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 in Connecticut.

You can find the itinerary for the trip on Google Maps.

Google Maps

The entire 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!

East Haven Town Beach, 80-4 Cosey Beach Ave, East Haven, CT 06512, USA

Petra/Google Maps

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.

Stony Creek Beach, Branford, CT 06405, USA

lisa recovery/Google Maps

Stony Creek Beach is another of our favorite small beaches in Connecticut. There's a boat or kayak launch that's a great spot if you want to get out on the water!

Hammonasset Beach, Madison, CT 06443, USA

ray.dio.active/Flickr

As the longest beach in Connecticut, there's a lot to explore at Hammonasset Beach State Park. One of our favorite spots is the singing beach at Meigs Point. It's such a unique sound to hear the little shells making their music along the beach as the tide rolls in.

Clinton Town Beach, 96 Waterside Ln, Clinton, CT 06413, USA

Management/Tripadvisor

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.

Lynde Point, Old Saybrook, CT 06475, USA

bbcamericangirl/Flickr

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.

Have you ever taken Route 1 along Connecticut’s coast? It’s one of our favorite drives in the state. Share your experiences in the comments!