15 Beaches to Add to Your Big Family’s Connecticut Vacation Itinerary

From classic boardwalk fun to peaceful shoreline escapes, Connecticut’s beaches offer something for every member of the family. Whether you’re chasing waves, exploring nature trails, or setting up for a full day of seaside games, these spots are ideal for big families with kids of all ages. Many beaches are part of the state park system, while others are public gems tucked along the coast. Be aware that some locations require a beach pass or charge for parking.

Planning a multi-family trip or traveling with a crew of 5, 6, or more? You’ll find nearby accommodations that cater to big families, so you can spend less time coordinating rooms and more time enjoying the shore.

Calf Pasture Beach, Norwalk

Calf Pasture Beach is a vibrant, activity-packed destination ideal for families with kids of all ages. The beach features a wide stretch of soft sand with calm waters for swimming and sandcastle building. A connected shoreline between Calf Pasture and neighboring Shady Beach offers nearly ¾ mile of space to spread out and explore. Families can enjoy beach volleyball, baseball, and softball fields, while little ones burn off energy on the playground or at the skate park. Older kids and teens may enjoy the sailing school and seasonal sports clinics.

Nearby Things to Do

• Shady Beach Park: A quieter stretch connected to Calf Pasture with picnic spots and shaded seating
• Veterans Memorial Park & Marina: Nearby waterfront green space for walking trails and boat watching
• Sheffield Island Lighthouse Tours: Family-friendly ferry rides and lighthouse exploration just minutes away
• Local Dining: Grab seafood and beach eats at Ripka’s Beach Café located right at the beach

Good to Know

Don’t miss out on the many special events scheduled throughout the summer vacation season. Free concerts, comedy performances, and even classic car shows draw visitors all season long.

Cove Island Park

Cove Island Park blends sandy beachfront with a nature-lover’s playground, making it a top pick for families with both active kids and budding explorers. The beach area is great for swimming and sunbathing, while shaded picnic spots offer a relaxing break. Younger children will enjoy the playground, and older kids can take advantage of the park’s cycling and skating paths. A one-mile hiking loop adds adventure, and the park’s salt marshes and mudflats offer excellent bird-watching opportunities. Fishing is permitted in designated areas, adding to the park’s outdoor appeal.

Nearby Things to Do

• SoundWaters Coastal Center: Hands-on marine science exhibits and boat programs for families
• Chelsea Piers Connecticut: Indoor sports complex with trampoline parks, pools, and skating (short drive away)
• Downtown Stamford: Great for dining, shopping, and family-friendly events year-round
• Harbor Point Boardwalk: Scenic waterfront strolls with views and casual eateries

Good to Know

• Parking: Stamford residents enter free with a permit; non-residents pay a daily fee
• Season: Beach access is open late spring through early fall
• Tips: Bring binoculars for birding; pack water shoes for rocky shoreline areas; beach passes may be required on peak days

Eastern Point Beach, Groton

Eastern Point Beach is a calm, family-friendly shoreline located where the Thames River meets Long Island Sound. The beach features soft sand and gentle waves, ideal for younger children to splash and play safely. Families will appreciate convenient amenities like restrooms, outdoor showers, and a seasonal snack bar. There’s a playground for little ones, shaded picnic tables, and plenty of space for beach games. Lifeguards are on duty during the summer season, adding peace of mind for parents.

