Beaches in Milford, Connecticut

Location:

Silver Sands State Park, Milford, Connecticut

Recommended For:

Families, birdwatchers, hikers, swimmers, and beachgoers of all ages

What we Love:

Spanning nearly 300 acres, Silver Sands State Park is a coastal haven with marshes, dunes, and sandy beaches—perfect for wildlife watching, swimming, or a day outdoors with family and friends.

• Bring the whole family for a beach day filled with sunbathing, shell collecting, and nature walks.
• Swim in the calm waters along long stretches of sand—lifeguards are usually on duty in summer months.
• Spot dozens of bird species, including terns and raptors—ideal for wildlife photography and quiet observation.
• Hike scenic boardwalks and nature trails that wind through dunes and salt marshes, offering peaceful coastal views.

Cost:

Free public access for Connecticut residents. Out-of-state vehicle parking fees may apply. No entrance fee for walk-ins or cyclists.

Best time to visit:

Late spring through early fall for beach weather, birdwatching, and fully accessible trails. Early mornings and weekdays are quieter.

Local tips:

Bring binoculars for birding, and sunscreen for open trail areas with limited shade. The park can get busy on summer weekends—arrive early to find good parking.

Distance:

Less than 15 minutes from downtown Milford. About 1.5 hours from New York City by car.

How to Get to Silver Sands State Park:

From I-95, take exit 34 to Milford and follow signs for Silver Sands Parkway. The main entrance and parking lot are located off Surf Avenue.

Location:

Gulf Beach, Milford, Connecticut

Recommended For:

Families, photographers, couples, anglers, and casual beachgoers

What we Love:

Gulf Beach is a peaceful, scenic spot best known for its iconic views of nearby Charles Island, offering a perfect blend of soft sand, serene water, and useful amenities for a relaxing day by the shore.

• Admire panoramic views of Charles Island—perfect for photography or quiet reflection by the sea.
• Relax on soft, sandy stretches with picnic tables and clean restrooms just steps away.
• Fish from the pier with a valid license—or enjoy Connecticut’s free fishing days without one.
• Enjoy a romantic sunset walk along the pier, or grab a bite nearby at one of Milford’s local bars and restaurants.

Cost:

Free public access. Lifeguards on duty during summer. Parking available nearby. Fishing licenses available online.

Best time to visit:

Summer months for lifeguard supervision, ideal picnic weather, and fishing opportunities. Evenings offer a great time for pier strolls and ocean-view dining nearby.

Local tips:

Pack a picnic or pick up takeout from downtown Milford. Bring a camera for stunning island views. Check for free fishing days if you want to cast a line without a license.

Distance:

Just 10 minutes from Silver Sands State Park by car.

How to Get to Gulf Beach:

From downtown Milford, head east on Gulf Street toward the water. The beach is located near the intersection with Seaside Avenue. Signage and public parking are available near the beach entrance.

Romantic Beaches in Milford, Connecticut:

Location:

Anchor Beach, Milford, Connecticut, USA

Recommended For:

Couples, photographers, solo travelers, and beach walkers

What we Love:

With golden sands and a peaceful seaside promenade, Anchor Beach offers a simple but beautiful escape—perfect for relaxing, listening to the waves, and soaking up coastal charm.

• Admire stunning views from the promenade or the small grassy point that juts out into the Long Island Sound.
• Listen to the rhythmic waves washing ashore—especially relaxing on windy days when the surf grows more dramatic.
• Stroll the charming promenade that hugs the beach, ideal for sunset walks or peaceful reflection.
• Relax on the soft golden sand—perfect for reading, journaling, or simply watching the tide roll in.

Cost:

Free public access. Street parking available nearby. No lifeguards or restrooms—come prepared for a quiet, low-key experience.

Best time to visit:

Early morning or late afternoon for calm and quiet. Avoid high winds if you’re not a fan of rough surf and chilly breezes.

Local tips:

This is not a swimming beach due to occasional strong currents. Bring a blanket or chair and find a cozy spot on the grassy outcrop for the best views and sea breeze.

Distance:

About 15 minutes by car from Silver Sands State Park.

How to Get to Anchor Beach:

From downtown Milford, follow Naugatuck Avenue southeast toward the shoreline. The beach is located where Naugatuck meets Beach Avenue. Parking is available along residential side streets.

Location:

Walnut Beach, Milford, Connecticut, USA

Recommended For:

Families, sunbathers, swimmers, nature lovers, and day-trippers

What we Love:

Consistently ranked as one of Milford’s top-rated beaches, Walnut Beach is a spacious, scenic destination perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and combining with a wildlife stroll through nearby Silver Sands State Park.

• Swim in gentle, calm waters—ideal for casual beachgoers looking to cool off on a sunny day.
• Sunbathe on the soft, wide sandbar that stretches far into the horizon, offering a peaceful and open space even during peak season.
• Spot local wildlife at Silver Sands State Park next door before settling down at Walnut Beach for an afternoon of relaxation.
• Enjoy a picnic with friends or family, as amenities are limited and packing your own snacks is recommended.

Cost:

Free public access for Connecticut residents. Paid parking may apply for out-of-state vehicles. No concessions—bring what you need for the day.

Best time to visit:

Weekday mornings for fewer crowds. Sunny summer afternoons for warm swimming and soft breezes along the shore.

Local tips:

Visit early to grab a good spot near the sandbar. Combine with a nature walk at Silver Sands State Park for a full Milford beach day. Bring plenty of water and sun protection, as shade is limited.

Distance:

Just a short walk or 5-minute drive from Silver Sands State Park. Approximately 10 minutes from downtown Milford.

How to Get to Walnut Beach:

From downtown Milford, head south on Naugatuck Avenue and follow signs for Walnut Beach. Parking is available near the beach entrance on Viscount Drive or East Broadway.

Bird enthusiasts will love a visit to Milford Point. Globally recognized as an “Important Bird Area,” the beach is filled with various bird species and is considered the state’s most popular bird viewing spot.

• Over 8 acres wide, the area is primarily used for nature and wildlife conservation, but also has a research and education center operated by the Connecticut Audubon Society.
• Birdwatchers can see thousands of migrating and nesting shorebirds every year including sharp-tailed sparrows, American oystercatchers, short-eared owls, and many others.
• The area, which is located at the mouth of the Housatonic River, is also a popular spot for fishing.

1 Milford Point Road, Milford, CT 06460, Phone: 203-878-7440