Hammonasset Beach FAQ
Quick answers to the questions people ask most about Hammonasset Beach State Park in Madison, Connecticut. The short version: it's open 8:00 a.m. to sunset, every day, free for Connecticut cars, $22 on weekends for out-of-state cars in season, and dogs can't go on the beach in summer. Each answer links to the page with the full details.
Is Hammonasset Beach free?
Yes for cars with Connecticut plates, all year. Out-of-state cars pay $22 on weekends and holidays and $15 on weekdays from April 1 through October 31, or $7 after 4 p.m. in summer. See Parking & Directions.
What are Hammonasset Beach's hours?
8:00 a.m. to sunset, every day, all year. From Memorial Day to Columbus Day the park stays open 24 hours for campers and people fishing. See Hours & Fees.
Where is Hammonasset Beach State Park?
In Madison, Connecticut, on Long Island Sound. The address is 1288 Boston Post Rd., Madison, CT 06443; the entrance is on Route 1 near I-95. See the park map.
Can you camp at Hammonasset?
Yes. There are 558 sites, including eight cabins, from $20 a night for Connecticut residents ($30 for others). The 2027 season runs Friday, May 28 to Monday, October 11, 2027 (noon). Book on ReserveAmerica up to 11 months ahead. See Camping.
Are dogs allowed at Hammonasset?
On a leash in the picnic areas all year. On the beach only from September 30 to April 1. Never in the campground during the camping season. See Rules & Regulations.
Is Hammonasset good for swimming?
Yes. DEEP describes the waves as generally calm and the water clear, suitable for all ages. Lifeguards are on duty Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day, and DEEP tests the water weekly in that season. See Water Quality.
Are there lifeguards at Hammonasset?
Yes, in summer. DEEP's lifeguards work Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day. Coverage on a given day depends on staffing, so swim where guards are posted.
Can you drink alcohol at Hammonasset Beach?
No, not on the beach. DEEP's beach rules ban alcoholic drinks and glass. In state park campgrounds, alcohol in containers under one liter is allowed unless a park posts a ban.
Is Meigs Point Nature Center free?
Yes. It's open Tuesday to Sunday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. from April to October and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. from November to March, with live animals and a touch tank. See Meigs Point Nature Center.
How long is Hammonasset Beach?
About two miles, according to DEEP. It's Connecticut's largest shoreline park.
Is there a boardwalk at Hammonasset?
Yes. A boardwalk and paved path run along the shore; DEEP lists the Hammonasset Beach State Park Walk at 3.4 miles out and back, easy and accessible. See Boardwalk & Bike Path.
Can you fish at Hammonasset?
Yes. In peak season, daytime fishing is allowed from the Meigs Point and West Beach jetties, and night fishing along the whole beach. Anglers 16 and older need a marine waters fishing license; Connecticut also accepts licenses from Maine, Massachusetts, Rhode Island and New York. See Fishing.
Is Hammonasset open in winter?
Yes, 8:00 a.m. to sunset, every day, all year. DEEP lists no out-of-state parking fee from November through March, and winter is the only season dogs may walk on the beach.
Is there an out-of-state season pass?
Yes. A $112 non-resident season pass covers one out-of-state car at every Connecticut state park that charges for parking, for the calendar year. It doesn't cover camping. See Parking.
When did Hammonasset Beach State Park open?
On July 18, 1920, as Connecticut's 19th state park, according to Friends of Hammonasset. See About the Park.
Who runs Hammonasset Beach State Park?
The Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP), through its State Parks division. Its park page is the official source for notices.