Discover the Beauty of Hammonasset Natural Area Preserve
Explore the stunning Hammonasset Natural Area Preserve, a coastal wildlife refuge offering scenic trails, pristine beaches, and diverse ecosystems in Madison, CT.
Nestled along Connecticut's stunning coastline, Hammonasset Natural Area Preserve is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. This expansive wildlife refuge offers pristine beaches, diverse ecosystems, and a plethora of recreational activities. Whether you're interested in birdwatching, hiking, or simply soaking up the sun, Hammonasset promises an unforgettable experience in the heart of nature.
A brief summary to Hammonasset Natural Area Preserve
- Madison, Connecticut, 06443, US
- +1203-245-2785
Local tips
- Visit during early morning or late afternoon for the best wildlife sightings.
- Bring binoculars for birdwatching, especially during migratory seasons.
- Pack a picnic to enjoy on the beach or at one of the scenic viewpoints.
- Check the tide schedule to explore tidal pools and beachcombing opportunities.
- Wear comfortable shoes for hiking on the trails and exploring the diverse landscapes.
Getting There
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Car
If you're driving within Hammonasset Beach State Park, head south on the main park road (Hammonasset Drive). Follow the signs for the Hammonasset Natural Area Preserve. After about 1 mile, you will see a parking area on your left dedicated to the Preserve. There is no parking fee within the park if you have already paid for the beach entrance.
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Bicycle
For those who prefer cycling, you can ride along the paved paths of Hammonasset Beach State Park. Follow the designated bike trails south towards the Hammonasset Natural Area Preserve. It is approximately a 1-mile ride, and the trails are well-marked. Make sure to wear a helmet and be cautious of pedestrians.
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Walking
If you’re walking from the main beach area, exit the beach area and follow the path along the coastline heading south. This scenic route will take you directly to the Hammonasset Natural Area Preserve. It is about a 1-mile walk, and you can enjoy views of the beach and wildlife along the way.
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Public Transportation
If you are using public transportation, take a Shore Line East train to Madison Station. From there, you will need to use a taxi or rideshare service to reach Hammonasset Beach State Park. Once you arrive at the park, follow the directions as mentioned for either driving, biking, or walking to the Hammonasset Natural Area Preserve.
Discover more about Hammonasset Natural Area Preserve
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Hammonasset Beach
0.7 km
Hammonasset Beach in Madison, CT, offers a stunning two-mile stretch of sandy shoreline, perfect for family fun, relaxation, and nature exploration.
Meigs Point Hammonasset Beach State Park, Madison, CT
0.9 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Meigs Point at Hammonasset Beach State Park, a coastal gem perfect for outdoor adventures and family fun in Madison, CT.
Clinton Village Historic District
3.1 km
Explore the charming Clinton Village Historic District, a hidden gem in Connecticut filled with rich history, antique shops, and scenic architecture.
Faulker's Light Brigade
10.7 km
Discover the beauty and history of Faulkner's Light Brigade, a significant Civil War landmark in Guilford, Connecticut, perfect for history lovers and casual visitors alike.
General William Hart House
14.7 km
Explore Old Saybrook's colonial past at the General William Hart House, a captivating local history museum with stunning grounds and engaging exhibits.
Deep River Historical Society
16.5 km
Explore the rich history of Deep River, Connecticut at the Deep River Historical Society, where local heritage comes to life through engaging exhibits and artifacts.
Pratt House Museum - Essex Historical Society
16.5 km
Explore the Pratt House Museum in Essex, CT, and uncover the fascinating stories of local history and heritage in a charming historical setting.
Saybrook Breakwater Lighthouse
17.1 km
Explore the historic Saybrook Breakwater Lighthouse, a picturesque landmark offering breathtaking views of Long Island Sound and rich maritime history.
Ferry Landing State Park
17.8 km
Explore the scenic beauty of Ferry Landing State Park in Old Lyme, Connecticut, a serene spot for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Florence Griswold Museum
19.8 km
Explore the Florence Griswold Museum, a captivating blend of American art, history, and stunning gardens in picturesque Old Lyme, Connecticut.
