Hole in the Wall Beach
Niantic, CT
Set inside Rocky Neck State Park, this small beach gets its name from a rock formation locals have been slipping through for generations. Connecticut's coastline is short and mostly private, which makes this quiet public stretch a genuine local favorite rather than a tourist stop.
Rocky Neck State Park charges a parking fee in season. Go early on weekends to avoid a line at the gate.
More Atlantic Coast beaches
Coast Guard Beach
Eastham, MA · Atlantic Coast
A National Seashore beach backed by grassy dunes and a tidal marsh, with clean Atlantic surf and one of the Cape's most scenic approaches on foot from the parking area.
Surfside Beach
Nantucket, MA · Atlantic Coast
Open Atlantic swell and a wide sandy shoreline about three miles from Nantucket town, popular with locals for its bodysurfing waves and quieter, less commercial feel.
Jones Beach State Park
Wantagh, NY · Atlantic Coast
A classic Long Island beach with six and a half miles of shoreline, a landmark water tower, boardwalk, and a large outdoor amphitheater that hosts concerts through the summer.