Lighthouse Point Park
Interactive Park Map
About Lighthouse Point Park
Historic Lighthouse
The Five Mile Point Lighthouse stands 70 feet tall at the eastern tip of New Haven Harbor in Connecticut, dating back to 1847 and anchoring the 82-acre Lighthouse Point Park. This lighthouse might not be the towering giant you'd find elsewhere along the coast, but what it lacks in size, it makes up for in charm.
It offers a glimpse into New Haven's seafaring past, with paved walkways circling its base that make it easy to admire from all angles - and it certainly provides some photogenic views.
Recreational Activities
The views of Long Island Sound from here are quite impressive. There's a sandy beach where you can swim and soak up some rays during summer, but we should mention the sand is a bit on the coarser side with some rocky patches - not exactly powder-soft, but it does the job.
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If you're feeling more adventurous, hit the hiking trails that wind through the park's natural coastal landscape. For something more relaxed, the paved walking paths offer leisurely strolls with ocean and harbor vistas that might just make you forget to check your phone for a while.
Family Attractions
The park's antique carousel from 1916 features hand-carved wooden horses that have entertained visitors for generations. It runs on weekends during summer months (typically 12-4pm), and at 50 cents per ride, it's quite affordable.
Kids will love cooling off at the splash pad near the beach - fantastic for little ones who aren't quite ready to brave the ocean waves. The large pirate-themed playground is another hit, offering all the essential climbing, sliding, and swinging activities that keep children happily occupied while parents catch their breath.
Wildlife Viewing
Bird enthusiasts, take note: Lighthouse Point sits right on the Atlantic Flyway, making it prime real estate for spotting raptors and other migratory birds, especially during fall migration.
Climb the observation tower for an elevated bird's-eye view that improves your chances of spotting something special. And don't overlook the rocky shoreline, where tide pools form natural aquariums filled with fascinating marine creatures waiting to be discovered.
Amenities
Scattered across the grounds are numerous picnic areas with tables and grills - some nestled under shady trees, others basking in the sun for those who prefer to work on their tan while enjoying lunch.
Fishing is allowed in designated spots, and there's a boat launch if you want to take to the water in something small. Parking is plentiful, but it does fill up fast on those peak summer weekends.
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You'll discover restrooms during the main season, with portable toilets strategically placed during busy times. Water fountains and seasonal concessions might be available depending on when you visit.
Visiting Information
There's a parking fee that varies depending on where you call home. If you're a New Haven resident with valid vehicle registration, you're in luck - entry is free. Connecticut residents pay $25 per vehicle, while out-of-state visitors are charged $30. The park typically closes at 8pm, and swimmers need to wrap up when lifeguards leave at 5pm.
One pro tip: summer weekends draw crowds, so arriving early is your best bet if you want to snag one of those coveted picnic spots with grills. They're first-come, first-served, and they go quickly when the weather's nice.
All Features & Facilities
Nature & Wildlife
Water Features & Activities
Visitor Services
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Photo Gallery (tap to enlarge)
The rocky shoreline creates a natural boundary along the waterfront
The park's lighthouse stands watch over the surrounding coast
Sunset casts an orange glow over a boat on the water
In the evening light, a wooden pier stretches into the water
A quiet evening in the park, viewed from a grassy bluff
Trees line the natural bluffs overlooking the water
Low tide at the park's western shore
Warm sunset illuminates the lighthouse and the rocky coastline
The shoreline where water meets sand and rocky outcroppings on a windy day
Shoreline views stretch toward the fishing pier in the distance
The park grounds with the lighthouse in the background
A seagull poised among crashing waves along the shore
A stone breakwater extends into choppy waters under a blue sky
Water playground fountains create a spectacular sun-backlit display
The lighthouse in late afternoon sunlight
A park bench provides a great vantage point of the New Haven skyline
On the rocky beach, a wedding party gathers with city views behind them
Looking north toward sailboats near the Pardee Seawall
A view of the fishing pier at the north end of the park
Notable Sights (2)
Points of interest, landmarks, and things to see in this park
Structures (2)
A historic lighthouse structure at Lighthouse Point Park, listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
A historic carousel located in Lighthouse Point Park, listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
