Compo Beach
Compo Beach: Westport's Coastal Gem
Compo Beach: Westport's Coastal Gem
Escape to Compo Beach in Westport, CT: Sun, sand, history, and family fun await on the shores of Long Island Sound.
Compo Beach, a 29-acre park in Westport, CT, offers a sandy escape along Long Island Sound with views of the Saugatuck River. It's a family-friendly destination with a rich history, evolving from a military landing site during the Revolutionary War to a beloved community space. Enjoy swimming, recreation, and scenic beauty in this coastal treasure.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Compo Beach
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
Westport, Compo, Connecticut, US
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Getting There
Walking
From the Minuteman Statue at the intersection of Compo Beach Road and Compo Road South, walk south on Compo Beach Road. The beach is approximately 1 mile from this point. This is a straightforward walk along the main road leading directly to the beach.
Public Transport
The Coastal Link bus travels along the Route 1 corridor through Westport. Check the Norwalk Transit District for schedules and stops. From Route 1, you may need to walk or take a short taxi ride to reach Compo Beach. Wheels2U Westport provides on-demand, door-to-door service between your Westport home or office and the Saugatuck and Greens Farms train stations. From there, you can take a taxi or ride-sharing service to Compo Beach.
Taxi/Ride-sharing
Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Westport. A taxi ride from downtown Westport to Compo Beach is a short trip, costing approximately $14. Note that prices may vary depending on demand and time of day.
Driving
From I-95, take exit 17 and follow signs for Westport. Continue onto Saugatuck Avenue, then turn left onto Compo Road South. Follow Compo Road South to Compo Beach Road. A daily fee is charged to park from May 1 through Sept 30, from 4 a.m. to 10 p.m. The fee is $45 on weekdays and $70 on weekends and holidays. Parking is limited and can fill up quickly during peak season.
Local tips
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Arrive early, especially on weekends and holidays, as parking can fill up quickly.
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Pack a picnic to enjoy at the picnic shelter with ocean views.
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Take advantage of the handicap-accessible boardwalk for an easy stroll along the beach.
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Visit the cannons marking the site of the British landing during the Revolutionary War.
Discover more about Compo Beach
Compo Beach, situated in Westport, Connecticut, is more than just a beach; it's a vibrant 29-acre park offering a blend of natural beauty and recreational activities. Located along the Long Island Sound and bordering the Saugatuck River, the beach provides stunning water views and a relaxing atmosphere.
Compo Beach boasts a rich history, dating back to the American Revolutionary War when British soldiers landed here in 1777 before marching to Danbury. Cannons on the beach mark this historic landing site. The area transitioned from an agricultural past to a summer resort community in the early 20th century.
Today, Compo Beach is a popular destination for families and individuals alike. Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, volleyball, and a large wooden playscape for children. The park is handicap-accessible, featuring a boardwalk and accessible picnic pads. Amenities include a concession stand, bathroom facilities, and lockers for convenience.
While visiting, be aware that parking can be challenging, especially during peak season. Despite its popularity, Compo Beach remains a treasured community asset, offering a quintessential Connecticut shoreline experience. The recent rebuilding of the Compo Beach playground aims to enhance its safety and accessibility for all children, with new equipment and safer surfaces.
A brief summary to Compo Beach
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