Warmer days are here and it’s time to explore Connecticut’s beaches so let’s talk about the best beaches in Connecticut for your next photoshoot.

If you go to the right ones, Connecticut’s beach can be beautiful and an absolute family fun place to visit. Many are easy to get to with ample parking and other places to explore besides just the beach itself so let’s dive in.

If you’re looking for a beach in Connecticut to explore here are a few recommendations.

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Make note: Parking is free for Connecticut residents. If you’re not a resident, you can find the most updated parking fees here: https://portal.ct.gov/DEEP/State-Parks/Parking-and-Camping-Fees—CT-State-Parks-and-Forests

Hammonasset Beach State Park, Madison

First up is the Hammonasset beach state park in Madison. Located just 20 miles east of New Haven, this is the largest shoreline park in Connecticut. There are 2 miles of shoreline to explore! For this reason alone, this location makes for one of the best beaches in Connecticut for your next photoshoot. If you need a break from the beach, head to to the nature center, find a picnic area in the grass, go on a hike, or rent a camp site. With the long beach and variety of places, you have so many secluded options to check out and provide beautiful backdrops. Make sure to swing by the Clinton Premium Outlets just one exit away on I-95 or Crossroads for ice cream in Killingworth.

Harkness Memorial State Park, Waterford

The elegance of Eolia, the park’s mansion, combined with the panoramic view of Long Island Sound, offers an enchanting mix of architectural and natural beauty. Its well-maintained gardens add an extra charm for a family session or maternity photoshoot. It’s no wonder this is also a popular wedding venue! I personally love having the option of going from the garden, to an open grassy field, to the beach. As a result, you just can’t go wrong with this spot! But an added tip would be to target this location on the weekdays as it can get busy!

Harvey’s Beach, Old Saybrook

This small, sandy beach is perfect for families, with shallow water that is ideal for young children. Because it faces west, it also has stellar sunsets which a photographer can’t ever say no to! Trust me when I saw you won’t be disappointed by the views here. The views plus the shallow water that lets you wade in it makes this one of the best beaches in Connecticut!

Ocean Beach Park, New London

If you want more entertainment, this is the place for you. It features a half-mile long boardwalk, an Olympic-sized pool, mini-golf course, and an amusement park, making it a fun-filled destination for the whole family. For someone who might want to incorporate a fun date scene or family games into their session, this might be the place for you.

Silver Sands State Park, Milford

If you love a beach boardwalk, this beach is for you. The board walk is about three quarters of a mile long so there’s plenty of space to stroll up and down the path hand in hand as your kids walk alongside you in your photos. lt’s such a serene and natural beauty. An interesting feature is Charles Island, which can be reached by a sandbar during low tide but just make sure you don’t venture out on it when water covers it. Picture you and your partner running along this sandbar with your little ones at your next session.

Rocky Neck State Park, East Lyme

There’s a large, sandy beach as well as picnic areas, hiking trails, and a campground. The clear water and diverse wildlife make it a great place for both relaxation and exploration.

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Have you been to these beaches? Schedule an early morning or sunset beach session today with R Winkler Photography and reminisce about your family trips together when you look back at your photos.

Click here to inquire today!