Note: The shoreline towns below, with the exception of East Haven, are all serviced by the Shoreline East commuter train. Take Metro-North from Grand Central Station to New Haven’s Union Station, walk across the platform to connect with the Shoreline East in minutes. Why pay for parking in New York City? Parking at these stations is free.
SHORELINE TOWN WITH BEACHES
East Haven (I-95 exits 50-51)
East Haven is a coastal town just east of New Haven, offering a mix of suburban neighborhoods, shoreline access, and convenient proximity to city amenities. The town features beaches and marinas along Long Island Sound, with East Haven Town Beach and the adjacent splash pad popular in summer months. Its residential areas range from waterfront homes to quiet inland neighborhoods. East Haven also offers local dining, parks, and easy access to I-95 and Tweed-New Haven Airport, making it attractive for commuters and coastal living alike.
SHORELINE TOWNS WITH BEACHES AND TRAIN STATION
Branford (I-95 exits 53-56)
Branford is a scenic shoreline town with a lively downtown, beautiful beaches, and access to the Thimble Islands. It offers a mix of historic charm and modern conveniences, with restaurants, breweries, shops, and marinas clustered near the town green and harbor. Outdoor lovers enjoy hiking at Branford Supply Ponds and Stony Creek Quarry. Its train station and proximity to I-95 make it popular with commuters.
Guilford (I-95 exits 57-59)
Guilford is known for its classic New England charm, centered around one of the largest and most picturesque town greens in the state. It features boutique shopping, art galleries, and historic homes. The town also offers beaches, farms, and miles of hiking trails, including those in Westwoods and Bluff Head. With a strong school system and a blend of coastal and countryside settings, Guilford is both family-friendly and culturally rich.
Madison (I-95 exits 61-62)
Madison is an upscale coastal town with a relaxed feel, known for its beaches—particularly Hammonasset Beach State Park, Connecticut’s largest shoreline park. The walkable downtown features independent bookstores, restaurants, and boutiques. Madison has excellent public schools, a strong sense of community, and beautiful residential areas ranging from waterfront homes to wooded retreats.
Clinton (I-95 exit 63)
Clinton combines shoreline access with small-town charm. It’s home to marinas, town beaches, and outlet shopping at Clinton Premium Outlets. The downtown area features historic architecture, antique shops, and local eateries. Clinton also has a working harbor and a strong boating culture, offering a laid-back lifestyle with easy access to both Route 1 and I-95.
Westbrook (I-95 exits 64-66)
Westbrook is a quiet shoreline community known for its marinas, beaches, and family-friendly atmosphere. It offers boating access via the Patchogue and Menunketesuck Rivers, as well as waterfront dining and small local shops. A mix of casual restaurants and inns add to its appeal. It’s a popular spot for summer visitors and year-round residents alike.
Old Saybrook (I-95 exit 67)
Old Saybrook is a historic coastal town at the mouth of the Connecticut River, offering a blend of scenic beauty, cultural amenities, and seaside charm. It has a walkable Main Street with shops, dining, and the Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center. The town also features beaches, golf courses, and marinas. With easy access to I-95, Amtrak, and Route 9, Old Saybrook is a convenient hub with a year-round vacation vibe.
INLAND TOWNS - SHORT DISTANCE FROM BEACHES AND TRAIN STATIONS
North Branford
North Branford is a quiet, residential town with a strong community feel and a blend of rural and suburban character. It’s known for its open spaces, family-friendly neighborhoods, and local farms. Recreational amenities include Northford Park, the Totoket Mountain section of the Metacomet Ridge, and hiking trails at the North Branford Land Trust preserves. While the town has limited commercial development, it offers easy access to shopping and services in nearby Branford and North Haven.
Killingworth
Killingworth is a rural town with a strong commitment to open space, conservation, and a peaceful lifestyle. It features wooded neighborhoods, historic homes, and scenic country roads. Chatfield Hollow State Park is a local gem, offering hiking, swimming, fishing, and picnicking. The town has a small commercial area with local shops and restaurants and is part of the well-regarded Haddam-Killingworth school district. It appeals to those looking for a slower pace, natural beauty, and privacy.
If you're reading this, chances are you've already imagined life with a weekend home. The only question is where. You've probably considered the Hamptons, the North Fork, or the Catskills. For many buyers, though, Connecticut turns out to be the sweet spot: charming shoreline towns, historic villages, scenic countryside, remarkable value, and an easy drive or train ride from New York.
For nearly twenty years, I've helped people discover that the best weekend home isn't necessarily the farthest away. It's the one that's close enough to become a habit.