Nearby Things to Do

• Fort Griswold Battlefield State Park: Explore Revolutionary War history with kids and enjoy panoramic views from the monument tower
• Downtown Mystic: Just a short drive away, with shopping, restaurants, and the famous Mystic Drawbridge
• Mystic Aquarium: Hands-on exhibits and marine life experiences the whole family will enjoy
• Submarine Force Library & Museum: Home of the USS Nautilus and interactive exhibits for curious kids

Good to Know

• Parking: Seasonal pass or daily fee required; residents get a discount
• Season: Open Memorial Day through Labor Day; lifeguards on duty during this period
• Tips: Arrive early on weekends for parking and shaded spots; bring cash for snacks; the beach is compact, so it fills up quickly

Esker Point Park Beach, Groton

Esker Point Park Beach offers a laid-back beach day experience with a 600-foot stretch of man-made shoreline. The soft sand and calm waters make it a simple, no-frills spot perfect for families looking to relax, swim, and enjoy low-key outdoor fun. While there are no lifeguards, the beach is clean and easy to access, with shaded picnic areas and restrooms nearby. It’s a great pick for big families who want space to spread out and enjoy a casual day by the water.

Nearby Things to Do

• Noank Village: Quaint seaside town with seafood shacks and marina views
• Bluff Point State Park: Hike or bike the trails and enjoy scenic coastal vistas and bird-watching
• Mystic Seaport Museum: Interactive exhibits, tall ships, and a recreated 19th-century seafaring village
• Local Seafood Restaurants: Family-friendly favorites like Abbott’s Lobster in the Rough

Good to Know

• Parking: Free and generally easy to find
• Season: Open year-round; no lifeguards on duty
• Tips: Bring shade and your own beach gear; bathrooms are seasonal; great for picnics, but food options are off-site

Hammonasset Beach State Park, Madison

As Connecticut’s largest shoreline park, Hammonasset Beach State Park offers over two miles of sandy beach along Long Island Sound, making it a prime destination for families seeking both relaxation and adventure. The beach features soft, expansive sands perfect for sunbathing, sandcastle building, and leisurely walks. The calm waters are ideal for swimming, especially for younger children. A ¾-mile boardwalk provides a scenic route for strollers, bikes, and wheelchairs, ensuring accessibility for all visitors. The park also boasts over 550 grassy campsites, accommodating both tents and RVs, making it suitable for extended family stays.

Nearby Things to Do

• Meigs Point Nature Center: Engage with interactive exhibits featuring local marine life, reptiles, and birds; a hit with kids and educational for all ages.
• Shoreline Greenway Trail: Explore a family-friendly biking and walking trail that begins at the park, offering scenic views and a safe environment for all ages.
• Downtown Madison: Visit the charming town center with shops like RJ Julia Booksellers and eateries such as Bar Bouchee, offering a delightful small-town experience.
• Clam Castle: Enjoy classic New England seafood favorites just a short drive from the park.

Good to Know

• Parking: Free for Connecticut residents with valid license plates; out-of-state visitors pay $15 on weekdays, $22 on weekends and holidays.
• Season: Open year-round; lifeguards are on duty from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
• Tips: Arrive early on weekends to secure parking and a good spot on the beach. Consider bringing bikes or scooters for the boardwalk. The nature center is a great indoor option for hot or rainy days.

Harvey’s Beach, Old Saybrook

Harvey’s Beach is a family favorite, especially for those with young children. At low tide, the beach reveals expansive sandbars and shallow tidal pools, perfect for wading, shell collecting, and spotting hermit crabs. The soft sand and gentle surf make it ideal for toddlers and early swimmers. Amenities include restrooms, changing areas, a rinse station, and a small playground. During the summer, a concession stand offers snacks and refreshments.

Nearby Things to Do

• Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center (“The Kate”): Enjoy live performances and explore exhibits dedicated to the iconic actress.
• Saybrook Point Resort & Marina: A scenic spot for dining, spa treatments, or simply watching boats on the water.
• Old Saybrook Breakwater Lighthouse: View this historic lighthouse from the shore or embark on a boat tour for a closer look.
• Downtown Old Saybrook: Stroll through charming shops, cafes, and galleries in the town center.Wikipedia

Good to Know

• Parking: Daily fees are $20 on weekdays and $30 on weekends/holidays. Non-resident season passes are available for $150.
• Season: Open from Memorial Day through Labor Day, with lifeguards on duty during this period.
• Tips: Check tide charts before visiting to enjoy the expansive sandbars at low tide. Arrive early on weekends to secure parking and a good spot on the beach. Note that dogs are not permitted on the beach.

