When visiting the East Lyme and Niantic area, it would be remiss of anyone to not take a stroll along with one of the beautiful beaches there.

Here are the five best beaches in East Lyme and Niantic CT, for you to go for a stroll alone or a fun day with family and friends.

Rocky Neck State Park Beach

This might be the best beach overall in the state. If you are a resident, parking is at no cost, and there are bathroom and shower facilities. The park is amazing and allows you to do an array of activities from cycling to hiking or head down to the beach to go swimming, sunbathing, or fishing. There’s a rocky area that’s great for climbing too. For boondockers, camping is allowed here at 160 sites. Wildlife conservation is lovely, great for families, couples, or anyone. Non-residents pay a parking fee.

Hole in The Wall Beach

This is a lovely public beach that requires a pass from the East Lyme Park and Recreation Office. Some officials check for the passes on weekends but daily between Memorial and Labor Day when you have to pay to enter. Even though you can’t grill there, the adjacent park between there and McCooks has several grill facilities. This beach is also in proximity to the famous Niantic Boardwalk. Keep in mind there are no lifeguards on duty.3. McCook Point Park

The view alone is worth a trip to this fantastic beach which grants access to three pristine clean and white sand beaches. The Park itself overlooks the Bay with views of three islands. Beeches provide shade for you to have fun, picnics, or relax if you get tired of sunbathing or swimming. No matter the season, the beach is always abuzz with activities, whether anglers, sailors, seals, or maybe one of many concerts held there. You must have beach passes at the East Lyme Parks and Recreation office to access the beach.

Cini Memorial Beach

This is a small yet intimate beach that has drawn great reviews from visitors. It is ideal for you can sit and look across the Bay, do some fishing, or go for a stroll along the nearby boardwalk. There is a lovely open area to play games with groups, family, and friends. Ideal for picnics or to relax. There is no lifeguard, so do not bring young children if you’re unable to swim.

Niantic Beach

The fantastic sunset is the number one attraction at this beach, followed by the one-mile boardwalk. If you love volleyball, there are two large courts close to the beach. You can drive to Niantic Beach and park outside without a fee, but it’s first-come, first-served. If you’d like to park nearer to the beach area, a pass is required. Many amenities like shops and restaurants if you follow the boardwalk. Portable toilet facilities are in abundance, and you have lifeguards around too.