Hammonasset Beach State Park

Connecticut · Northeast

Habitat
Coastal
Best Seasons
SpringFall
Difficulty

Easy

Best Months

April-May, September-October

Entrance Fee

$15-$22 per vehicle (seasonal)

Hours

Open daily, 8 AM to sunset

About This Location

Hammonasset Beach State Park is a productive birding destination in Connecticut, with 328 species recorded on eBird. This coastal habitat attracts Brant, American Black Duck, and Greater Scaup among many others. Spring and fall migration bring waves of warblers and shorebirds through the area.

Location

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Notable Species

Live Bird Data

Powered by eBird / Cornell Lab of Ornithology

Notable Sightings

Rare or unusual species spotted nearby in the last 14 days

American Oystercatcher

Haematopus palliatus

3/4/2026213 Salt Island Rd, Westbrook US-CT 41.27884, -72.442771 observed

Indigo Bunting

Passerina cyanea

3/1/2026Chuck's Place, Madison (Private)1 observed

Harlequin Duck

Histrionicus histrionicus

2/22/2026Trumans Beach1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Brant

193/5/2026

American Black Duck

133/5/2026

Greater Scaup

33/5/2026

Black Scoter

93/5/2026

Red-breasted Merganser

33/5/2026

American Woodcock

13/5/2026

American Herring Gull

3/5/2026

Common Loon

53/5/2026

Downy Woodpecker

13/5/2026

Blue Jay

43/5/2026

Black-capped Chickadee

63/5/2026

Tufted Titmouse

23/5/2026

Horned Lark

303/5/2026

European Starling

3/5/2026

American Robin

53/5/2026

House Finch

33/5/2026

American Goldfinch

43/5/2026

American Tree Sparrow

13/5/2026

White-throated Sparrow

173/5/2026

Song Sparrow

33/5/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Check rocky shorelines and jetties at low tide for shorebirds.

  2. 2

    Scan offshore waters with a spotting scope for seabirds and waterfowl.

  3. 3

    Visit during mid-May for peak warbler migration.

  4. 4

    Purchase your day pass online in advance to avoid wait times at the entrance station.

  5. 5

    Onshore winds can push pelagic species closer to shore, making post-storm days excellent for rarities.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Hammonasset Beach State Park for birding?
The best months to visit Hammonasset Beach State Park for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Hammonasset Beach State Park?
Notable species at Hammonasset Beach State Park include Brant, American Black Duck, Greater Scaup, Black Scoter, Red-breasted Merganser, Mourning Dove, Tufted Titmouse, American Robin, House Sparrow, House Finch, Dark-eyed Junco, White-throated Sparrow. The area supports coastal habitats.
How difficult is birding at Hammonasset Beach State Park?
Birding at Hammonasset Beach State Park is rated as Easy. The trails and viewing areas are accessible for birders of all experience levels.
Is there an entrance fee at Hammonasset Beach State Park?
The entrance fee at Hammonasset Beach State Park is $15-$22 per vehicle (seasonal). Hours: Open daily, 8 AM to sunset.
What amenities are available at Hammonasset Beach State Park?
Hammonasset Beach State Park offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Visitor Center.