Connecticut Goes to the Beach:
A Source of Pleasure and Relaxation

Attractions and Amusements

As transportation improved and the number of people flocking to the beaches of Connecticut grew, more and more attractions emerged to entertain them. In addition to hotels, cottages and bathhouses, some beaches featured bandstands, dinner halls, tearooms, ice cream parlors, concessions, carousels, nature walks and game rooms.

< Whether in fresh-water lakes or the salt-water of the Long Island Sound, bathing has been a popular recreational activity in Connecticut since at least the early 19th century. These young men and women are probably students at the University of Connecticut.

Riverside Yacht Club House
Riverside, ca. 1910
Photo CD: 1341 img0053.jpg

< Many Connecticut beaches were developed by private clubs and associations for the exclusive use of their members. Yacht clubs offered many people the opportunity to get out on the water.

Roller Coaster, Savin Rock Park
West Haven, 1930s
Photo CD: 2821 img0004.pcd

< Waterfront amusement parks like the one at Savin Rock Park offered brave visitors a bigger thrill than sunbathing on the nearby beach.

Link to other essays in this Journey:

>> Introduction: Connecticut Goes to the Beach
>> Getting There
>> Resort Hotels and Seaside Cottages
>> Gathering with Friends and Family
>> Souvenirs of the Trip

>> Guideposts
>> Suggestions for further reading