The 7 Best Connecticut Beaches for a Romantic Couple Getaway

Whether you’re looking to spark some romance or rekindle an old flame, these beaches in Connecticut are perfect for a romantic getaway. With views of the Long Island Sound, many of the beaches in Connecticut are havens for wildlife. Their natural beauty allows human visitors to soak it all in as well. You may even spot one of the many owls or songbirds that frequent these areas. Whether you want something with plenty of things happening or prefer a quiet, quaint beach perfect for an intimate moment, these romantic beaches are great for a getaway.

1. Hammonasset Beach State Park

This is the largest shoreline in a state park in the entire state, meaning there are plenty of places to enjoy the beach and get spectacular views of the sunrise over the water. There are around 2 miles of beachfront in total. Since the 1920s, the beach has been a recreational boardwalk destination, a place for weapons testing, and even an Army training site during World War II. Now, Hammonasset Beach State Park is run by the State Park Service. This means that restrooms, pavilions, and other amenities are plentiful and well-maintained. The boardwalk makes this beach accessible for everyone.

If you want to extend your romantic stay, you can book one of the 550 campsites or rustic cabins at the park. Nearby towns include Madison, Clinton, and Westbrook where you can find more luxurious accommodations. For those who want to explore the area a bit more, try one of the hiking trails in the park or check out the Hammonasset Natural Area Preserve and the free education center at Meigs Point.

2. Eastern Point Beach

This small beach in Groton is quaint and near an ample parking lot. If you and your love are likely to get into an argument at one of the busier spots, this beach has plenty of parking to avoid that problem. Parking is a little pricey, especially on weekends or special event days, but you can get a season parking pass if you plan to go often. In the summer, you can dance to live music on the beach or nearby lawn. The Zbierski House is the perfect place for beachfront events, even weddings and vow renewals.

This is a good beach for couples with kids along. You don’t need to choose between date night and spending time with your family. There are restrooms and showers, a snack bar, volleyball courts, a playground, and other amenities that make it very family-friendly. You can enjoy romantic views of the Thames River and Long Island Sound on a date day while still having kids in tow.

3. Walnut Beach

The actual beach at Walnut Beach is fun and beautiful but it’s the surrounding beach neighborhood that really makes it a must-see destination. At the beach, you can lounge on the sand, relax on one of the benches, or even enjoy some shade under the open pavilion. A boardwalk connects Walnut Beach with nearby Silver Sands State Park, also in Milford. Charles Island, a 14-acre nature preserve, is also accessible when the tidal conditions are right.

In the neighborhood, check out one of the local restaurants or ice cream shops in the summer months. Winter is the perfect time for visiting one of the many art galleries or the indoor skating rink in Milford. There are also beachfront event venues and restaurants that are perfect for a wedding or special romantic dinner.

4. Sherwood Beach

The first state park in Connecticut, Sherwood Beach State Park is a great place to explore. The park includes pavilions and seating, a swim beach, wildlife viewing areas, and plenty of spots to just take in the beautiful views with that special someone. There is also a nature park, showers and bathrooms, and a concession stand. Stop by the model aircraft launch area to see (or participate in) flying models.

It’s important to note that alcohol is not allowed in the park, so you’ll need to plan your champagne toast to romance for another spot. Fortunately, there are plenty of restaurants in the Westport area that are perfect for a romantic dinner before or after your trip to the beach.

5. Compo Beach

Just a few minutes away from Sherwood is Compo Beach. While smaller, it is within walking or driving distance from charming restaurants, a skate park, a marina, and a yacht club. Westport also has plenty of walking paths along both the ocean and the Saugatuck River. Compo Beach is located at the end of the river where it meets the Long Island Sound.

Travel further up the Saugatuck to visit one of the area’s art galleries or take in an open-air concert at Levitt’s Pavilion or a stage production at the Westport Country Playhouse. If you’re looking for small-town charm with a beachside New England feel, Westport is definitely the place to go. While there are plenty of hotel chains, a smaller inn, bed and breakfast, or vacation rental offers a unique lodging experience to make your getaway truly unforgettable.

6. Harvey’s Beach

Any list of Connecticut beaches isn’t complete without mentioning picturesque Harvey’s Beach in Old Saybrook. The water is pretty shallow and perfect for wading. It has soft, white sand, which is much easier on your feet than most of Connecticut’s rocky beaches. There is a playground, restrooms, showers, and a concession stand.

If you’re stopping by this beach, make sure you check out the Saybrook Breakwater Light or Lynde Point Light. They stand at the mouth of the Connecticut River. Both are on private property and not open to the public. But if you’re on the water, you can see romantic views of these historic landmarks.

For lodging, you can’t go wrong with one of the many luxury resorts in Old Saybrook. Many are right on the river or beach, just steps away from the sand or water. You can also consider one of the many vacation rentals available around Harvey’s Beach or one of the other smaller beaches in this part of Connecticut.

7. Bluff Point Beach

If your ideal date includes hiking, biking, and rugged exploration, Bluff Point State Park in Groton might be the best beach for you. The beach is at the tip of a wooded peninsula. Activities include hiking and biking trails as well as plenty of places to see wildlife. It is right across from the Groton-New London airport so you can also marvel at the planes taking off and landing. This is more of a walk-and-explore beach since it is rocky and has a lot of shells. Wearing sturdy shoes will help you enjoy your visit. You can only access the beach by foot or bike since it is a protected natural area. Once you get there, you’re rewarded with amazing views and dunes full of flowers, including beach plums and shore roses. Because it’s a bit harder to get to, the beach tends to be quiet and private, perfect for a romantic moment.

Summary of Romantic Connecticut Beach Getaways