Hammonasset Beach State Park

Along the Connecticut shoreline where the salty scent of the Atlantic mingles with the crisp scent of coastal woodlands lies a place that captures the essence of New England’s natural charm. Hammonasset Beach State Park, located in the quaint town of Madison, is a vibrant playground of sea and sky, the kind of place where the rhythm of the tide sets the pace and every visit offers something fresh to uncover.

Stretching two full miles along the edge of Long Island Sound, Hammonasset is the largest shoreline park in Connecticut and a beacon for beachgoers, campers, anglers, and day-trippers alike. Whether you’re looking to cool off in the ocean, wander a coastal boardwalk, or simply settle in with a book under the sun, the park delivers.

A Beach for Every Kind of Explorer

The heart of Hammonasset is its expansive beachfront. Fine-grained sand extends in generous curves, ideal for long walks with nothing but the breeze for company. Families set up umbrellas and picnic blankets, children build sandcastles just out of reach of the waves, and the calm waters invite swimmers to float away in the afternoon.

But the beach isn’t the only draw. Surfcasting is a favorite among anglers who line the shoreline in search of bluefish and striped bass. Kayakers paddle the quieter pondside edges, slipping through reflective water flanked by tall grasses. The nearby salt marsh and nature preserve, a lesser-known part of the park’s charm, offer a quieter space to observe wildlife or retreat into nature’s calm.

Camp Beneath the Stars

For those who want to stretch their visit beyond a single day, Hammonasset’s campground provides an inviting overnight experience. With over 500 campsites, it’s a bustling destination during the summer months. Families toast marshmallows over campfires, while early risers sip coffee beside their tents as the sun rises over the dunes.

The campground is open from Memorial Day to Columbus Day and welcomes visitors around the clock. It’s the kind of place where simple pleasures shine — grilled dinners, long stargazing sessions, and early morning walks before the world fully wakes up.

Planning Your Visit

Hammonasset Beach State Park is open daily from 8:00 a.m. until sunset, with 24-hour access permitted for campers and those fishing during the peak season. Entry is free for vehicles with Connecticut license plates, while out-of-state guests can expect modest fees based on the day and time of their visit.

Out-of-State Vehicle Fees:

• Weekdays: $15
• Weekends/Holidays: $22
• After 4:00 p.m.: $7
• Season Pass: $112

Bus permits are required for vehicles carrying 30 or more passengers, and accessible options such as beach wheelchairs and restrooms ensure that the park welcomes everyone.

Walk the Boardwalk and Beyond

A well-maintained boardwalk spans a portion of the beach, offering a pleasant stroll above the sands. It’s popular among joggers, dog walkers, and those who just want to take in the coastal scenery without getting their feet sandy. Benches positioned along the way provide rest stops or quiet places to people-watch and listen to the waves.

Away from the shoreline, a network of nature trails threads through the marshes and wooded areas. Birdwatchers often gather here in the early mornings with binoculars and field guides, hoping to spot herons, ospreys, and migrating shorebirds.

Pet-Friendly Policy

Hammonasset is one of those rare beaches that strikes a balance between protecting its natural environment and making room for four-legged visitors. Pets are welcome throughout the year as long as they remain on a leash. During off-season months, they are allowed on the beach, and the campground welcomes them from Columbus Day through May 1.

A Name with Roots

The name “Hammonasset” comes from an eastern woodland Indigenous term meaning “where we dig holes in the ground,” referencing agricultural practices near the Hammonasset River. This nod to its deeper history gives the park a sense of continuity, a reminder that this coastal haven has been appreciated long before sunscreen and coolers entered the scene.

Facilities and Amenities

Hammonasset is designed with ease and accessibility in mind. The facilities are clean, organized, and thoughtfully spaced across the grounds.

Available Amenities:

• Restrooms and outdoor showers
• Ample parking
• Picnic areas with tables and grills
• Beach wheelchairs (first-come, first-served)
• Park maps and informational kiosks

Campers have access to showers, fire rings, and nearby access to hiking trails and beach paths.

How to Get There

Located at 1288 Boston Post Road in Madison, Hammonasset is easily accessible by car and clearly signposted from major roads. The entrance welcomes you with lush greenery and a hint of salt in the air, a sign you’re getting close to the shoreline.

Whether you stay for a few hours or settle in for the weekend, Hammonasset Beach State Park offers a satisfying blend of natural beauty and thoughtful design. It’s a place where New England’s coastal character comes alive — in the sweep of the sand, the hush of the marsh, and the laughter of families gathering around seaside campfires. The tide might roll in and out, but the memories made here tend to stay.