Let’s be honest: a lot of winter weekends — particularly post-holidays — are spent imagining (and then executing) ways to fill the hours while keeping your kids active. Personally, I give myself props when those daylight-starved February hours include a good dose of fresh air. Double points if that air is salty.
I took my crew to a favorite summer haunt this President’s Weekend for a much-needed change of scenery. Shell hunting is decidedly harder in mittens, and yet these beach walks filled our souls.
One of the best parts of our little corner of the country is the proximity to both beaches and mountains. When the days feel long and your brood needs to burn off steam, consider visiting some of these favorite Connecticut beaches — and, if you’re brave enough, consider a plunge.
An extra perk of wintry beach walks? On most public town and state beaches, pricey permits and no-dog rules are suspended after October 15.
Stay sane, Ridgefield — and consider packing an extra pair of shoes for when your child inevitably immerses their boots in frigid salt water.
Westport
Compo Beach
60 Compo Beach Road, Westport
One of my hometown favorites, Compo is one of Fairfield County’s longest beaches. With a Revolutionary War cannon, several jetties, and arguably the best beach playground around, the 25-minute(ish) drive from Ridgefield is well worth it for a winter visit.
Pro tip: Stop at Gold’s Delicatessen afterward to warm up with the best matzo ball soup you’ve ever tasted.
Burying Hill Beach
30 Beachside Avenue, Westport
Significantly smaller and less frequented than neighboring Compo, Burying Hill Beach (closer to Southport) is bordered by a long estuary where kids can explore and observe marsh life. My dad always said it was the site of an old Native American burial ground (not fact-checked!).
The new Southport General Store, opening on the site of the beloved Spic and Span Market, promises to be a great lunch stop after your chilly beach visit.
Sherwood Island
Sherwood Island State Park
Sherwood Island Connector (Exit 18 off I-95)
I’ve never understood why everyone in Fairfield County isn’t here all the time. This beach and park system is massive, gorgeous, and full of facilities. There is ample parking, and unlike the other beaches on this list, it’s a state beach — meaning Ridgefielders can visit all summer for a modest daily fee.
Pro tip: If you have a new driver in the family and need a massive parking lot with minimal winter traffic for practice, Sherwood Island fits the bill.
Norwalk
Bayley Beach
11 Pine Point Road, Rowayton
With a brand-new playground and sauna (Tyde Haus), Bayley Beach is usually hopping year-round. Locals bring their dogs to play, and there are almost always kids around. Like many of these beaches, summer parking restrictions make this gem harder to access — which makes winter the perfect time to go.
Sails, Ardens, and Rowayton Seafood are all great lunch spots after your playground session or hot/cold experience.
Calf Pasture Beach
Calf Pasture Beach Road, Norwalk
This is a massive beach with plenty of room for long walks and a huge pier stretching out into the water. Like Sherwood Island, it’s a great option if you’re looking to get your steps in.
It’s also adjacent to South Norwalk, so the Maritime Aquarium could easily round out a lovely winter day in Norwalk.
Greenwich
Tod’s Point (Greenwich Point Park)
11 Tod’s Driftway
Tod’s Point is a favorite throughout western Fairfield County because it truly has it all — a long beach for walking, parks, and plenty of open space. Winter visits with kids offer plenty to explore, and its Old Greenwich location means easy access to the charming village of “OG.”
Dogs, kids — all the things.
I’m admittedly biased in my Connecticut beach picks, so please send along your favorites and I’ll be sure to add them!
