Full of shells but you can't beat the sunsets! Bring a blanket and just chill out. One porta…read morepotty and no lifeguards so be safe.

I stopped by Silver Sands State Park with my husband and some friends when we were driving down the…read moreConnecticut coast over the Fourth of July weekend. The park is almost 300 acres of beach, dunes, salt marsh, and woods. You can beach, swim, fish, walk along the beach or boardwalks, birdwatch... (FYI: alcohol is prohibited, so this is a beach for families, relaxing, and no-alcohol fun.) It's free for in-state registered vehicles. If your car or rental car is not registered in Connecticut, it costs $22 on weekends or holidays and $15 on weekdays (or $112 for a season pass). We couldn't stay long (the downside of a roadtrip with a planned out itinerary), which was too bad, because the beach was very nice! Crowded, perhaps, but what beach isn't on a hot July day?! I could've stayed a while with an umbrella for shade, a book, and a picnic! A lovely public beach.

We had a perfect seaside lunch at Frenchie's Coffee Bar - our serious lobster roll consumer said…read morethat this was the best she's ever had. The black bean burger was perfectly prepared to order They were super nice about making me a grilled cheese even though it wasn't on the menu. Staff were super cheerful and helpful and friendly, and we couldn't have asked for a better lunch stop on our coastline walk!

Gorgeous park! Incredible views. Lovely benches to relax. We enjoyed a walk despite strong winds…read more Surprisingly, it is somewhat secluded. Highly recommended!

Today, I made a quick trip to Seaside Park Beach because my daughter really wanted to visit the…read morebeach, but I was tight on time. We compromised with a short stroll to the shore and back, just enough to enjoy the fresh air and the view of Long Island Sound. Seaside Park is a local gem with soft sand, big grassy areas for picnics, and scenic walking paths, all designed by the same folks behind Central Park. It has a welcoming historic archway and plenty of space to stretch your legs or just sit and watch the waves. For Bridgeport residents, it's very budget friendly at just $15 for an annual parking sticker. ( I got mine today) Non residents pay more about $35 a day for Connecticut visitors and about $55 for out of state guests. Even though our visit was short and sweet, my daughter was happy just feeling the beach. It's a peaceful spot for a summer afternoon, whether you're in for a long day or just a quick breath of ocean air.

My favorite local place for long quiet walks. This is a walkway by the beach with views of the…read moreLong Island Sound. A serene location all year round. They have picnic tables and multiple benches for you to relax and take in the views. People fish here, picnc, sunbathe, run and go on long walks here. I'm here frequently. It's very clean and safe. There is a small rocky beach access point. Some days are busier than others at this gem. Parking by permit only. I'm not sure how it is checked or enforced.

I love St. Mary's by the Sea! This picturesque waterfront road and paved walking trail provides…read morestunning views of Black Rock Harbor and Long Island Sound, and 2 lighthouses, Fayerweater and Penfield Reef. For a lighthouse lover like myself-Jackpot! The stroll is flat and easy (think the total length is 1/2 mile) and you can stop along the way to read some of the area history and also what types of fish swim nearby. I go here often to walk and appreciate nature and quiet, or to sit and watch the boats, the sunset, or the fishermen and women. It's a great spot to be outdoors and relieve stress or contemplate the meaning of life. There are a few picnic tables and benches. The whole area is always very clean. Parking is free for Bridgeport residents in season with a sticker, but I have never gotten a sticker and never had any issues. Keep it quiet and clean and keep your dogs on a leash , please, as this is a true oasis and you will be stunned it is actually in Bridgeport!

I found their Wednesday group paddle on FB. You can rent single, doubles or paddleboard from them…read morefor the group paddle. You can also BYOB and join for free. I showed up with my own paddleboard and had a great time exploring the Long Island Sound from Walnut Beach. They also rent bicycles. They have a cute little shop right near the water. I look forward to visiting again and renting a bicycle to explore the nearby parks. Thanks for an awesome community event.

Small Hidden establishment, a few hundred yards from the beach. Very Friendly and laid back staff…read more You can rent Kayaks, bicycles and paddle boards. All in great condition, colorful and new! A great way to spend an hour to a full day in the sun and fresh air! Gift shop is available, too, featuring beach ware and beach necessities to ukuleles!!! If you want to spend quality time with a loved one or just yourself, Go! You won't regret it!

Too rocky. Not clear if street parking allowed. Left and went to Short Beach instead.read more

Great area to just sit by the water. There are beach areas on both ends of the wall. Very rocky…read moresand. Water shoes or socks are a must especially if you want to walk along the water line. 2hr free parking right in front and 2 or 3 restaurants in very close proximity.

Penfield Beach is one of the 6 public beaches in Fairfield, however, from the Memorial Day weekend…read moreto Labor Day, you must either have a season pass (open only to Fairfield residents) or pay a daily fee to park and visit the beach: $50 a day for weekends and holidays, $40 for weekdays in 2025 (I guess you could walk or boat in). I vist out of season and it's a nice, clean, beach, with a view of 2 lighthouses. It's a good sized beach to walk along, enjoy the views, catch a sunrise or sunset, particularly when barely anyone is there. Plenty of parking and not too far a walk to the beach (except when it's packed).

We had our wedding at the Jacky Durrell Pavilion in September 2024 and it was absolutely amazing!…read more This is a hidden gem in Connecticut offers views over looking the beach and is perfect for sunsets! It also has a lit up wrap around deck and a fireplace for those chilly nights! There is also a warming kitchen (no grill/stove access) a stand up fridge/freezer, and tables/chairs available for rental if needed. VERY reasonable price to rent out this venue hall considering it's in Fairfield and on the beach. This is a perfect venue for any type of reunion, party, wedding, or simply going to the beach and enjoying the summer weather. The staff were very accommodating for what was needed during the rental process!

Around 3 miles from route 95 exit, not a lot to see along the way. We go here when in the area and…read morejust want to be by the water, with beautiful views esp at sunset. There's a restaurant and some 2-hr street parking by the seawall - make sure to check because some are for those with permits/passes. Easy for those who can't walk long distances bec can enjoy the view by the car. Sand is not the best and water is not that clear but we just enjoyed getting some sun. Some people were enjoying swimming and kayaking.