12 Top-Rated Beaches In Connecticut (Updated 2023)

Are you looking for beautiful beaches in Connecticut? Well, you are at the right place. Everyone can find a beach in this state, which stretches from Long Island Sound to the Atlantic Ocean. For more information about some of Connecticut's top beaches, continue reading.

Connecticut's beaches provide residents and visitors with a variety of opportunities for recreation and leisure. From shoreline strolls to sunbathing and swimming, the beaches in this state are some of the best in the country. Whether people enjoy sandy expanses or rocky shorelines, Connecticut's beaches offer plenty of room to explore. 

In addition to these natural settings, many beach towns boast a variety of restaurants and shops for visitors to enjoy. Whether tourists are looking for delicious seafood or souvenirs to remember their time at the beach, they can find it all here in Connecticut.

12 Top-Rated Beaches In Connecticut

There are several public beaches in Connecticut that are close to other attractions and amenities, but many of them are also a part of the state park system. Visitors should keep in mind that almost all of these beaches impose parking fees, which are collected at the gate. Depending on the day of the week and the location, parking costs can range from $10 to as much as $65.

1. Ocean Beach Park

Ocean Beach Park is one of the most popular recreational areas in all of Connecticut. Located along the shoreline of Long Island Sound, this expansive park offers a wealth of natural beauty and opportunities for fun and relaxation. 

Whether you are looking to get some fresh air and exercise on the hiking trails, sample some delicious local seafood at one of the many restaurants, or simply lounge on the sandy beach with a good book and cool ocean breeze. 

Ocean Beach Park truly has something for everyone. With its lush green lawns, scenic views, and wealth of exciting activities, it promises to be an unforgettable getaway for visitors from near and far.

2. Hammonasset Beach State Park

Hammonasset Beach State Park is one of the most popular seaside destinations in Connecticut, offering miles of stunning coastline and a wide range of natural, recreational, and cultural attractions. The park features over 2 miles of beachfront, ideal for swimming, sunbathing, fishing, and other water sports. 

It also boasts extensive trails for hiking and biking, as well as picnic areas and stunning views of Long Island Sound. Additionally, the park holds a fascinating array of wildlife and plants, making it a great place for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. 

3. Calf Pasture Beach

Calf Pasture Beach is a popular public beach located in the town of East Norwalk, Connecticut. This long, sandy shoreline stretches along the coastline for over a mile and is perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and boating. 

While the water here is generally safe for humans to swim in, visitors should always be aware of potential hazards such as strong currents or unseen debris left on the sand. 

For those looking for a more secluded area to relax in, Calf Pasture Beach also boasts a large grassy area that sits just back from the water's edge. Many families come here to picnic or simply take in the beautiful coastal views and salty air.

4. Compo Beach

A 29-acre park that faces Long Island Sound and borders the Saugatuck River contains Compo Beach. The hours of operation for lifeguards are from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. from Memorial Day through Labor Day. There is a parking fee that doubles as an entrance cost during this period. On-site amenities include a well-stocked refreshment stand, restrooms, and lockers.

5. Harvey's Beach

In the old town of Old Saybrook, Harvey's Beach is located on a shoreline of 100 yards. It is well-known for its gentle sand slope and abundance of shallow, safe water for beginning swimmers. This beach is a fantastic option for families on a budget because it also boasts surprisingly affordable parking rates.

There are lifeguards on duty during the summer, along with many amenities like a shower and bathhouse with an outdoor foot-rinsing station. A beach playground, a concession stand, and picnic tables are also present.

The neighborhood recreation department offers a number of summertime activities, such as beach yoga, sandbar walks, summer movie evenings, and an annual event for the appraisal and sale of antiques.

6. Jennings Beach

Jennings Beach is one of the most popular and well-loved beaches in Connecticut. Stretching for over a mile and a half, this long stretch of sand is the perfect spot for anyone looking to enjoy a day in the sun and by the water. The beach offers everything from gorgeous views to tons of fun activities, like volleyball and surfing. 

