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West Beach: Stamford's Coastal Retreat

Escape to Stamford's scenic West Beach for sun, sand, and a variety of recreational activities along the Long Island Sound.

★★★★★4.5 (1013)

West Beach, a 26-acre coastal gem in Stamford, CT, offers a beautiful stretch of Long Island Sound beachfront perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying ocean views. Connecting to Cummings Park via Cummings Marina, it provides an extensive recreational area for families and individuals alike.

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A brief summary to West Beach

Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.

Plan your visit

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Shippan Ave, Stamford, Shippan Point, Connecticut, 06902, US

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    Getting There

    Public Transport

    From Stamford Transportation Center, take CTTransit bus lines 311, 326, 327, 328, or 971 towards Shippan Avenue. Get off at the stop closest to Shippan Avenue and Lindstrom Road, which is a short walk to West Beach. A single-ride bus fare is $1.75. Alternatively, Stamford also offers StamFORWARD, a microtransit service, which can be booked via their app or phone. A ride costs $1.75 for most riders.

    Taxi/Ride-Share

    From anywhere in Stamford, a taxi or ride-share service (Uber/Lyft) is a convenient option. A 5-mile trip from Stamford city center to West Beach would cost approximately $14. Note that fares may vary depending on the time of day and demand.

    Driving

    From I-95, take exit 9 for US-1/Stamford. Follow signs for Shippan Avenue. Parking is available at West Beach, included with beach permits and daily passes. Daily passes for cars registered in Stamford cost $26.50; for cars not registered in Stamford, the cost is $42.50 on weekdays and $69 on weekends and holidays. Seasonal permits are also available. Parking permits are required from May 1 through Sept 30.

    Local tips

    Consider purchasing a seasonal parking permit if you plan to visit frequently, as it offers cost savings compared to daily passes.
    Take advantage of the connecting Cummings Marina to explore both West Beach and Cummings Park for a full day of recreation.
    Check the city's website for any alerts regarding water quality or beach closures before your visit.

    Discover more about West Beach

    West Beach in Stamford, Connecticut, is a cherished recreational area offering a blend of natural beauty and diverse activities. Established as part of Stamford's initiative to provide public access to the Long Island Sound shoreline, the beach has evolved into a popular destination for both residents and visitors. Located on Stamford's coast, West Beach spans 26 acres and is connected to the 79-acre Cummings Park via Cummings Marina. Together, they form an expansive recreational space. The beach itself boasts a well-maintained sandy shoreline ideal for swimming and sunbathing. Beyond the waterfront, visitors can enjoy amenities such as tennis and basketball courts, sports fields, and beach volleyball. Restroom and concession facilities are also conveniently available. West Beach has a rich history, with developments dating back to the 1960s. It has become an integral part of Stamford's community life, serving as a gathering place for summer activities and events. Offering panoramic views of Long Island Sound, West Beach provides a quintessential Connecticut coastal experience.

    A brief summary to West Beach

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