NEW LONDON, Conn. (WTNH) — After decades of visitors, Ocean Beach Park in New London continues to stand the test of time as one of Connecticut’s most beloved beach spots.
Listed among the best 25 beaches in the United States, according to Travel and Leisure, New London Mayor Michael Passero said it’s a staple he’s proud to show off.
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“Anyone that loves going to the beach I think knows about Ocean Beach Park, and it’s certainly on their list,” Passero said.
After a hurricane destroyed the then private beachfront in the late 1930s, it reopened shortly after as the public beach many have come to love.
“This is a really an important piece of the city’s identity,” Passero said. “I mean, everybody in New London has some sort of emotional attachment to this piece of real estate.”
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Resident Nickie Fantacci said memories at the beach with his wife stretch way back, as the two routinely hopped around the spot when they first met.
“When we used to come here when we were younger, we could come here dancing, and they used to have fireworks years ago,” Fantacci said.
Still coming routinely to enjoy the boardwalk shade and sugar-sand views, Fantacci said it’s a prime spot when beach access nearby is limited.
“There isn’t many beaches around. A lot of people come from inland too like Oakdale, Chesterfield, Colchester,” Fantacci said.
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Hundreds every year flock not only to the sand, but the shops, live entertainment, snacks and ice cream thanks to the Boardwalk Creamery.
If fun in the sand isn’t your style, kid-friendly amusement rides bring the thrill. An Olympic-sized swimming pool is also just yards away from the waves.
“It’s a great place for families … you see all the kids around. The water is clean here, that’s one of the reasons why we come to this beach,” Terrance Brennan of Hamden said.
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