But no matter what your preference, Jennings Beach is guaranteed to please! With its soft sand, warm ocean waves, and endless sunshine, you are sure to have an amazing time at this beloved beach. So be sure to head on down to Jennings Beach next time you're in Connecticut – you won't regret it!

7. Sherwood Island State Park

Sherwood Island State Park is a beautiful oasis in the heart of Connecticut. With miles of unspoiled coastline and rich, diverse forests, it is the perfect place for people to escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life and reconnect with nature. Whether you are interested in fishing, sunbathing on the beach, or hiking through the woods, Sherwood Island has something to offer everyone. 

And thanks to its location near major urban centers like Bridgeport and Stamford, it also sees thousands of visitors each year who come to enjoy all that this amazing park has to offer. Whether you are a local or a visitor, Sherwood Island State Park is truly a gem that should not be missed!

8. Silver Sands State Park

Silver Sands State Park is located on the coast of Connecticut, just a short drive from the bustling city of New Haven. This beautiful public park is well-known for its expansive beach and stunning shoreline views. With soft, golden sands, shimmering waters, and dramatic bluffs, it is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. 

Visitors can enjoy hiking trails that wind through the dunes or spend hours relaxing with a good book in one of the secluded areas around the edges of the beach. Whether you are looking to swim or surf, sunbathe or explore nature, Silver Sands State Park is sure to delight and enchant visitors of all ages.

9. West Beach At Rocky Neck State Park

West Beach at Rocky Neck State Park is a beautiful and popular spot for swimmers, sunbathers, and wildlife enthusiasts alike. With its long stretch of pale sand, sparkling waters, and picturesque views of the jetty rocks and surrounding landscape, this beach truly embodies all that is quint essentially New England. 

Additionally, the calm waves and shallow water make it an ideal location for families with young children who are just learning to swim. As such, West Beach attracts visitors from near and far year-round, making it a key part of Connecticut's thriving tourism industry. 

10. Clinton Town Beach

Clinton Town Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Connecticut. With its expansive coastline and beautiful sandy shores, it draws visitors from all over the state each year. One of the reasons that Clinton Town Beach is so popular is its excellent water quality, which is monitored by local authorities on a regular basis. 

The beach is also well-equipped to accommodate swimmers, with lifeguards to watch over the shoreline, as well as several changing rooms and bathroom facilities. All in all, if you're looking for a great day at the beach in Connecticut, you won't find anything better than Clinton Town Beach. 

11. Hole In The Wall Beach

Hole in the Wall Beach is one of the most popular destinations in Connecticut. Located just south of the bustling city of New Haven, this idyllic stretch of coastline features soft golden sands, clear blue waters, and stunning views that are sure to take your breath away. 

Whether you're looking for a place to relax and unwind or an ideal spot for water sports and adventures, Hole in the Wall Beach is the perfect place to visit. The warm Southern breezes will keep you cool on hot summer days, making it an ideal spot for sunbathing by the water or taking part in exhilarating outdoor activities such as surfing, windsurfing, and sailing. 

12. Waterford Beach Park

Waterford Beach Park is a popular destination in Connecticut, loved by locals and tourists alike. Located on the Long Island Sound, this expansive park features miles of scenic coastline and breathtaking views. 

The sandy beaches provide a great spot for swimming and sunbathing, while the sheltered coves offer the ideal spot to cast a line and catch some fish. There are also several lovely picnic areas to choose from, as well as plenty of hiking trails where visitors can go for a scenic walk or enjoy a relaxing stroll with their canine companion. 

Whether you're looking to relax, unwind, or explore nature at its finest, Waterford Beach Park is the perfect place to spend your day. So what are you waiting for? Head on down to this fabulous coastal park today!

FAQs: Beaches In Connecticut

Conclusion

Connecticut is home to some of the best beaches in New England, if not the country. With miles of coastline and picturesque views, it's no wonder that people flock to these beaches every summer.

Whether you're looking for a quiet spot to relax or want to find a place where you can enjoy some activities, there are beaches in Connecticut. So pack your sunscreen and head on out to one of these amazing shorelines!