Natural swimming hole
Harvey's Beach
Ocean cove · Connecticut
About this swimming hole
A small town-managed beach of about 100 yards of white sand on Long Island Sound at 29 Plum Bank Road in Old Saybrook. It is best known for exceptionally shallow water and low-tide sandbars that reach far into the Sound, making it a favorite for families with small children. In season (Memorial Day through Labor Day) it offers lifeguards, a playground, changing rooms, restrooms and concessions.
Good to know
| Water type | Ocean cove |
|---|---|
| Depth | Very shallow — at low tide the sandbars extend well out into the Sound and the water can stay knee-deep far from shore |
| Best season | Summer |
| Fees | Parking $15 per car on weekdays and $25 per car on weekends and holidays; non-resident season passes available from Old Saybrook Parks & Recreation |
| Reservations required | No |
| Hours | 8:00 a.m.-9:00 p.m. in season; restrooms and changing rooms open and close with lifeguard hours |
| Parking | Beach lot at 29 Plum Bank Road, Old Saybrook; the small lot fills early on summer days |
| Amenities | restrooms, lifeguards, playground |
| County | Middlesex County |
| Nearest town | Old Saybrook |
| Safety notes | The water is too shallow for diving or deep-water swimming. The usable beach shrinks considerably at high tide — check a tide chart before visiting. |
Map
Official information
Official park / agency page ↗ — check current conditions, fees, and reservations here before you go.
Nearby swimming holes
Frequently asked questions
Can you swim in Harvey's Beach?
Yes — Harvey's Beach is listed as a natural swimming spot in Connecticut. Heads-up: The water is too shallow for diving or deep-water swimming. The usable beach shrinks considerably at high tide — check a tide chart before visiting.. There are rarely lifeguards at natural swimming holes — verify conditions locally before you go.
Does Harvey's Beach require reservations?
No reservations are required at Harvey's Beach based on current information — but verify before you go.
Is there a fee to visit Harvey's Beach?
Reported fee info: Parking $15 per car on weekdays and $25 per car on weekends and holidays; non-resident season passes available from Old Saybrook Parks & Recreation. Fees can change — confirm with the official link.
When is the best time to visit Harvey's Beach?
The best season is typically Summer.