The summer season is in full swing along the Connecticut shoreline, and one Nutmeg State beach earned standout recognition in the New York City region from Conde Nast Traveler.
The magazine listed Greenwich Point Park among the 17 best beaches near New York City, highlighting that the peninsula is an hour and a half drive or a Metro-North trip away from Grand Central Terminal. Also known as "Tod's Point," the 147.3-acre town-owned beach and recreation facility features a handful of historic buildings and trails alongside the acclaimed beachfront.
Greenwich residents can access the beach with a resident seasonal pass, while non-residents must pay a $9 day fee to enjoy the park. "[It] is the best way to enjoy the high taxes of Greenwich, Connecticut, without paying them yourself," the magazine quipped about Greenwich Point Park.
While Greenwich Point Park is the only site from Connecticut on Conde Nast's list, eight more featured beaches lie right across the sound in Long Island. The list stretches from down the Jersey shore to Nantucket, Massachusetts, where Steps Beach stands as the only other option from New England.
Recently, however, cases of swimmer's itch have been reported by people who've gone into the water at Greenwich Point beach, according to health officials. A skin rash caused by an allergic reaction to microscopic parasites includes immediate symptoms of tingling, burning or itching skin, with blisters and pimples following within around 12 hours.
The park is open from 6 a.m. to sunset, with parking passes and tickets still required through October 31. Reservations can also available for camping sites and picnic areas, and during the winter period from Dec. 1-March 31, leashed dogs are welcomed.