Things to do, Towns

Best Coastal Towns to Visit in Connecticut

There are over 300 miles of coastline in Connecticut which hugs the shores of the Long Island Sound and Atlantic Ocean. Because of this, Connecticut’s coastal towns are a major draw for history buffs and sun-seekers alike. Here are some of the best coastal towns to visit in Connecticut:

  1. Westport
  2. Norwalk
  3. Essex
  4. Mystic

Westport

Westport

Westport is home to Fairfield County’s most desirable beaches, including Sherwood Island State Park. There, visitors can splash in the Long Island Sound, or learn about mysterious sea creatures like moon snails at the nature center.  On clear days, lower Manhattan is visible from Sherwood Point. Don’t forget to refuel at Black Duck Café, a floating barge restaurant and bar that’s something of a celebrity in town.

Want more? Check out the I Know Connecticut: Westport Guide

Norwalk

Norwalk

Just one stop closer to the city on Metro North, Norwalk and South Norwalk have quickly become major destinations. The two towns offer a variety of things to do including art galleries, the Maritime Aquarium, restaurants, and annual festivals like Oyster Festival in September and boat shows at the Norwalk Marina.

Essex

Essex

Essex is a quintessential colonial town along the Connecticut River in Middlesex County. It’s been dubbed “The Perfect Small American Town” in the 1,000 Places To See Before You Die travel guide, and it’s history is unrivaled. Essex is the home to The Ivoryton Playhouse, the oldest running summer theater in the nation, as well as a historic inn that’s been in continuous operation since the birth of the United States in 1776. 

Fun fact: The Gilmore Girls town of Stars Hollow was based on Essex.

Mystic

Mystic

The Mystic seaport is an iconic coastal town in Connecticut. It’s home to the Mystic seaport, aquarium and, of course, Mystic Pizza. When visiting, you should not miss Mystic’s downtown where you’ll find local mom and pop shops and delicious eateries along Main Street. Within Mystic’s nearly 4 square miles you’ll also discover numerous annual events like the Mystic Irish Parade, Mystic Outdoor Art Festival, and the Mystic Pirate Invasion.

Want more? Check out the I Know Connecticut: Mystic Guide

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