Groton/Noank Coastal Accesses

In another blog here, I shared about some coastal access points in Mystic. Now I will be sharing even more that you can visit in Noank and Groton. I’m very grateful for public coastal accesses! It’s so fun to see all the various angles of the water!

Here are some coastal accesses opened to the public to enjoy in Noank, CT:

Riverview Ave x Palmer Ct - this is one of my favorite spots for sunrises. There is a small beach that is open to the public. The nearest parking is at the Town Dock park on Main Street so you will need to walk. From the Town Dock, walk up Riverview Ave past Ford’s and up the steep hill. You’ll see the coastal access sign right next to the street name sign.

Town Dock and park - at the end of Main Street past Carson’s Store, there is a small park with a dock overlooking the water. This is the best spot to watch all the boats passing by. Bring some lawn chairs and snacks/drinks! There is a small parking lot.

Tanglewood Park / Haley Farm State Park - Tanglewood Park is around the corner from Haley Farm on Seneca Drive - a small park with a playground. There is a small beach overlooking the cove. There is parking lot at the top of the hill. Haley Farm is an old shoreline farm with several paths. I haven’t really walked far into Haley Farm to see if they have coastal views but I would assume so since it abuts Palmer Cove! There are bike paths too if you have a bicycle!

Spicer Park - A small park overlooking Beebe Cove. This is the location of Noank Rowing Club and their boathouse. Naturally seeing how my Instagram is central around the shoreline living, I love photographing the rowing boats there. The view is very beautiful and there are picnic tables near by the shoreline. Parking lot is across the street from the park.

Here are some coastal accesses opened to the public to enjoy in Groton, CT:

Esker Beach - a small beach that is free to the public year-round. There are several picnic tables with grills for cook outs! There is a small path that takes to you to a small overlook with a bench. From there, you can see the iconic Morgan Point lighthouse (Noank) across the water. There is an on-site parking lot.

NOTE: A movie crew was in town doing a Christmas movie at Esker Beach so that’s the reasoning behind the decor!

UConn Avery Point - there is a walkway path on UConn Avery Point. The waterfront views is amazing from here especially at sunset! You can see all three lighthouses (Avery Point, New London and Ledge Light) from here. A lot of ferries passes by through this area. There is an overlook dock. A lot people fish on the rocks below. Parking is available on campus.

Bluff Point - a popular park for cyclists, dog walkers and hikers. There are a few paths throughout the park. It’s fun to watch people shellfishing in the water here! Also from here, you can see airplanes taking off and landing at Groton-New London Airport across the water. There is an on-site parking lot. Plenty of picnic tables and several portable potty available.

Poquonnock River Walkway (65 Depot Road) - This is a beautiful path, especially when the beach grasses thrives during the summer. The park is right before you enter Bluff Point so look for the Poquonnock Park sign. You’ll see a small playground and a paved walkway with a small parking lot.

Calf Pasture Overlook - located at 770 Shennecossett Rd, a small overlook off Baker Cove. There is a single bench. Two parking spots (one is reserved for handicapped).

Hope you enjoy exploring and appreciate the beautiful shoreline views we have here in Southeastern CT. A gentle reminder to please respect the locals as some of these coastal accesses are near private residences. Stay tuned for Stonington coastal accesses blog!