Take a Scenic Ferry Ride to a Whimsical Wildlife Refuge on Connecticut’s Outer Island

Connecticut's Thimble Islands continually dazzle and enchant visitors. The stunning coastline and vibrant marshes never fail to take our breath away. Scattered along the Long Island Sound, these tiny islands are marked by rich coastal beauty and rocky granite shorelines. One of the best ways to soak up all of this beauty and wonder is by visiting the Stewart B. McKinney National Wildlife Refuge, and specifically, Outer Island. You're in for an incredible adventure when you take a ferry ride to this whimsical wildlife haven.

The Stewart B. McKinney National Wildlife Refuge has 10 units across nearly 70 miles of Connecticut's coastline, but nothing is quite as magnificent as the five-acre preserve on Outer Island. Outer Island is open to visitors seasonally, typically between the end of May and the end of September.

The Outer Island is the southernmost of the Thimble Islands and was privately owned until 1995. The picturesque five-acre island is characterized by cobblestone beaches, granite outcroppings, and salt marshes. When you arrive, take some time to absorb the stunning surroundings. The vibrant green marshes look especially gorgeous next to the crystal clear water. In the spring and fall, you're likely to see many bird species flying overhead.

One of the best ways to appreciate this stunning natural wonder? Take a day trip with the Thimble Islands Ferry Service and stare at the gorgeous Connecticut coastline. The trip requires a fee, and it's packed with astonishing sights. Please note that it isn't a tour boat but rather a straightforward ferry trip. That said, the scenery is still astounding!

Outer Island is a stopover habitat for birds migrating over Long Island Sound. If you're an avid bird-watcher, plan your trip around their yearly flight patterns. Some of the birds that can be spotted here include roseate terns, American oystercatchers, green herons, and egrets. Exploring Outer Island is the perfect way to forget your worries and reconnect with nature. A few tips for a successful visit:

• Be sure to wear comfortable clothes with long pants for extra protection.
• Bring plenty of water, a hat, and wear sunscreen.
• Plan your visit around low tide, so you can look for small creatures in the intertidal zone.

If you've never visited this idyllic Connecticut destination, add it to the top of your bucket list. To learn more about the Stewart B. McKinney National Wildlife Refuge, visit their official website. Have you ever visited Outer Island? If so, share your thoughts with us in the comments below! And if you're looking for more wonderful places to explore, check out these gorgeous hidden destinations in Connecticut.

Feeling inspired? Try planning your own trip using Only In Your State’s itinerary planner.