The Hidden Beaches Road Trip That Will Show You Connecticut Like Never Before

The beach scene in Connecticut is mostly calm. Since most of them fall on the Long Island Sound, they lack waves, which means you'll see more boats than surfers on most days. But nonetheless, we love the beaches in Connecticut, and for good reason: the water is nice and cool, you can easily discover (and touch) sea creatures, and the views are unparalleled. So naturally, we had to create this road trip to the best hidden beaches in Connecticut.

With this easy, 100-mile road trip you can explore the Gold Coast and beyond in a little over two hours. But you'll definitely want to drag this one out and take the time to appreciate each beach. Grab the beach ball and sunscreen for this awesome trip and prepare to have fun! You can access the interactive map for this road trip on Google Maps.

Buckle Up!

The spots on this hidden beaches road trip in Connecticut are each unique and are all hidden in their own way. Some are criminally overlooked, some require a short hike, some are tucked into a larger park...you get the idea.

But, you can discover all that for yourself. Just have fun with it!

1. Cove Island Park

You can ride a tram around the island at this 83-acre park and beach. It's also a great spot for rollerblading with sea views and lounging in soft, white sand. In fact, the number of activities you can do here makes it easy to spend the whole day here and folks often do. Pieces of the movie Reservation Road were also filmed here.

2. Sherwood Island State Park

Say hello to the oldest state park in Connecticut. You can enjoy your snack at the charming picnic grove and look out over the marsh from the observation platform. Wildlife explorers will love this place just as much as the beach bums. The 9-11 Living Memorial is also located here, and fishing is allowed anywhere on the shoreline. This is definitely a must-visit. Learn more about this adventure in this article about one of the best hikes in Connecticut.

3. Milford Point

Located within the Connecticut Audubon Society Coastal Center, this spot is perfect for a peaceful stroll. The scenic backdrop of this bird sanctuary is jaw-dropping and this spot is known for being one of the most beautiful beaches in Connecticut. Enjoy the extensive boardwalk and avoid crowds. But keep in mind this spot is for exploring, not swimming.

4. Walnut Beach

Go fishing at the end of the pier and walk along the edge of the Long Island Sound. This beach is also host to a sandcastle building competition that attracts folks from near and far. With a view of the haunted Charles Island just across the water, this place is full of fun and folklore. If you believe the hype you can try your luck at treasure hunting.

5. Hole-in-the-Wall Beach

As part of McCook's Point Park, Hole-In-The-Wall Beach is the best family beach in Connecticut. The sloping soft sand beach features the best of both worlds. On three sides it's surrounded by grass and trees, but one side, of course, is the beach. You have to go through a short tunnel underneath the railroad tracks to get there, which is how it got its name. How cool is that?

6. Bluff Point

Like the idea of a sea breeze and panoramic views without the beach scene? We've got you covered! This is an excellent spot to take advantage of hiking trails. Some would say this park is a natural wonder with its various habitats and Instagram worthy photo ops. Nature lovers will be in heaven.

It's hard to visit all of the best beaches in Connecticut in a single day. If you had to add your favorite to this list, which one would it be? For another unforgettable ride, try out this captivating Waterfall Road Trip in Connecticut. These cascading gems are simply... gorges - get it?