Hammonasset Beach State Park
Connecticut’s largest shoreline park offers over 2 miles of beach to enjoy swimming, strolling along the boardwalk, or relaxing in the sun and surf.
Heads up CT Residents, did you know with a Connecticut license plate you have free access to state parks? Well technically, we pay for it with taxes, but you’re welcome in and out of our state parks without charge.
And that means there's no excuse not to stop in one of the many state parks that dot the Connecticut Shoreline. With beaches, hiking, bike rentals, camping, fishing, picnicking, scuba diving, boating, Meigs Point Nature Center and concessions, Hammonasset State Park is one of our favorites.
Meigs Point Nature Center
Meigs Point Nature Center is an exciting environmental learning center open to all ages at the Hammonasset Beach State Park. Run by the Department of Environmental Protection, Meigs Point Nature Center offers educational programs, events, and even birthday parties. Stop in to see the Nature Center's variety of native animals, including: turtles, snakes, amphibians, crabs, fish and their Touch Tank.
Annual Events at Meigs Point Nature Center
Guided Canoe Trips
Fireside Stories
Stargazing
Night Hike and Owl Prowl
Early Morning Bird Walks
Seal Search
Sunset Beachcombing
Special Programming for School Vacations
History of Hammonasset
On July 18, 1920, Hammonasset Beach State Park was opened to the public. The first season attracted over 75,000 visitors. The park’s reputation drew tourists from across the continent.
During World War II the park closed to the public and was loaned to the federal movement as an army reservation. Meig’s Point functioned as an aircraft range. Planes flew over Clinton Harbor, fired at the range and then flew over the Long Island Sound.
The stone breakwater at the Meigs Point end of the park was built in 1955. The stones were brought in by truck from quarries in northern New England.
Today, over one million people come annually to enjoy Hammonasset Beach State Park.