, this beach is calm and quiet, but on summer holiday weekends, it can be busy, so come early.

Clinton Town Beach is a calm and family-friendly beach where you can go for a swim, a walk, or just lay out and enjoy the warm sun without worrying about crowds. Beach passes are required to access the sand between Memorial Day in May and Labor Day in September. You can purchase one directly from the gatekeeper at the beach’s entrance.

However, if you look up costs before arriving, be aware that parking and pass costs are higher for out-of-towners. During the rest of the year, you can freely head to the water, but swimming isn’t recommended. The water can be chilly, and there are no lifeguards on duty at that time.

Since most of the people you’ll encounter here are residents, you’ll have a more authentic beach experience and be able to feel like a local.

Compo Beach is a versatile stretch of Westport’s coast. During the summer months, between May and September, day passes are needed to access this part of town to help cover the lifeguard and maintenance costs. However, by paying that fee, you’re able to access the area’s volleyball court, picnic areas, playgrounds, and more. So it’s a great place to spend the day with your family.

The pass system also helps control crowd levels, ensuring there’s room for all guests. During the off-season, which goes from the day after Labor Day weekend until the following Memorial Day weekend, you can still access the beach without a pass.

All the amenities are still available, but the downside is that swimming isn’t the best idea. The water is cold and choppy during the fall and winter, so it’s better to stay on land at those times of the year.

DuBois Beach is small, but what it lacks in size, it makes up for in what it offers. During the summer, lifeguards are posted daily to make sure swimmers are safe. That, combined with the gentle waves that hit this part of the state, means you can swim stress-free, even if you have young children with you.

There’s even a small pier where you can try out crabbing and a dock if you want to go on a relaxing boat ride. As part of the Eastern Seaboard, DuBois Beach is a local favorite spot to catch the sunrise, but sunsets are still dramatic as well. Since the beach is small, you usually don’t have to worry about crowds either.

However, if you decide to spend a full day at DuBois, especially during the summer, remember to bring sun protection and a beach umbrella because there’s no shade provided.

At 2 miles in length, Hammonasset Beach is the longest shoreline park in Connecticut. This means visitors have a lot of room to spread out and explore. The park is a favorite summer spot to go swimming and even try some surfing on the park’s gentle waves. The park is also equipped with boardwalk trails that let you stroll around the park’s land and admire the wildlife safely.

During the summer, you can stay on the beach to watch the sunset, even if you’re just visiting for the day. However, between mid-October and May, you’ll need a pass in order to stay after dusk when the entrance gate locks. The same goes for sunrise. If you have a camping or fishing pass, you can admire the sun coming up over the horizon, but otherwise, you’ll have to wait until 8 a.m. to get in. 

It’s not surprising that Harvey’s Beach is often a contender for the best beach in Connecticut. It’s so tranquil and picturesque that it’s pretty close to what comes to mind when you think about East Coast beaches.

With restrooms, changing rooms, and even on-site shower stalls, you have all your basics covered to have a fun day. You’ll have an enjoyable time all year, whether you decide to go for a dip in the water, stay on the sand, or even head out for a little boating.

The tides really affect the landscape here, though. During low tide, the ocean recedes by yards and leaves behind muddy sand, so make sure to wear waterproof shoes or go barefoot. Though the tide’s ebb and flow is quite dramatic, the current here is gentle enough for swimmers and waders of all ages.

Hole-in-the-Wall Beach used to be a secret coastal hideaway, but it’s now become a local gem and favorite hangout spot. However, it’s still a bit of a secret from tourists, so you can feel like a true “Connecticuter.” To get to the beach, you’ll have to walk through a small tunnel that passes under elevated railroad tracks. So, the name isn’t just tongue-in-cheek. It’s literal!

The beach isn’t huge, which helps it maintain its cozy, local atmosphere that makes it so family-friendly. If you plan on going, try to head out before noon or arrive to watch the sunset, since those are the least-busy times.

You do have to pay for daily admission to access the shore to help keep crowd levels down. Admission needs to be purchased on-site the day you’ll be visiting; you can’t book ahead.

Check out our detailed guide to the best East and West Coast beaches in the U.S.

For regular New England visitors and locals, Jacobs Beach is a classic spot to get some time on the sand. If you’re used to more curated beach towns, this quaint shore might take some getting used to, but it’s perfect if you want some peace and quiet to unwind.

The beach isn’t terribly big and is covered in a mixture of sand and pebbles, but there’s space to set out a towel, and there are even grassy areas to set up a picnic. The beach isn’t just for strolls and swimming, though. There’s a launching dock that can be used for motorless boats like canoes, kayaks, or paddleboards if you’d like to venture out a little further in the water.

The beach usually doesn’t get too crowded, especially if you schedule your visit for a weekday, and your day pass cost also covers the parking fee.

Jennings Beach has everything you need to have a fun day at the waterfront. The shore is wide and covered in soft sand, so even on days when there are a lot of crowds, you can roam the 27-acre site until you find a place to set up for the day.

On top of its spacious stretch by the water, the park offers other amenities as well that can add some extra convenience to your visit. From May until September, you’ll be under the watchful eye of lifeguards until dusk. You’ll also have access to a snack bar on the property if you want some refreshments or forgot to pack a lunch.

Your beach pass will also grant you access to the changing areas, restrooms, and even the shower, so you don’t have to worry about trekking sand everywhere.

Ocean Beach Park is a fun and vibrant part of New London. You’re near the boardwalk, which features a miniature golf course, play areas, and food options. There’s even a nearby swimming pool if you’d prefer to stay out of the salt water.

However, the main draw of this part of Connecticut is, of course, the beach. From the sand, you can get a spectacular view of the Long Island Sound, as well as a few of its islands. Since it has so many activities available, Ocean Beach is often frequented by families and young travelers, and it can get crowded during the spring and summer.

Instead, in the fall and winter, things tend to calm down quite a bit as some of the businesses close down for the seasons. Despite all the foot traffic, the coastline is well-kept and clean both on land and in the water.

Pear Tree Point Beach has 8 acres of land with the Goodwives River as its centerpiece. With parking, picnic areas, and beach access that have all been designed to be accessible to people with all different mobility abilities, it’s an excellent park for a wide variety of visitors. 

There are even wooden chairs set up around the beach that are free to use without any additional rental fees. Remember, though, they’re first-come, first-serve, so you might want to make sure you have a folding chair or a towel to use in case they’re all taken when you arrive.

The park gives you a great view of the nearby boat harbor, so you can watch them sail in the distance. At the same time, you’re still far enough away that you don’t have to worry about pollution or getting in their way while swimming.

Rocky Neck State Park’s beach is one of the best and most versatile in New England. With rivers, marshes, and open water, all spread out over 708 acres, it’s a perfect getaway spot for nature lovers.

Its signature white sand is soft and cushioned but still offers enough support to let you walk comfortably along the waterfront, especially if you come in the winter when it’s too cold to swim. Though the water is safe and shallow here, especially close to land, the on-duty lifeguards that keep watch during the summer add extra safety.

Keep in mind, though, the official beach season ends after Labor Day in September, after which you’ll have to swim at your own risk. There are also designated swimming areas in the park that are considered safe. No matter when you decide to take a dip, only swim in these zones.

As Connecticut’s first state park, Sherwood Island is a historical place to spend a beach day. The park consists of a 238-acre territory . That land is split up between wooded areas, marshy wetlands, and, of course, saltwater beaches that offer visitors the chance to swim, fish, or just go on a leisurely walk.

If you want to have a peaceful and relaxing time, you can find a quiet and more secluded part of the shore to spend the day. On the other hand, if you prefer to be more social or have a child who thrives off of being around others, you can come during the summer when there are plenty of families around. 

If you’re looking forward to having a nice picnic on the sand, you don’t even have to rely on premade food since there are grilling areas onsite.

With 297 acres of land, much of which is made up of beaches, dunes, and marshes, Silver Sands State Park is a wonderful place to go to get some fresh air and some time in nature. There’s a boardwalk that lets you explore the marshy areas, and at low tide, you can even cross to the small island that serves as the park’s bird sanctuary.

As a more natural beach, there are no rowdy parties on the beach, and crowds don’t usually get too bad. So, it’s a versatile shore that’s perfect for all sorts of visitors, from families to groups of friends. If you can’t visit a beach without going in the water, Silver Sands lets you go for a saltwater swim, or you can have a relaxing day of fishing if you’d prefer to stay a little drier.

Waterford Beach Park offers its visitors a chance to visit Connecticut’s coast in its natural state. The beach is nearly 0.25 miles long and is known for its extensive sand dunes.

Just because the beach is natural doesn’t mean you have to give up amenities, though. There are restrooms and nearby food options if you want to have a picnic on the sand . Like many beaches in the state, a pass is needed during the summer, but the views you get of the water and the peaceful ambiance are worth it.

During the summer, the water is warm enough to go for a swim, but even in the winter, you can still have a day full of fun looking for shells and exploring the coastal plains. You can even bring dogs on the sand between September and April.

Clearly, Connecticut deserves to be at the top of more people’s beach getaway lists. With shorelines that range from pristine and curated to natural and untouched, there’s something about the state’s coast that will appeal to anyone. We hope that this list has brought you a step closer to planning your own Connecticut beach trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does connecticut have any good beaches.

Connecticut has some of the nicest beaches on the Eastern Seaboard. You can find natural stretches of shoreline as well as developed beach towns with more amenities. The beaches here also tend to be on the family-friendly side, so there aren’t many rowdy parties.

Can you swim at Connecticut beaches?

You can swim in the water at many Connecticut beaches. Most safe areas have gentle currents and relatively shallow water. However, some places might be dangerous for swimmers, so double-check with locals and authorities that you can swim somewhere before you go into the water.

Is the ocean warm in Connecticut?

As part of the East Coast, Connecticut has warmer water than its West Coast counterparts. However, that’s only during the spring and summer months. Before May and after mid-October, the water will typically be too cold for swimming unless you have a wetsuit on.

Are Connecticut beaches clean?

Connecticut has very clean beaches, both in terms of the water quality and the shore. Most parts of the state put great effort toward minimizing the amount of pollution that occurs in the area to allow safety and fun for both local and out-of-town beachgoers.

Was this page helpful?

About Amar Hussain

Amar is an avid traveler and tester of products. He has spent the last 13 years traveling all 7 continents and has put the products to the test on each of them. He has contributed to publications including Forbes, the Huffington Post, and more.

INSIDERS ONLY: UP PULSE ™

Get the latest travel tips, crucial news, flight & hotel deal alerts...

Plus — expert strategies to maximize your points & miles by joining our (free) newsletter.

We respect your privacy . This site is protected by reCAPTCHA. Google's privacy policy and terms of service apply.

Related Posts

UP's Bonus Valuation

This bonus value is an estimated valuation calculated by UP after analyzing redemption options, transfer partners, award availability and how much UP would pay to buy these points.

33 Attractions and Fun Things To Do on The Connecticut Coast

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive commissions when you click links and make purchases at no extra cost to you. View details here. By purchasing items through the included links, you’ll help keep this site running. Thank you for your support!

Connecticut, the southernmost state in New England, boasts a stunning coastline with abundant attractions for a fun day trip, weekend getaway, or summer vacation. The 332 miles of shoreline are some of the best in the United States, boasting idyllic small towns, picturesque lighthouses, pristine beaches, and diverse wildlife. 

The Connecticut coast comes alive during summer, with the high season being May – October. If you want to avoid the crowds, and enjoy empty beaches and free parking, consider enjoying the Connecticut coast in the off-season. Although little is open, the peace and quiet, and cooler temperatures are another experience in itself.

With so much to do and see, you’ll never get bored in coastal Connecticut. Keep reading to discover 32 of my favorite things to do on the Connecticut shoreline.

Table of Contents: Jump to

The Long Island Sound

The Long Island Sound is a 110-mile-long (180 km) estuary separating Connecticut from Long Island, New York. It is part of the Atlantic Ocean and is connected to it by the East River and the Throgs Neck and Verrazano Narrows bridges. The Sound (as the locals call it) is a popular destination for boating, fishing, swimming, and other water sports. It is also home to marine life, including fish, shellfish, and birds.

Its charming towns with busy main streets, historical societies, waterfront views, and picturesque villages with stunning Cap Cod and Colonial-style architecture are a joy to visit along the Connecticut coast.

Stamford, Connecticut, a charming city on the Long Island Sound, is the second largest city in Connecticut after Hartford. Stamford is home to a diverse population of over 127,000 people and the University of Connecticut (UCONN Stamford). The city is known for its beautiful parks and beaches, vibrant downtown area, and proximity to New York City. Don’t miss The Stamford Museum and Nature Center , located on 126 acres of beautiful grounds featuring a variety of exhibits on art, history, and nature, and make sure to visit the Downtown Arts District , home to a variety of art galleries, theaters, and shops.

The Harbor Point Boardwalk is a great way to spend an evening strolling down the waterfront path with parks, boat charters, water taxis, and plenty of restaurants.

Located on the shores of the breathtaking Long Island Sound, New London offers a myriad of fun activities for visitors of all ages. Immerse yourself in the rich maritime history at the Custom House Maritime Museum , or take a stroll through the Historic Waterfront District , comprising 26 blocks filled with gift shops, art galleries, and over 30 delectable dining options. There’s no shortage of seafood options here – Thames Landing Oyster House and City Dock Restaurant/Oyster Bar are some of the best!

Nature enthusiasts can explore the stunning waterfront parks, such as Ocean Beach Park – bask in the sun, take a refreshing dip in the Sound, or simply admire the postcard-worthy views. Don’t forget to catch a live performance at the renowned Garde Arts Center , showcasing world-class entertainment in a beautifully restored historic venue. 

Submarine Force Museum

If you’re in the mood for an underwater adventure that doesn’t require getting wet, look no further than the Submarine Force Museum in Groton, CT. This one-of-a-kind museum is a treasure trove of naval history, offering an exciting and immersive experience for visitors of all ages. 

Located on the Thames River, the museum is home to the historic USS Nautilus, the world’s first nuclear-powered submarine. As you explore the remarkable vessel, you’ll get a glimpse into the life of a submariner and marvel at the impressive technology that powered this incredible submarine. 

In addition to the Nautilus, the museum boasts an extensive collection of exhibits, artifacts, and interactive displays that chronicle the history of the US Submarine Force. From the earliest submersibles to modern-day submarines, the Submarine Force Museum provides an unparalleled journey into the fascinating world of naval exploration and innovation. 

Bluff Point State Park

Located in Groton, Connecticut, Bluff Point State Park is situated on an undeveloped peninsula between the Poquonnock River and Mumford Cove on Long Island Sound. With wooded hiking and biking trails and incredible wildlife viewing, this is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Spend some time hiking Bluff Point, a 1.3-mile path on an old farm road, which takes about a half hour one way. This route mostly follows the Poquonnock River, ending with a lovely beach view. 

New Haven 

New Haven is known as the home of Yale University and the picturesque Long Island Sound, with several fun experiences for outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs. Stroll through the historic streets of downtown New Haven or take a scenic bike ride along the shoreline of the Long Island Sound, where you can soak up the sun and enjoy the gentle sea breeze. 

After a day of exploring New Haven, indulge in the town’s renowned culinary scene, from iconic pizzerias to upscale, farm-to-table eateries. Must-visit pizzerias include Frank Pepe Pizzeria Napoletana and Modern Apizza . Stop by the bustling farmers’ market to pick up some locally sourced treats and enjoy a picnic by the tranquil waterfront parks. 

Yale University Art Gallery 

While in New Haven, don’t forget to check out the Yale University Art Gallery . Established in 1832, this extraordinary gallery holds the prestigious title of the oldest university art museum in the Western Hemisphere. 

As I strolled through the stunningly designed building, I was mesmerized by the vast collection of thousands of pieces spanning various cultures and time periods. From exquisite pieces of ancient Greek and Roman art to the captivating works of modern and contemporary artists, there’s something to spark everyone’s interest. What’s even more delightful is that this treasure trove is open to the public and free of charge! 

Rocky Neck State Park

Rocky Neck State Park , located in Niantic, Connecticut, is one of the best things to do on the Connecticut Shoreline. Take a leisurely walk or hike through the park’s picturesque trails, which offer breathtaking views of the coastline and salt marshes. The park’s scenic beauty and diverse range of activities make it one of the best places for a day out or weekend getaway. 

For beach lovers, the park’s white sandy beach provides the perfect setting for sunbathing, swimming, and building sandcastles, all while enjoying the refreshing Long Island Sound. Anglers can cast their lines from the park’s state-of-the-art fishing pier, while birdwatchers can spot various species in the park’s diverse habitats. 

Make sure to bring along a picnic basket – the picnic area is equipped with grills and tables that make for an enjoyable and memorable outdoor meal. 

Essex, my favorite coastal Connecticut town, consists of three villages: Essex Village, Centerbrook, and Ivoryton. Essex offers a delightful blend of history, natural beauty, and modern comforts, creating the perfect destination for a relaxing getaway. Start your visit by exploring the idyllic Main Street, lined with beautifully preserved historic homes, unique shops, and inviting eateries. Stop into Essex Coffee and Tea Company for a quick pick-me-up, then browse Puck’s Books, Essex Duck , and Essex Pottery . For a sweet treat, indulge in some baked goods at Savour Cafe & Bakery in Centerbrook; they have delicious made to order sandwiches. If you are in the mood for a cold treat, head to Sweet P’s for an ice cream cone.

