Harvey's Beach

Old Saybrook offers a diverse range of dining options near Harvey's Beach. Fresh Salt is a standout for its upscale American seafood and beautiful river views. Another popular choice is Otter Cove Restaurant & Bar, known for its eclectic American fare and cozy atmosphere. For a casual dining experience, Monkey Farm is a local favorite with a classic American menu. Additionally, The Essex offers a sophisticated dining experience with French-inspired cuisine.

These restaurants provide a mix of casual and upscale dining options, catering to different tastes and preferences.

For accommodations near Harvey's Beach, Saybrook Point Resort & Marina is a top choice, offering elegant rooms and suites with waterfront views. Another option is the Pier Blue Inn, which provides a budget-friendly stay with simple yet comfortable rooms. The Quality Inn Old Saybrook - Westbrook offers a relaxed atmosphere with amenities like an indoor pool. For a more budget-friendly option, the Econo Lodge Inn & Suites Old Saybrook - Westbrook is available with basic amenities and a pool.

These hotels cater to different budgets and preferences, ensuring a comfortable stay for visitors.

Harvey's Beach offers several amenities to enhance the visitor experience. These include lifeguards on duty during peak hours, a playground for children, restrooms, and a concession stand. The beach is also handicapped accessible, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the facilities. Parking is available nearby, though fees apply. Additionally, there are picnic areas where families can enjoy meals together.

The presence of these amenities makes Harvey's Beach a convenient and enjoyable destination for families and individuals alike.

Visitors to Harvey's Beach can engage in a variety of activities. Swimming and fishing are popular pastimes, with the calm waters providing a safe environment for swimmers of all ages. Boating is another favorite activity, allowing visitors to explore the surrounding waters. For those interested in creative pursuits, building sandcastles is a fun activity, especially for children. The beach's tidal flats are also great for exploring during low tide, where kids can search for sea creatures like hermit crabs.

Overall, Harvey's Beach offers a mix of relaxation and adventure, making it suitable for different interests and age groups.

Harvey's Beach is handicapped accessible, ensuring that visitors with disabilities can enjoy the facilities. This includes accessible restrooms and pathways, making it easier for everyone to participate in beach activities. However, specific details about wheelchair rentals or additional accessibility features are not readily available, so it may be beneficial to contact local authorities for more information.

The beach's accessible design helps create an inclusive environment for all visitors.

Parking at Harvey's Beach is available but requires a fee. The cost varies depending on the day of the week, with higher rates on weekends and holidays. While some visitors have noted that the parking fees can be misleading, the proximity of the parking lot to the beach makes it convenient for dragging beach gear. It is advisable to arrive early, especially during peak season, as the parking lot can fill up quickly.

Despite the fees, the accessibility of the parking area is a significant advantage for those planning a day at the beach.

Harvey's Beach is named after Captain Eli Harvey, a prominent figure in Old Saybrook during the 19th century. The beach's location at the intersection of the Connecticut River and Long Island Sound makes it a unique spot for observing tidal changes and marine life. During low tide, visitors can walk far into the sound, making it an exciting place for children to explore and discover sea creatures.

The historical significance and natural features of the beach add to its charm and appeal.

Near Harvey's Beach, there are several attractions worth exploring. The Essex Steam Train and Riverboat offers scenic rides along the Connecticut River, providing a unique perspective on the region's beauty. For nature lovers, Chatfield Hollow State Park is a short drive away, offering hiking trails and a small swimming beach. Additionally, the Saybrook Point Resort & Marina itself is an attraction, with its elegant accommodations and stunning views.

These attractions complement the beach experience, offering a mix of natural beauty and cultural activities.