Ocean Beach Park

Ocean Beach Park in New London, Connecticut sits along the western shore of the Thames River estuary where it meets Long Island Sound, offering a managed beach experience with extensive recreational facilities. The sandy beach stretches along the Sound with calm to moderate surf, and the water takes on a greenish clarity typical of inner Sound locations. The park is operated by the City of New London and combines a traditional sandy beach with an entertainment complex that includes a historic Olympic-size swimming pool, waterslides, a boardwalk, miniature golf, and amusement rides — making it one of the more active and diverse beach parks in southeastern Connecticut. The boardwalk runs the length of the beach and connects the various amenities, with food concessions serving classic beach fare including seafood, hot dogs, ice cream, and fried dough. Restrooms and changing facilities with showers are available near the main entrance. Picnic areas are positioned across the park for families who bring their own food. The adjacent miniature golf course and kiddie amusements add entertainment options for younger visitors beyond the beach and pool. Ocean Beach Park is located at 98 Neptune Avenue in New London, roughly 45 miles east of New Haven. It is one of the most accessible beaches in eastern Connecticut for visitors arriving by public transportation — New London Union Station, served by Amtrak's Northeast Regional and Shore Line East commuter rail, is approximately 10 minutes away by car or taxi. For those driving, the park has on-site parking with admission fees charged at the entrance. The beach operates a lifeguard service during the summer season. The family-oriented character of the park, combined with the pool and amusements, makes it particularly popular with visitors who want a full-day managed beach outing rather than a more natural or remote coastal experience.