Sherwood Island State Park
235 acres of coastal beauty with beaches, fishing, picnic spots, and a poignant 9/11 memorial.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peaceful, empty beaches
Sherwood Island State Park
Best Time
Peaceful, empty beaches
Highlights
Must-see attractions
235 acres of coastal beauty with beaches, fishing, picnic spots, and a poignant 9/11 memorial.
"A fantastic spot for photography with a mix of sandy beaches, dunes, and sweeping views."
🚗 Free Parking for CT Plates
Connecticut-registered vehicles get free parking. Non-residents pay a fee, often via QR code.
📸 Photography Paradise
Capture stunning nature shots with diverse landscapes and beautiful light, especially at sunrise/sunset.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
9/11 Living Memorial
Facing Manhattan skyline
A poignant space of reflection with granite benches, honoring Connecticut's 9/11 victims.
Sandy Beaches
Coastline
Enjoy swimming and fishing on clean, spacious beaches with peaceful Long Island Sound views.
Picnic & BBQ Areas
Grassy areas
Ample green spaces perfect for family gatherings, complete with BBQ facilities.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Parking Perks for CT Residents
Beach Rules & Geese Alert
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Free Parking for CT Plates
Connecticut-registered vehicles get free parking. Non-residents pay a fee, often via QR code.
📸 Photography Paradise
Capture stunning nature shots with diverse landscapes and beautiful light, especially at sunrise/sunset.
🚶♀️ Reflect at the Memorial
Take time to visit the 9/11 Living Memorial for a moment of quiet remembrance.
⚠️ Watch for Geese
Be mindful of goose droppings on the grassy areas, especially when picnicking.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Free Parking for CT Plates
Connecticut-registered vehicles get free parking. Non-residents pay a fee, often via QR code.
📸 Photography Paradise
Capture stunning nature shots with diverse landscapes and beautiful light, especially at sunrise/sunset.
🚶♀️ Reflect at the Memorial
Take time to visit the 9/11 Living Memorial for a moment of quiet remembrance.
⚠️ Watch for Geese
Be mindful of goose droppings on the grassy areas, especially when picnicking.
🏖️ Beach Toy Restrictions
Note that some beach areas may have rules against bringing balls or frisbees.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Sherwood Island State Park for its clean beaches, ample space, and the moving 9/11 Living Memorial. The free parking for CT residents is a significant perk. Some minor drawbacks include potential restrictions on beach toys and the presence of geese on grassy areas.
"Great place to walk. You can take a full loop that goes from wooded area back out to beach promenade. Quiet and not crowded. Almost 3+ miles in total. Great way to burn some calories and enjoy some peace. There is restroom facilities so pretty easy if you need to go. I only wish there were some food available for purchase but otherwise pretty awesome place."
Andy
"Very pleasant place for a nice family gathering or fishing. Parking is free for CT-registered cars. For others there is a fee. There are some signs scattered in the park where you can pay with your phone using a QR code. It's not obvious at the entrance. The park is nicely maintained, including a 9/11 memorial. Lots of green areas, BBQ places, good beach, and some restrooms. The horizon is wide, the ocean view is peaceful, there are clear signs to separate fishing and and swimming areas. Go out there on a sunny day, you'll enjoy it! Just watch out for what the geese left behind in the dirt..."
Karoly Carl Kovago
"We visited during the off season (Nov) but on a warm 66° day. The Sound was calm and clear. The beach was empty other than a few other people walking. It's a nice park. Would definitely visit again!"
Michael Menna
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Sherwood Island State Park is located in Westport, CT. It's easily accessible by car via I-95. For those using public transport, you can take a Metro-North train to Westport station and then a taxi or rideshare to the park.
Yes, parking is available. Connecticut-registered vehicles park for free. Non-residents will incur a fee, which can typically be paid via QR code signage within the park.
Yes, you can use GPS. Simply enter 'Sherwood Island State Park, Westport, CT' into your navigation system.
Entrance is free for vehicles with Connecticut license plates. Non-residents are subject to a parking fee.
From NYC, take I-95 North towards Connecticut. Take Exit 18 for Sherwood Island Connector towards US-1. Continue on Sherwood Island Connector and follow signs to the park.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, you do not need to purchase tickets for entry. However, there is a parking fee for non-Connecticut registered vehicles.
The park is generally open from 8 AM to sunset daily. It's always a good idea to check the official Connecticut State Parks website for any seasonal changes or specific hours.
