Summer is when people flock to New England for the beautiful beaches that are in their prime during June, July and August. We have our share of these gorgeous beaches, from the tip of Rhode Island down through Old Saybrook and beyond.

Here’s a run down of public sandy places (salt water):

Ocean Beach in New London is a fun beach for the family, with a beach,  pool, water slide, mini golf, food and ice cream. This is a good one for the kids, because there’s a lot for them to do while you soak up the rays, from carousels to a game room and even a spray park. There’s a nature walk and observation deck, and a gym as well! Ocean Beach Park also has a nightly entertainment draw, with live music, magic shows and other great stuff.

Further down the coast is Rocky Neck State Park in East Lyme, also ideal for families to swim, fish, picnic, camp and enjoy the outdoors. Bring your food or visit the concession stand, bird watch, hang out on the beach, or go for a hike – this is a versatile park and well worth spending some time. If you want mainly sand, water, birds, and swimming this is the place to go – the nature aspect makes this one of my favorite summer places.

You’ll also want to visit Harkness Memorial State Park in Waterford – no swimming, but a gorgeous place to walk along the water, sit and read a book and just breathe in the ocean air.

Watch Hill Rhode Island has a couple of public offerings. Napatree Point and Watch Hill Beach offer two different settings with a town close by. The historic Watch Hill Carousel is a favorite for those under 10. Ice cream, food and shops are fun to explore when you need a break from the sun.  East Beach is another great spot if you are looking for waves.

Misquamicut Beach, a little farther up the coast has got beaches, waves, waterslides, go carts, music, and fun spots to dine and hang.

Other public salt water beaches in the area include: Esker Point Park in Groton (right next to Groton Long Point), Harvey’s Beach in Old Saybrook, and Sound View Beach in Old Lyme (fun watering hole next door).

Parking can be an issue everywhere in the heat of the summer. Go early or late in the day especially on weekends. The beach is a lovely place to have an early dinner.

Daytime – especially mid day-  be prepared to pay higher rates (in cash) once the public lots fill up. I’ve seen $10 a day in some places and up to $25 in Watch Hill. If you can carpool and share the fee or  bike in with no worries.

We’ve got a spot in the sand for you.

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