A seaside beach with expansive sandy shores and a 2.5-mile coastal walking trail, located in Connecticut, has been recognized as one of the top-notch beaches near New York.
Exploring Greenwich Point Park: A Rare East Coast Gem
Greenwich Point Park, also known as Tod's Point, is a 147-acre park located in Old Greenwich, Connecticut, and is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. This park offers a variety of activities beyond sunbathing, including kayaking, windsurfing, cycling, visiting butterfly gardens, dog walking off-season, and launching boats at the Old Greenwich Yacht Club.
This park is not just a haven for outdoor activities, but also for wildlife. Greenwich Point Park is an Important Bird Area, serving as a vital stopover for migratory songbirds, bald eagle nests, and wintering ducks. At low tide, Shell Beach can be explored for hermit crabs and shells, making it a perfect spot for nature lovers.
The park's extensive beachfront offers stunning views of the Manhattan skyline on clear days. In addition, many historic buildings from the Gilded Age, such as the Innis Arden Cottage and the Chimes Tower, still stand in the park, adding a touch of history to your visit.
Greenwich Point Park was named one of the best beaches near New York in 2025 by Condé Nast Traveler, making it a must-visit destination. During the summer months, the park offers well-maintained beaches, picnic areas, grills, restrooms, and more for $10 per person per day for non-residents. Greenwich residents, however, have discounted or free access with a valid permit.
To ensure beach access, especially at peak times, it is highly recommended to purchase passes in advance on the Greenwich Parks & Recreation website. The park tends to fill up quickly on weekends and holidays, so buying passes online ahead of time helps guarantee entry. Passes can be purchased for a season or as a single-entry ticket.
The park is open daily from 6 am until sunset at 11 Tods Driftway, Old Greenwich, CT. Visitors can access Greenwich Point Park by a 90-minute drive from the city or by taking a quick Metro-North train from Grand Central.
In conclusion, Greenwich Point Park is a rare East Coast gem that combines relaxing nature with legendary city views. Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast, a history buff, or a nature lover, Greenwich Point Park is a destination worth exploring.
[1] Greenwich Parks & Recreation website: https://www.greenwichct.org/1560/Parks-Recreation (Navigate to the passes/tickets section to complete your purchase)
