Heading to the Connecticut shoreline? We’ve got the perfect roundup of what to see, do, and eat while you’re there, plus where to stay when it’s time for bed. Read on to see our picks for the best of the Connecticut coast for 2014!
BEST CONNECTICUT SHORELINE ATTRACTIONS
BEST TROLLEY MUSEUM:
THE SHORELINE TROLLEY MUSEUM, East Haven
View the historic displays, then ride a restored car through salt marshes past osprey nests. Finally, stop at the trolley barn to check out the antique cars.
17 River St. 203-467-6927; shorelinetrolley.org
BEST BIRDWATCHING SANCTUARIES:
STEWART B. MCKINNEY WILDLIFE REFUGE, Westbrook
One of a string of unspoiled sanctuaries, the Salt Meadow Unit has easy walking paths that include an island full of birdsong. Listen and watch for American woodcocks, Eastern bluebirds, and tree swallows.
733 Old Clinton Road. 860-399-2513; fws.gov/refuge/stewart_b_mckinney
BEST LIGHTHOUSE TOURS:
CUSTOM HOUSE MARITIME MUSEUM, New London
Choose a cruise to see three local beacons, or opt to sail over to climb the 119 steps up Harbor Light in hopes of viewing a total of seven lighthouses. Guided tours of the still-operating Custom House are also offered.
150 Bank St. 860-447-2501; nlmaritimesociety.org
BEST BOARDWALK:
CAPTAIN’S COVE, Bridgeport
Enjoy the seafood-intensive snack bar before strolling the compact stretch of tiny souvenir, sports, and toy shops. This busy marina also hosts free concerts, while the scenic harbor cruise, which departs from the area, is a must. Quintessential summer fun at Black Rock Harbor.
1 Bostwick Ave. 203-335-1433; captainscoveseaport.comBEST CONNECTICUT SHORELINE LODGING
BEST VIEW:
ORCHARD STREET INN, Stonington
Scan the ships sailing by from a rooftop widow’s walk, or pedal a bike to the docks. The backyard cottage offers three guestrooms, while the main house has two, including the luxury Captain’s Suite. Rates: from $220.
41 Orchard St. 860-535-2681; orchardstreetinn.com
BEST WATERSIDE ESCAPE:
SAYBROOK POINT INN & SPA, Old Saybrook
For those not pulling a yacht dockside, there are water-view rooms for luxurious rest. Also a spa, two pools, a health club, and a whirlpool for relaxing. Rates: from $229.
2 Bridge St. 860-395-2000; saybrook.com
BEST BEACH B&B:
THE INN AT FAIRFIELD BEACH, Fairfield
Just steps from the water, each of 14 unique rooms includes a kitchenette, a couch, and a dining table. Well-suited for extended solo business stays or family vacations. Rates: from $135.
1160 Reef Road. 203-255-6808; innatfairfieldbeach.com BEST CONNECTICUT SHORELINE DINING
BEST VINEYARD BIDTRO:
CHAMARD BISTRO, Clinton
In a bright room above the vines or on the outdoor dining porch, choose from clever comfort and culinary options such as the roasted sirloin sandwich or asparagus bisque. Cheese plates are available in the adjoining tasting room, where you can sip the local Ellee Rosé. Entrees: from $11.
115 Cow Hill Road. 860-664-0299; chamard.com
BEST WATER VIEW GRILL:
S & P OYSTER COMPANY, Mystic
Watch the drawbridge through the windows or gaze at the river flowing past the patio. Excellent grilled seafood and fowl, plus regionally sourced oyster options. Dessert samplers with flourless chocolate cake and cheesecake don’t stay in view long. Entrées: from $17.25.
1 Holmes St. 860-536-2674; sp-oyster.com
BEST VEGETARIAN BRUNCH & DINNER:
G-ZEN RESTAURANT, Branford
The “vegetarian sustainable” fare, often picked on the owners’ farm, is top-drawer delicious. Acclaimed for their kale, chard, and other greens. Scoop up scrambled tofu or organic Brazilian acai berries. Look for glorious gluten- and wheat-free choices. Entrées: from $10.
2 East Main St. 203-208-0443; g-zen.com