For the artistically inclined, the vibrant art scene includes the renowned Ivoryton Playhouse and numerous local galleries showcasing the talents of regional artists, like Cooper & Smith Gallery . 

Essex Steam Train and Riverboat 

Experience the charm and beauty of Connecticut’s scenic countryside aboard the Essex Steam Train and Riverboat . This extraordinary adventure combines a nostalgic steam train ride with a relaxing cruise aboard a vintage riverboat, providing an unparalleled opportunity to explore the area’s rich history, stunning natural attractions, and vibrant foliage. A truly unique and delightful experience awaits you as you embark on a memorable journey through the picturesque landscapes of the Connecticut River Valley. 

Connecticut River Museum

Connecticut River Museum in downtown Essex, features a variety of exhibits showcasing the rich heritage of the river and its surrounding communities, from Native American history and the age of steamboats to the local wildlife and maritime traditions. Don’t miss the opportunity to check out the replica of the Turtle – America’s first submarine, which was built during the Revolutionary War! And if you want to experience the breathtaking beauty of the river firsthand, the museum offers seasonal river cruises and even sailing lessons. 

With more of a local feel and less crowded than other nearby towns, it’s easy to discover the charm and allure of Old Lyme, Connecticut, a quaint coastal town boasting several activities and attractions for visitors of all ages. Stroll along the picturesque streets, taking in the historic buildings and art galleries, like the Cooley Gallery , or immerse yourself in nature by exploring the numerous parks and nature preserves. Whether you’re here for nature or art galleries, visiting this village is one of the best things to do on the Connecticut Shoreline.

Ferry Landing State Park is another great stop in Old Lyme, Connecticut. This quaint and picturesque park, located along the banks of the Connecticut River, offers visitors a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

While strolling through the park, you can enjoy the incredible views of the river and Old Lyme Bride. Head down the boardwalk and even catch a glimpse of some local wildlife. If you love the beach, enjoy a day of sun and surf at Sound View Beach or White Sands Beach, where you can also catch a breathtaking sunset. 

A visit to Old Lyme wouldn’t be complete without sampling the delicious cuisine at local restaurants and cafés, from fresh seafood to homemade baked goods. Check out the Hangry Goose for outdoor waterfront dining or the Hideaway Restaurant and Pub for classic American cuisine. 

Florence Griswold Museum 

While exploring Old Lyme, stop by the Florence Griswold Museum – one of the best things to do on the Connecticut Shoreline for art and history enthusiasts. This charming museum is located in the historic home of Florence Griswold, a remarkable woman who opened her residence to American Impressionist artists in the early 20th century. It became known as the home of the Lyme Art Colony, where acclaimed artists, such as Childe Hassam and Willard Metcalf, resided and painted some of their most famous works. 

Old Saybrook 

Nestled along the picturesque Connecticut Shoreline, Old Saybrook in Middlesex County is a lovely New England town that combines history, natural beauty, and a friendly community spirit effortlessly. Steeped in rich history dating back to the 17th century, this quaint town offers a unique blend of well-preserved historical landmarks, such as the General William Hart House and the Old Saybrook Town Green, amid modern amenities and attractions. The town’s prime location along the mouth of the Connecticut River and the Long Island Sound provides ample opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy scenic walks, sandy beaches, and various water activities. 

While walking down Main Street, admiring the American flags proudly swaying in the wind, I was delighted by the vibrant small businesses, boutiques, and local eateries that showcase the town’s warm and welcoming atmosphere. Head to Penny Lane Pub for English-style bar fare, or enjoy a more indulgent dinner at The Essex , an upscale French restaurant. If you love oysters like I do, dinner at Liv’s Oyster Bar and Restaurant is a great choice.

Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center

The Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center , also known as “The Kate,” in Old Saybrook, Connecticut, is a must-see in this area. This charming and historic venue is not only a testament to the legacy of its namesake, the iconic Katharine Hepburn, but it’s also a vibrant hub of artistic expression and cultural enrichment. 

The Kate offers an eclectic mix of live performances, including theater, live music, dance, film, and other special events, making it an ideal destination for a fun night out. With its intimate atmosphere and state-of-the-art facilities, the Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center promises an unforgettable experience for all who visit. 

Harvey’s Beach

While in Old Saybrook, Harvey’s Beach is one of the best things to do on the Connecticut Shoreline for a relaxing beach getaway. With its gentle waves, soft sand, and breathtaking views of the Long Island Sound, Harvey’s Beach boasts a tranquil and welcoming atmosphere for all ages. With a grassy seascape and sailboats gliding gracefully in the distance, this spot is incredibly serene. 

The small beach is equipped with a beach pavilion including amenities such as a playground for the little ones, restrooms, a picnic area, and lifeguards on duty for your safety. Parking is $15 a car during the day, but if you arrive after 5 p.m., you’ll be able to park for free and enjoy the sunset to cap off a great day.

Village of Mystic 

Mystic, CT, is a charming coastal town nestled along the banks of the Mystic River in southeastern Connecticut. The 1988 movie Mystic Pizza put this small town on the map. Known for its rich maritime history, picturesque scenery, and friendly locals, Mystic is among the best towns to visit, with plenty of things to do on the Connecticut Shoreline. This well-preserved town offers various attractions for visitors of all ages. Stroll through the enchanting streets of downtown Mystic, where unique boutiques, art galleries, and mouthwatering seafood restaurants await. In the evening, head to The Harp and Hound for fantastic live music and drinks!

Mystic River 

One of the highlights of Mystic, Connecticut, is the Mystic River. This beautiful waterway – bordered by quaint shops, historical sites, and mouthwatering eateries – provides a serene backdrop for a perfect day spent exploring and soaking in the New England charm. Its friendly atmosphere and stunning scenery make the Mystic River ideal for boating, kayaking, or enjoying a leisurely riverside stroll down its Mystic waterfront boardwalk.

One of the iconic landmarks in the area is the Mystic River Bascule Bridge, which provides beautiful views of the river and town. Rent a kayak or paddle board from Mystic Adventures and cruise under the bridge, enjoying the river banks along the way. You may even spot a harbor seal or two!

Mystic Seaport Museum

If you’re a history enthusiast, a boat lover, or simply looking for an enjoyable day out in Mystic, CT, the Mystic Seaport Museum should be on your itinerary. As the largest maritime museum in the United States, this attraction is a treasure trove of naval history. This world-class museum beautifully showcases America’s rich maritime heritage through its extensive collection of artifacts, engaging exhibits, and knowledgeable staff eager to share their passion for the sea. 

Enjoy an immersive experience where you can explore the historic waterfront, marvel at restored ships, and even take a boat ride on the Mystic River. Wander through the recreated 19th-century seafaring village, complete with authentic buildings, and watch skilled artisans practice their trade using traditional methods. Don’t forget to visit the iconic Charles W. Morgan , the last wooden whaleship in the world, which takes you on a journey back in time. 

Mystic Aquarium

The Mystic Aquarium is a must-visit attraction for families, friends, and marine life enthusiasts. As one of the nation’s leading aquariums, it offers an immersive experience that’s entertaining and educational, featuring a wide range of captivating exhibits, interactive displays, and spectacular marine creatures. 

From sea lions to beluga whales, the aquarium provides visitors the rare opportunity to get up close and personal with these fascinating underwater residents. The Mystic Aquarium also hosts special events, programs, and activities throughout the year, making it one of the best places to learn about the importance of ocean conservation.

Olde Mistick Village

Olde Mistick Village , based on a 1720s-style colonial village, offers a unique shopping and dining experience that takes you back in time with its quaint atmosphere and vintage vibe. Stroll through the winding brick pathways lined with colonial-style buildings and beautifully landscaped gardens while browsing a diverse collection of specialty shops and boutiques. From handcrafted jewelry and artisanal products to unique clothing and souvenirs, there’s something for everyone at Olde Mistick Village. 

When you’re ready for a break, enjoy a delicious meal at one of its many delightful restaurants and cafes, boasting various cuisine options. Jealous Monk , a European-style tavern, is an excellent option for lunch or dinner. If you’re in the mood for pizza, you can’t go wrong with Mango’s Wood-Fired Pizza. For a unique experience, head to Alice in the Village for sweet treats and freshly brewed teas.

Ford’s Lobsters

Just a 10-minute drive from Mystic Village is the village of Noank, home to a local star, Ford’s Lobsters. Aside from the aesthetically pleasing buoys and lobster sign, it doesn’t look like much from the outside, but the lobster shack serves fresh lobster rolls and many other seafood favorites, from grilled fish, clam chowders, scallops, fresh salads, and more. Enjoy a taste of Connecticut on the outside patio while watching the boat sail by. They are closed on Tuesday and Wednesday, so plan accordingly.

Masons Island

Nestled at the mouth of the Mystic River, Masons Island is a hidden gem perfect for those seeking a serene retreat filled with natural beauty and charm. This enchanting island offers the opportunity to truly unwind and soak in the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. 

Masons Island boasts several outdoor activities, including boating, fishing, swimming, and bird watching, making it ideal for outdoorsy and laid-back travelers. Whether you’re looking to explore the island’s lush greenery and vibrant wildlife or relax by the shore and watch the world go by, Masons Island is the perfect escape. 

Mason’s Island is semi-private, so there are few public access areas. Stay the night to gain access to resident-only areas.

Stonington is an excellent destination for a relaxing day trip or weekend getaway with its quaint streets lined with vibrant, restored historic homes, blooming bougainvillea, and local treasures. Spend an afternoon strolling down Water Street, where you’ll find an array of unique shops, art galleries, and lovely restaurants serving fresh, local cuisine. Enjoy the ocean breeze from Dubois Beach, and marina views from the public waterfront walkway.

Nature and wine lovers will appreciate the stunning views and peaceful tranquility of the nearby Saltwater Farm Vineyard . Nestled on 108 acres of the Connecticut Shoreline, this fully functional vineyard boasts award-winning wine.

Lighthouse Museum

Stop by the Stonington Lighthouse Museum – an excellent spot for history buffs, maritime enthusiasts, and families. This lovely 19th-century lighthouse, standing proudly along the scenic shoreline, has been meticulously restored and transformed into an engaging educational museum. This beautiful museum is one of the best things to see on the Connecticut Shoreline!

When you step inside, you’ll be transported back in time as you explore the fascinating exhibits that beautifully showcase Stonington’s local history, maritime heritage, and lighthouse life. Be sure to climb up the winding staircase to the top of the lighthouse tower. You’ll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding seascape – a perfect photo opportunity you won’t want to miss!

Lobster Trap Tree

If you’re in Stonington during the holidays, you don’t want to miss the Lobster Trap Tree! This tree is a unique and whimsical alternative to the traditional evergreen Christmas tree. A delightful attraction on the town dock during the holiday season, this tree is lovingly crafted from dozens of wooden lobster traps, adorned with colorful buoys and twinkling lights. 

The Lobster Trap Tree showcases the local community’s creativity and pays tribute to Connecticut’s deep-rooted maritime history and the significant role lobster fishing plays in the region’s culture and economy. This is definitely one of the most unique things to do on the Connecticut Shoreline during the holidays!

Hammonasset Beach State Park 

Located in Madison, Connecticut, Hammonasset Beach State Park comprises two miles of beachfront along the beautiful Long Island Sound. As the state’s longest shoreline park, this area attracts over a million visitors each year.

Splash in the water, stroll along the boardwalk or lay in the sun on a warm summer day. If you’re in the mood for a beach day, this state park is one of the best things to do on the Connecticut Shoreline. 

Enjoy Historic Clinton

The Clinton Village Historic District is listed in the National Register of Historic Places. History buffs will love learning about the town’s history at the Historical Society Museum or fishing through the photos and artifacts at the Buell Tool Museum and George Flynn Library. Stop in at the Elisha White House, the oldest brick house between New London and New Haven. 

If you love outdoor activities, take a boat tour along the sound or hike through one of the nearby state parks or preserves. Shore Road offers public beaches and a lovely scenic drive, while golf enthusiasts will love playing a round at nearby Heron Creek Golf Club .

Lobster Landing

Another must-do along the Connecticut shoreline is sampling a New England staple. The mouth-watering lobster rolls at Lobster Landing attract hundreds of daily visitors. This local favorite is just 10 minutes east of Hammonasset Beach State Park in Clinton, CT. Open seven days a week, 11 a.m. – 6 p.m. and to 7 p.m. on the weekends, their hot, lemon-butter lobster rolls can be enjoyed on the harbor with lovely bay views. Parking is limited, and they do sell out, so arrive early. Feel free to BYOB and enjoy your meal while watching a scenic shoreline view.

Hook a Bluefish in Clinton

Known as the bluefish capital of the world (but not actually because of the fish), Clinton is a great area to book a fishing charter for experienced and beginner fishermen (and women), allowing you to enjoy an exciting day on the water.

Inshore and offshore fishing excursions in Clinton are a great way to experience the beauty of the Long Island Sound and bring back some dinner. The catch includes bass, shark, tuna, marlin, and swordfish. There are many different charter companies to choose from, so you can find one that fits your needs and budget. The best time to go fishing in Clinton is from April to October.

Deep River Landing 

Deep River Landing is a public boat launch and marina in Deep River, Connecticut. It provides access to the Connecticut River for boating and fishing enthusiasts and features several amenities, including a fishing pier, picnic areas, restrooms, and parking facilities. While you’re here, hop on a riverboat cruise – you’ll be able to enjoy the river scenery from a different viewpoint!

Gillette Castle State Park 

Situated between the towns of East Haddam and Lyme, Connecticut, Gillette Castle State Park is most notable for its castle, designed by American actor William Gillette who was the first to portray Sherlock Holmes. Gillette designed this castle to have 47 one-of-a-kind doors throughout the structure, along with intricate woodwork, a greenhouse, a library, and an art gallery, making this a fun place to explore on a guided tour!

With so much to do along the Connecticut coast, a New England road trip is the perfect way to see everything. From a few days to a few weeks or even months, you can easily adjust your itinerary on the fly to enjoy your favorite things to do along the Connecticut shoreline.

Continue your journey from the Connecticut coast to Rhode Island to enjoy some of New England’s best seaside towns like New Port and Watch Hill, both only a short drive from New London, Connecticut.

Shop Travel Gear

Shop all my current obsessions and travel essentials I can’t live without. I only recommend products I’ve actually tried and loved!

The Best Travel Apps

Want To Travel Easier?

Get my Free Guide to the Best Travel Apps straight to your inbox

Meet Sam, a fearless wanderer and avid solo traveler who has made the world her home. Through cross country road trips, car camping in her SUV and solo adventures to far corners of the globe, she has become an expert in crafting itineraries that balance adventure and self-discovery. Through her insightful tales and practical tips, Sam inspires others to embrace the unknown, break free from conventional boundaries, and embrace the beauty of solo exploration.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Similar Posts

13 Fantastic Day Trips to Take From Bar Harbor Maine

The Best Day Trip: Nantucket or Martha’s Vineyard? 

Where to find the Best Sunflower Fields in New York

Top 10 Finger Lakes Wineries for More Than Just Wine

How to Hike the Stunning Watkins Glen Gorge Trail

The Best New England Fall Foliage Road Trip Itineraries

Sam’s Newsletter

Stay in the loop!

• Animal Encounters
• Car Camping
• Fall Foliage
• Festive Fall
• Latin America
• National Parks
• Packing Guides
• Photography
• Solo Travel
• Spring Escapes
• Travel Resources
• Winter Wonderland
• Contact & FAQ
• Privacy Policy

SeeingSam.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.

Monthly Newsletter

Sign up for a monthly email with stories from the road, travel tips, freebies and more!

The Shoreline Road Trip In Connecticut That Takes You Through The Most Charming Coastal Towns

Taylor Ellis

Taylor Ellis grew up in southern Connecticut. She is a social boss who has worked with several major sites and brands. Follow her at taylorellisblogger.com

More by this Author

This shoreline road trip will show you Connecticut’s beach town side. This state is often overlooked when it comes to coastal getaway spots but the truth is we have a pretty beautiful coastline scattered with small towns and cities you’re practically guaranteed to love. If you’ve never taken a Connecticut coast scenic drive, now’s the time. Pack a swimsuit because it’s going to be hard to resist the beach on this drive. If you need more help packing for the trip, make sure you use our ultimate road trip packing list !

Related Stories

The Scenic Rural Route That Meanders Through Some Of The Most Charming Small Towns In Connecticut

The Scenic Road Trip That Will Make You Fall In Love With The Beauty of Connecticut All Over Again

This 1-Hour Drive Is the Best Way to See Connecticut's Stunning Coast

This shoreline road trip will give you those movie-esque beach views you’ve been dreaming about. We realize there are more charming Connecticut beach towns that are just as wonderful as the ones in this road trip. Let us know what other towns you think are worth a stop along a Connecticut coast scenic drive. We always love to hear from you!

But if you prefer a drive with more frights than sights, check out the Terrifying Connecticut Road Trip .

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Want more Connecticut in your inbox?

Get the latest on things to see, do, and eat around Connecticut!

Thank you! You'll receive your first newsletter soon!

An error occured.

More to Explore

Places in connecticut.

Where are some of the hidden beaches in Connecticut?

A day at the beach is always a wonderful thing, and when you can find a less-crowded place to relax and listen to the waves, that’s even better. For some of Connecticut’s hidden beaches, check out some of the following:

• Cove Island Park in Stamford
• Sherwood Island State Park in Westport
• Milford Point in Milford
• Walnut Beach in Milford
• Bluff Point in Groton

Be sure to check out this article for information on these and other hidden beaches in Connecticut.

What are some other road trips in Connecticut?

• You’ll feel like you’re in a fairytale on this castle road trip in Connecticut .
• How about an entire road trip to caves and waterfalls in Connecticut ?
• Book lovers will love this book-themed road trip through Connecticut .
• Hungry? Take a bite out of this road trip to pie shops in Connecticut .
• This terrifying road trip in Connecticut is not for the faint of heart.

If you need more ideas, check out this article that rounds up some of the best road trips in Connecticut that show off the Constitution State.

Related Articles

• This Scenic 13-Mile Drive Just May Be The Most Underrated Adventure In Connecticut
• The Scenic Drive In Connecticut That Runs Straight Through The Charming Small Town Of Canterbury
• Take This Hidden Gems Road Trip When You Want To See Some Little-Known Places In Connecticut
• The Fairytale Road Trip That'll Lead You To Some Of Connecticut's Most Magical Places
• This 2-Hour Drive Through Connecticut Is The Best Way To See This Year's Fall Colors
• This Rural Road Trip Will Lead You To Some Of The Best Countryside Hidden Gems In Connecticut
• You'll Never Look At Donuts The Same Way After Trying Neil's Donuts In Connecticut
• This Speakeasy Hidden Behind A Secret Passcode In Connecticut Is Perfect For A Date Night

Spend a relaxing getaway on Connecticut's beautiful coastline

Discover connecticut's coastline.

There are plenty of things to do in Connecticut, especially when you spend a few days in the southern part of the state along the beautiful Connecticut shore. Coastal Connecticut is filled with quaint small towns, lighthouses, wide sandy beaches, breathtaking scenery, and plenty of charming Select Registry Bed and Breakfasts. It's the perfect antidote to the fast-paced life on the east coast and is altogether a delightful place to spend a few romantic days with your sweetheart. 

Coastal Connecticut boasts more than 300 miles of shoreline, extending from Greenwich in the west to Stonington in the East. On this beautiful stretch of coastal Connecticut, you'll find several charming small towns, including the popular towns of Mystic and Greenwich. Each town offers something unique, but all provide the relaxing atmosphere of coastal Connecticut you crave. 

Most people come to coastal Connecticut to breathe in the fresh, salty sea air and slow down and enjoy a relaxed, more simple pace of life. Our Connecticut Bed and Breakfasts are the perfect places to do exactly that. While we don't want to pack your getaway with an overly busy itinerary, there are also many wonderful things to do in Connecticut that are worth mentioning. We'll share a few of our favorite ways to enjoy the area for those days when you don't mind having something on the schedule. 

At the end of the day, what makes a getaway to coastal Connecticut so special is the opportunity to spend a few days at our Select Registry Bed and Breakfasts in Connecticut. Select Registry brings 50 years of top-notch hospitality and the most comprehensive inspection in the industry. With that, you can be assured that your lodging will live up to and even exceed every expectation for your getaway. Are you ready to explore coastal Connecticut this spring? Book a room at one of our Connecticut Bed and Breakfasts today. 

Towns to Visit in Coastal Connecticut

As we've already mentioned, coastal Connecticut is dotted with charming small towns that make fabulous getaway destinations. Select Registry is proud to represent four of these incredible coastal Connecticut destinations, including Greenwich, Westbrook, Niantic, and the Mystic area, including the small towns of Ledyard and Stonington. 

Below, we'll discuss each of these fantastic towns in coastal Connecticut in more detail, including some of our top recommendations for things to do in the area, so you can choose the destination that is perfect for you. 

Greenwich is the largest town on Connecticut's Gold Coast, and as such, it's home to some of the best high-end shops, diverse art galleries, award-winning restaurants, and beautiful parks. It's not too far outside of New York City, which makes it an excellent place for a quick getaway. One visit to this upscale yet charming seaside town, and you'll see why New Yorkers have been visiting here for decades. You'll get all of the quaint, seaside charms you're looking for here, but also still have access to an abundance of great restaurants and cultural experiences.

Westbrook is a quaint coastal Connecticut community nestled on the Long Island Sound. It's located between the bigger towns of New Haven and New London, which means you can enjoy all the quiet serenity you crave from your getaway while still having access to the wonderful restaurants and attractions the bigger cities provide. If you want to do nothing but lounge by the beach and spend time on the water, this is a wonderful place to spend a few days. 

Niantic/East Lyme

Niantic/East Lyme is well-situated for guests who want to enjoy the best of the area while still carving out some quiet, restful time for themselves. It's just 20 minutes from Mystic and even closer to New London. It's most well-known for its stunning mile-long boardwalk and picture-perfect Niantic Harbor. The downtown itself parallels the coastline and offers a range of boutique one-of-a-kind shops worth exploring.

Mystic/Ledyard/Stonington

Mystic is one of the most well-known towns in Coastal Connecticut, thanks to its historic shipbuilding past. Mystic is where you'll find the world-famous Mystic Seaport Museum and Mystic's Aquarium . Though the town can get crowded in the summer, you won't realize it as you sail through the beautiful waters aboard the Argia or sit under the glorious sun on nearby beaches and parks. There are also some wineries in the area, including Stonington Vineyards, Saltwater Farm Vineyard, and Jonathon Edwards Winery. 

5 of the Best Beaches in Connecticut

With 300 miles of coastline on the Connecticut shore, it's probably no surprise that there are also plenty of amazing beaches in Connecticut. Many of these just so happen to be in the same towns as our unique Connecticut Bed and Breakfasts, too! If you're looking for a place to soak up some of the warm Connecticut sun, you'll find what we think are some of the best beaches in Connecticut below:

• In Greenwich, head to Greenwich Point Park , where you'll find a stunning golden-sand beach that overlooks the Manhattan skyline. You'll need a beach pass to visit, which can be purchased M-F from local civic centers. 
• If you're looking for something a little more off the beaten path in coastal Connecticut, take a ferry out to Island Beach  at Greenwich Harbor.
• New London is a neighboring town of charming Niantic and is also where you'll find another of the best beaches in Connecticut. The most popular beach in town is Ocean Beach Park , which boasts an Olympic-sized swimming pool, playground, waterslide, an arcade, mini-golf, and concessions.
• Old Saybrook, another neighboring town to Niantic, is home to Harvey's Beach , whose fine sand and calm waters are often considered one of the best beaches in Connecticut. 
• Near Niantic/East Lyme, you'll find Hole-in-the-Wall Beach in  McCook's Point Park , with some of the most beautiful sugar-white sand you'll see outside of the Caribbean. It's easily one of the most beautiful beaches in Connecticut. 

Following your day at the best beaches in Connecticut, the restful accommodations of our Select Registry Bed and Breakfasts will be waiting for you. If you're ready to get out and explore the best of Coastal Connecticut this year, it's time to book your getaway to these amazing Connecticut Bed and Breakfasts . 

Best Places to Stay in Connecticut

Stanton House Inn

Situated in the posh town of Greenwich, Connecticut, Stanton House Inn offers guests the opportunity to stay in a historic mansion. Our 20 suites and guest rooms, each individually decorated, feature varied amenities such as whirlpool tubs, fireplaces, and private entrances.

We pride ourselves on offering an elegantly charming experience while you're with us. We are consistently rated as one of the best places to stay in Connecticut.

Westbrook Inn Bed & Breakfast

Vintage comfort on the Connecticut Shoreline makes The Westbrook Inn a wonderful getaway for couples and families alike.  

The B&B's nine guestrooms and cozy cottage are located abutting the Patchogue River and within walking distance to the beaches of Westbrook. This historic Victorian Home (c. 1876) features plush welcoming furnishings in the utmost serene and relaxing atmosphere.

Available for both single room and whole house bookings, The Westbrook Inn is a perfect spot for a small family gathering, celebration, or wedding. Enjoy a gourmet breakfast served in the spacious dining room each morning. Relax by the fire pit in the evening or watch the world go by on the expansive front porch with a glass of iced tea on a warm summer afternoon.

Inn at Harbor Hill Marina

Boasting a prime waterfront location and just minutes to famed and historic Mystic, CT, sits the Inn at Harbor Hill Marina in Niantic, CT, a premier Bed and Breakfast that stirs romance and feelings for adventure. Select one of our 16 rooms for a romantic escape, a relaxing getaway, or a business trip, any time of year. Outstanding restaurants, beaches, shops, and boardwalks are within walking distance. 

The inn’s perfect location, beautiful surroundings, genuine hospitality, clean comfortable guestrooms with modern amenities, and the host of complimentary offerings make this Connecticut B&B worthy of being one of the best B&B’s you will ever experience anywhere.

Stonecroft Country Inn

Located just 5 miles from Mystic, Ct. nestled on 6.5 rolling acres of lush lawns and terraced gardens in the Connecticut countryside, our beautiful inn offers peace and quiet in our traditional rooms and luxury suites all in an atmosphere of relaxation and romance.

You’ll start your day with a full country breakfast. Then, relax with a trip to Mystic town & seaport, enjoy the excitement the casinos offer, take in the wine country, go hiking, or just do nothing at all. End your day around our fire pit next to our pond and waterfall in our beautiful gardens.

The Whaler's Inn

The Whaler's Inn has been the hub of hospitality in Mystic Connecticut for over 50 years. Steps away from the Mystic River, the boutique hotel offers 45 rooms within 5 unique buildings.

Visitors enjoy meandering through historic downtown and taking in the sites of this quintessential New England village. The property offers a variety of guestrooms including deluxe accommodations with river views, fireplaces, and air-jet tubs. The nautical chic décor is modern and comfortable, offering immaculate attention to detail.

Best Places to Stay in Greenwich

Best Places to Stay in Ledyard

Stonecroft Country Inn Bed & Breakfast

Best places to stay in mystic.

Best Places to Stay in Niantic

Best Places to Stay in Westbrook

Best Places to Stay in Westerly

The Villa Bed & Breakfast

Related journal entries.

10 Fun Things to do in Leavenworth, WA

Germany may be off your travel list this summer, but the charming Bavarian-themed town of Leavenworth in Washington State is not!  There are so many great things...

4 of the Best Florida Beaches

Escape to Stunning Views and Sandy Shores Have you been finding yourself dreaming of a warm-weather getaway to the beautiful Florida beaches?  So have we - and...

10 Reasons to Visit the Lakes Region in New Hampshire

Explore New Hampshire This Summer New Hampshire is a diverse state with plenty to do and see. This summer, head to the stunningly beautiful Lakes Region of...

Discover the Best Places to Stay in Sedona This Fall

A Stunning Fall in Red Rock Country Sedona, Arizona, is arguably one of the most breathtakingly beautiful destinations in America - and we have your guide to...

Top Weekend Getaways in Upstate New York

When it comes to weekend getaways in Upstate New York, nothing beats time in either the Adirondacks or the Finger Lakes.  You combine the two for one...

Give the gift of the

Select Registry Gift Certificates

Quick, easy, and free to join.

Plan a getaway with

Inn Scene, Select Registry’s Travel Magazine

Sign up for the newsletter.

Stay in the know about exclusive offers, travel inspiration, updates, and more from our diverse portfolio.

For Innkeepers

Craft lodging.

Craft lodging offers authentic and personalized accommodations that showcase local culture and artisanal craftsmanship. Our curated bed and breakfasts, boutique hotels, and inns provide a unique and charming experience, with locally sourced food and personalized recommendations from knowledgeable hosts. Book your stay today to discover the magic of craft lodging.

©2024 Select Registry. All rights reserved.

33 Best Beach Towns in New England to Visit in 2024 🌊

• Latest Posts

• 21 Family Vacations in New England for Every Season (2024) - February 26, 2024
• 15 Wonderful Weekend Getaways in Maine (2024) - February 3, 2024
• 33 Best Beach Towns in New England to Visit in 2024 🌊 - January 28, 2024

Exploring beautiful beach towns in New England is without a doubt one of my favorite things to do in the region . Especially when it comes to summer in New England, is there anything better than getting a little face time with the coast?

There are so many incredible beach towns New England has to offer, like Rockport MA, Milford CT, York ME, Hampton Beach NH, and so many more! I love places where you can find that salty sea breeze and lots of fun stuff to do on land, too.

Whether it’s the beaches of Maine , New Hampshire , Massachusetts , Rhode Island , or Connecticut that call to you, these are some of the coolest and best beach towns in New England!

Table of Contents

Best Beach Towns in New England: What to Know

You can find soft sand beaches in New England that you can sink your toes into (hello, Ocean Beach Park in CT!), but it’s more likely that you’re going to need water shoes to wade into the ocean or even just walk along the shore.

Some of the New England seaside towns I mention in this post are more about enjoying the view and the nautical, seafaring culture (and seafood – yum!) than it is about swimming off its shores.

I personally love getting out on the water, and New England coastal culture has a ton of great whale watching, nature cruises, and lighthouse tours that are perfect for that. You’ll see when you get to my section on beach towns in Maine, it’s one of my favorite things to do in New England beach towns!

If you’re wondering where the prettiest beaches in New England to swim in are, I’d say stick to the Cape and southern New England. If it’s dramatic cliffs, ruggedly beautiful shorelines, and nautical adventure you’re after, it’s Maine all day for me.

Best Beach Towns in Massachusetts

1. rockport, ma.

Rockport at a Glance:

• What to See: Motif #1, Bearskin Neck
• Where to Eat: Roy Moore Lobster Co
• Where to Stay: Emerson Inn

One of my personal favorite beach towns to visit in New England is Rockport, Massachusetts . This seaside community has just about everything I love about coastal New England!

You’ve got lobster, lighthouses, leisure, what more could a person possibly want?

There’s the iconic Motif Number 1 , which is a definite must see on Cape Ann. Said to be one of the most painted building in the world, you don’t have to be an artist to appreciate the simple beauty of this bright red fishing shack.

This is an artists town, after all, and we love strolling down Bearskin Neck and popping in to all the art galleries and shops. We always find the most interesting things here!

There are swimming beaches on Rockport like Front Beach and Long Beach, but I really enjoy just sitting on the sand and taking in the views.

When in Rome, you gotta do like the Romans, and when in Rockport, you gotta eat lobstah! One of my favorite lobster restaurants in New England is Roy Moore Lobster Co in Bearskin Neck. Try the lobster roll, it’s delish!

There are plenty of cool places to stay on Cape Ann, but I adored staying at the Emerson Inn .

You can read more about my experience there , but if you’re looking for a historic place to stay by the sea, this is an amazing option.

Click Here to Check Prices & Book!

2. Nantucket, MA

Nantucket at a Glance:

• What to See: Sankaty Head Lighthouse, Nantucket Whaling Museum
• Where to Eat: Charlie Noble
• Where to Stay: Nantucket Hotel & Resort

There are several incredible beach towns in Massachusetts , and Nantucket Island is one that offers those quintessential New England vibes all across this beautiful island.

Pristinely preserved beaches and stunning scenery abound, like the ‘Sconset Bluff Walk that ventures along the gorgeous bluffs, providing fantastic views of the Atlantic and Sankaty Head Lighthouse. 

There are plenty of fabulous beaches to choose from on island, depending on what you’re looking for, and plenty of fun things to do outside of the sand and surf, too! Nantucket Whaling Museum is a definite must visit for all marine history buffs.

There are wonderful restaurants like Charlie Noble , one of the best casual spots on the island for classic New England seafood staples like lobster rolls and fish & chips.

The island of Nantucket has many lodging options, including gorgeous hotels and vacation rentals , but if you’re looking for a splurge-worthy resort option, check out the Nantucket Hotel and Resort.

Amenities abound like beautiful swimming pools, onsite dining, and so much more . Nantucket is a New England beach town that wouldn’t know how to disappoint if it tried!

3. Chatham, MA

Chatham at a Glance:

• What to See: Chatham Lighthouse Beach
• Where to Eat: Mac’s Fish & Lobster
• Where to Stay: Captain’s House

One of my favorite Cape Cod beach towns, Chatham is GORGEOUS.

With that quintessential Cape Cod Charm vibe, Chatham is located on the “elbow” of the Cape and mostly surrounded by the deep blue waters of the Atlantic, meaning incredible beach views are not hard to find.

I love how walkable this New England beach town is, and we loved exploring during our June visit. The weather was absolutely sublime for taking in sights like the Chatham Lighthouse and enjoying a dip or two from Short n Sweet Ice Cream!

During our last visit, we stayed at the darling Captain’s House, and I wholeheartedly recommend it!

It is a beautiful property that is just bursting with Cape Cod charm with pristine landscaping, a gazebo, and marvelously well kept historic detail throughout.

You can read a more detailed review of our stay at the Captain’s House here , for more info!

4. Provincetown, MA

Provincetown at a Glance:

• What to See: Provincetown Dunes
• Where to Eat: The Lobster Pot
• Where to Stay: Breakwater Hotel

One of the most colorful and vibrant communities on the Cape, Provincetown is the New England beach town that seems to never really slow down!

Not only does Provincetown have gorgeous beaches that draw visitors in from near and far, but this beautiful beach town is also known for its progressive and inclusive LGBTQ+ friendly culture and fantastic art scene.

Most everywhere in P-Town proudly displays rainbow flags and stickers, from the cool little shops and art galleries that line Commercial Street to the large collection of Cape-Codder art found in the Provincetown Art Association and Museum, and all around town.

Provincetown is also home to stunning natural scenery, like the Provincetown Dunes, one of the most beautiful places in Massachusetts . Biking is a popular activity in P-Town, with excellent trails like Province Lands Bike Trail that offer views of cranberry bogs, the sand dunes, and a beech forest.

There’s whale-watching, museums, community events and so many other terrific things to do in Provincetown, but once you’ve worked up your appetite, consider stopping by the Lobster Pot , one of the top spots for lobster rolls on Cape Cod.

Provincetown also has some great places to stay, including some excellent Airbnb options , with several offering ocean views! Breakwater Hotel is a popular option, with rooms overlooking Provincetown Harbor and Long Point Lighthouse.

5. Wellfleet, MA

Wellfleet at a Glance:

• What to See: Marconi Beach, Atlantic White Cedar Swamp Trail
• Where to Eat: Wellfleet Bookstore & Restaurant
• Where to Stay: Event’tide Resort Motel and Cottages

Of course, it’s hard to go wrong when visiting any beach town on Cape Cod , but Wellfleet is an absolute gem of the Cape with its fantastic beaches.

Marconi Beach is a favorite among residents and tourists alike on the beautiful Cape Cod National Seashore, featuring those quintessential New England beach views.

This is also the home to one of Cape Cod’s best hikes along the Atlantic White Cedar Swamp Trail , where walking along the boardwalk into this lushly forested space just steps off of the sand dunes is often described as an ethereal experience.

Wellfleet also has kettle ponds that serve as freshwater beaches, but it’s kind of a “you have to know someone” type of thing as access is closely guarded by locals, unless you can make friends with a townie willing to share!

Wellfleet has plenty of great things to do , like visiting the Wellfleet Drive-In Theatre or taking a Sunset Sail out at sea.

There are also plenty of wonderful Wellfleet restaurants to check out, but one fun option is the Wellfleet Bookstore & Restaurant where you can enjoy spectacular seafood before hunting through the second-hand bookstore for your new favorite book.

As for where to stay in Wellfleet,  Event’tide Resort Motel and Cottages is the winner of “Best Motel on Outer Cape Cod” for 22 years and running! Plus, a stay at an Event’tide cottage can put you right beside your favorite beach.

6. Hyannis, MA

Hyannis at a Glance:

• What to See: Hyannis HyArts Artist Shanties
• Where to Eat: Anejo, the Beechtree Taqueria
• Where to Stay: Anchor In

Another great Cape Cod beach town, Hyannis, Massachusetts is the perfect place for an elevated New England beach town experience. This town is full of arts, culture, and of course, beaches!

Visit the Hyannis HyArts Artist Shanties, where you can peruse locally made art and handcrafted goods that could be the perfect souvenir, then head over the JFK Museum. This museum remains one of the best ways to learn about the historical and cultural significance that the Kennedy family has had on Cape Cod.

Of course, can’t forget about the beaches! Kalmus Beach is popular for surfing and Veterans Beach is very popular for families as it has great amenities and a playground.

Hyannis is full of fantastic places to eat, but a visit to Anejo , the Beechtree Taqueria is a definite must do while in this Cape Cod town. Not only will you love the food at this popular Hyannis restaurant, but the outdoor seating is below a beautiful weeping beechtree planted in 1776!

As for where to stay, you’ve got great options there, too, but the Anchor In is always a solid choice for those looking for a hotel on the water.

7. Oak Bluffs, MA

Oak Bluffs at a Glance:

• What to See: Flying Horses Carousel, gingerbread cottages
• Where to Eat: Red Cat Kitchen
• Where to Stay: Summercamp

Oak Bluffs is one of the most visually distinctive beach towns on Martha’s Vineyard.

You’ve got the whimsical gingerbread cottages at the Oak Bluffs Campground and  the Flying Horses Carousel , built in 1876 and still functional to this day.

You’ll even find some somewhat quirky fun at the Island Alpaca Company , a working alpaca farm and shop where you can find all kinds of alpaca-related goodies… including the alpacas!

Oak Bluffs beaches are some of the most popular beaches on Martha’s Vineyard, with sandy beaches and spectacular ocean views attracting swimmers, sunbathers, and sandcastle builders alike to come enjoy the sights and sounds of the sea.

Of course, you’ll also find some excellent restaurants on this beautiful island, as well as some very cool places to stay.

Summercamp is a boutique hotel with an aesthetic that is lighthearted and breezy, offering lots of great amenities.

8. Sandwich, MA

Sandwich at a Glance:

• What to See: Tidal Flats, Sandy Neck Beach Park
• Where to Eat: Belfry Inn & Bistro
• Where to Stay: Belfry Inn & Bistro

Did you know that Sandwich is the oldest town on Cape Cod, making it one of the most historic beach towns in New England?

It’s one of those Cape Cod towns that is extraordinarily scenic, offering a variety of ways to get out and explore this beautiful section of coastal New England. There’s Shawme-Crowell State Forest, where you can hike, and the Tidal Flats of Cape Cod Bay where you explore by sea.

If you’d rather just hit the beach and admire the beauty there, that’s okay too! Sandy Neck Beach Park is the perfect spot for that.

When it comes to where to stay in Sandwich, consider booking a room at the Belfry Inn & Bistro . The architecture is dreamy as can be, and word on the street is that the onsite dining isn’t so bad, either!

Best Beach Towns in Maine

9. old orchard beach, me.

Old Orchard Beach at a Glance:

• What to See: OOB Pier, Palace Playland
• Where to Eat: Joseph’s by the Sea
• Where to Stay: Alouette Beach Resort

Seven miles of sandy beach await you in Old Orchard Beach, locally known as OOB. I visited here with my family a few years ago, and this cute New England beach town is so much more than just swimmable sandy beaches!

The Old Orchard Beach Pier is 500 feet of restaurants, bars, vendors, and live entertainment, with views that absolutely slay. You can enjoy your day at OOB in the sun and sand before heading up to the pier for a bite and a beverage. 

As for where to eat in OOB goes, Joseph’s by the Sea is AMAZING. It’s def not the budget option, but if you can snag a seat overlooking the water, it’s basically heaven on earth.

OOB has more claim to fame than just your standard beachy fun, too, because it is also the home of Palace Playland , New England’s only seasonal beachfront amusement park.

There are many fun things to do in Old Orchard Beach, but when your day is done, consider a stay at Alouette Beach Resort.

You’ll have a wide range of options between economy and luxury that can accommodate most all needs, including a need for incredible ocean views!

10. Kennebunkport, ME

Kennebunkport at a Glance:

• What to See: Goose Rocks Beach, Dock Square
• Where to Eat: The Boathouse
• Where to Stay: Sandy Pines Campground

A beautiful beach town with that sturdy Maine energy mixed in with a little bit of the posh, Kennebunkport has been the summer home of the Bush family for decades now. After your visit, you’ll get it!

Sandy Maine beaches are a major draw here, and Goose Rocks Beach is one of the most popular for tourists and residents alike. Its white sand beach is protected by an offshore barrier reef, protecting swimmers from being battered from some of the bigger ocean waves.

Swimming, stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, and canoeing are always a good time off of Kennebunkport’s shores!

There are plenty of other cool things to do in Kennebunkport , too.

Check out the local art galleries and shop in Dock Square, explore quaint museums like the Seashore Trolley Museum, or even just drive by the Wedding Cake House, the ornate and whimsical historic home that really does resemble an old wedding cake!

We visited Kennebunkport at Christmas not too long ago and it was so much fun! The Christmas trolley was enjoyed by all, especially my son.

Kennebunkport also has so many great places to eat and stay, but I have a recommendation for a fun, kinda off-the-grid experience.

 I went glamping at Sandy Pines Campground with my husband a few years back and it was a BLAST! Definitely a little more comfortable and amenity-filled than the average pitch a tent/sleep on the ground camping experience goes, this was an incredible trip.

Or you could opt for the Boathouse , one of the prettiest waterfront boutique hotels in Maine.

11. York, ME

York at a Glance:

• What to See: Cape Neddick Light
• Where to Eat: Stonewall Kitchen Cafe, Fox’s Lobster House
• Where to Stay: York Harbor Inn

One of the cutest small towns in Maine , period, York is comprised of York Village, York Harbor, York Beach, and Cape Neddick, referred to collectively as “The Yorks.”

I absolutely love this little slice of heaven in coastal Maine!

Each has its own distinct vibe for whatever you’re looking for in your New England beach town getaway. Obviously, there’s York Beach, with Long Sands Beach and Short Sands Beach being known for their soft sand beaches and incredible views; it’s one of the best places to catch the sunrise !

You can also see the Nubble Lighthouse on Cape Neddick from Short Sands Beach if you’re looking for those lovely lighthouse views.

You can also find a coastal Maine Christmas tradition here outside Fox’s Lobster House: a lobster trap tree!

York Village is the historical section where gems like the Old Gaol, Maine’s first prison built in 1656, can be found.

York Harbor is home to the scenic Cliff Walk and the Wiggly Bridge – yup, just how it sounds!

We recently visited York and had lunch at the Stonewall Kitchen cafe and let me tell you… it’s a must visit!

Not only were there a ton of great options on the menu, but I bet you’ll end up leaving with a few great culinary souvenirs from the store, too.

There are several great places to stay, including one of my personal favorites: the York Harbor Inn , which makes for a stay with that perfect balance of comfort and luxury.

I stayed here a few years back and it is a gorgeous property. Definitely a perfect location for a New England beach getaway!

There are so many fun things to see and do in York, making this beach town one of the best places to visit in coastal Maine.

12. Rockland, ME

Rockland at a Glance:

• What to See: Historic schooner J&E Riggin
• Where to Eat: Rockland Cafe
• Where to Stay: Rockland Harbor Hotel

I absolutely adore Rockland! This is such an excellent beach town for those classic New England seaside vibes, for family vacations, solo travel, or romantic/friends trips.

During one of my first visits to this lovely seaside town, I went on a “Lobsters & Lighthouses Cruise” with my friend Nicki, and it was an absolute blast. When it comes to things to do in New England beach towns, getting out on the water is definitely an essential bucket list item.

In fact, I had such a blast that I booked another traditional schooner trip out of Rockland with my husband on the J&E Riggin!

This is such a unique opportunity to experience nautical culture of coastal Maine, I recommend everyone get out on the water like this at least once. It’s an incredible way to see marine wildlife up close and get a little interactive taste of what life has been like for those living on and near these waters for centuries.

In addition to being able to assist in ship duties like raising the mainsail and the anchor (the latter seemed best reserved for those who are all muscle, I didn’t volunteer for that one!), we also got to experience a traditional lobster bake!

This was a very cool – and literal – taste of coastal Maine life.

You can read more about my experience here: Sailing on a Maine Windjammer Cruise: Everything you Need to Know

Rockland is also home to the Maine Lobster Festival, held for 5 days the first weekend in August. Planning your trip to this New England beach town during the festival would be a great choice for the lobstah lovers out there!

If you prefer culture, there’s the Maine Lighthouse Museum, the Farnsworth Art Museum, the Olson House, and more to be explored in Rockland.

Rockland Cafe is the place to go when it’s time to eat. You’ll find classic Maine specials featuring fresh caught seafood daily. It’s the type of place that’s always a good idea!

As for where to stay, you’ve got plenty of options, but Rockland Harbor Hotel is an excellent choice if you’re looking to book a hotel near the water.

13. Ogunquit, ME

Ogonquit at a Glance:

• What to See: Footbridge Beach, Perkins Cove
• Where to Eat: Beachfire Bar & Grille
• Where to Stay: The Mariner

When the town motto is “Beautiful Place by the Sea,” you can bet it’s going to be high on the list of beautiful beach towns in New England!

Known for its soft white sand beaches and cute little Main Street, Ogunquit is a must-visit. Ogunquit Beach has excellent beach amenities including nearby restaurants and gift shops, and Footbridge Beach is a quaint spot with a picturesque wooden bridge that is a perfect backdrop for vacation photos!

Ogunquit is a gorgeous community with a lot of visual appeal, whether you’re shopping at Perkins Cove, setting sail on the ocean, or riding the Ogunquit Trolley around town.

There are so many great shops in Ogunquit, like On the Main , a gift shop with local art and both handcrafted and commercially manufactured beach-themed goods that could be the perfect souvenir from your beach town getaway.

Ogunquit has so many neat things to do , including taking in a show at the darling Ogunquit Playhouse .

There are lots of great options for where to stay and what to eat while in Ogunquit, but The Mariner is hard to beat, with great options for accommodations including rooms with water views and within walking distance to the beach!

14. Stonington ME & Deer Isle

Deer Isle at a Glance:

• What to See: Marine wildlife, Pumpkin Island Light
• Where to Eat: Stonecutters Kitchen
• Where to Stay: The Inn on the Harbor

Located on the southern tip of Deer Isle, Stonington is almost a bit of a hidden gem when it comes to beach towns in New England, in my opinion!

It’s more classic fishing village than it is tourist spot, but it’s an incredible place to go and escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

Stonington is a fishing town, so you’re going to see a lot of action out on the water, and it’s a much slower pace than some of the other Maine beach towns on this list, like Kennebunkport.

When you think Deer Isle, think rocky shores, salty sea breezes, and lobster pounds.

And of course, beautiful beaches.

Deer Isle is a beautiful summer destination, and I think getting out on the water is a definite must.

We enjoyed a trip to see Pumpkin Island Light. Isn’t it lovely?

If you’re looking for Maine beach towns that are slower paced, less crowds and touristy shtick, Stonington and all of Deer Isle make for an excellent option!

Wondering where to stay on Deer Isle? The Inn on the Harbor is a lovely choice and it’s in Stonington.

15. Bar Harbor, ME and Acadia on Mt Desert Island

Bar Harbor at a Glance:

• What to See: Acadia – Thunder Hole, Sand Beach
• Where to Eat: Side Street Cafe
• Where to Stay: Bar Harbor Inn & Spa

This is one of my favorite coastal New England spots! Bar Harbor and Acadia both deliver big when it comes to great beach town sights and things to do.

I always love visiting Bar Harbor and Acadia. Beautiful beaches abound to enjoy those gorgeous ocean views, and Sand Beach and Echo Lake Beach are both popular summer swimming spots in Acadia National Park.

Of course, there are gorgeous natural attractions at Acadia like Thunder Hole and hikes that offer fantastic views.

One of my personal favorites is Beehive Loop Trail. As long as you’re not afraid of heights, it’s amazing!

Whale watching is a popular thing to do in Bar Harbor, too, with companies like   Bar Harbor Whale Watch Co . We took a scenic nature tour in October and got to see lots of great wildlife, like seals and eagles.

There is so much to do even beyond the water, like visiting Bar Harbor Cellars , one of the best wineries in New England .

You can follow this ready-made 3-day itinerary for Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park to help plan your trip to this coastal town!

Options for where to stay are plentiful, but I personally recommend Bar Harbor Inn .

It’s absolutely gorgeous, with onsite restaurants, a spa, heated outdoor pool and hot tub, complimentary breakfast, and many rooms even have ocean views!

Best Beach Towns in Connecticut

16. milford, ct.

Milford at a Glance:

• What to See: Silver Sands State Park
• Where to Eat: The Lazy Lobster
• Where to Stay: Hilton Garden Inn

One of the most darling beach towns in New England, Milford has a tasty claim to fame: they claim to be the first to serve up a buttery warm lobster roll!

If you’re familiar with New England foods, you’ll know this is kinda a big deal.

Besides being home to some fantastic seafood, Milford is also home to gorgeous Silver Sands State Park .

I love this beautiful area. You can walk the picturesque boardwalk and take in those spectacular views of Long Island Sound, then take a dip. Plus, this is the warmest water at New England beaches you’ll find!

Walnut Beach is another popular Milford beach, and it has a lovely pier that’s perfect for taking great New England beach pictures!

Stroll the Milford Green and downtown Milford, where you’ll find the waterfall at the Milford Duck Pond.

This feels like one of those quintessential New England scenes that you see in postcards, and it’s a definite must visit while in Milford!

Looking for where to stay in Milford? The Hilton Garden Inn is just a few miles from Silver Sands State Park and has an indoor pool!

17. Madison, CT

Madison at a Glance

• What to See: Hammonasset Beach State Park
• Where to Eat: Bar Bouchee
• Where to Stay: Scranton Seahorse Inn

Madison is known as one of the cutest small towns in Connecticut , so this little New England beach town delivers big on quaint Connecticut charm.

Home of the Hammonasset Beach State Park, one of the neatest state parks in CT and the longest shoreline beach park in the state, there’s plenty of space on the sand for your sandcastle construction and sunbathing needs!

If splashing in the Sound doesn’t sound like your thing, check out Meigs Point Nature Center. You can enjoy nature walks, touch-tank programs, and workshops about the wildlife and natural history of coastal Connecticut. 

In Madison’s quietly quaint downtown, you’ll find cute shops like R.J. Julia Booksellers , the independent bookstore and café/bistro that hosts literary events year-round. This is a warm and welcoming space to soak up all the small-town New England vibes.

As far as where to stay, Scranton Seahorse Inn is one of the dreamiest B&Bs in the state and is even walking distance to beaches and downtown.

There are lots of fun little small-town things to do in this coastal cutie, and Madison has a lovely little restaurant scene , too. 

18. Westport, CT

Westport at a Glance

• What to See: Compo Beach
• Where to Eat: Spotted Horse Tavern
•  Where to Stay: Inn at Longshore

Home to one of the most beautiful beaches in the region, Westport, Connecticut is one of those must visit New England beach towns for those who love the water.

Situated along Connecticut’s Gold Coast, Westport has the most ocean and river waterfront in the state, so if you love those water views, you’re going to love this town!

With three gorgeous town beaches and a state park, there’s plenty of lovely outdoor space to enjoy. Compo Beach is one of the most popular beaches in New England, with a great boardwalk, concessions and other amenities that make it perfect for a day at the beach.

Sherwood Island State Park is 235+ acres of natural beauty, so if you’re looking for the perfect place to spend the day playing, picnicking, swimming, and just lounging around on the sand, this is the place!

If you’re looking to book a room with water views, consider The Inn at Longshore . It’s grounds are dreamy as can be!

19. Mystic, CT

Mystic at a Glance

• What to See: Olde Mystick Village, Mystic Aquarium
• Where to Eat: Mystic Pizza
• Where to Stay: The Whaler’s Inn

One of the cutest waterfront villages in all of New England, Mystic is one of my personal favorites.

Surprisingly perhaps, there’s technically only one public beach in town! Williams Beach Park is 120 feet of quaint and cozy sandy shore that is hosted by the Ocean Community YMCA, with a nice playground for the kiddos to play on when they tire of splashing in the water.

Near the Mystic River Bascule Bridge, Mystic River Park doesn’t have a beach for swimming in, but the lovely boardwalk and green space is perfect for hosting town events and resting a while beside the river.

It’s always neat to watch the Mystic River Bascule Bridge do its thing!

Mystic is one of my favorite Connecticut beach town destinations because there are so many fantastic things to do.

Visit Olde Mystick Village and check out all the neat shops and restaurants. There are some extra cool shops here.

Also on the agenda should be a visit to Mystic Aquarium. My son loved making friends with the Beluga Whale!

Mystic is also home to Mystic Pizza of Julia Robert’s early movie fame, and many other excellent Mystic restaurants.

There are so many great places to stay in Mystic , but for a historic Mystic hotel experience that is just right around the corner from Mystic River Park, consider a stay at  The Whaler’s Inn .

20. Old Saybrook, CT

Old Saybrook at a Glance

• What to See: The Kate
• Where to Eat: Fresh Salt
• Where to Stay: Saybrook Point Resort & Marina

When you’re looking for a beach town that is less go-go-go and more “rest and relax a bit,” then Old Saybrook might be just what you’re looking for!

With Harvey’s Beach being one of the most beautiful beaches in Connecticut, there is plenty to find here in the way of wonderful waterfront views. You can even work on your short game with Saybrook Point Mini-Golf , where they invite you to “Putt a Round by the Sound” and enjoy that sweet sea breeze while you play.

This super cute small beach town offers laid-back activities like antique shopping – you never know what kind of cool vintage treasures you might find!

Afterwards, take in a show at the Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center , lovingly referred to as “The Kate,” where you can catch all kinds of different performances, from dance to music to even magic.

Spend a little time at Myrcene Ale sampling some of the flavors of shoreline Connecticut before turning in for the day.

If you’re looking for a splurge-worthy spot to stay, consider staying at Saybrook Point Resort & Marina.

On-site full-service spa service, private balconies, stellar views of the Sound, and a killer on-site restaurant await you. After a stay like that, how could you possibly not feel rested and revitalized from your seaside vacation?

21. New London, CT

New London at a Glance

• What to See: Ocean Beach Park
• Where to Eat: On the Waterfront
• Where to Stay: Stonecroft Country Inn

New London is the home of Ocean Beach Park , the perfect New England beach town for anyone craving those boardwalk beach town vibes! Splash around in the ocean or wiggle your toes in the soft, white sand of the beach before heading up to walk the wooden boardwalk that spans about a half-mile along the sand.

Ocean Beach Park also has other fun things to see and do like an arcade, a mini-golf course, rides, food stands, shopping, and there’s even an Olympic-sized pool if you’re not into those salt-water vibes!

New London’s historic waterfront district offers a little something for everyone, with shops, restaurants, art galleries, and more.

Check out the Lyman Allyn Art Museum or the Garde Arts Center when you’re in need of a little art and culture, and the Custom House Maritime Museum , the Nathaniel Hempsted House , or the Nathan Hale Schoolhouse when you’re looking for a little historical appreciation.

There are plenty of great options for where to eat and stay, but just up the road is one of the prettiest properties in CT: Stonecroft Country Inn . It’s a beautiful place to stay, especially for a couples trip.

New London is one of the prettiest beach towns in New England!

22. East Lyme

East Lyme at a Glance

• What to See: Rocky Neck State Park
• Where to Eat: Flander’s Fish Market
• Where to Stay: Inn at Harbor Hill Marina

Looking for a CT beach town that has a soft, sandy beach?

Look into East Lyme, home of Rocky Neck State Park and a 1.5 mile gently sloping beach that won’t tear up your feet if you go barefoot! This scenic park is more than just beach, too, with boardwalks, nature trails, and a well-maintained stone pavilion that offers incredible views from the top!

East Lyme is also home to a few town beaches that non-residents can buy day or season passes for, but there’s more to this beach town in Connecticut than just beaches!

Visit the Samuel Smith Farmstead for a peek at a historic colonial farm and then explore the cute little shops, restaurants, and more that make this little seaside community special.

Come nightfall, check in at the Inn at Harbor Hill Marina for a boutique B&B style stay that’s within walking distance to the beach!

23. Greenwich, CT

Greenwich at a Glance

• What to See: Tod’s Point
• Where to Eat: The Ginger Man
• Where to Stay: The Delamar

Ahhhh, Greenwich!

This CT beach town is a popular coastal escape from NY, and it’s no wonder when you take into consideration how beautifully kept the beaches of Greenwich are! Non-residents will need to buy day passes to access Greenwich’s beaches May through October, but it’s a small price to pay to splash in the Sound at gorgeous, amenity-filled spots like scenic Greenwich Point Park .

In addition to its beaches, Greenwich Point Park (aka Tod’s Point) also has walking trails for a scenic waterfront nature walk and is one of the most beautiful places in the Nutmeg State , so be sure to visit while in Greenwich.

There are plenty of fun things to do in this wealthy beach town, like shopping the designer stores on Greenwich Ave, and if you’re looking for a lavish place to rest your head at night, The Delamar is one of the best hotels in New England for a luxury getaway! When in Rome, right??

Best Beach Towns in New Hampshire

24. rye, nh.

Rye at a Glance

• What to See: Wallis Sands State Beach
• Where to Eat: Ray’s Seafood Restaurant
• Where to Stay: Inn at Rye Place

This sweet little New Hampshire Seacoast town is home to beautiful beaches, seaside views, and some of the best seafood on the New England coast. Does it get much better than that?

Two of Rye’s most popular beaches attract visitors from all around for their sandy beaches, beach amenities, and spectacular scenery.

Wallis Sands State Beach has gentle surf and lovely views of the Isle of Shoals, and Jenness State Beach is typically a little more crowded, with Summer Sessions Surf Shop and Sandpiper Café conveniently located right across the street so you can easily meet all your surfing and refueling needs.

Rye is a tiny little town, but with attractions like Odiorne Point State Park (wait until you see the old WWII bunker remnants, so cool!) and the Seacoast Science Center there’s plenty of fun to be had beyond the beach.

Another popular Rye activity is getting out on the water for a whale-watching excursion with Granite State Whale Watch or catching a ferry out to Star Island (open June through September) to experience that Isle of Shoals serenity for yourself.

Back on the mainland, swing by Ray’s Seafood Restaurant for some of the best seafood on the Seacoast with incredible ocean views before laying down your head for the night at one of the cute places to stay like The Inn at Rye Place .  You’ll be going to bed happy!

25. Hampton Beach, NH

Hampton Beach at a Glance

• What to See: Hampton Beach
• Where to Eat: Boardwalk Cafe & Pub
• Where to Stay: Ashworth by the Sea

This little Seacoast beach town is home to Hampton Beach, the biggest and most popular beach in the state, and is even considered one of the most beautiful places in all of New Hampshire .

I went a few years back and had such a fun time with my fam!

You’ll find all the beach amenities you could possibly need and then some, with snack bars, gift shops, restaurants, beachfront hotels, and arcades easily accessible during your day at the beach.

There are also lots of great events in Hampton Beach, like regular fireworks shows, festivals, and even an annual sand sculpture contest that results in some pretty impressive sand art!

More than just the beach, Hampton also has cool things to do like visiting the Oceanarium , where you can explore marine wildlife with hands-on activities like touch tanks. This is definitely a great thing to do with kids… and those of us who are young at heart, he he!

You can head to Smuttynose Brewing Company at historic Towle Farm for a few brews and a bite to eat in a gorgeous location, with 17 acres to explore.

You have several choices for where to lay down your head at night, with a few being oceanfront. Ashworth by the Sea is a great choice for those wanting to be within easy walking distance of the beach.

Wherever you stay, Hampton is a beach town vacation that will put you to sleep with a smile on your face.

Best Beach Towns in Rhode Island

26. newport, ri.

Newport at a Glance

• What to See: Newport Mansions
• Where to Eat: White Horse Inn
• Where to Stay: Hotel Viking

This seaside city is known for a lot, including its history of Gilded Age grandeur and the spectacular scenery that still exists today, including the magnificent Claiborne Pell bridge.

Le swoon, every time!

Easton’s Beach , or “First Beach” as it is most commonly known in Newport, is beloved for its soft sand, gentle waves, and fabulous views.

Newport is a beach town that is gifted in the amazing views department, with a Cliff Walk that offers dramatic up close and personal views of both the grand old Newport mansions and the incredible Atlantic Ocean.

This was taken on our Cliff Walk during a winter visit to Newport a few years back.

Newport also has a fabulous restaurant scene. The White Horse Tavern is America’s oldest tavern, and its historical value – and incredible menu offerings – cannot be overstated!

Otherwise, this is a true seafood lovin’ beach town in New England. You’re going to find plenty of excellent options, pretty much anywhere you go!

There are lots of fun things to do in Newport, but the absolute must-do on any Newport itinerary is visiting the glorious Newport mansions.

You can just peek from the outside if you’re pressed for time, but touring these behemoth symbols of affluence and grandeur of the Gilded Age is the best way to see the scope of elegance, luxury, and mega-wealth that these giant homes were once a testament to.

Hop on a trolley tour of the Newport Mansions for a very cool way to experience these Gilded Age beauties!

Newport is full of gorgeous luxury hotels and historic gems like Hotel Viking that offer a little taste of that coastal elegance that the classic coast is known for.

My husband and I had the best romantic getaway at Hotel Viking a few years back. I mean, Newport + hotel with a spa = nothing but romance!

27. Little Compton, RI

Little Compton at a Glance

• What to See: South Shore Beach
• Where to Eat: The Barn
• Where to Stay: Stone House Inn

Do you like your New England beach towns on the quainter side? Check out Little Compton , Rhode Island!

Listed in the National Register of Historic Places, this is one of those towns that offers the perfect respite for those looking to escape the crowds.

Many of the beaches in Little Compton are private, but there are some public options! South Shore Beach is a pretty beach that feels a little secluded, but you will find some basic amenities, including lifeguards in season.

For a peaceful place to walk and enjoy coastal Rhode Island sights, head to 75 acre Goosewing Beach Preserve, accessible via South Shore Beach. This protected preserve is stunning, and a walk here is the perfect place to relax and unwind.

Don’t leave town before visiting Carolyn’s Sakonnet Vineyard to pick up a taste of coastal New England. They also host a summer concert series where you can enjoy some vineyard goodies alongside some standouts of the local music scene.

One of the most exciting aspects of a visit to Little Compton is the possibility of a stay at Stone House Inn , an absolutely gorgeous historic property situated on 2.7 acres.

Not only do you get to enjoy the stunning grounds and accommodations, but they also have a private beach and ocean views.

28. Narragansett, RI

Narragansett at a Glance

• What to See: Point Judith Lighthouse
• Where to Eat: Coast Guard House
• Where to Stay: The Break Hotel

Of course, good ol’ Gansett had to make the list of best beach towns in New England with its popular beaches and picturesque views!

Narragansett has several beautiful beaches that are popular for swimming, surfing, and sunbathing, and all offer gorgeous ocean sights.

Narragansett Beach is one of the most popular beaches in the state. It  offers fantastic views of The Towers , the historical icon/preserved remains of the 1886 Narragansett Pier Casino, and Point Judith Lighthouse, one of the loveliest lighthouses in Rhode Island .

It is also considered one of the most beautiful places in the Ocean State .

Head to the Narragansett Pier to shop, and look out for events like Summer Concerts at the Gazebo and live music at the Pier.

The Coast Guard House is located at the Towers and my assistant editor ate here with her family during a recent trip to Narragansett and absolutely gushed about the experience. It’s one of the top restaurants in the state!

There are plenty of options for where to stay and where to eat in Narragansett, but for a romantic getaway vibe with a boutique hotel experience, check out The Break Hotel and their on-site restaurant Chair 5. They have rooftop dining with ocean views, just saying!

29. Charlestown, RI

Charlestown at a Glance

• What to See: Blue Shutters Town Beach
• Where to Eat: The Tavern at General Stanton Inn
• Where to Stay: General Stanton Inn

Looking for a beautiful beach town in Rhode Island? Charlestown could be just what you’re looking for!

You’ve got beautiful beaches and wildlife refuges, like Blue Shutters Town Beach , with great amenities and lovely views of Block Island Sound. This is a popular beach for families because there are restrooms and lifeguards.

East Beach is also popular, but a little less developed. You’ll find composting toilets and lifeguards in season, but most of all, a gorgeous stretch of sand! This is a three-mile-long barrier beach that separates Ninigret Pond from the ocean, and it is a lovely place for a New England beach day.

Visit the Ninigret National Wildlife Refuge and walk the nature trails, then follow it up with a visit to Frosty Drew Observatory and Science Center for stargazing!

As for where to stay in Little Compton, consider booking a room at the General Stanton Inn ! This lovely historic inn is also home to one of the best local places to eat, the Tavern.

30. Block Island, RI

Block Island at a Glance

• What to See: Mohegan Bluffs
• Where to Eat: Restaurant 1879
• Where to Stay: The Atlantic Inn

While technically this New England beach town is called New Shoreham, the most popular way to refer to this gorgeous place is as Block Island.

Of course, there are the beaches of Block Island , which are hard to beat both in Rhode Island and beyond. 

Beyond just beaches, however, Block Island is also home to beautiful attractions like the gorgeous North Light , the granite and iron lighthouse that sits among the grassy dunes on the northern tip of the island. 

The Southeast Light sits at the southern end of the island, dramatically perched atop the spectacular Mohegan Bluffs, one of the most impressive natural sights in the state .

There are so many cool things to do and wonderful places to stay on the island, but if you’re looking for the ultimate in romantic settings, check out The Atlantic Inn , situated on a hilltop overlooking the town.

Plus, their on-site restaurant, Restaurant 1879 offers fine dining with a fantastic view, which is hard to beat, isn’t it?

31. Westerly, RI

Westerly at a Glance

• What to See: Watch Hill Lighthouse
• Where to Eat: Evie’s
• Where to Stay: Ocean House

With beautiful beaches (although some don’t allow public parking and require a little more advance planning to get to) for swimming, lounging, and listening to the waves crash, and a lovely downtown with great places to explore, Westerly is the perfect RI summer spot .

Oh, and it also happens to be home to the village of Watch Hill , where Taylor Swift keeps her summer home! You can see it in the picture above!

There are lots of things to do in Westerly , including visiting the gorgeous Watch Hill Lighthouse , where you can ooh and ahh over both the pretty lighthouse and the spectacular views of the ocean beyond.

If you’re in the mood to splurge, check out Ocean House in Watch Hill, which is one of the best spa getaways in New England . It’s def the pricy option, but it is phenomenal.

Regardless of where you stay, Westerly offers a beach town experience that won’t soon be forgotten.

32. Bristol, RI

Bristol at a Glance

• What to See: Blithewold
• Where to Eat:
• Where to Stay: Bristol Harbor Inn

If you’re looking for a beach town in Rhode Island that is small in size but big in charm, check out Bristol! This hidden New England gem is home to Bristol Town Beach , just across from Colt State Park.

The beach is pretty pebbly, so bring your water shoes, but there are seasonal lifeguards, concessions, and restrooms in addition to a sports complex with a skate park, tennis courts, etc.

Bristol is also home to attractions like Blithewold , the 33-acre summer estate with gorgeous gardens and exhibits, and Musee Patamecanique , the creative and curious immersive experience that is a once in a lifetime kind of event, so there’s plenty to see and do in Bristol other than just the beach!

Looking for where to stay in Bristol, Rhode Island? Book a room at the Bristol Harbor Inn , the boutique waterfront inn that has a restaurant with gorgeous waterfront views.

33. Middletown, RI

Middletown at a Glance

• What to See: Second Beach
• Where to Eat: Newport Creamery
• Where to Stay: Sea Breeze Inn

A part of Newport County, Middletown is a cute little RI beach town that doesn’t get nearly enough love in the press! Truth be told, it pretty much bleeds into Newport proper and vice versa.

Home of two of the most popular beaches in Rhode Island, Sachuest Beach (Second Beach) and Third Beach, Middletown has beautiful beaches for when you need a generous dose of Vitamin Sea.

You’ll find more amenities at Second Beach, but both have restrooms and lifeguards and are great for swimming! Expect to pay for parking at both.

Also in Middletown is Sachuest Point National Wildlife Refuge , a favorite local spot for nature trails and bird watching, and Sweet Berry Farm, a local farm known for both its PYO fruits and having one of the best pumpkin patches in the state !

If you have time, don’t forget to swing by Newport Vineyards to see what they’re bottling. Maybe take a bottle or two back with you to The Sea Breeze Inn ?

Final Thoughts: New England Beach Towns

Whatever New England beach towns you end up visiting, it will be hard to have anything other than a good time exploring some of these great waterfront spots!

Read these next:

• 24 Best Places to Visit in New England: Vacation Spots
• 7+ Top Places for the Best Whale Watching in Maine
• Best Whale Watching in Massachusetts: 12 Highly-Rated Tours
• The Best Whale Watching in Cape Cod + Seal Tours!

18 Top-Rated Small Towns in Connecticut

Written by Alison Abbott and Shandley McMurray Updated May 26, 2022 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

While it may be the third smallest state, Connecticut packs a ton of natural beauty and adorable small towns within its captivating borders. From sparkling lakes to crashing waterfalls to sandy beaches to verdant forests, a visit to the Nutmeg State will fill your lungs with fresh air and your heart with joy.

Feel your shoulders relax as you wind your way through tree-lined streets leading from one small town to the next, ogling nature's gifts, which are made even more magnificent with a kaleidoscope of fall's brightest colors.

Soak up the maritime feel of tiny coastal towns, stop in for a treat at a mom and pop restaurant, shop in a local boutique, or kayak down the river of a quaint, historic village. Traditions from New England and sophistication from New York combine for an interesting assortment of small towns with all the modern conveniences a visitor could need.

Plan your travels with our list of the best small towns in Connecticut.

3. Greenwich

4. colebrook, 6. westport, 7. new canaan, 8. fairfield, 9. ridgefield, 10. litchfield, 12. old saybrook, 13. madison, 14. washington, 15. milford, 16. niantic, 17. west cornwall, map of small towns in connecticut.

There are few small towns in Connecticut as charming as Mystic. Established in 1684, Mystic's maritime history is evident at every turn in this former shipbuilding seaport. Throughout the year, annual events celebrate boats, pirates, schooners, and more. With over a dozen ways to get out on the water, every type of adventurer will find his or her groove.

The Seaport Museum is worthy of at least a few hours of your time. It's packed with interesting things to see – like a recreated 19th-century fishing village, children's museum, and an old wooden whaling ship. You can also board a cruise from here.

The Mystic Aquarium is another must-see, with beluga whales, seals, and a bevy of other creatures (hello, penguins) who will wave a fin at your kids in greeting. Across the street lies the lovely Olde Mistick VIllage , an open-air mall set in a recreated 18th-century village. Come hungry as there are a ton of eateries to choose from. Don't miss the flavored popcorn or fresh fudge on offer.

Board the world's first nuclear-powered submarine at the Historic Ship Nautilus & Submarine Force Museum . Parents will appreciate the free admission, and kids will love the working periscopes. Finally, make sure to have a slice at the restaurant Julia Roberts made famous in Mystic Pizza.

Read More: Top-Rated Things to Do in Mystic, CT

Chester's industrial roots in shipbuilding and milling are still evident in the downtown area. The town places a high priority on preserving its historical heritage, and many antique houses and buildings have been thoughtfully preserved for future generations. A strong cultural scene often goes hand in hand with historical priorities, and Chester's budding arts scene is no exception.

Numerous galleries, boutiques, and theater add another layer of interest for visitors to this adorable small town. The surrounding topography, in addition to being scenic, provides great hiking and walking areas accessible directly from town. Chester is the perfect destination for a romantic getaway.

Visiting nearby Gillette Castle State Park is one of the best things to do in Connecticut . Hop on the Chester-Hadlyme ferry to cross the river to this interesting attraction.

Located on Connecticut's Gold Coast, Greenwich is a financial powerhouse and also an exciting place to visit. As one of the Nutmeg state's oldest towns, it also represents one of the richest.

Less than an hour train ride from New York City, Greenwich gives the feel of a small town with all the amenities of the big city. Restaurants are world-class, as is the shopping. You'll find the usual high-end brands, but also a hip selection of one-of-a-kind boutiques and galleries. This has helped it to become one of the top weekend getaway destinations in Connecticut .

For the nature-lover, be sure to stop at the Audubon Center . This 300-acre sanctuary will have you feeling like you are a world away. You can also walk the town exploring the bustling Greenwich Avenue or visit attractions like the Flinn Gallery or Bruce Museum , an eclectic place where artifacts and exhibits are carefully curated for every visitor. The Philip Johnson Glass House is an architect lover's dream.

Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Greenwich, CT

This sleepy town nestled in the Connecticut countryside is perfect for a restful and relaxing weekend. Located north of Hartford , it's oozing with rural, small-town charm. The area's hilly location makes it particularly stunning in the fall, when the countryside lights up with shades of red, yellow, and orange fall foliage. Check out the views at the Gaylord Pond Dam or Lake Triangle Dam .

For an amazing scenic panorama of Long Island Sound and the tri-state area, head to the Haystack Mountain Observation Tower . The state park with the same name provides trails and a rugged path to the top.

Kent is a quiet respite in the busy tri-state area. Although the population of this small town is less than 3,000, it offers panoramic views with its ruggedly beautiful landscape. It's a great place to visit year-round, but in fall, this area lights up with vibrant colors as the leaves begin to turn.

Take advantage of all the natural beauty of Kent at Kent Falls State Park, where you can explore one of the state's best waterfalls , covered bridges, and miles of trails. It is deemed one of the best State Parks in Connecticut. Once you've seen its vast beauty up close, you'll understand why.

You can also get unparalleled views at the Western New England Greenway or East Kent Hamlet Land Trust. Learn more about the history of this area at the Kent Historical Society or Kent Furnace.

The picturesque Eric Sloane Museum is another must-see that houses the artist's works, his studio, and a collection of his hand tools.

Scenic Westport is located just 50 miles outside of New York City on a prime piece of waterfront real estate known as Connecticut's Gold Coast. The vibrant downtown area along the Saugatuck river has world-class shopping and top-notch restaurants, as well as a newly renovated library and the outdoor, Levitt Pavilion , which boasts free (and some paid) concerts in the summer. Main Street is about as quaint and small town as it gets, yet it's graced by big names like Lululemon, Tiffany's, and J.Crew.

MOCA Westport is the town's impressive contemporary art museum that can rival any NYC-based venue. It boasts programing in both the visual and performing arts. You won't want to miss a play at the Westport Country Playhous e, where the stage has been graced by the likes of Paul Newman, James Earl Jones, Robert Redford, and Eartha Kitt.

Active travelers will find a multitude of water sports to indulge in, especially if they plan on spending time at the pristine Compo Beach . Sailing, kayaking, stand up paddleboarding, windsurfing, and fishing are all part of the athletic scene. Old Mill Beach and Sherwood Island are also popular spots to lounge on the sand.

For a scenic late afternoon stroll, find the river walk (part of which runs around the library's peninsula) and time it to watch the sun set over the sparkling water.

Westport and the surrounding area is part of the Connecticut Antiques Trail, which snakes its way through scenic small towns of the area.

Read More: Top-Rated Things to Do in Westport, CT

New Canaan is a charming town located in Fairfield County, a quick 20-minute drive from Stamford or an hour from New York City. Another commuter haven, New Canaan boasts a large downtown core that's so sweet, you'll forget it's bigger than the short Main Street you'll find in other small towns on this list.

Elm Street is where you'll find most of the upscale shops, cafés, and restaurants. This is a very affluent town, so expect the prices to reflect the clientele. There are plenty of ice-cream stores to keep kids happy.

The most highly rated attraction in New Canaan is the famous Glass House. One of the most interesting homes you'll see, and one of the best places to visit in Connecticut , this eclectic spot was designed and lived in by architect Philip Johnson. It is mesmerizing, and so unique you'll talk about it for years to come. It is only open between mid-April and mid-November, so plan accordingly.

The Silvermine Arts Center is worthy of a visit, especially to wander around the neighborhood of the same name. Akin to walking through a postcard, this picture-perfect section of town is delightful. Babbling brooks, historic homes, white picket fences, and waterfalls–this area really has it all.

The Inn at GrayBarns is one of the most popular places to stay in the area. It's gorgeous, intimate, and home to a tavern that serves up tasty dishes to hungry customers.

An enticing small town lies serenely on Connecticut's Gold Coast. Named Fairfield, this lovely spot overflows with all the things you'd want for a perfect weekend getaway: boatloads of charm; top-notch restaurants; and five soft, sandy beaches.

Between Jennings, Penfield, South Pine Creek, Southport, and Sasco beaches, you're sure to find the perfect spot to lay your towel, take a dip in the Long Island Sound, or enjoy a picnic.

One of the best beach towns in the state, Fairfield lies between Bridgeport and Stamford, welcoming visitors who like to spend time soaking up the fun in the outdoor Fairfield Farmer's Market , history at the Fairfield Museum and History Center , and charm in the Old Post Road Historic District .

The Connecticut Audubon Society Birdcraft Museum and Sanctuary is peppered with wooden walkways and, of course, plenty of interesting birds on display.

If you've brought a four-legged friend along for the journey, don't miss a visit to Lake Mohegan Recreational Area . It's one of the best places to walk a dog in Fairfield County and boasts a cute beach, perfect for families in the warmer months.

Read More: Top-Rated Things to Do in Fairfield, CT

Ridgefield is so alluring, you'll wish you could stay longer. It's set in the foothills of the Berkshire Mountains, and you can't beat the elysian feel. Stately homes line the streets, boutique shops sell their wares, and museums host interesting displays throughout this small town.

A visit to the Keeler Tavern Museum will take you back in time, but the nearby Aldrich Contemporary Art Museum , complete with a sculpture garden, will jump you right back to the 21 st century.

The Prospector Theater is a cinema with heart. Run by a non-profit organization, this inspiring venture employs people with disabilities, giving them a chance to "sparkle, shine, and transform (their) passions into professions." They show everything from kids' films to classics to current Blockbusters.

The Ridgefield Playhouse is also good at entertaining its guests. This is where you can find everything from recitals to comedy shows to concerts.

Read More: Top-Rated Things to Do in Ridgefield, CT

It's easy to fall in love with Litchfield, especially if you visit when the trees are alight in all their bright yellow, orange, and red glory. A sweet small town located about 50 minutes east of Hartford, this charming village is about as quintessentially New England as it gets in Connecticut.

American flags unfurl from historic buildings in this storybook town, which is dotted by white-spired churches, 18th-century homes, and white picket fences a plenty. Stop in for a bite at one of the local restaurants, but book a reservation if you're planning to visit on a summer or fall weekend.

Nature abounds at White Memorial Conservation Center and Topsmead State Forest , both of which are worthy of hours-long hikes and romantic picnics.

Read More: Top-Rated Things to Do in Litchfield, CT

If you're a fan of The Gilmore Girls , you'll feel right at home in Essex. After all, the show's location, Stars Hollow, was based on this charming Connecticut town. Many of the historic buildings remain, and the surrounding area is filled with authentic farm structures dating back as far as the Revolutionary War.

Especially notable is the First Baptist Church of Essex . Built in the Egyptian Revival style, it is one of only three in the United States and one of the top attractions in Essex.

Visitors of all ages will enjoy a spin on the Essex Steam Train for an old-fashioned tour of several towns in the area. While you are soaking up the nostalgic feel of Essex, make sure to take advantage of the waterfront of this welcoming port. Both the Connecticut river and Long Island sound offer a plethora of water activities for adventure.

Old Saybrook is one of Connecticut's oldest, and arguably most beautiful, towns. It's known to many as the once-home of actress, Katherine Hepburn. The Cultural Arts Center named after this Oscar-winning (dubbed "the Kate" by locals) legend is the area's top attraction.

Hepburn's former mansion sits overlooking Long Island Sound on a peninsula surrounded by other high-end real estate and the cutest private golf course visitors will ever lay eyes on. The area is great for a scenic walk out to the lighthouse, also known as Lynde Point .

The historic Florence Griswold House has been turned into a museum that overlooks the sparkling Lieutenant River, behind it lies the modern, and inspiring, Robert and Nancy Krieble Gallery .

In town there are some great restaurants, several offering local seafood. Small shops feature vintage finds and antiques, many of which line the charming Main Street.

Get back to nature on a hike through Rocky Neck State Park . A treasured gem, you'll want to bring plenty of snacks and water along as this is a place worthy of hours of your time. Harvey's Beach is another visitor fave, well loved for its calm, shallow water and clean, soft sand.

Read More: Top-Rated Things to Do in Old Saybrook, CT

Situated on the idyllic Long Island Sound, Madison is a seaside retreat. Take in panoramic views from one of the many outdoor spaces, like Hammonasset Beach State Park or Meigs Point Nature Center, or take a bike ride or stroll at The Shoreline Greenway Trail .

While the big draw of this area is its coastal beauty, there is still plenty to do if you aren't a nature-lover. Take a walk downtown and stop to browse through the unique shops, like the Audubon Shop or R.J. Julia Booksellers. Visitors can also take in a one-of-a-kind independent film at Madison Art Cinema.

The rural town of Washington is known for not only its beauty but a host of historic architecture and cultural amenities as well. Close to New York City, its influence is evident in many of the attractions this area has to offer. You can visit the caves of Steep Rock Reservation or learn more about the Native American influence in the area at the Institute for American Indian Studies.

Head to the majestic Hidden Valley Preserve in Washington Depot to walk across the impressive Henry David Thoreau suspension bridge , a true marvel of engineering. The view from atop this bridge is worthy of at least a few photos. The bridge isn't too far from the parking lot, so don't worry if you're not a fan of hiking.

For those who don't mind a walk through the woods, this is a magnificent place bursting with beauty in the form of river views, babbling brooks, and towering trees.

If culture is what you crave, you can find it at the Gunn Historical Museum , preserving American artifacts and stories from the area, or the Washington Art Association and Gallery.

Before leaving Washington, don't forget to stop at Hollister House. Occupying 25 acres, this private garden is filled with whimsy, unique water features, and Japanese accents. It's well worth the visit.

For a relaxing stay you won't regret, book a room in the luxurious Mayflower Inn & Spa, an Auberge Resorts Collection . This retreat features plush amenities, five-star service, and captivating grounds. It also has a delectable restaurant you won't want to miss.

Tourists looking for an authentic Connecticut town by the shore should give Milford a try. Less crowded and touristy than many of the other beach towns in the southern region of the state, the charming character is hard to match.

Many historical buildings remain in the old town and have been repurposed into cafés, boutiques, and shops. The enticing town green is one of the largest in the state and a perfect spot to picnic or enjoy a book.

The beachfront offers rentals for enjoying the sand and surf, and Walnut Beach has one of the longest boardwalks in the state, which also offers disabled access. Silver Sands State Park is a popular 297-acre spot filled with dunes and marshes on the Sound.

Also located on the Long Island Sound, Niantic is exactly what you would expect for a seaside village. Enjoy nature at Rocky Neck State Park or Niantic Bay Boardwalk, or take advantage of one of the many fishing adventures. There are quite a few from which to choose: Striper Snax or the Black Hawk can give you a full or half-day adventure on the deep sea.

If you are traveling with kids (or are a kid at heart) stop into the Children's Museum of Southeastern Connecticut , where you can beat the heat (or a rainy day) in their 5,000-square-foot facility geared towards interactive fun.

Niantic also has a selection of unique and funky shops. Visit The Book Barn, a bookstore boasting over 350,000 titles including rare and out of print books, or Three Belles Outfitters, the largest hobby kayak store on the east coast.

What Cornwall lacks in size, it more than makes up for with New England beauty, especially in the height of fall. Home to one of the few covered bridges in the state , this 1762 attraction is a must for the Instagram set. Visitors will also be smitten by the decorative gingerbread- house buildings, which seem to have stepped right out of a holiday setting.

The surrounding trees make the town especially picturesque during leaf-peeping season, but to avoid the crowds, visit this small town charmer during the other three. Located on the Housatonic River, visitors will find plenty of outdoor activity, including river rafting, fly fishing, canoeing, and hiking in Mohawk State Forest .

The banks of the Quinebaug River are home to the picturesque town of Putnam. Located in the northeast corner of the state, it represents a quintessential New England small town.

Centered around arts festivals, the downtown area offers an assortment of galleries, boutiques, and restaurants. Antique Malls are well represented in the town and have an impressive selection of vintage goods.

The Bradley Theatre is well known for the quality talent it attracts to its community program. The Gertrude Chandler Warner Boxcar Children's Museum is a great stop for families. Fans of the book series will find signed originals, children's activities, and artifacts all housed in an original boxcar.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

The Best of Connecticut: Begin your travels to this state with a read through our Top Tourist Attractions in Connecticut to find out where to go and what to see. If you are coming in summer, don't miss our article on the Best Beaches in Connecticut . Lastly, for a wonderful stay, have a read through our picks for the Top Resorts in Connecticut.

More on Connecticut

14 Popular Beach Towns in Connecticut to Live in 2024

Reading Time: 6 minutes

One of the many things the state of Connecticut is known for is its beaches lining the Long Island Sound. With sparkling waves and rocky coves, boating and kayaking, fishing and sightseeing, these stunning Connecticut beach towns are top-tier. There are lots of beachfront towns to check out in Connecticut, whether you’re moving to the state or hoping to live by the coast. 

But if you’re not sure where to start on your hunt for the best Connecticut beach town, we’re here to help. Redfin has put together a list of 14 awesome beach towns in Connecticut, from Greenwich to Norwalk . Let’s dive into some of Connecticut’s top beach cities, listed in alphabetical order, so you can find the right place for you.

#1: East Lyme

East Lyme, CT homes for sale East Lyme, CT apartments for rent

Starting off our list is East Lyme. About 18,600 people live in this coastal Connecticut town. You’ll find there are plenty of beaches to explore such as Attawan Beach, Hole in the Wall Beach, Giants Neck Beach, McCook’s Beach, and Niantic Beach. Living in East Lyme, you can explore Rocky Neck State Park, hike along the Ravenswood Trail, and check out Nehantic State Forest.

Your future home is just a tap away

Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $2,200  Fairfield, CT homes for sale Fairfield, CT apartments for rent

Another one of Connecticut’s great beach towns to consider buying a home in is Fairfield, home to 62,100 people. There are plenty of beaches to visit like Fairfield Beach, Jennings Beach, Sasco Beach, South Pine Creek Beach, and Southport Beach. You can also visit one of the nature preserves like Brett Woods Open Space or Riverside Drive Open Space, check out one of the museums, or explore the charming downtown.

#3: Greenwich

Median home price: $1,700,000  Greenwich, CT homes for sale Greenwich, CT apartments for rent

Located along the border of New York state, Greenwich is home to about 62,400 residents. There are lots of beaches to explore on a warm Connecticut day like Fords Beach, Harbor Point Beach, and Hawthorne Beach. Make sure to enjoy the day at one of the many parks like Bruce Park or the Greenwich Audubon Center, visit one of the museums, or explore Greenwich’s downtown. 

#4: Guilford

Guilford, CT homes for sale Guilford, CT apartments for rent

Home to beautiful beaches like Barbara Pine Memorial Beach, Chaffinch Island Park, and Jacobs Public Beach, there are countless places to spend a beach day. About 22,200 people live in Guilford, where you can also visit Lake Quonnipaug, check out Chaffinch Island State Park or GLCT Westwoods, and stop by the shops and restaurants downtown.

#5: Madison

Madison, CT homes for sale Madison, CT apartments for rent

The charming coastal town of Madison has about 18,100 residents, making it a great place to consider moving to. You’ll find stunning beaches like Circle Beach, East Wharf Beach Park, Garvan Point Beach, Hammonasset Beach, and West Wharf. In Madison, you can explore the waterfront Hammonasset Natural Area Preserve, go on a hike, or grab a meal from one of the great local restaurants.

#6: Milford

Median home price: $440,000  Milford, CT homes for sale Milford, CT apartments for rent

With 50,500 residents, Milford is a great beach town in Connecticut to consider moving to. Some beaches you can visit are Bayview Beach, Fort Trumbull Beach, Gulf Beach, Milford Point, Silver Sands Beach, Walnut Beach, Wildemere Beach, and Woodmont Beach. There are also plenty of activities to do in this coastal city. For example, you can visit Charles E. Wheeler Wildlife Area, explore the charming shops and restaurants downtown, or check out one of the many green spaces, among many other local favorites.

Median home price: $391,500  Mystic, CT homes for sale Mystic, CT apartments for rent

With a population of nearly 4,800, Mystic is a magnificent beach town to live in. There are plenty of beaches to explore like Williams Beach Park. If you find yourself moving to this village, make sure to stroll through the Mystic River Historic District, tour the Mystic Seaport Museum, and explore Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center.

#8: New London

Median home price: $245,000  Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $1,150  New London, CT homes for sale New London, CT apartments for rent

In New London there are beautiful beaches such as Green Harbor Beach, Ocean Beach, and Pequot Point Beach, great for taking in the water views. Once moving to New London, you’ll want to check out the New London Harbor Lighthouse, explore Fort Trumbull State Park and Museum, and take the ferry to Fishers Island.

#9: Norwalk

Median home price: $572,500  Norwalk, CT homes for sale Norwalk, CT apartments for rent

Roughly 91,200 people live in Norwalk where you’ll find beaches like Bayley Beach, Calf Pasture Beach, and Shady Beach Park. Other popular things to do in Norwalk include grabbing a meal from one of the waterfront spots, visiting one of the many museums like Lockwood-Mathews Mansion Museum, and checking out downtown Norwalk.

#10: Old Lyme

Old Lyme, CT homes for sale Old Lyme, CT apartments for rent

The waterfront city of Old Lyme has a population of 7,400 and there are many beaches to spend time outside at, like Poverty Island Beach and Soundview Beach. There is plenty to do on an afternoon or weekend, like exploring the Great Island Wildlife Area or Ferry Landing State Park, touring the Florence Griswold Museum, and hiking along one of the trails.

#11: Old Saybrook

Median home price: $382,000  Old Saybrook, CT homes for sale Old Saybrook, CT apartments for rent

In Old Saybrook there are lots of beaches to explore if you decide to move to this quaint oceanfront town. Some of these beaches include Chalker Beach, Cove Beach, Great Hammock Beach, Harveys Beach, and Knollwood Beach. Old Saybrook is home to 10,100 residents and you’ll find a variety of other activities like visiting one of the many nature preserves and exploring the downtown area.

#12: Waterford

Median home price: $400,000  Waterford, CT homes for sale Waterford, CT apartments for rent

There are plenty of beaches to explore in Waterford – perfect for a day outside. Some well-liked places are Ocean Beach, Town Beach, and Waterford Beach. If you’re looking to do something a little different make sure to explore Harkness Memorial State Park, spend the day at Stenger Farm Park, and grab a bite at a local restaurant. 

#13: West Haven

Median home price: $316,250  Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $1,170  West Haven, CT homes for sale West Haven, CT apartments for rent

Next up on our list is West Haven. There are lots of beaches to check out if you decide West Haven is the coastal town for you. Make sure to visit Bradley Point Park, Oak Street Beach, Oyster River Beach, Rocky Beach, Sea Bluff Beach, and South St. Beach. In this town of 55,300 people, you can also visit the Sandy Point Bird Sanctuary or one of the many waterfront parks, and spend the day at Maltby Lakes. 

Thinking about moving to the area?

#14: westport.

Median home price: $400,000  Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $2,295  Westport, CT homes for sale Westport, CT apartments for rent

With about 28,100 residents, Westport is a cozy beach town to consider moving to. If you’re looking to spend the day at the beach you can head to Burying Hill Beach, Compo Beach, Old Mill Beach, Sherwood Beach, and Southport Beach. Or if you’re looking to check out the town of Westport, you can also stroll through the downtown area or spend the day at Sherwood Island State Park. In addition to these beach towns, there are plenty of affordable places to live in Connecticut .

Note, this list is not comprehensive of all the beach towns in Connecticut. Median home sale price data from the Redfin Data Center during June 2023. Average rental data from Rent.com June 2023. Population data sourced from the United States Census Bureau .

Alison is part of the content marketing team and enjoys writing about housing affordability and home interior design ideas. Her dream home is a cottage-style house with a chef’s kitchen and a cozy room to store and play vinyl records.

Find the right loan for the home you love

You might also like.

9 Popular Stamford, CT Neighborhoods: Where to Live in Stamford in 2024

12 Popular Hartford, CT Neighborhoods: Where to Live in Hartford in 2024

What is stamford, ct known for 7 things to love about this city.

10 Affordable Places to Live in New England in 2024

Connecticut’s Largest Cities: A Homebuyer’s Guide for 2024

21 Popular New Haven, CT Neighborhoods: Where to Live in New Haven in 2024

The 10 Most Bikeable Cities in Connecticut

Relevant articles.

Popular Posts

Latest posts.

26 Small Kitchen Organization Ideas to Simplify Your Home

8 Reasons To Move to Houston and Why You’ll Love Living Here

Is Savannah, GA a Good Place to Live? 10 Pros and Cons to Consider

8 Home Remodeling Projects to Boost Your Property Value in Denver

6 Home Remodeling Projects to Boost Your Property Value in Charleston, SC

7 Home Remodeling Projects to Boost Your Property Value in Pittsburgh

Buying Your First Home in Portland, OR? Here’s How Much Money You Need to Make

The Power of Landscaping: How to Increase Your Property’s Value with Simple Updates

4 Fun-Filled Things to Do in Madera, CA if You’re New to the City

9 Fun-Filled Things to Do in Rocklin, CA if You’re New to the City

7 Fun-Filled Things to Do in Lake Elsinore, CA if You’re New to the City

6 Fun-Filled Things to Do in Palo Alto, CA if You’re New to the City

Follow redfin, connect with a redfin agent.

• Albuquerque Real Estate
• Alexandria Real Estate
• Anchorage Real Estate
• Arlington Real Estate
• Ashburn Real Estate
• Atlanta Real Estate
• Aurora Real Estate
• Austin Real Estate
• Bakersfield Real Estate
• Baltimore Real Estate
• Baton Rouge Real Estate
• Beaverton Real Estate
• Bend Real Estate
• Birmingham Real Estate
• Boca Raton Real Estate
• Boise Real Estate
• Boston Real Estate
• Boulder Real Estate
• Bowie Real Estate
• Brentwood Real Estate
• Buffalo Real Estate
• Burlington Real Estate
• Cape Coral Real Estate
• Chandler Real Estate
• Charleston Real Estate
• Charlotte Real Estate
• Chattanooga Real Estate
• Chicago Real Estate
• Cincinnati Real Estate
• Colorado Springs Real Estate
• Columbia Real Estate
• Columbus Real Estate
• Dallas Real Estate
• Denver Real Estate
• Des Moines Real Estate
• Detroit Real Estate
• El Paso Real Estate
• Elk Grove Real Estate
• Eugene Real Estate
• Fairfax Real Estate
• Flagstaff Real Estate
• Fort Collins Real Estate
• Fort Lauderdale Real Estate
• Fort Myers Real Estate
• Fort Worth Real Estate
• Frederick Real Estate
• Fremont Real Estate
• Fresno Real Estate
• Frisco Real Estate
• Gilbert Real Estate
• Glenview Real Estate
• Henderson Real Estate
• Honolulu Real Estate
• Houston Real Estate
• Indianapolis Real Estate
• Irvine Real Estate
• Jacksonville Real Estate
• Jersey City Real Estate
• Kansas City Real Estate
• Knoxville Real Estate
• Lake Tahoe Real Estate
• Las Vegas Real Estate
• Little Rock Real Estate
• Long Island Real Estate
• Los Angeles Real Estate
• Louisville Real Estate
• Madison Real Estate
• Manhattan Real Estate
• Manteca Real Estate
• Memphis Real Estate
• Mesa Real Estate
• Miami Real Estate
• Milwaukee Real Estate
• Minneapolis Real Estate
• Modesto Real Estate
• Myrtle Beach Real Estate
• Naperville Real Estate
• Naples Real Estate
• Nashua Real Estate
• Nashville Real Estate
• New Orleans Real Estate
• New York Real Estate
• Newton Real Estate
• Oakland Real Estate
• Oklahoma City Real Estate
• Omaha Real Estate
• Orland Park Real Estate
• Orlando Real Estate
• Palm Springs Real Estate
• Philadelphia Real Estate
• Phoenix Real Estate
• Pittsburgh Real Estate
• Plainfield Real Estate
• Plano Real Estate
• Portland Real Estate
• Providence Real Estate
• Quincy Real Estate
• Raleigh Real Estate
• Rancho Cucamonga Real Estate
• Reno Real Estate
• Richmond Real Estate
• Riverside Real Estate
• Rochester Real Estate
• Sacramento Real Estate
• Salem Real Estate
• Salt Lake City Real Estate
• San Antonio Real Estate
• San Diego Real Estate
• San Francisco Real Estate
• San Jose Real Estate
• San Luis Obispo Real Estate
• Santa Clarita Real Estate
• Santa Fe Real Estate
• Sarasota Real Estate
• Savannah Real Estate
• Schaumburg Real Estate
• Scottsdale Real Estate
• Seattle Real Estate
• Silver Spring Real Estate
• Sioux Falls Real Estate
• St. Louis Real Estate
• Stamford Real Estate
• Stockton Real Estate
• Tacoma Real Estate
• Tampa Real Estate
• Temecula Real Estate
• Tucson Real Estate
• Tulsa Real Estate
• Virginia Beach Real Estate
• Washington, DC Real Estate
• West Palm Beach Real Estate
• Wilmington Real Estate
• Woodbridge Real Estate
• Worcester Real Estate
• Alabama  •  Homes for sale
• Alaska  •  Homes for sale
• Arizona  •  Homes for sale
• Arkansas  •  Homes for sale
• California  •  Homes for sale
• Colorado  •  Homes for sale
• Connecticut  •  Homes for sale
• Delaware  •  Homes for sale
• Florida  •  Homes for sale
• Georgia  •  Homes for sale
• Hawaii  •  Homes for sale
• Idaho  •  Homes for sale
• Illinois  •  Homes for sale
• Indiana  •  Homes for sale
• Iowa  •  Homes for sale
• Kansas  •  Homes for sale
• Kentucky  •  Homes for sale
• Louisiana  •  Homes for sale
• Maine  •  Homes for sale
• Maryland  •  Homes for sale
• Massachusetts  •  Homes for sale
• Michigan  •  Homes for sale
• Minnesota  •  Homes for sale
• Mississippi  •  Homes for sale
• Missouri  •  Homes for sale
• Nebraska  •  Homes for sale
• Nevada  •  Homes for sale
• New Hampshire  •  Homes for sale
• New Jersey  •  Homes for sale
• New Mexico  •  Homes for sale
• New York  •  Homes for sale
• North Carolina  •  Homes for sale
• Ohio  •  Homes for sale
• Oklahoma  •  Homes for sale
• Oregon  •  Homes for sale
• Pennsylvania  •  Homes for sale
• Rhode Island  •  Homes for sale
• South Carolina  •  Homes for sale
• South Dakota  •  Homes for sale
• Tennessee  •  Homes for sale
• Texas  •  Homes for sale
• Utah  •  Homes for sale
• Vermont  •  Homes for sale
• Virginia  •  Homes for sale
• Washington  •  Homes for sale
• West Virginia  •  Homes for sale
• Wisconsin  •  Homes for sale
• Albuquerque apartments for rent
• Alexandria apartments for rent
• Arlington apartments for rent
• Atlanta apartments for rent
• Augusta apartments for rent
• Austin apartments for rent
• Bakersfield apartments for rent
• Baltimore apartments for rent
• Barnegat apartments for rent
• Baton Rouge apartments for rent
• Birmingham apartments for rent
• Boston apartments for rent
• Charlotte apartments for rent
• Chattanooga apartments for rent
• Chicago apartments for rent
• Cincinnati apartments for rent
• Cleveland apartments for rent
• Columbia apartments for rent
• Columbus apartments for rent
• Dallas apartments for rent
• Dayton apartments for rent
• Denver apartments for rent
• Detroit apartments for rent
• Durham apartments for rent
• Fayetteville apartments for rent
• Fort Worth apartments for rent
• Fresno apartments for rent
• Greensboro apartments for rent
• Houston apartments for rent
• Huntsville apartments for rent
• Indianapolis apartments for rent
• Irving apartments for rent
• Jacksonville apartments for rent
• Kansas City apartments for rent
• Knoxville apartments for rent
• Las Vegas apartments for rent
• Los Angeles apartments for rent
• Louisville apartments for rent
• Macon apartments for rent
• Marietta apartments for rent
• Melbourne apartments for rent
• Memphis apartments for rent
• Mesa apartments for rent
• Miami apartments for rent
• Milwaukee apartments for rent
• Minneapolis apartments for rent
• Mobile apartments for rent
• Murfreesboro apartments for rent
• Nashville apartments for rent
• New York apartments for rent
• Norfolk apartments for rent
• Oklahoma City apartments for rent
• Omaha apartments for rent
• Orlando apartments for rent
• Pensacola apartments for rent
• Philadelphia apartments for rent
• Phoenix apartments for rent
• Pittsburgh apartments for rent
• Plano apartments for rent
• Portland apartments for rent
• Raleigh apartments for rent
• Reno apartments for rent
• Richmond apartments for rent
• Riverside apartments for rent
• Rochester apartments for rent
• Sacramento apartments for rent
• Saint Louis apartments for rent
• Saint Petersburg apartments for rent
• San Antonio apartments for rent
• San Diego apartments for rent
• Savannah apartments for rent
• Seattle apartments for rent
• Springfield apartments for rent
• Tampa apartments for rent
• Tempe apartments for rent
• Tucson apartments for rent
• Tulsa apartments for rent
• Virginia Beach apartments for rent
• Washington apartments for rent
• Abilene houses for rent
• Albany houses for rent
• Amarillo houses for rent
• Arlington houses for rent
• Atlanta houses for rent
• Augusta houses for rent
• Austin houses for rent
• Bakersfield houses for rent
• Birmingham houses for rent
• Charlotte houses for rent
• Chesapeake houses for rent
• Chicago houses for rent
• Clarksville houses for rent
• Columbia houses for rent
• Columbus houses for rent
• Concord houses for rent
• Dallas houses for rent
• Dayton houses for rent
• Denver houses for rent
• Destin houses for rent
• Dothan houses for rent
• El Paso houses for rent
• Eugene houses for rent
• Fayetteville houses for rent
• Fort Wayne houses for rent
• Fresno houses for rent
• Greensboro houses for rent
• Greenville houses for rent
• Griffin houses for rent
• Hampton houses for rent
• Henderson houses for rent
• Houston houses for rent
• Huntsville houses for rent
• Indianapolis houses for rent
• Jackson houses for rent
• Jacksonville houses for rent
• Kissimmee houses for rent
• Knoxville houses for rent
• Lafayette houses for rent
• Lakeland houses for rent
• Lancaster houses for rent
• Lansing houses for rent
• Lawton houses for rent
• Macon houses for rent
• Marietta houses for rent
• Memphis houses for rent
• Mesa houses for rent
• Mobile houses for rent
• Montgomery houses for rent
• Murfreesboro houses for rent
• Nashville houses for rent
• Orlando houses for rent
• Pensacola houses for rent
• Phoenix houses for rent
• Port Saint Lucie houses for rent
• Portland houses for rent
• Raleigh houses for rent
• Reno houses for rent
• Richmond houses for rent
• Riverside houses for rent
• Roanoke houses for rent
• Sacramento houses for rent
• Saint Petersburg houses for rent
• Salem houses for rent
• San Antonio houses for rent
• Savannah houses for rent
• Spokane houses for rent
• Springfield houses for rent
• Stockton houses for rent
• Tampa houses for rent
• Toledo houses for rent
• Tucson houses for rent
• Tyler houses for rent
• Valdosta houses for rent
• Vancouver houses for rent
• Waco houses for rent
• Warner Robins houses for rent
• Wichita houses for rent
• Wilmington houses for rent

Updated January 2020: By searching, you agree to the Terms of Use , and Privacy Policy .

REDFIN IS COMMITTED TO AND ABIDES BY THE FAIR HOUSING ACT AND EQUAL OPPORTUNITY ACT. READ REDFIN’S FAIR HOUSING POLICY .

Copyright: © 2022 Redfin. All rights reserved. Patent pending.

REDFIN and all REDFIN variants, TITLE FORWARD, WALK SCORE, and the R logos, are trademarks of Redfin Corporation, registered or pending in the USPTO.

California DRE #01521930

NY Standard Operating Procedures

TREC: Info About Brokerage Services , Consumer Protection Notice

If you are using a screen reader, or having trouble reading this website, please call Redfin Customer Support for help at 1-844-759-7732.

You’d Be Surprised To Learn That Fairfield, Connecticut Is One Of The Country’s Best Coastal Towns

V isiting a coastal town is always such a treat. There’s something about the sensation of the breeze in your hair, hearing crashing waves roll ashore, and feeling the sand beneath your toes. It makes you feel free and feel a sense of tranquility that you just can’t get anywhere else. Smelling the sea-salt air always seems to put a bit of a pep in my step when I’m traveling! We’re lucky enough to have quite a few coastal towns in Connecticut , and they’re all special in their own ways. From basking in the sun on a beach to shopping at the local stores, there’s plenty to do in these amazing spots. One of my personal favorite coastal towns in the state is Fairfield. Here are a few of the best attractions in Fairfield, CT:

Fairfield is known for its rich history and picturesque landscapes. It's located right on the coast of the Long Island Sound and has about five miles of shoreline.

Of course, when many of us travel to coastal towns, one of the main draws is the beach no matter what time of year it is, fairfield's jennings beach is one of our favorite local beaches., another great fairfield beach is penfield beach. this 3.5-acre area has a large sandy beach, playground, and a covered deck., the fairfield museum and history center is one of the state's most underrated museums. there's a lot to see here, with both traveling and permanent exhibits on site., fans of the performing arts will not want to miss the regina a. quick center for the arts , a theater hosting a variety of live performers. you can catch all kinds of shows here, from music to spoken word to dances and more., are you more of a fan of traditional visual art no problem you'll also find the fairfield university art museum. the museum is open to the public and features both permanent displays and special exhibits., if the weather's not up to par for outdoor adventures, but you still want to be active, check out rock climb fairfield. this is one of the largest climbing gyms in connecticut and features classes for those looking to get into the hobby., lake mohegan recreation area features fun outdoor activities. you can enjoy swimming in the summer months, plus year-round hiking..

What are some of your favorite attractions in Fairfield, CT? Share your thoughts in the comments!

The post You’d Be Surprised To Learn That Fairfield, Connecticut Is One Of The Country’s Best Coastal Towns appeared first on Only In Your State ® .

• Make Campaign

Arriving by Water — Connecticut’s Port Towns

last updated: April 2024

Over 600 miles of Connecticut’s coastline hugs the shore of Long Island Sound and the Atlantic Ocean. So it’s no surprise that so many of the region’s early European settlers arrived by sea. Working seaports were among the first industries here as well, and today these coastal towns and cities still maintain their maritime character while welcoming travelers with classic New England charm. As many visitors still like to arrive in Connecticut by private boat or public ferry, we’re suggesting a few port towns that make it easy to visit for a day or even longer.

With beautiful beaches and memorable sunsets just 45 minutes from New York City,  Norwalk  and  South Norwalk  offer a variety of art galleries, shopping, restaurants and  nightlife.  The  Maritime Aquarium  offers cruises to view the  Sheffield Island Lighthouse , which guards the marina where many visitors dock their boats. And local yacht clubs like the South Norwalk Boat Club, Ischoda Yacht Club and Rex Boating Club all have reciprocal relationships with other local clubs. Visit the  Norwalk Cove Marina website  for everything you need to visit by boat—you can even get a shuttle to South Norwalk from there. Or, make a reservation at  Rex Marine  for a shorter walk to take in the SoNo scene, especially during the annual Arts Festival, Oyster Festival and Boat Shows. 

The pretty village of Niantic is part of the larger town of  East Lyme . There is a scenic boardwalk that runs from Main Street to Hole in the Wall Beach, where boaters can anchor and swim to shore. The Niantic River goes beneath the railroad lift bridge to marinas and other waterfront sights a short walk from Main Street, where you can grab a meal at Niantic Bay Shellfish Market or  Skipper’s  for year-round seafood. Find out more about the full-service marina at Port Niantic,  here .

A quintessentially colonial town along the Connecticut River,  Essex  is home to the  Connecticut River Museum , as well as the  Griswold Inn —a popular stop for locals and travelers passing through since 1776.  Arriving by boat from Long Island Sound, you will come up the river and head for Essex Island Marina , the perfect spot to launch your exploration of all that  downtown Essex  has to offer. 

Perhaps no other port town in Connecticut is quite as iconic as  Mystic . Home to  Mystic Seaport Museum  and  Mystic Aquarium , Mystic attracts visitors all year round, with its combination of history, family fun, shops and dining. Once you’re here, you could even take a kayak tour to see the local sights. And don’t forget to try a slice of heaven at  Mystic Pizza ! Docking is available at  Mystic Seaport Marina ,  Mystic River Marina  and  Mystic Point Marina .

Not far up the coast from the city of New Haven, the inviting town of  Guilford  offers lots of opportunities for exploring history, nature  and some great dining spots. While you’re visiting, you can do a scavenger hunt around town or even a  Segway tour  of historic downtown Guilford. Or just watch the sunset from your table at  Guilford Mooring . Head for the  Guilford Town Marina  for easy access.

More of a coastal city than a town, New London’s  historic waterfront district  still retains the seaside appeal that attracted sailors, merchants and even military personnel from the nearby bases at Groton and New London. Today, it’s home to a vibrant scene that includes art galleries, restaurants, shops and entertainment venues. You can arrive at  Fort Trumbull Marina  or  Thamesport Marina  on the Thames River, which recently added transient docks that can host vessels exceeding 100 feet or more. Don’t have your own boat? Catch a ferry here to/from New London and Montauk, Block Island or Orient Point. Or even take a  lighthouse tour  out of this busy harbor!

Connect with more information about boating and sailing in Connecticut, including marinas and charters,  here .

Special Delivery

Connecticut, Delivered Right to Your Fingertips

Share your email address to receive our free newsletter and be the first to see the latest travel deals, attractions and news from CTvisit.com!

We won't share or sell your email address or personal information with any other party for any reason. You may unsubscribe at any time. For more details, read our privacy policy .

Related Articles to Explore

Travel planning assistance 888-CTvisit (288-4748)

Connecticut Office of Tourism

450 Columbus Blvd., Suite 5 Hartford, CT 06103

• Resources & Links
• Privacy Policy
• Disclaimers

© 2024 Connecticut Office of Tourism

• Media/Press
• Email Sign Up
• Partner Login

• 13 Best Small Towns To Visit In Connecticut

Connecticut , a state in the scenic northeastern United States, entices visitors with its subtle beauty and enduring fascination. The rich heritage of Connecticut, sometimes known as the "Constitution State," is evident in its cobblestone streets and historic sites. While people easily overlook this tiny state amidst its larger and bustling neighbors, it holds many enchanting small towns. These quaint retreats perfectly capture the essence of New England, where picturesque surroundings and historical buildings combine to create an explosion of visual delight. Entering these small villages is like walking into a postcard where time stands still with a strong sense of community.

The Connecticut town of Mystic is an intriguing location skillfully combining culture, history, and maritime charm along the peaceful Mystic River shores. Tour the Mystic Seaport Museum, the country's top maritime museum, and travel back to the past as one learns about historic vessels, engaging displays, and fascinating demonstrations. Travelers can walk through the town's lovely streets dotted with adorable shops, galleries, and mouthwatering seafood restaurants. Make sure to try the exquisite Mystic pizza, a regional delicacy gaining attention on a global scale. Visitors can take a lovely boat trip down the Mystic River, inhale the salty air, and take in the breathtaking scenery all around them. Mystic radiates beauty around every corner, promising an unforgettable experience. 

The picturesque village of Essex, nestled on the Connecticut River shores, entices visitors with its enduring beauty and quaint-town appeal. The cozy New England treasure is a fantastic vacation spot for history enthusiasts and architecture lovers with its rich past, appearing in its meticulously-maintained colonial-style buildings and delightful village center. The Connecticut River Museum is a must-visit, offering a fascinating glimpse into the region's maritime past. On the Essex Steam, enjoy a leisurely trip down the Connecticut River. Visit the town's art studios and galleries to learn more about regional artisans and their skills, or admire a show at the iconic Ivoryton Playhouse, a historic theatre regularly presenting theatrical productions. Essex is a mesmerizing location beckoning tourists to take their time, lose themselves in its appeal, and make priceless memories in a town that looks like a real-life postcard.

Cornwall, a quintessential Connecticut small town set in the gently rolling landscape of Litchfield County, is a destination for people looking for a calm escape amidst breathtaking natural beauty, renowned for its stunning surroundings and close-knit population. In Cornwall, travelers can unwind in the serenity of the countryside while taking in the clean air and calming melodies of nature. Kayakers and fishing lovers find solace in the serene waters of the Housatonic River. While outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy winter sports and hiking in the Mohawk Mountain region. Cornwall is a destination where time passes more slowly, allowing tourists to relax, re-establish contact with nature, and appreciate life's simplest pleasures.

Chester, Connecticut, is a must-visit location for visitors looking for a traditional New England encounter featuring its beautifully preserved colonial-era architecture, tree-lined avenues, and buzzing arts scene. Chester's picturesque surroundings would charm nature enthusiasts. The town is hidden in the Connecticut River Valley, encircled by meandering rivers, lush woodlands, and rolling hills. The destination is bursting with creativity, with local artists showing their skills in everything from pottery and painting to sculpture and jewelry. Travelers can discover the Chester Village Historic District, where the streets are lined with houses from the colonial period, taking them back in time. For all the right reasons, Chester is one of Connecticut's best small towns to visit.

The modest town of Kent, nestled amid Connecticut's scenic Litchfield Hills, is a refuge for nature admirers and art lovers. Bounded by undulating hills and unspoiled surroundings, Kent provides a peaceful getaway from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Travelers can explore the town's thriving arts sector, where attractive galleries promise diverse artistic expressions. Visitors can explore the natural beauty of Kent by hiking along the Kent Falls State Park or enjoying a leisurely kayak trip on the Housatonic River. The town center boasts charming stores, friendly cafes, and farm-to-table restaurants beckoning tourists to revel in regional specialties and cute findings. In the middle of New England, tourists can find peace in Kent.

Old Saybrook

Set along the lovely Connecticut coastline. Old Saybrook is a quaint coastal village offering an enticing fusion of heritage, scenic splendor, and coastal beauty. The town is rich in colonial past and is home to several exquisitely-maintained historic landmarks, notably the Lynde Point Lighthouse. Boutique stores, art galleries, and mouthwatering seafood restaurants surround the town's lively Main Street, offering countless choices for shopping and gourmet experiences. Travelers can discover Old Saybrook's serene sandy beaches and beautiful nature paths, making it a refuge for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can attend a play at the Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Centre or indulge in musical performances at one of the waterfront locations for an evening of artistic endeavors. Old Saybrook promises visitors an unforgettable coastal experience.

Located on Connecticut's stunning Gold Coast, Westport is a charming seaside town effortlessly mixing idyllic scenery with a thriving arts culture. Westport provides a peaceful retreat for beach lovers and water sports enthusiasts with its beautiful marinas, scenic riverfront parks, and immaculate beaches. The town's attractive core is a center of creativity, with theatres, art galleries, and shops showing the creations of regional makers and designers. Visitors can tour the Westport Country Playhouse, an acclaimed regional theatre where top-notch productions have been staged for many years. At the town's top eateries, indulge in farm-to-table fare, or peruse the crowded farmers market for fresh, regional products. Westport is a location that offers the ideal fusion of leisure, culture, and seaside beauty.

The town of Litchfield is a classic New England getaway captivating visitors with its vintage elegance and stunning scenery, nestled in the picturesque Litchfield Hills. Travelers can discover the charming village center, where colonial-era buildings and exquisitely restored homes create a mesmerizing ambiance. Tours to the Tapping Reeve House and Law School, the Litchfield History Museum, and the Litchfield County Jail will help visitors learn more about Litchfield's rich past. Tourists can enjoy exploring Topsmead State Forest's miles of pathways meandering through the neighboring hills, providing spectacular views and an opportunity to observe local species. Litchfield enables tourists to travel back in the past to discover the appeal of a typical New England town with its eternal beauty, intriguing history, and tranquil surroundings.

The charming coastal resort of Madison provides the ideal pair of small-town appeal and coastal serenity. Madison welcomes guests to kick back, unwind, and soak the seaside ambiance with its immaculate sandy beaches, lovely downtown area, and inviting population. Travelers can spend time relaxing on the shoreline, swimming in the Long Island Sound, or hiking through Hammonasset Beach State Park's picturesque nature paths. Explore the shops and galleries dotting Madison's Main Street. At waterfront eateries, taste fresh seafood while savoring the flavors of the ocean. Madison is a place that captures the spirit of a traditional New England beachfront town with its coastal scenery, genuine welcome, and laid-back environment.

With its spectacular landscape and charming appeal, the town of Niantic provides a tranquil seaside vacation on the Connecticut coast. Travelers can enjoy a leisurely stroll down the picturesque Main Street, dotted with shops, cafes, and antique stores. Discover the tiny village center with its old buildings and lovely cafés, or learn about the town's nautical background while strolling the Niantic Bay Boardwalk, where visitors can soak in magnificent ocean views. Niantic's sandy beaches are the ideal location for picnicking, swimming, and tanning. Rocky Neck State Park is another go-to spot for swimming adventures and peaceful times by the water's side. Niantic is an invisible seaside gem that guarantees a revitalizing and unique experience.

Greenwich is a place that beautifully brings together natural splendor with modern conveniences and cultural refinement. The community is recognized for its opulent houses, spotless parks, and energetic downtown. Travelers can discover the elegant shops, restaurants, and art galleries that line the lovely Greenwich Avenue. While the Greenwich Audubon Centre provides environmental paths and educational programs for nature lovers, the Bruce Museum features several art and scientific exhibits. For people who value luxury and the best in life, Greenwich offers a lavish getaway with its sumptuous surroundings, cultural attractions, and natural splendor.

The town of Putnam is a quaint and refreshing destination delivering historic elegance with a booming arts and culinary culture. Travelers can discover the town's newly renovated downtown, brimming with one-of-a-kind boutiques, antique stores, and art galleries. Visitors can stop by the Putnam Historical Society and the Gertrude Warner Museum to learn more about Putnam's rich past. Tourists can indulge in a gourmet journey with farm-to-table cooking and locally produced ingredients at any of the town's renowned restaurants. Putnam is renowned for having a thriving arts community that often hosts art fairs, live music events, and theatre shows. Putnam is a well-kept secret where guests are welcome to look around, indulge, and make lifelong memories.

The town of Chaplin , tucked away in Connecticut's picturesque eastern region, provides a tranquil and lovely escape for people wanting a more leisurely way of life. Take a stroll through the trails of the Natchaug State Forest, go fishing in the crystal-clear Chaplin Lakes, or go kayaking along the Natchaug River. The town's rustic appeal and natural beauty offer the ideal setting for outdoor activity and relaxation. Tour to the Chaplin Museum, featuring artifacts and displays that illustrate the town's background, is a great way to learn about Chaplin's rich past. Historic structures are carefully preserved in the beautiful town center, providing a window into the past. Chaplin is a calm hideaway where one can rediscover the ease and serenity of a little New England village.

Connecticut is an unparalleled repository of small-town attractions thanks to its rich legacy and beautiful scenery. The breathtaking beauty and ageless appeal of these undiscovered gems will enthrall visitors. Every town, from Mystic to Essex, Cornwall to Chester, has its own unique charm and warm energy that draws tourists from all over. Connecticut's little towns provide a wide range of activities to fit any palate and desire, whether it's meandering along cobblestone streets, visiting historic buildings, indulging in delectable cuisine, or bathing in the natural splendor surrounding these communities.

More in Places

7 Coolest Towns In Indiana For A Summer Vacation In 2024

6 Towns Perfect for Retirement in West Virginia

These Towns in Ohio Come Alive in Spring

7 Best Small Towns to Retire in Michigan in 2024

8 Most Affordable Towns To Retire In The Ozarks

The Best Small Towns in South Dakota for a Weekend Retreat

8 Most Inviting Towns in Alabama

7 Most Inviting Towns in South Dakota