Seaside State Park sits on a striking 36-acre stretch of Long Island Sound shoreline in Waterford, where the ruins of the former Seaside Sanatorium lend an atmosphere unlike any other Connecticut state park. The elegant 1930s buildings — designed by architect Cass Gilbert, who also designed the U.S. Supreme Court — stand as haunting backdrops to an otherwise serene coastal landscape, making this park a favorite for photographers and history buffs alike.

The park’s half-mile beach is the main draw, offering calm swimming waters and tide pools worth exploring at low tide. A network of short trails winds through coastal woodlands and along the bluffs, providing sweeping views of Long Island Sound and Fishers Island. Birders will find the shoreline productive during spring and fall migration, with shorebirds and wading birds frequenting the rocky outcrops and salt marsh edges.

Fishing from the rocky shoreline produces striped bass and bluefish during warmer months. The relatively compact trail system makes this an accessible outing for families with young children or anyone looking for a relaxed afternoon rather than an all-day hike.

Late spring through early fall is the best window for visiting, with summer weekends drawing the largest crowds to the beach. Weekday mornings offer quieter access to the trails and shoreline. The park does not currently offer camping facilities.

With a 4.6-star rating across 194 reviews, Seaside State Park delivers a memorable mix of coastal beauty and architectural history that’s hard to find elsewhere in New England.

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