Jacob’s Beach, Guilford

Jacob’s Beach is a serene 25-acre shoreline park nestled along Long Island Sound, offering families a peaceful retreat with ample space for relaxation and recreation. The beach has soft, light beige sand and calm waters, making it ideal for swimming and sunbathing. Children can enjoy the playground, while older kids and adults might engage in games at the volleyball and half basketball courts. Picnic shelters equipped with grills provide perfect spots for family gatherings, and the boardwalk offers scenic views of the coastline. Additional amenities include a bathhouse, outdoor showers, and kayak racks for those looking to explore the waters

Nearby Things to Do

• Guilford Lobster Pound: Savor fresh seafood just a short walk from the beach.
• Pa’s Place: Enjoy casual dining with comfort foods.
• Guilford Town Green: Explore the historic town center with quaint shops and eateries.
• Chaffinch Island Park: Visit this nearby park for additional picnicking and nature exploration.

Good to Know

• Parking: Available on-site; fees apply.
• Season: Open from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
• Tips: Arrive early on weekends to secure a good spot; bring your own beach chairs and umbrellas as rentals are not available.

Jennings Beach, Fairfield

Jennings Beach is Fairfield’s largest public beach, spanning 27 acres along the scenic Long Island Sound. Its wide, sandy shoreline and gentle surf make it a favorite for families seeking a classic beach day. The beach offers amenities such as a concession stand, restrooms, and picnic areas, ensuring a comfortable visit for all ages. Adjacent to the beach is the Sandcastle Playground and the South Benson Marina, which provides opportunities for boating and fishing. Seasonal events like the Sand Jam Family Fun Dance and Family Movie Nights add to the beach’s family-friendly appeal.

Nearby Things to Do

• Fairfield Museum and History Center: Explore exhibits on local history and art in this nearby museum.
• Fairfield Historic District: Stroll through the town’s historic center, featuring architecture from the 18th and 19th centuries.
• Connecticut Audubon Society Center at Fairfield: Enjoy nature trails and wildlife exhibits at this nearby sanctuary.
• Downtown Fairfield: Visit local shops, cafes, and restaurants for a variety of dining and shopping options

Good to Know

• Parking: From Memorial Day through Labor Day, parking fees are $40 on weekdays and $50 on weekends and holidays for non-residents.
• Season: Open year-round; lifeguards are on duty during the summer season.
• Tips: Arrive early on weekends to secure parking and a good spot on the beach. Consider bringing beach chairs and umbrellas, as rentals may not be available.

McCook Point Beach, East Lyme 

Jennings Beach is Fairfield’s largest public beach, spanning 27 acres along the scenic Long Island Sound. Its wide, sandy shoreline and gentle surf make it a favorite for families seeking a classic beach day. The beach offers amenities such as a concession stand, restrooms, and picnic areas, ensuring a comfortable visit for all ages. Adjacent to the beach is the Sandcastle Playground, a popular spot for children, and the South Benson Marina, which provides opportunities for boating and fishing. Seasonal events like the Sand Jam Family Fun Dance and Family Movie Nights add to the beach’s family-friendly appeal.

Nearby Things to Do

• Fairfield Museum and History Center: Explore exhibits on local history and art in this nearby museum.
• Fairfield Historic District: Stroll through the town’s historic center, featuring architecture from the 18th and 19th centuries.
• Connecticut Audubon Society Center at Fairfield: Enjoy nature trails and wildlife exhibits at this nearby sanctuary.
• Downtown Fairfield: Visit local shops, cafes, and restaurants for a variety of dining and shopping options.

Good to Know

• Parking: From Memorial Day through Labor Day, parking fees are $40 on weekdays and $50 on weekends and holidays for non-residents.
• Season: Open year-round; lifeguards are on duty during the summer season.
• Tips: Arrive early on weekends to secure parking and a good spot on the beach. Consider bringing beach chairs and umbrellas, as rentals may not be available

Ocean Beach Park, New London

Ocean Beach Park is a vibrant seaside destination that combines the charm of a classic boardwalk with modern family-friendly amenities. The park boasts a half-mile stretch of pristine “sugar-sand” beach, ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and building sandcastles. The calm waters of Long Island Sound make it a safe spot for children to enjoy the waves. Beyond the beach, the park offers a plethora of activities to keep families entertained throughout the day.

Nearby Things to Do

• New England Science & Sailing: Offers guided kayak tours of the nearby Alewife Cove, providing an educational and adventurous experience for families.
• Downtown New London: Explore local shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions just a short drive from the beach.
• Fort Trumbull State Park: Visit this historic fort and enjoy panoramic views of the Thames River.
• Mystic Aquarium: A family-friendly attraction featuring marine life exhibits and interactive experiences.

Good to Know

• Parking: Fees are $30 on weekdays and $40 on weekends and holidays, which include admission for up to five guests. Evening rates after 6:00 PM are $20. Pedestrian walk-in fee is $10.
• Season: Open daily from 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM, Memorial Day through Labor Day.
• Tips: Arrive early on weekends to secure parking and a good spot on the beach. Check the park’s entertainment schedule for special events like concerts and fireworks

Pleasure Beach, Bridgeport

Once a sadly diminished shell of its former Victorian glory, Pleasure Beach has undergone a resurgence in recent years. Rebuilding began in 2014 and has proceeded despite a few setbacks. It is reached by water taxi (when available) or by walking for 35 minutes or so from Long Beach Park in Stratford. Once there, you’ll find information centers where you can discover more about the park and its fascinating history. There are restrooms, showers, picnic facilities, and a small concession stand where you can buy snacks, drinks, and toys. After passing through the pavilion area, you can head down to the beach to enjoy the sand and scenery. 

Nearby Things to Do

• Bridgeport History Center: Delve into the rich history of Pleasure Beach and the city itself through engaging exhibits and archives.
• Seaside Park: Designed by Frederick Law Olmsted, this expansive park offers picnic areas, walking trails, and stunning waterfront views.
• Downtown Bridgeport: Explore local eateries, shops, and cultural attractions in the heart of the city.
• Beardsley Zoo: Connecticut’s only accredited zoo with over 50 animals.

Good to Know

• Access: Free water taxi service operates on weekends and holidays from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM, with the beach closing at 6:00 PM. Open from July 4 through Labor Day weekend.
• Parking: Limited street parking is available near Seaview Avenue; visitors should plan accordingly.
• Tips: Check the City of Bridgeport’s official website for updates on beach access and any potential reopening plans.

Rocky Neck State Beach, East Lyme

Nestled along the shores of Long Island Sound, Rocky Neck State Park offers families a delightful blend of beachside relaxation and outdoor adventure. The park features a half-mile crescent-shaped beach with soft, white sand and clear, gentle waters—ideal for swimming and sunbathing. Beyond the beach, visitors can explore diverse hiking trails that meander through salt marshes, coastal forests, and past intriguing geological features like Baker’s Cave and Tony’s Nose. The park’s 710 acres also encompass a tidal river and broad salt marshes, attracting many bird species, making it a haven for birdwatchers. For those looking to extend their stay, the park offers 160 wooded and open campsites within walking distance of the beach.

Nearby Things to Do

• Niantic Bay Boardwalk: Enjoy a scenic stroll along this picturesque boardwalk offering stunning views of the bay.
• Harkness Memorial State Park: Explore beautifully landscaped gardens and a historic mansion overlooking Long Island Sound.
• Florence Griswold Museum: Discover American Impressionist art in a charming historic setting.
• The Book Barn: Browse through a vast collection of used books in a whimsical, family-friendly environment

Good to Know

• Parking: Free for Connecticut-registered vehicles; out-of-state vehicles are charged $15 on weekdays, $22 on weekends and holidays, and $7 after 4 PM.
• Season: Open daily from 8:00 AM to sunset.
• Tips: Arrive early on weekends to secure parking and a good spot on the beach. Pets are permitted north of the train tracks on a leash but are not allowed on the beach, boardwalk, or campground from May 1 through October 1.

