Silver Sands State Park

Along the southern edge of Connecticut, where Long Island Sound brushes up against marshland and sand, you’ll find Silver Sands State Park, a stretch of shoreline that blends natural beauty with compelling history. Located in Milford, this park has earned a reputation as one of the best in the state, praised by Travel & Leisure for its accessible charm and coastal character. Whether you’re chasing seabirds through salt-sprayed trails or wandering toward a storied island through the tides, Silver Sands offers something elemental and grounding.

A Shoreline Born of Storm and Renewal

Silver Sands was shaped by tragedy and rebirth. In 1955, Hurricane Diane swept across the region, destroying 75 homes along this part of the Connecticut coast. What followed was a gradual reclaiming of the land. Over 300 parcels were transferred to the state, and by 1960, the area had become Connecticut’s fourth shoreline state park. Today, you can still find remnants of the old cottages among the marsh grasses, their concrete foundations softened by time.

From those scattered ruins rose a sanctuary. The shoreline stretches over half a mile, met by a marsh system rich in wildlife and shaded by soft dunes. It’s a place where nature reclaimed what was once residential land, turning it into something wild and open.

The All-Weather Boardwalk

One of the most popular features of Silver Sands is its three-quarter-mile boardwalk, a wide wooden path that offers panoramic access to the beach and marsh without disturbing the ecosystem. It’s a favorite for walkers, birdwatchers, and families looking to push a stroller alongside sea breezes. While bicycles are not allowed and pets are restricted from the boardwalk and beach, the rules help preserve the serenity that the area has come to embody.

Visitors should note that the boardwalk is undergoing repairs from April 21 through May 23, 2025. During this period, access to the beach is still possible via a sidewalk just to the left of the usual entry.

Charles Island: Myths and Migration

Venture far enough along the sand at low tide, and a natural causeway begins to form. This sandbar leads to Charles Island, a 14-acre parcel of woodland that sits half a mile off the coast. Accessible only when the tides allow, the sandbar disappears beneath water twice daily, with strong currents and undertow making crossings risky outside of low tide. Visitors should always check tide charts before planning the walk.

Charles Island is rich with lore. In 1699, Captain William Kidd reportedly stopped at this very island before heading to Boston, where he was arrested. According to local tales, he buried treasure here, never to return. Over the years, Charles Island has transformed from a seaside resort to a religious retreat and now into a haven for birds. From May 1 through September 9, the island is closed to the public to protect the nesting season of rare avian species. During this time, visitors can view the island from shore but are not permitted to cross the sandbar.

Wildlife and Natural Beauty

Birders will find a wealth of sightings here. The surrounding marshes and the island itself serve as important stops for migratory birds. Herons, egrets, and sandpipers sweep across the landscape, while gulls gather near the tide line. On the beach, shells line the shore in patterns shaped by the currents, offering a glimpse into the marine life just offshore.

The marshland is equally compelling. Boardwalk overlooks give way to sweeping views of reeds and tidal pools where crabs skitter and songbirds flit between stalks. Whether you’re an amateur naturalist or simply a curious observer, the park’s biodiversity invites you to slow down and look closely.

Know Before You Go

Silver Sands State Park is open daily from 8:00 a.m. until sunset. Parking is free for vehicles registered in Connecticut. Out-of-state visitors should expect to pay:

• $15 on weekdays
• $22 on weekends and holidays
• $112 for a seasonal pass

Additional rules help maintain the park’s peaceful environment:

• Alcohol is strictly prohibited
• No pets allowed on the beach or boardwalk
• Pets in picnic areas must remain leashed
• Bicycles are not permitted on the boardwalk
• Bus permits are required for vehicles seating 30 or more passengers

Portable restrooms are available on-site. While basic, they’re maintained regularly during the peak season.

Local Tips for a Seamless Visit

• Timing is key: Plan to visit early in the day, especially during summer weekends, to secure parking and experience the calm of low tide.
  
• Pack light: With no concessions on site, bring your own snacks and water. Picnic areas are available for lunch breaks.
  
• Tide check: If you’re hoping to explore Charles Island, consult a local tide chart beforehand. A mistimed crossing can lead to a rapid, dangerous return as the sandbar submerges.

A Classic Connecticut Experience

Silver Sands State Park stands as a coastal retreat that balances accessibility with quiet natural splendor. It’s not overly developed, nor does it need to be. The marsh speaks for itself. The sandbar tells a story twice a day. The horizon bends around Charles Island, shifting with the tide and sunlight. This is a shoreline experience shaped by history, folklore, and the unrelenting rhythm of the sea.

Whether you’re walking the boardwalk at sunset or scanning the shoreline for seashells, Silver Sands delivers something unmistakably authentic. It is a place to breathe, reflect, and feel the elemental pull of the coast.