Connecticut Department of Energy & Environmental Protection

Emergency Burn Ban In Effect 10/26/24 - An emergency burn ban is now in effect for all Connecticut State Parks, Forests, and Wildlife Management areas, prohibiting the use of all outdoor grills, firepits, and campfires, and the kindling and use of flame outdoors. DEEP and local agencies are working to contain several active fires across the state. Please avoid all affected State Parks and Forests, as well as the blue-blazed Mattabesett Trail. The Enduro Trail in Voluntown and portions of North Stonington within the Pachaug State Forest are closed at this time. Please note that today's forest fire danger report remains at an 'extreme' level. More information about the current fire danger, burn ban and recommended safety measures can be found here

Swimming

Beachgoers at Hammonasset Beach State Park Connecticut State Parks offer many beautiful places to go swimming, from lakes and ponds to the shoreline. Whether you enjoy splashing in cool clear water or sunbathing on warm sparkling sand, our State beaches offer the perfect way to spend a hot summer day.      

 

 

 

Where can I swim?

  • Connecticut offers 22 designated swimming areas.
Connecticut Swimming Areas 

Where are there lifeguards?

Guarded parks, identified by a red cross on the map, typically have lifeguard coverage during the summer season. Lifeguard coverage on any specific day is dependent on seasonality, time of day and staffing levels.

Before you swim:

Lifeguard stand

How to Stay Safe

  • Drink Responsibly
    Excessive alcohol consumption impairs judgment and reaction ability. Even prescription drugs may impair judgment.
  • Parents -  Watch your Children
    It only takes seconds for a child to drown, and this can occur silently. Please ALWAYS watch your children; if you are more than an arm’s length away, you’re too far!
  • Be Aware of Underwater Hazards
    Natural swimming areas can have sudden drop-offs, inshore holes, large rocks or tree roots that can’t be easily seen from the surface. Diving and jumping into these waters can be hazardous. Please be careful of these unseen dangers.
  • Swim only in the designated areas, and stay where the lifeguards can see you!
  • Take a Swimming Lesson
    Increasing your water safety knowledge and swimming skills can help save your life. People of all ages should consider signing up for a swimming class offered at your local YMCA branch, American Red Cross Chapter, or municipal parks & recreation department.
  • Follow the Beach Rules:
    • No alcoholic beverages, glass, pets, or nudity.
    • No flotation devices, only approved lifejackets.
    • No snorkels.
    • No rough play.
    • No sand or rock throwing.
    • No "throw-catch" activities.
    • No soap or shampoo.
    • No fishing.
    • Keep the beach area around the lifeguard chair clear.
    • Swimmers must stay off buoys and lines.
    • Water and the beach will be cleared when lightning is visible or thunder is heard.

Special Access

  • Beach Wheelchairs are available at several locations. 
  • These are specially designed for access over the sand, and can be borrowed for the day.  Just be careful - they are NOT designed to be taken into the water.

Remember...

  • Water and Alcohol DON’T mix!  
  • Parents-watch your children!  
  • Be careful of underwater hazards, and don’t dive in.
  • Always swim in designated areas.
Please Be Safe In the Water!
 Connecticut Waterfront Updates