Hammonasset Beach Weather
Hammonasset Beach weather is warmest in July and August, when average highs on this stretch of the Connecticut shore reach about 81 to 82°F and nights fall to the mid-60s. June and September run about 75°F. Those are NOAA's 1991–2020 averages for New Haven, the nearest long-record station. For today's forecast, use the National Weather Service forecast for the park.
Weather at a Glance
Today's Forecast
The most reliable free forecast for the park is the National Weather Service point forecast. Its New York office (Upton, NY) covers the Connecticut shoreline, and the forecast point for the park sits by neighboring Clinton. It gives hourly temperature, wind, rain chances and any marine or heat warnings.
Average Weather by Month
These are NOAA's official 1991–2020 climate normals for New Haven's Tweed Airport, about 18 miles west along the same shoreline. Treat them as a guide to the season, not a reading at the beach.
- January: high 38°F, low 23°F, 2.7 inches of rain and melted snow.
- February: high 40°F, low 24°F, 2.8 inches.
- March: high 47°F, low 30°F, 3.7 inches.
- April: high 58°F, low 39°F, 4.2 inches.
- May: high 68°F, low 49°F, 3.5 inches.
- June: high 76°F, low 59°F, 3.5 inches.
- July: high 82°F, low 66°F, 3.4 inches.
- August: high 81°F, low 65°F, 3.6 inches.
- September: high 75°F, low 57°F, 4.0 inches.
- October: high 64°F, low 46°F, 3.8 inches.
- November: high 53°F, low 36°F, 3.1 inches.
- December: high 44°F, low 29°F, 3.5 inches.
Beach Season: June to September
Lifeguards work Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day, and that's the heart of beach season (see hours). July is the warmest month on average, with August close behind. June averages a high of 76°F and a low of 59°F.
September is a good bet if you'd rather skip the crowds. Average highs are still about 75°F, and out-of-state parking fees still apply through October.
Spring and Fall Visits
April and May average highs of 58°F and 68°F, which makes them good months for walking the boardwalk, birding in the marsh and visiting the nature center before the summer crowds. October averages 64°F. Bring a layer for the beach, where you're out in the open with no shade or shelter from the wind.
Winter at the Beach
The park stays open all winter, 8 a.m. to sunset. January is the coldest month, averaging a high of 38°F and a low of 23°F. Dogs are allowed on the beach itself September 30 to April 1 only (see rules), and the nature center runs winter walks looking for seals and other cold-weather visitors.
Thunderstorms and Safety
If a thunderstorm rolls in, DEEP's beach rule is simple: when you see lightning or hear thunder, clear the water and the beach. A wide beach is no place to wait out a storm, so head for your car.
There's little shade on the sand. On hot days, bring water, sunscreen and an umbrella, and remember that DEEP warns the paved paths get hot enough to hurt bare feet and dog paws.
Water Temperature, Tides and Water Quality
Weather is only part of a beach day. The tide decides how much sand you'll have, and DEEP tests the swimming water weekly in summer (see water quality). There's no water temperature gauge at the park; NOAA's nearest station with one is in New Haven Harbor.
Hammonasset Weather FAQ
What is the weather like at Hammonasset Beach in summer?
Warm. NOAA's 1991–2020 averages for nearby New Haven put July highs at 82°F and lows at 66°F, with August close behind.
Where can I get the Hammonasset Beach forecast?
The National Weather Service point forecast for the park, from its New York office, gives hourly temperature, wind and rain chances.
When is the best time to visit Hammonasset Beach?
July and August are warmest, with lifeguards on duty. June and September average about 75°F and are less crowded. Spring and fall suit walking and birding.
Is Hammonasset open when it rains?
Yes. The park is open 8 a.m. to sunset every day. DEEP clears the beach and water when there's lightning or thunder.