Things to Do at West Beach

West Beach stretches 800 feet along Long Island Sound where the West River creates a protected swimming cove with water temperatures reaching 70°F in summer and a sandy bottom perfect for wading families. Beach access costs -e year-round (free public beach) with free street parking on Kimberly Avenue, though no lifeguards or facilities means visitors bring their own shade and refreshments. Arrive during morning hours at high tide when the water is deepest for swimming and you can hear the gentle lap of waves mixing with sounds from nearby Tweed Airport - the beach smells of salt air and eelgrass with occasional whiffs of jet fuel carried on offshore breezes.

West Beach is accessible via local streets in New Haven's West River neighborhood, roughly a 10-minute drive from downtown. You'll want to head west on Chapel Street, then follow the residential streets toward the water - Elm Street and Beach View Avenue will get you closest to the shore. Parking is mostly street parking in the residential area, which can get tight on nice summer weekends. Public transit options are limited, so having a car makes the most sense. The beach isn't particularly well-marked, so you might find yourself driving around the neighborhood a bit before you spot the water access points.