Ocean Beach Park in New London, Connecticut, combines my love of the sea with a perfect family adventure, topped with a large splash of nostalgia. I love visiting this park with my kids as my parents would take me (and before that, my mom’s parents would take her as a girl). More than just a beach, the park includes an arcade, amusement park, playground, mini golf course, ice cream stand, and many other features, making a visit here an all-day stay.
The Beach
For most visitors, the beach is the major draw at Ocean Beach. The fine white sand is soft and rock-free. It’s an expansive beachfront that has plenty of room even during a summer day. Long Island Sound is in the background as you watch the ferry shuttle passengers back and forth from New London to the islands. Also notice Ledge Light, which resembles a brick schoolhouse in the middle of the harbor. There are ample restrooms and changing rooms, and lifeguards are on duty every day..
The Rides
Although the beach is a major draw, for my kids it’s not. Most likely since the ocean is an everyday site for them, they are more focused on the attractions. Near the entrance to the park is an array of rides. A merry-go-round, kiddie rides, and waterslides are there to choose from. My kids stay on the smaller ones.
Mini Golf
My favorite part of the park is the old-fashioned mini golf course. It looks almost the same as it did 40 years ago (and probably 40 years before that!) Its most fun feature is the whale that you hit the ball through. Other obstacles include a ramp, a lighthouse, and an old mill. This course is a long way away from adventure mini golf courses that line tourist destinations from coast to coast.
Other fun
The playground includes swings and a playscape. There’s also a splash pad, an Olympic-sized pool, and an arcade. The arcade has more actual arcade games than most these days but also has classic amusements including Skee Ball. Ice cream is a must in the summertime. Also in the summer, there is often live music or other forms of live entertainment.
When You Go To Ocean Beach
Ocean Beach is located in a residential neighborhood in New London, Connecticut. The cost is between $30 and $35 per car but can certainly be an all-day activity. Attractions like mini golf are not included in the admission. In the evenings it’s $20 and $10 in shoulder season. It is located at 98 Neptune Avenue in New London.
