
Lighthouse Point Park
A historic lighthouse anchors this scenic beachfront park, offering swimming, birding, and family fun on Long Island Sound.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, lower fees

Lighthouse Point Park
Best Time
Fewer crowds, lower fees
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic lighthouse anchors this scenic beachfront park, offering swimming, birding, and family fun on Long Island Sound.
"This was well worth the trip! Picture say 1000 words but being there in person is indescribable."

🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
Beat the crowds and secure a good spot, especially on busy days.
💰 Check Entry Fees
Non-residents pay a daily fee; consider a yearly pass if you're local.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Five Mile Point Lighthouse
Park Entrance
Iconic 1847 lighthouse offering breathtaking views and photo opportunities.

Sandy Beach & Long Island Sound
South End of Park
A classic New England beach experience perfect for swimming and relaxing by the water.

Antique Carousel
Near Playground
A charming, old-fashioned carousel offering a nostalgic ride for all ages.

Birding Hotspot
Throughout the Park
A prime location for bird-watching, especially during migration seasons.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Know Before You Go
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
Beat the crowds and secure a good spot, especially on busy days.
💰 Check Entry Fees
Non-residents pay a daily fee; consider a yearly pass if you're local.
👟 Water Shoes Recommended
The beach has rocks and shells, so water shoes offer more comfort.
☀️ Pack for a Picnic
Grills, tents, and speakers are allowed (keep volume reasonable).
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
Beat the crowds and secure a good spot, especially on busy days.
💰 Check Entry Fees
Non-residents pay a daily fee; consider a yearly pass if you're local.
👟 Water Shoes Recommended
The beach has rocks and shells, so water shoes offer more comfort.
☀️ Pack for a Picnic
Grills, tents, and speakers are allowed (keep volume reasonable).
📸 Photo Ops Galore
Capture stunning shots of the lighthouse and coastal scenery.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Lighthouse Point Park for its breathtaking views, classic New England beach experience, and family-friendly amenities like the carousel and splash pad. While some note the entry fees for non-residents can be high, many find the park's beauty and activities well worth the visit, especially for a relaxing day out or a memorable picnic.
"This place is magical in the fall and winter. This place allows you to breathe and collect your thoughts, it's a great place for photography, I love coming here alone and wearing my headphones and holding my camera in my hand to take shots, or sometimes I walk on the rocks, sit down and smoke a cigar. This is truly a place to find tranquility."
Enrique Vargas
"What an amazing park, breathtaking views, great walking paths and truly an amazing experience for both adults and kids. This was well worth the trip! Picture say 1000 words but being there in person is indescribable.
The only suggestion I would have for a family experience is to ensure that the carousel building is open, that was our poor planning, but would be an additional attraction for kids. It had a splash pad for the kids, which ended the day very well with tired and hot children . Everything was clean and enjoyable. There are also amenities in the area, such as grills, etc. The suggestion that I would make would be get there early, as it was quite expensive to enter the park for only a couple hours."
Gary Hofmann
"Passed through New Haven on a road trip visiting lighthouses along the east coast. It was offseason so not much going on. Built in 1847, New Haven Harbor Lighthouse stands 80 feet tall and its octagonal brownstone tower and white lantern are iconic features. The lighthouse itself is not open for interior tours; the surrounding park and grounds are accessible to the public. You could not drive up to the lighthouse to park and with limited mobility it was a little bit of a struggle to see."
Chris L
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Lighthouse Point Park is located in New Haven, Connecticut. It's accessible by car, with parking available within the park (fees may apply for non-residents). Public transportation options might be limited, so driving is often the most convenient.
Yes, there is parking available at Lighthouse Point Park. However, it can fill up quickly, especially on weekends and during peak season. Arriving early is highly recommended to secure a spot.
Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft can drop you off at the park entrance. Be aware that pick-up might be more challenging during peak times.
The park generally offers accessible pathways and amenities, including boardwalks. It's advisable to check with park management for specific accessibility details regarding all facilities.
From I-95 North or South, take Exit 48 for I-91 South towards New Haven. Take Exit 3 for State Street and turn right. Continue on State Street, which will eventually lead you towards Lighthouse Road and the park entrance.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry fees vary. New Haven residents often get free or discounted access, while out-of-state visitors may pay a daily pass fee, which can be around $25-$30.
