Horseneck Beach State Reservation Campground — Hotel in Westport

Very nice and clean beach with lots of parking and space, normally very warm water. Has changing cabins outside so even in the after-hours you can still wash yourself off and change. One of our all-time go-to beaches. 3 reasons why I would take 1 star out:

1. Seaweeds. When you have waves at this beach, you can very often get a lot of those. In most cases, they either drift along the coast or you can just walk past them. But seaweeds are something we expect to have here in most cases, and think of that every time we go here.
2. Waves. Even though I love waves, it is not the most kids-friendly beach. It is directly related to wind, which can be pretty strong here, as in I lie on the ground and get covered with sand in about half an hour. I've seen waves taller than an average person on a sunny day multiple times here as well. Again, not a bad thing but something to consider.
3. No shade on the beach. I understand it's normal, but you should always think of something to cover yourself up if you burn like me. An umbrella or a tent is something you won't regret bringing with you here. Otherwise, it's a perfect family beach with bathrooms, showers, changing cabin, lots of space and parking, and all of this is under the DCR pass if...

I really love Horseneck Beach. I've been going since I was a kid. Lots of sand and lots of dunes. The wave action at high tide is incredible. So much fun! It can get a little seaweedy especially after a storm but most if the time it's nice and clear. Depending on where you are you may have to walk over a narrow small rocked strip before getting to the water but once in a nice sandy bottom. Boogie boards and inflatables are not allowed. Also depending on the time of year, certain areas might be closed for the nesting piping plover, but the beach is so long there is plenty of space to be had. Because of the intense wave action you have to be on watch for rip currents but the lifeguards and plenty of them keep you notified. So you may want to keep a watchful eye on your children. It might be better if you have kids to go to Gooseberry beach which is just down the road protected by a jetty so wave action is limited. Also adjacent to the beach is part of a state reservation so you can go to a campsite on the beach provided you book in advance or put your name on the waiting list. All in all I think it's one of the nicest beaches around at a reasonable...

I love this place! but want to start by saying it's not for everyone. We lucked out and got a water front sight. There is no water electric or septic at this these water front sights. And no gas generators are allowed. We have a solar generator add most people that get these sites have a couple of solar panels. Access to the beach has improved greatly with the addition of rolled out Maps to accommodate all however it is still difficult getting over some of the piles of rocks. Waves are big and crashing most of the time and the wind here can be a bit much. That being said I love the waves in water temperature is perfect but the mid to end of June there's plenty of places to walk along the beach and or walk up to Gooseberry Island and explore their and also if you walk to the town beach you'll find a great swimming area there too. If you are paying attention you can see seals and or sea lions and definitely would not rule out various species of sharks here. Great spot for fishing. A very basic playground, two dishwashing sinks with hot water and sprayer, bathrooms are average Camp style but you do have to continuously press the button to get hot water in...