This shoreline road trip will show you Connecticut’s beach town side. This state is often overlooked when it comes to coastal getaway spots but the truth is we have a pretty beautiful coastline scattered with small towns and cities you’re practically guaranteed to love. If you’ve never taken a Connecticut coast scenic drive, now’s the time. Pack a swimsuit because it’s going to be hard to resist the beach on this drive. If you need more help packing for the trip, make sure you use our ultimate road trip packing list!

Check out the map for the Connecticut Shoreline Road Trip by clicking here.
Google Maps
This three-hour, 120-mile journey follows Route 1. Shave an hour or more by switching to the 95 or lengthen the trip by taking scenic backroads. It's up to you!
Adam Moss/Flickr
1. Stonington
Phoca2004/Flickr
Stonington, CT, USA
Jay McAnally/Flickr
This trip kicks off in Mystic Country with the beloved Stonington and Stonington Borough. Known as one of the most visually stunning seaside villages in all of New England, this place is full of sights. You'll find a healthy dose of lighthouse history, vineyards, and seaside gardens. Keep reading to find out more about what makes ​​Stonington, a classic New England town.
2. East Lyme
White Gate Farm/Yelp
East Lyme, CT, USA
Wikimedia Commons
East Lyme, which includes the ever popular region of Niantic, is an outdoor explorer's dream. There are many specialty shops and several restaurants to choose from, in addition to a handful of historic homes. But it also has a great beach and boardwalk, perfect for sport fishing. ​​East Lyme is ideal to visit in the summer, and perfect for our Connecticut coast scenic drive.
3. Westbrook
Alex Drainville/Flickr
Westbrook, CT, USA
Randy Levine/Flickr
Nestled between the cities of New London and New Haven, this small seaside community has seemingly unlimited activities. Boat, swim, and shop the Tanger Outlets in this quaint New England beach town. There's a great selection of restaurants and a comfy cozy B&B for overnight stays. While you're in ​​Westbrook, you can even go on an unforgettable adventure to a national wildlife refuge.

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4. Guilford
Good Streets/Flickr
Guilford, CT, USA
slack12/Flickr
​​Guilford has excellent downtown streets for meandering in and out of shops and a large town green at its center, making it a great stop around lunchtime. This town is rich with panoramic views and history, including being the hometown of a number of actors and authors. Seashore, lakes, forest and more are all waiting for you at this lush natural oasis.
5. Branford
Good Streets/Flickr
Branford, CT, USA
Slack12/Flickr
This spot has 20 miles of beach and is one of the best places to catch a sunrise. ​​Branford also has unique shops and breweries, making it a great place for folks looking to try new things. Take a boat tour of the Thimble Islands for an unforgettable evening, and be sure to return for the Potato & Corn Fesitval in August.
6. Fairfield
Wikimedia Commons
Fairfield, CT, USA
Conner Downey/Flickr
This is a lovely coastal town with great views and beaches. Named one of the best places to live, ​​Fairfield is picture-perfect. You can hang out in the historic downtown area, or try one of their excellent fine dining options. Head to the beach where you can enjoy soft sand, still waters, and a look at some beautiful stately homes. It's five miles of coastline you'll absolutely love.
7. Greenwich
gondapx/Flickr
Greenwich, CT, USA
.:Dubs aka Mr White./Flickr
One of the oldest towns in the state, this commuter region is known for being a coastal village with the shops and restaurants of the city. Rich with history and culture, the shopping in ​​Greenwich is never-ending, but the same is true of the quaint New England views and style. Boat, fish, or lounge in the sand as you soak in the shoreline or opt for the arts scene instead. You can't go wrong!

This shoreline road trip will give you those movie-esque beach views you’ve been dreaming about. We realize there are more charming Connecticut beach towns that are just as wonderful as the ones in this road trip. Let us know what other towns you think are worth a stop along a Connecticut coast scenic drive. We always love to hear from you!

But if you prefer a drive with more frights than sights, check out the Terrifying Connecticut Road Trip.

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More to Explore

Places In Connecticut

Katie Feldkamp | December 03, 2022

Where are some of the hidden beaches in Connecticut?

A day at the beach is always a wonderful thing, and when you can find a less-crowded place to relax and listen to the waves, that’s even better. For some of Connecticut’s hidden beaches, check out some of the following:

  • Cove Island Park in Stamford
  • Sherwood Island State Park in Westport
  • Milford Point in Milford
  • Walnut Beach in Milford
  • Bluff Point in Groton

Be sure to check out this article for information on these and other hidden beaches in Connecticut.

What are some other road trips in Connecticut?

If you need more ideas, check out this article that rounds up some of the best road trips in Connecticut that show off the Constitution State.

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