Compo Beach, Westport, Connecticut

Compo Beach is a stunning 29-acre park located in Westport, Connecticut. With its extensive sandy shores along Long Island Sound and beautiful views of the Saugatuck River, this beach offers you a perfect escape from everyday life. The beach has evolved over the years and now features handicap-accessible amenities including a boardwalk for everyone to enjoy.

You’ll find plenty to do at this family-friendly destination, from relaxing on the sand to exploring the wooden playground complete with tire swings and monkey bars that kids love. While the beach can get crowded during peak times, its charming atmosphere and natural beauty make it worth visiting. The combination of recreational facilities and natural scenery creates an ideal setting for a memorable day by the water.

Connecticut 2025 Deals!
Get a discount of 15% to 70% on accommodation in Connecticut! Look for deals here:
Connecticut Hotels, Apartments, B&Bs

Compo Beach

Compo Beach is a beautiful sandy beach located in Westport, Connecticut. You’ll love the relaxing atmosphere and stunning views of Long Island Sound. This charming day-use park offers a perfect escape from busy life.

The beach features volleyball courts where you can challenge your friends to a fun match. Kids will enjoy the play structure that provides hours of entertainment. When you get hungry, head to the picnic shelter for a delightful meal with ocean views.

Compo Beach is ideal for swimming during summer months. The soft sand feels wonderful between your toes as you stroll along the shore. You might spot sailboats gliding across the water or birds soaring overhead.

This local treasure provides clean restroom facilities for visitors’ convenience. Whether you’re planning a family outing or a peaceful solo trip, Compo Beach delivers a quintessential Connecticut shoreline experience that will have you coming back again and again.

Rating: 4.4 (200 reviews)
Location: Westport, CT 06880

Overview of Compo Beach

Compo Beach is a beautiful 29-acre park in Westport, Connecticut that offers visitors a wonderful beach experience along Long Island Sound. The beach features both natural beauty and family-friendly amenities that make it a popular destination.

Location and Accessibility

Compo Beach sits along the shoreline of Long Island Sound and borders the Saugatuck River in Westport, Connecticut. This prime location gives you access to both open water views and the scenic river landscape.

The beach is fully handicap-accessible with a boardwalk that allows everyone to enjoy the coastal experience. When planning your visit, be aware that parking can be challenging, especially on busy days when the beach becomes quite crowded.

Many visitors note that the beach has changed over the years, becoming more popular. This means you’ll want to arrive early to secure parking and amenities like grills and tables, which are often claimed quickly by larger groups.

Natural Features

The extensive sandy shoreline is Compo Beach’s main attraction, giving you plenty of space to relax, play, or stroll along Long Island Sound. The beach offers beautiful views across the water, making it perfect for watching sunsets.

Beyond the sand, you’ll find grassy areas that provide additional space for picnics and recreation. The border with the Saugatuck River adds to the natural diversity of the area.

For families with children, the wooden playground is a highlight featuring tire swings, monkey bars, and fun hide-and-seek spots. The mix of natural beach elements and recreational facilities makes Compo Beach versatile for different activities.

As one of three town beaches in Westport (alongside Burying Hill and Old Mill), Compo offers a distinctive experience along Connecticut’s coastline.

History and Culture

Compo Beach carries a rich history dating back to colonial times while also serving as a center for community gatherings and traditions. The beach has transformed from a military landing site to a beloved community asset with deep cultural significance for Westport residents.

Historical Significance

Compo Beach played a notable role during the American Revolutionary War. On April 25, 1777, approximately 1,850 British soldiers landed here before marching to Danbury. Today, you can see cannons on the beach marking this historic landing site. This military action became known as the Battle of Compo Hill.

Before becoming a recreational destination, the area was frequented by Native American tribes. The beach’s modern development began in the early 20th century, between 1910 and 1940, when it was transformed into part of a summer resort community.

The 29-acre park has evolved from its military and agricultural past into one of Westport’s most treasured natural resources.

Local Events and Traditions

Compo Beach hosts numerous community gatherings throughout the year that bring Westport residents together. Summer concerts fill the warm evening air with music while families spread blankets on the sand.

The annual Fourth of July fireworks display draws crowds from across Connecticut to witness spectacular bursts of color over Long Island Sound. The event has become a cherished tradition for many families.

Winter doesn’t stop the celebrations! The Polar Plunge sees brave participants dashing into the frigid waters to raise money for local charities.

You’ll also find seasonal festivals celebrating everything from seafood to art, making the beach a year-round cultural hub. Community bonfire nights create a cozy atmosphere where you can connect with neighbors under starry skies.