Yes, non-residents are charged a parking fee. The exact amount can vary, so it's best to check current rates or be prepared to pay via the QR code system.
Dogs are generally allowed in Connecticut State Parks but must be leashed and are typically restricted from swimming areas during peak season. Always check park-specific regulations.
The 9/11 Living Memorial is designed to be accessible, with paved paths and benches for reflection.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can enjoy swimming, fishing, picnicking, walking along the beach, and visiting the 9/11 Living Memorial. There are also large grassy areas for recreation.
Yes, restrooms are available within the park. They are generally well-maintained.
Yes, fishing is permitted. There are designated areas for fishing, and the park offers peaceful views of Long Island Sound.
The beach is suitable for swimming, offering clean sand and calm waters of Long Island Sound. However, be aware of potential restrictions on beach toys.
It's a memorial dedicated to the 161 Connecticut residents lost on 9/11, featuring trees, granite benches, and a view towards the Manhattan skyline.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no restaurants within the park itself. However, there are numerous picnic areas and BBQ facilities, making it ideal for bringing your own food.
Yes, Sherwood Island State Park has designated BBQ areas, perfect for a family gathering or a cookout.
Westport, CT, offers a variety of dining options, from casual cafes to upscale restaurants, just a short drive from the park.
Alcohol policies can vary by park and season. It's advisable to check the official Connecticut State Parks regulations regarding alcohol consumption.
Vending machines are not typically a prominent feature. It's best to pack all your snacks and drinks.
📸 📸 Photography
The park offers diverse photographic opportunities, including sandy beaches, grassy dunes, sweeping views of Long Island Sound, and the 9/11 Living Memorial.
Sunrise and sunset provide beautiful lighting for photography. The changing tides also create unique compositions throughout the day.
Drone usage is often restricted in state parks to ensure safety and preserve the natural environment. Check with park authorities for specific drone regulations.
The 9/11 Living Memorial, with its reflective design and views towards Manhattan, is a significant landmark. The coastline itself offers picturesque scenes.
You can capture coastal landscapes, birdlife (watch for geese!), and the interplay of water and sand. The park's greenery also offers varied subjects.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the beach offers a lot of fun, be aware that some rules might restrict bringing certain toys like balls or frisbees near the water. It's also a good idea to keep an eye out for goose droppings on the lawns. Despite these minor points, the park's natural beauty and open spaces make it a hit with children.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Golden hour (sunrise and sunset) is particularly magical here, bathing the landscape in beautiful light. Don't miss the opportunity to capture the poignant 9/11 Living Memorial, which provides a unique and reflective photographic subject. The park's natural beauty and historical elements combine for a truly inspiring experience.
🚶♀️ History Buffs & Reflective Visitors
The park's coastal location also holds historical significance, with views that have witnessed centuries of maritime activity. The quiet paths and open vistas encourage contemplation and a connection to the past, making it a meaningful destination for a reflective visit.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Significance of the 9/11 Living Memorial
Visitors often describe it as a place of profound reflection and remembrance. The serene setting, with the vastness of Long Island Sound before it, encourages contemplation on resilience, loss, and the enduring spirit of community. It's a space where memory meets silence, offering a peaceful environment to pause and remember those who were lost.
This memorial is more than just a monument; it's a living testament to remembrance, framed by nature and offering a quiet space for visitors to connect with history and emotion. It's a powerful reminder of the impact of that tragic day and the strength found in collective memory.
Planning Your Beach Day
However, it's worth noting some specific beach rules. Some visitors have mentioned that toys like balls and frisbees might not be allowed in certain areas near the water, which can be a surprise for families. It's always a good idea to check the latest park regulations before heading out to ensure a smooth experience.
Beyond swimming and fishing, the beach area is great for leisurely strolls. The changing tides can create interesting patterns in the sand, offering a dynamic backdrop for a walk. Remember to be mindful of the natural environment and any wildlife, such as the geese that frequent the park's grassy areas.
Photography Opportunities
The best times for photography are undoubtedly during sunrise and sunset. The golden hour light dramatically enhances the coastal scenery, painting the sky with vibrant colors and casting a warm glow over the water. The dynamic nature of the tides also means that compositions can change significantly throughout the day, offering unique perspectives with each visit.
Beyond the natural elements, the 9/11 Living Memorial offers a poignant subject, blending history and reflection with the surrounding environment. Whether you're capturing sweeping landscapes or intimate details, Sherwood Island State Park provides ample inspiration for photographers of all levels.
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