Hadlyme Ferry Historic District
20.4 km
Explore the charm of the Hadlyme Ferry Historic District, the second oldest ferry in Connecticut, nestled in scenic landscapes along the Connecticut River.
Horton Point Lighthouse Nautical Museum
21.2 km
Discover the maritime history and scenic beauty of Horton Point Lighthouse Nautical Museum on Long Island's enchanting North Fork.
67 Steps Beach & Permit Parking
21.5 km
Experience the tranquility and beauty of 67 Steps Beach in Greenport, NY—an idyllic public beach perfect for relaxation and family fun.
East Haddam Historical Society
23.5 km
Explore East Haddam's rich history at the East Haddam Historical Society, where heritage comes alive through engaging exhibits and local stories.
Thankful Arnold House
24.7 km
Discover the rich history of the Thankful Arnold House in Haddam, Connecticut, a charming non-profit attraction offering insights into early American life.
Unmissable attractions to see
Meigs Point Nature Center
0.8 km
Explore the natural beauty and educational wonders of Meigs Point Nature Center in Madison, Connecticut, and connect with local wildlife and ecosystems.
East Wharf Beach Park
3.8 km
Explore East Wharf Beach Park in Madison, Connecticut, where stunning waterfront views and recreational activities await you for a perfect day outdoors.
Deacon John Grave House
4.9 km
Explore the Deacon John Grave House, where Madison's rich history comes alive through engaging exhibits and well-preserved colonial artifacts.
Madison Green Historic District
5.1 km
Explore the enchanting Madison Green Historic District, a blend of history, beauty, and local culture in the heart of Connecticut.
Bauer Park
6.6 km
Explore Bauer Park in Madison, CT, a tranquil retreat featuring beautiful landscapes, charming water features, and family-friendly amenities.
Guilford Sea Nook
9.9 km
Experience the serene beauty of Guilford Sea Nook, a perfect escape on the Connecticut coastline with stunning views and peaceful surroundings.
Henry Whitfield State Museum
10.9 km
Discover Connecticut's oldest house at Henry Whitfield State Museum, where history comes alive through engaging exhibits and beautiful surroundings.
Thomas Griswold House
11.0 km
Discover the Thomas Griswold House, a charming historic museum in Guilford, Connecticut, showcasing 18th-century architecture and colonial life.
Hyland House
11.2 km
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Chatfield Hollow State Park
12.3 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and serene trails of Chatfield Hollow State Park in Killingworth, Connecticut, a perfect destination for nature lovers.
Essex Steam Train & Riverboat
15.6 km
Discover the enchanting journey of the Essex Steam Train & Riverboat, where history meets breathtaking scenery in Connecticut.
Connecticut Valley Railroad State Park
15.6 km
Experience the tranquil beauty and rich history at Connecticut Valley Railroad State Park, a perfect escape for nature lovers and history buffs alike.
RiverQuest
17.0 km
Explore the scenic Connecticut River with RiverQuest, where adventure meets history in the heart of Essex Village.
Connecticut River Museum
17.0 km
Discover the maritime history and natural beauty of the Connecticut River at the Connecticut River Museum in Essex.
Stony Creek Museum
17.2 km
Discover the rich cultural narrative of Branford, Connecticut at the Stony Creek Museum, a charming history museum showcasing local heritage.
Essential places to dine
Clam Castle
1.7 km
Discover fresh seafood delights at Clam Castle in Madison, CT - where every dish tells a story of coastal tradition and flavor.
Donahue's Madison Beach Grille
1.7 km
Experience delicious American cuisine at Donahue's Madison Beach Grille in picturesque Madison, CT—where every meal is a seaside celebration.
Cohen's Bagel Company
1.7 km
Discover the authentic flavors of New York-style bagels at Cohen's Bagel Company in Madison, Connecticut—your perfect breakfast spot!
Dunkin'
1.8 km
Discover Dunkin' in Madison – Your go-to spot for coffee, bagels, and donuts amidst Connecticut's charm.
Lenny & Joe's
1.8 km
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McDonald's
2.1 km
Enjoy classic fast food at McDonald's in Clinton - perfect for travelers seeking quick meals at affordable prices.