Sherwood Island State Park, Westport

As Connecticut’s first state park, established in 1914, Sherwood Island State Park offers families a rich blend of natural beauty and recreational activities. Spanning over 230 acres, the park features a mile-long sandy beach along Long Island Sound, where the unique composition of red (garnet), black (magnetite), and white (quartz) sands creates a visually striking shoreline. The calm waters are ideal for swimming, and the expansive picnic areas shaded by trees provide perfect spots for family gatherings. Children can explore the Nature Center, which offers interactive exhibits and educational programs about the local ecosystem. Additionally, the park is home to Connecticut’s official 9/11 Living Memorial, offering a place for reflection with views of the New York City skyline on clear days.

Nearby Things to Do

• Downtown Westport: Explore shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions in the charming town center.
• Compo Beach: Another beautiful beach in Westport, offering additional recreational opportunities.
• Westport Country Playhouse: Enjoy live theater performances at this historic venue.
• Earthplace: Visit this nature discovery center featuring wildlife exhibits and walking trails.

Good to Know

• Parking: Free for Connecticut-registered vehicles. Out-of-state vehicles are charged $15 on weekdays and $22 on weekends and holidays; after 4 PM, the fee is reduced to $7.
• Season: Open daily from 8:00 AM to sunset.
• Tips: Pets are not permitted from April 15 through September 30. Alcohol is prohibited throughout the park

Short Beach Park, Stratford

Short Beach Park is a 30-acre coastal gem located at the mouth of the Housatonic River in Stratford. With over 1,000 feet of soft, white sand, it’s an ideal spot for families seeking both relaxation and recreation. The beach’s calm waters are perfect for swimming, and the expansive shoreline provides ample space for sunbathing and beach games. The park is also home to a par-3 golf course, making it a versatile destination for visitors of all ages.

Nearby Things to Do

• Boothe Memorial Park and Museum: Explore historic buildings and beautiful gardens.
• Great Meadows Marsh: Enjoy birdwatching and nature walks in this nearby wildlife area.
• Downtown Stratford: Discover local shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions.
• Stratford Point Lighthouse: Visit this historic lighthouse offering scenic views.

Good to Know

• Parking: Non-resident parking fees are $20 per day Monday–Thursday and $40 per day Friday–Sunday and holidays. Season passes are available for $250.
• Season: The beach is open daily from 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
• Pets: Dogs are not allowed on town beaches from April through November.
• Accessibility: The northern section of the beach offers handicap access.

Silver Sands State Park, Milford

Popular all year round, Silver Sands State Park offers a half-mile of beautiful shoreline and a long boardwalk that’s perfect for strolls. The beach is noted for its abundant seashells. Shorebirds populate the area, including some vulnerable nesting birds. 

Nearby Things to Do

• Charles Island: Accessible via a sandbar at low tide, this island is a designated bird sanctuary and subject of pirate treasure legends.
• Walnut Beach: Connected by the boardwalk, this neighboring beach offers additional recreational opportunities.
• Downtown Milford: Explore local shops, restaurants, and the historic Milford Green.
• Milford Point Coastal Center: A nearby Audubon center offering educational exhibits and birdwatching.

Good to Know

• Parking: Free for Connecticut-registered vehicles. Out-of-state vehicles are charged $15 on weekdays and $22 on weekends and holidays.
• Season: Open daily from 8:00 AM to sunset.
• Tips: Pets are prohibited on the beach and boardwalk, but are allowed in picnic areas if leashed.

Map of Best Connecticut Beaches