Tickets are typically purchased upon arrival at the park entrance. It's best to check the official park website or contact them directly for the most up-to-date information on ticketing procedures.
New Haven residents usually receive discounts or free entry. Consider purchasing a yearly pass if you plan to visit frequently, as this can be cost-effective.
Park hours can vary seasonally. It's recommended to check the official park website for the most current operating hours, especially for specific attractions like the carousel or lighthouse tours.
Access to go inside the lighthouse may be limited or require specific tour times. While you can admire it from the outside, check with park staff for any available interior tours.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Activities include swimming at the beach, visiting the historic lighthouse, riding the antique carousel, enjoying the splash pad, picnicking, fishing, and bird-watching.
Absolutely! Families love the splash pad, playground, carousel, and beach area. It's a great spot for kids to play and burn energy.
Yes, the beach is suitable for swimming, and lifeguards are typically on duty during the summer months. The waters are generally calm.
The lighthouse itself is a prime subject, along with the beach, the carousel, and the coastal views, especially during sunrise and sunset.
Yes, the park offers ample picnic areas with shade and grills. You can bring your own food and even set up tents.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While the park has picnic areas and grills, food options might be limited to seasonal food trucks or concessions. Bringing your own food is a popular choice.
Yes, visitors are encouraged to bring their own food, drinks, and picnic supplies. Grills are also available for use.
Food options can vary, but you might find typical beachside fare like snacks, ice cream, or hot dogs from concessions or food trucks.
There are grocery stores in the surrounding New Haven area where you can stock up on picnic supplies before heading to the park.
Yes, the park provides grills, making it a great spot for a barbecue. Remember to follow park guidelines for grilling.
📸 📸 Photography
Sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting for capturing the lighthouse and coastal scenery. Golden hour is particularly magical.
The historic lighthouse, the expansive beach, the antique carousel, and the boardwalks all provide excellent photo opportunities.
Drone usage is typically restricted in public parks to ensure safety and respect for other visitors. It's best to check the park's specific drone policy.
It's ideal for landscape, seascape, family portraits, engagement shoots, and capturing nostalgic moments with the carousel.
Professional photoshoots are often permitted, but some parks may require permits or have specific guidelines. Contact the park administration for details.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Don't forget to pack a picnic! The park has plenty of picnic areas with grills, making it easy to enjoy a meal together. Consider bringing water shoes for the kids as the beach can have rocks and shells.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
The antique carousel provides a touch of nostalgia and vibrant color for unique shots, and the boardwalks offer interesting perspectives. It's a versatile location for everything from landscape photography to portrait sessions.
🐦 Birdwatchers
Bring your binoculars and spend some time exploring the park's natural areas. It's a peaceful and rewarding experience for anyone interested in observing local wildlife in its natural setting.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Historic Five Mile Point Lighthouse
Many visitors enjoy simply walking around the base of the lighthouse, taking in its history and the surrounding coastal views. It's a symbol of the area's maritime heritage and a constant reminder of the power and beauty of the Long Island Sound.
Pro Tip: The lighthouse is particularly stunning during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset, offering a magical glow that enhances its historic appeal.
Beach and Water Activities
While the beach is generally sandy, some visitors note that it can have rocks and shells, so wearing water shoes is a good recommendation for added comfort. The waters are usually calm, making them suitable for swimmers of all ages.
Beyond swimming, the beach area is also a great spot for flying kites, playing ball games like soccer or volleyball, and simply enjoying the coastal breeze.
Family Fun and Amenities
Beyond these specific attractions, the park features a playground, ample picnic areas with grills, and plenty of open space for kids to run around and play games. The combination of beach access, play areas, and picnic facilities makes it an ideal spot for a full day of family fun.
Community Insight: Some visitors suggest checking the carousel's operating schedule in advance to ensure it's open during your visit, as this can enhance the family experience.




Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit