The beach is known for being a place of endless sand and sea, but low tide at Harvey's Beach is an entirely different experience and is perfect for kids. If you plan ahead, you can take advantage of the transformation and enjoy an afternoon at this totally unique spot. The beach is located on Great Hammock Road, Old Saybrook, CT 06475, but you can get a sneak peak now:
For most of the day, it's a pretty normal beach. With its soft sand and small waves, it's a great place for hanging out in the summertime. But people come here for a different reason.
Low tide at Harvey's Beach reveals a kid-friendly playscape perfect for splashing toddlers, sandcastle building, and marine exploration. It's like a giant man made splash pad! You can walk pretty far out into the ocean as well, so who knows what creatures you may discover.
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You can find out when low tide is by using the chart here.
The sand that's revealed at low tide maintains its soft feel and is far from the muddies you'd expect. It's almost like low tide reveals a second, entirely different beach. Grab your buckets and shovels because this is one place you can actually use them.
Plus, the sunset at Harvey's beach is stunning. You'll love spending the day here.
Low tide at Harvey's Beach reveals a fun play space that kids will love. But it's not the only beach with secrets. Have you ever heard of Charles Island?
The warm weather season in New England is positively magical! Clear blue skies, refreshing swimming holes, and shady trees are calling your name. Beach day? We think yes! If you're hoping to escape from the crowds this summer, check out these little-known getaways. You're certain to love these pristine hidden Connecticut beaches this year:
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1. Hole-In-The-Wall Beach, East Lyme
As its name suggests, this peaceful beach in Connecticut is tucked off the beaten path. You'll find this fun summertime getaway inside McCook Point Park in East Lyme. In the summer, it's not uncommon to hear children laughing and see parents lounging in the sun. There are also plenty of places to kayak, fish, and swim.
2. Shady Beach Park, Norwalk
Shady Beach Park is full of fun summertime activities. Splash in the water, enjoy a picnic in the shade, or play a game of sand volleyball - the options are nearly endless. This is one of the most serene Connecticut state beaches.
3. DuBois Beach, Stonington
Looking for "private beaches near me?" Don't judge this destination by its size. Even though it's small, it's packed with exciting amenities and spectacular views. Relax under a peaceful pavilion and cool off in the refreshing waters. Visitors have to pay a small entrance fee, but it's absolutely worth it. This small town in Connecticut itself is worth a gander, too.
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4. Rocky Neck State Park, East Lyme
Rocky Neck State Park spans 708 acres in East Lyme, and it's full of rocky ledges, sandy beaches, and cool rivers. If you love bird watching, this is a great place to go. You may even spot a few cranes, herons, and mute swans on your adventure. Rocky Neck State Park in Connecticut is definitely one of those things you need to add to your summertime bucket list.
5. Pleasure Beach, Bridgeport
What was once a bustling amusement park in the 1890s is now a secluded beach that attracts thrill-seekers from all over. You'll need to take a water taxi to reach this unique destination, but it's absolutely worth the effort. For more information about the taxi schedules, call (203) 576-7233. Fans of abandoned places in Connecticut are going to love this.
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Enjoy this delightful virtual tour of this stunning Bridgeport beach:
6. Jacob's Beach, Guilford
With 25 acres of sandy shoreline, Jacob's Beach is a summertime oasis. Whether you're coming to swim, boat, or just watch a sunset, there's no denying the appeal of this little-known beach in Connecticut.
7. Esker Point Beach, Groton
If you're hoping to get away from the crowds this summer, this tiny 600-foot beach in Groton is the perfect place to go. Swim in the refreshing saltwater and enjoy a tasty picnic under a grove of trees. Yes, this beach is man-made, but parking is free and the sand is soft. It's one of the most peaceful private beaches in CT.
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This fun drone video provides an excellent overview of this gorgeous beach:
What are your favorite Connecticut beaches? Share your thoughts and plans with us in the comments! And if you need more inspiration for your summertime adventures, take any of these wonderful day trips in Connecticut
Traveling around the state of Connecticut this summer? Make sure you take a look at our Ultimate Road Trip Packing List before you go.
Connecticut is one of the 14 states with coastline along the Atlantic Ocean, plus, of course, we have numerous beaches with access to the Long Island Sound. However, we are also fortunate in that we have plenty of inland beaches, near our many lakes and rivers. It's often our natural assumption to think of these beaches as somewhat lesser than their oceanfront counterparts, but don't make that mistake. We have so many of the best lake beaches in Connecticut that are more than worth a visit. One of the best lake beaches in the state is in Morris, CT: Sandy Beach, Bantam Lake. This aptly-named spot is open to the public, which is rare for Bantam Lake. It's the largest natural lake in Connecticut, but much of the shoreline is privately owned. This place is just as nice as the state's beaches along the coast. Check it out:
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Sandy Beach at Bantam Lake has been a popular destination for many years, ever since it was first established in the late 1920s.
This is a perfect place for summer fun in the Nutmeg State.
The beach is small, but it's a good place to take the kids to splash in the water and beat the heat.
There are even picnic areas if you'd like to bring a sack lunch to enjoy.
Admission is charged by the car-load, or you can purchase a season pass for optimal savings.
Lifeguards are on duty from Memorial Day to Labor Day, so you don't have to worry about safety when the kids are in the water.
This spot is one of the best inland beaches in Connecticut - it's such a hidden gem along Bantam Lake!
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Have you ever visited this beach at Bantam Lake in Morris, CT? Would you agree it's one of the best lake beaches in Connecticut? Please feel free to share your experiences in the comments section! We would be glad to hear what your favorite parts of the trip were. If you're planning a trip soon, take a look at LL Bean for some classic outdoor clothing, swimsuits, and more. You'll be well-prepared for a great beach trip!