The Best Beach Hotels to Book in Connecticut

There’s seaside charm in spades at the Saybrook Point Inn
There’s seaside charm in spades at the Saybrook Point Inn | Courtesy of Saybrook Point Inn, Marina and Spa / Expedia
Siobhan Grogan

New England’s southernmost state stretches from New York State to Rhode Island and packs in its fair share of state parks, historical sites, museums and farm-to-table restaurants. When only the beach will do, the beautiful Connecticut coastline has bags of charm with white-sand beaches, cute seaside towns and windswept cliff views. Maximize your time on the sand by checking into one of our favorite beach hotels in this picturesque region – bookable on Culture Trip.

Madison Beach Hotel

Hotel

Madison Beach Hotel_c2de83e8
Courtesy of Madison Beach Hotel / Expedia

Stay steps from the sand at this beachfront resort overlooking Long Island Sound. Ideally located to enjoy the area’s summer concerts and film festivals, the hotel makes sunbathing a cinch with free beach chairs, umbrellas and towels. There’s an on-site spa and a yoga studio to guarantee relaxation; alternatively, just sit back in your room and enjoy the sweeping sea views.

Saybrook Point Inn, Marina and Spa

Hotel

Saybrook Point Inn, Marina and Spa_7b842713
Courtesy of Saybrook Point Resort and Marina / Expedia

There’s seaside charm in spades at this elegant resort between Long Island Sound and the Connecticut River. Marina views are head-turning in every direction, while anyone with their own boat can approach the property on water for the ultimate VIP entrance. The hotel also has a welcoming spa, live music on the terrace during warmer months and an all-day restaurant famous for its lobster roll and clam chowder.

Delamar Greenwich Harbor

Hotel

Delamar Greenwich Harbor_2b79cc1d
Courtesy of Delamar Greenwich Harbor / Expedia

You may not be able to wiggle your toes in the sand right outside, but this elegant hotel in Greenwich Harbor couldn’t be closer to the water. There’s a marina with 500ft (152m) of private dockage, and many of the 82 rooms overlook the harbor from private balconies. Rooms include luxe features such as deep soaking tubs and king-size beds, while guests can enjoy all-day tea and coffee in the library, an upmarket spa, bicycle rental and a chic restaurant overlooking the marina.

The Circle Hotel Fairfield

Hotel

Fairfield Circle Inn
Courtesy of Fairfield Circle Inn / Expedia
The coastal-inspired decor will get you in the mood for the beach within moments of checking into this boutique hotel on Post Road, in the heart of Fairfield. Moments from Interstate 95, it couldn’t be easier to reach by road, yet it’s perfectly located to explore the area’s beaches, too, with Jennings and Penfield beaches less than 10 minutes away. At the hotel itself there’s a seasonal outdoor pool, lounge with fireplace, daily breakfast bar and outdoor activities including a giant chessboard.

The Inn at Mystic

Hotel

The Inn at Mystic_592dfed9
Courtesy of the Inn at Mystic / Expedia

The only accommodation in Mystic to overlook Mystic Harbor and Fishers Island Sound, this hotel is set in 14 acres (6ha) of gardens and was once a private estate. It now features 52 rooms decorated in a classic nautical style; many have wood-burning fireplaces, outdoor balconies or patios and jacuzzi bathtubs to soak away your stress. Head to Rocks 21 restaurant during your stay for happy hours, weekend live music, wood-fired pizzas and summer pool parties with a DJ.

Inn at Harbor Hill Marina

Inn

Inn at Harbor Hill Marina_7092f334
Courtesy of Inn at Harbor Hill Marina / Expedia

Make the most of being on the water at this lovely B&B overlooking Long Island Sound. All 16 rooms come with thoughtful additions such as a private balcony or deck for feeling the sea breeze, a large soaking tub, a fireplace or a telescope for stargazing. There are several beaches close to the hotel, and there’s a complimentary sunset cruise each evening, plus a nightly wine and cheese hour for meeting fellow guests.

The Whaler's Inn

Hotel

The Whalers Inn_681b60a1
Courtesy of the Whaler's Inn / Expedia

It’s the little touches that make this boutique hotel, in Downtown Mystic, really special. There are 45 exquisite guest rooms spread over five unique buildings and packed with quirky details including candlestick phones, Crosley clock radios and tin ceilings. Whichever room takes your fancy, all guests are treated to all-day complimentary coffee in the lobby, Roku streaming, a restaurant credit and fresh-baked cookies every afternoon.

Spicer Mansion Inn

Hotel

A traditional seating area with armchairs, wooden tables, a fireplace and blue curtains at Spicer Mansion Inn
Courtesy of Spicer Mansion Inn / Expedia

Explore the beaches close to Mystic River from this grand mansion house, once the home of Captain Elihu Spicer. It now features just eight refined rooms, all with Bluetooth speakers, eco-friendly bath products, luxurious 600 thread count Matouk linens and a canvas beach bag for use during your stay. There’s all-day French press coffee, afternoon treats and an outdoor patio with a firepit, while the hotel is happy to prepare gourmet picnic baskets to eat on the beach.

The Owenego

Hotel

A quintessential New England hotel right on the shoreline in Branford, this property is a coastal dream come true. There are no televisions and only patchy wifi, but you won’t miss either. Instead, unplug and unwind on the tennis courts, swim in Long Island Sound, go crabbing on the jetty or settle down on the sand with a book. There’s a beach bar with lawn games and firepits, a cafe serving light meals and weekly events including Food Truck Fridays and cookouts under the stars.

On a budget? Check out our pick of the best cheap hotels in Connecticut, bookable on Culture Trip.

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