I love a good beach day, but there are times where it is STRESSFUL with kids- especially when you’re trying to tote a baby and a toddler with all their stuff across the sand, by yourself, with a stroller that apparently is not sand-friendly (Tell me I’m not the only one this happened to??)
We have been hard at work researching and exploring all kids of beaches around the state (it’s a big sacrifice, but someone’s got to do it..?). After much research, I’ve finally narrowed it down to 10 beaches around the state that are super family friendly. We’re looking forward to visiting all of them this summer!
Hammonasset Beach State Park, Madison
This is a classic, but it’s a classic for a reason. Kid-Friendly features include snack stands, plenty of restrooms, and a playground.
West Beach features traditional sand, but our favorite hidden gem in the park is Meig’s Point. The beach tends to be quieter, and there is an incredible Nature Center, which has TONS of free activities for kids.
Cost: Free for CT Residents, Non Resident $22
Photo Credit: Ocean Beach Park
Ocean Beach Park, New London
A staple of the Connecticut Coastline, it’s no wonder Ocean Beach Park has won awards.
The beach itself feels like it belongs in a tropical paradise, with sugar sand. It’s calm enough for families with young kids, but has decent snorkeling for older kids.
The park extends beyond the beach and features waterslides, a splashpad, minigolf, a boardwalk with rides, and lots more. Add in a fabulous entertainment schedule, and it’s easy to see how Ocean Beach Park is a place that caters to families with kids of all ages.
Note that there is a fee of$30 for weekdays, $35 weekends, and $50 on the Fourth of July.
Image Credit: Town of Norwalk
Calf Pasture Beach, Norwalk
Calf Pasture Beach has so many options for family friendly fun- including a splash pad, skate park, and playground! Plus, there are SO MANY EVENTS happening throughout the summer.
Non residents should plan to arrive early, as there are only 175 spots and space fills up fast!
Note that there is a fee of $42/per car on weekdays before 5:00 pm, and $30/per car after 5:00 pm. $72/per car on Saturday and Sunday.
Harvey’s Point, Old Saybrook
This is one of the most unique low tide beaches I’ve seen- families can go for incredible walks, dig for crabs and just explore the incredible area at low tide.
In addition, the beach features an entertainment schedule thanks to Old Saybrook Parks and Rec, Life guards, contracted food vendors, adorable swings and more!
Note that there is a fee of $15.00 per car Weekdays or $25.00 per car Weekends/Holidays.
Image Credit: This is Mystic, CT Visit
Williams Beach Park
This is one of our favorite hidden gems in Mystic. Located behind the Mystic YMCA, there is no fee for parking. It’s small, but features a playground and plenty of areas for kids to dig in the sand. Perfect for families with young kids.
Clinton Town Beach
This is a great local spot featuring a HUGE playground in the sand and a splash pad. Our kids had a blast running in the sand between all the play structures. Plus, it’s fully accessible and features a snack bar.
The waves were very small and it was super easy to access from the parking lot, making it the perfect spot for families with toddlers.
Note that there is an access fee for nonresidents from 9:00 am – 3:00pm. It’s $50 for a weekday and $75 for a weekend.
Image Credit: https://www.stoningtonboroughct.com/
duBois Beach, Stonington
This is an old fashioned beach experience- but incredibly beautiful and scenic. It recently won an award from Boston Globe as one of 20 beaches to visit in New England.
It features gentle waves, a gazebo and plenty of natural elements to explore. Great for families looking to escape for a beach day.
Note that Day passes are $10 per person. Children 18 and under access the beach for free. Parking is free of charge in the public lot adjacent to the beach.
Photo Credit: Wikipeda: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rocky_Neck_State_Park
Rocky Neck State Park
This is another state park beach- which means that it is free for CT Residents! It has a pavilion and some incredible hiking trails- the perfect because for exploring all the local wildlife.
Note that out of state resident fees apply- visit CT Deep for more information.
Photo Credit: Michael Orzell Photography and Town of East Lyme
McCook Point Park, East Lyme
One of the central parts of the town of East Lyme, McCook Point Park delights families with easily accessible restrooms, ample green space, a playground, and, of course, two gorgeous white sand beaches. There are accessible features like a Mobi – Chair, and some fabulous celebrations: like the midsummer “Celebrate East Lyme!”
Note that there is a summer parking fee for town non-residents of $42.54 on weekdays and $53.18 on weekends.
Seaside Park, Bridgeport
Three full miles of coastline makes up Seaside Park, but the real draw for families is West Beach Splash Pad, a beautiful covered pavilion, restrooms, and quiet waves for lots of fun play.
Note that the parking cost for CT Residents is $30 on weekdays $40 on weekends and holidays.
A lot of effort goes into researching our content, but it is always better to be safe than sorry- call or Google ahead to make sure things are open and accessible.
What are your favorite beaches? Let us know and we can check them out this summer!
