Towns East of New Haven

 

If you’re thinking about moving to this area, you’re not alone—many of my buyers have asked for quick snapshots of the key towns I work in. Below, you’ll find short descriptions and handy links to explore some of the wonderful communities east of New Haven.

SHORELINE TOWNS WITH BEACHES

East Haven (I-95 exits 50-51)

East Haven is a coastal town just east of New Haven, offering a mix of suburban neighborhoods, shoreline access, and convenient proximity to city amenities. The town features beaches and marinas along Long Island Sound, with East Haven Town Beach and the adjacent splash pad popular in summer months. Its residential areas range from waterfront homes to quiet inland neighborhoods. East Haven also offers local dining, parks, and easy access to I-95 and Tweed-New Haven Airport, making it attractive for commuters and coastal living alike.

Click here for the East Haven town website.
Click here for the East Haven town profile from CT Data (pdf file).
Click here for the Niche Report Card for East Haven.
Click here for the East Haven schools.

SHORELINE TOWNS WITH BEACHES AND TRAIN STATION

Branford (I-95 exits 53-56)

Branford is a scenic shoreline town with a lively downtown, beautiful beaches, and access to the Thimble Islands. It offers a mix of historic charm and modern conveniences, with restaurants, breweries, shops, and marinas clustered near the town green and harbor. Outdoor lovers enjoy hiking at Branford Supply Ponds and Stony Creek Quarry. Its train station and proximity to I-95 make it popular with commuters.

Click here for the Branford town website.
Click here for the Branford town profile from CT Data (pdf file).
Click here for the Niche Report Card for Branford.
Click here for the Branford schools.

 Guilford (I-95 exits 57-59)

Guilford is known for its classic New England charm, centered around one of the largest and most picturesque town greens in the state. It features boutique shopping, art galleries, and historic homes. The town also offers beaches, farms, and miles of hiking trails, including those in Westwoods and Bluff Head. With a blend of coastal and countryside settings, Guilford is both family-friendly and culturally rich.

Click here for the Guilford town website.
Click here for the Guilford town profile from CT Data (pdf file).
Click here for the Niche Report Card for Guilford.
Click here for the Guilford schools.

Madison (I-95 exits 61-62)

Madison is an upscale coastal town with a relaxed feel, known for its beaches—particularly Hammonasset Beach State Park, Connecticut’s largest shoreline park. The walkable downtown features independent bookstores, restaurants, and boutiques. Madison has a strong sense of community and beautiful residential areas ranging from waterfront homes to wooded retreats.

Click here for the Madison town website.
Click here for the Madison town profile from CT Data (pdf file).
Click here for the Niche Report Card for Madison.
Click here for the Madison schools.

Clinton (I-95 exit 63)

Clinton combines shoreline access with small-town charm. It’s home to marinas, town beaches, and outlet shopping at Clinton Premium Outlets. The downtown area features historic architecture, antique shops, and local eateries. Clinton also has a working harbor and a strong boating culture, offering a laid-back lifestyle with easy access to both Route 1 and I-95.

Click here for the Clinton town website.
Click here for the Clinton town profile from CT Data (pdf file).
Click here for the Niche Report Card for Clinton.
Click here for the Clinton schools.

Westbrook (I-95 exits 64-66)

Westbrook is a quiet shoreline community known for its marinas, beaches, and family-friendly atmosphere. It offers boating access via the Patchogue and Menunketesuck Rivers, as well as waterfront dining and small local shops. A mix of casual restaurants and inns add to its appeal. It’s a popular spot for summer visitors and year-round residents alike.

Click here for the Westbrook town website.
Click here for the Westbrook town profile from CT Data (pdf file).
Click here for the Niche Report Card for Westbrook.
Click here for the Westbrook schools.

Old Saybrook (I-95 exit 67)

Old Saybrook is a historic coastal town at the mouth of the Connecticut River, offering a blend of scenic beauty, cultural amenities, and seaside charm. It has a walkable Main Street with shops, dining, and the Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center. The town also features beaches, golf courses, and marinas. With easy access to I-95, Amtrak, and Route 9, Old Saybrook is a convenient hub with a year-round vacation vibe.

Click here for the Old Saybrook town website.
Click here for the Old Saybrook town profile from CT Data (pdf file).
Click here for the Niche Report Card for Old Saybrook.
Click here for the Old Saybrook schools.

INLAND TOWNS - SHORT DISTANCE FROM BEACHES AND TRAIN STATIONS

North Branford

North Branford is a quiet, residential town with a strong community feel and a blend of rural and suburban character. It’s known for its open spaces, family-friendly neighborhoods, and local farms. Recreational amenities include Northford Park, the Totoket Mountain section of the Metacomet Ridge, and hiking trails at the North Branford Land Trust preserves. While the town has limited commercial development, it offers easy access to shopping and services in nearby Branford and North Haven.

Click here for the North Branford town website.
Click here for the North Branford town profile from CT Data (pdf file).
Click here for the Niche Report Card for North Branford.
Click here for the North Branford schools.

Killingworth

Killingworth is a rural town with a strong commitment to open space, conservation, and a peaceful lifestyle. It features wooded neighborhoods, historic homes, and scenic country roads. Chatfield Hollow State Park is a local gem, offering hiking, swimming, fishing, and picnicking. The town has a small commercial area with local shops and restaurants and appeals to those looking for a slower pace, natural beauty, and privacy.

Click here for the Killingworth town website.
Click here for the Killingworth town profile from CT Data (pdf file).
Click here for the Niche Report Card for Killingworth.
Click here for the Regional School District 17.

Thinking about purchasing a home in Connecticut? I'm here to help. The search for a home is more than a transaction—it’s a journey, and I’d be honored to take it with you. Let's start with an area tour.

Let’s talk.

David Mayhew, REALTOR®
Pearce Real Estate, 18 Church Street, Guilford, CT 06437
dmayhew@hpearce.com, call or text 203.533.5621
Licensed in the State of Connecticut #RES.0784723