Best Beaches in Connecticut

July and August bring brutal greenhead flies and "no-see-ums" (biting midges). Standard bug spray won't cut it; reviews heavily recommend packing oil-based repellents. Also, campground reviews are mixed—campers frequently complain about tight spaces, zero privacy between tent sites, and noisy generators permitted until 10 PM.

When the tide rises, it covers the sandbar with a highly dangerous undertow. Dozens of people have to be rescued here every year, and several have drowned—never attempt to cross if the water is touching the sandbar. Additionally, the island itself is closed from May 1 to September 9 to protect nesting birds, and the beach is highly shell-heavy and rocky, making water shoes absolutely mandatory.

The pricing here is a frequent source of complaint in Google Reviews. Parking costs $30 on weekdays and $40 on weekends, and almost nothing is included in that price. The pool costs an extra $8, and the water slides require a separate day pass. Some visitors also note that the amusement rides and changing facilities feel dated.

An active Amtrak rail line runs directly over the stone bridge right behind the beach. While kids absolutely love watching the high-speed trains zoom past, some reviewers note the noise can startle those looking for pure peace. Additionally, the walk from the main parking lot to the sand can be a hike if you are hauling heavy coolers.

The shoreline here is incredibly rocky once you step into the water. Multiple reviews warn that you must wear water shoes or prepare to cut your feet on sharp stones and shells. Also, unlike Hammonasset, there is no long, paved walking boardwalk directly along the sand.

If you do not live in Norwalk, the parking fees here are famously expensive, reaching up to $65 on peak summer weekends. Local Facebook groups strongly advise out-of-towners to skip this beach unless they are carpooling to split the steep cost. Also, at low tide, the water recedes into muddy flats, which are not ideal for swimming.

There are completely zero amenities at the beach—no bathrooms, lifeguards, or trash cans. You must pack in what you need and pack out your own trash. Hauling heavy rolling coolers or beach wagons over a 1.5-mile dirt trail is exhausting, so backpack-style gear is strongly advised.

The beach has a very small sandy footprint. On hot summer weekends, the limited parking lot fills up almost immediately. Also, non-residents must pay a daily parking fee ($15 on weekdays, $25 on weekends) to access this relatively small stretch of shore.