Pica Chica Tacos
2.4 km
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The Place Restaurant
11.4 km
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Quattro's Italian Restaurant
11.5 km
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River Tavern
17.9 km
Experience exquisite New American cuisine at River Tavern in Chester, CT, where local flavors meet stunning riverside views.
Marker 37
19.1 km
Experience exceptional dining at Marker 37 in Chester - where fresh ingredients meet local flavor in a cozy atmosphere.
Castle Cuisine
20.7 km
Experience culinary delight at Castle Cuisine in East Haddam – where local flavors meet scenic views.
Tavern on State
30.9 km
Experience exceptional dining at Tavern on State in New Haven—where local flavors meet contemporary cuisine.
IL GABBIANO
30.9 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors at Il Gabbiano, where stunning waterfront views meet exquisite cuisine in New Haven.
Portofino's Restaurant & Bar
31.0 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Hammonasset Beach State Park
1.2 km
Explore the natural beauty and recreational delights of Hammonasset Beach State Park, Connecticut's premier coastal destination for relaxation and adventure.
Hammonasset Package Store
1.7 km
Explore the finest selection of wines and liquors at Hammonasset Package Store, your go-to destination in Madison, Connecticut.
Camp Store
1.8 km
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Beech Tree Cottages
2.2 km
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Nike Factory Store
3.5 km
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Clinton Premium Outlets
3.8 km
Discover incredible savings and a unique shopping experience at Clinton Premium Outlets, where brand-name stores meet unbeatable prices.
COACH Outlet
3.9 km
Shop stylish leather goods, fashion accessories, and women's clothing at COACH Outlet in Clinton, Connecticut - a fashion paradise for savvy shoppers.
RJ Julia Booksellers
4.5 km
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Stop & Shop
4.6 km
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Creations
4.6 km
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21C Designs
4.7 km
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Still Delicious
5.3 km
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Westbrook Outlets
10.4 km
Discover unbeatable deals at Westbrook Outlets, Connecticut's top shopping destination with an array of brand-name stores and unique local finds.
Tracy 2
11.5 km
Explore Tracy 2 in Guilford, CT, for a unique selection of women's clothing that combines style, elegance, and personalized service.
Just Hatched
11.7 km
Discover unique baby and children's clothing, books, and toys at Just Hatched in Guilford, CT – a delightful shopping experience for families.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Rocky's Aqua
1.7 km
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Pho Madison
1.7 km
Experience authentic Vietnamese flavors at Pho Madison, a must-visit Asian restaurant for pho lovers in Connecticut.
Madison Drive In Restaurant
1.8 km
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Shanks Waterfront Dining
1.9 km
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Chips' Pub III
2.6 km
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Scottish Dave's Pub
2.8 km
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The Snack Shack
3.6 km
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The Log Cabin Restaurant
3.8 km
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Bar Bouchée
4.1 km
Experience the elegance of French dining at Bar Bouchée, where exquisite cuisine and a charming atmosphere await in Madison, CT.
RJ Cafe & Bistro
4.5 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Madison at RJ Cafe & Bistro, where fresh ingredients and unique specials create unforgettable meals.
Comomango Mexican Kitchen and Cantina
4.6 km
Experience the rich flavors of Mexico at Comomango Mexican Kitchen and Cantina, where vibrant dishes and a lively atmosphere await in Madison, CT.
Cafe Allegre
4.6 km
Discover the rich flavors of Italy at Cafe Allegre, Madison's premier Italian restaurant offering exquisite dining in a cozy atmosphere.
Steamed
4.7 km
Experience the essence of authentic Chinese cuisine at Steamed, a beloved restaurant in Madison, Connecticut, known for its flavorful dishes and inviting ambiance.
Brother Mike's Madison
5.2 km
Experience the vibrant local flavor at Brother Mike's Madison – the go-to sports bar for food lovers and sports enthusiasts alike in Connecticut.
Cristy's Madison
5.2 km
Experience the perfect blend of local flavors and coastal charm at Cristy's Madison, a beloved bar and restaurant in the heart of Connecticut.
