The Best Beach Hotels to Book in Connecticut

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.

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.

This classic resort, right on a private stretch of sand in Westbrook, started life as a family beach cottage but has grown to include 185 rooms, a decadent spa, an indoor and outdoor pool and two tennis courts. There’s no need to venture far to eat after a long day in the sun either: the hotel has several restaurants, including fine-dining Italian, and hosts regular live music to keep guests entertained each evening.

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 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 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.