This 1-Hour Drive Is the Best Way to See Connecticut’s Stunning Coast
When it comes to seeing the best beaches in Connecticut in just one road trip, Route 1 reigns supreme. Sure, many choose to drive I-95 now, and admittedly, that route is much faster. But if you want to enjoy your drive and feel the sun on your skin and the beach breeze in your hair, it doesn’t get any better than a drive down Route 1. This one-hour drive in Connecticut is full of stunning sights.
You can find the itinerary for the trip on this Google Map.
Buckle up and get ready for one of the best road trips in Connecticut!
The entire Connecticut road trip won't take much more than an hour of driving time, though there are plenty of opportunities to extend the trip. Stopping by a myriad of beach towns in Connecticut sounds like our idea of heaven! You may even want to rent a quaint vacation home and make a weekend trip out of it.
1. East Haven Town Beach: 80-4 Cosey Beach Ave, East Haven, CT 06512
East Haven's got a great sandy beach that has a bocci court and volleyball net. Pack your own food or pick up some lunch at one of the nearby restaurants. The Sandpiper is a great option for some seafood. Their stuffed lobster roll is buttery and fresh, and the atmosphere is welcoming.
East Haven Town Beach, 80-4 Cosey Beach Ave, East Haven, CT 06512, USA
Stony Creek Beach is another of our favorite small beaches in Connecticut. As soon as you step foot on the soft sand, you'll feel your troubles melt away. This area has something for everyone. There's a boat and kayak launch that's a great spot if you want to get out on the water! There's also a nearby playground that little ones love to explore.
As the longest beach in Connecticut, there's a lot to explore! Hammonasset Beach State Park is one of our favorite spots in the state. You must stop by the singing beach at Meigs Point. When the tide rolls in, the shells create a lovely sound -- almost like they're singing. Enchanting and lovely, Hammonasset Beach belongs on your bucket list.
Hammonasset Beach, Madison, CT 06443, USA
4. Clinton Town Beach, 96 Waterside Ln, Clinton, CT 06413
This small town beach is a great spot to relax and take a stroll in the waves. The beach faces the entrance to Clinton Harbor and is a wonderful area for fishing. Whether you come for adventure or relaxation, you'll enjoy your time at this beloved destination. It's one of the best beaches in Connecticut!
Clinton Town Beach, 96 Waterside Ln, Clinton, CT 06413, USA
Old Saybrook is one of our favorite beach towns in Connecticut and the Lynde Point area is stunning. It's the quintessential New England beach with a beautiful lighthouse overlooking the shore. This place will make you fall in love with New England all over again.
Lynde Point, Old Saybrook, CT 06475, USA
Have you ever taken this gorgeous one-hour drive in Connecticut? If so, we want to hear all about your adventures. Share your experiences with us in the comments below! And if you know another fantastic spot in Connecticut, nominate it for a chance to be featured.
For more fun, check out these astonishing natural attractions in Connecticut. From majestic mountains to verdant hiking trails, these destinations will spark your wanderlust. What are you waiting for? Get out and explore!
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Lisa loves animals and has dogs, rats, cats, guinea pigs, and snakes. She is passionate about animal rescue, particularly fixing stray cats. She also likes reading, playing Pokemon Go, and going to concerts. Her dog Cece is the best dog in the whole world. You can reach Lisa at lsammons@onlyinyourstate.com