5 Amazing Beaches in Branford, CT

Although Branford is located on Connecticut’s shoreline, there aren’t many beaches in town. However, there are a few nice spots to swim if you know where to look.

I recently visited all of the most popular Branford beaches to see which ones are worth a visit. So without further ado, these are the top beaches in Branford, CT.

Branford Point Beach, a fantastic beach in Branford, CT.

Top Beaches in Branford, Connecticut

1. Branford Point Beach

Branford Point Beach is the overall best beach in Branford, Connecticut. This small, crescent-shaped beach offers an amazing view of the sunrise over Long Island Sound.

But aside from the view, you can also go swimming, picnicking, fishing, or walking on this beach. There’s a nice playground for kids too.

If you’re a Branford resident, you can get free parking at the beach by getting a town sticker.

  • Location: 4 Harbor St, Branford, CT

2. Stony Creek Beach

Stony Creek Beach is another Branford beach to check out. This public beach is extremely small, but the water is clear and there’s usually a lifeguard on duty.

Plus, you’re able to launch small boats and kayaks from the park next door. Parking is limited at Stony Creek Beach, but you can avoid the issue if you get here early.

  • Location: 183 Thimble Island Rd, Branford, CT

3. East Haven Town Beach

East Haven Town Beach is one of the beaches found near Branford. Located in East Haven, this is one of the better beaches for swimming in the state of Connecticut.

The water here is clean and the beach doesn’t get overly busy. The beach also features a splash pad for smaller kids, along with bocci ball courts and beach volleyball.

The beach has a picnic area with grills too, making it the perfect beach barbecue spot.

  • Location: 80-4 Cosey Beach Ave, East Haven, CT

4. Jacob’s Beach

Jacob’s Beach is a popular beach found one town over in Guilford. It’s a quiet beach with plenty of amenities, like a playground, picnic area, grills, bathroom facilities, and showers.

Aside from swimming, Jacob’s Beach offers other summertime activities like basketball, volleyball, kayaking, and paddleboarding.

The water does have a fair amount of shells and sharp rocks, so you may want to have your kids wear water shoes. Also, be aware that there is a parking fee for non-Guilford residents.

  • Location: 140 Seaside Ave, Guilford, CT

5. Lighthouse Point Park

Lighthouse Point Park is one of the top beaches in south-central Connecticut. Located a short drive from Branford, this beach features trails for hiking, a kid’s splash pad, open fields, a snack bar, and a historic lighthouse.

Just be aware that this beach is only free for residents of New Haven. Non-residents will have to pay a $20 parking fee ($30 if you live out of state).

  • Location: 2 Lighthouse Rd, New Haven, CT 

Other Cool Beaches near Branford, CT

Aside from Branford’s beaches already mentioned, there are plenty of other places to swim or walk on Connecticut’s coastline. You may want to check out these beaches as well:

  • Seabluff Beach in West Haven
  • Hammonasset Beach State Park in Madison
  • Barbara Pine Memorial Beach in Guilford

For more local swimming options, check out these articles about beaches in East Haven and Guilford.

Branford Beaches – Final Thoughts

Those are the top Branford beaches. Whether you visit a beach in Branford or one of the beaches nearby, I’m confident you’ll have an amazing day in the sun.

Be sure to check out this complete list of CT beaches: