Counting the waves…
Counting the waves…
Dubois Beach occupies a sliver of shoreline in Stonington Borough, a granite-walled fishing village where the Atlantic meets the Sound. The beach itself is barely an acre—sand mixed with smooth pebbles, framed by weathered groins and a stone jetty that juts into dark blue water. Gulls perch on pilings while sailboats tack past the breakwater, and the air carries the faint diesel tang of lobster boats motoring out from the commercial docks a half-mile west. You'll share the sand with borough residents who arrive with folding chairs, thermoses of lemonade, and children clutching plastic buckets. The water is brisk even in July—this is New England, after all—but the gradual slope makes it safe for tentative waders. At low tide, clusters of mussels cling to exposed rocks, and hermit crabs scuttle through shallow pools. A simple pavilion offers shade, and a narrow lawn behind the beach hosts impromptu picnics beneath the maple canopy. What Dubois lacks in size it returns in authenticity. There are no lifeguards, no concession stands, no parking meters. Just a neighborhood beach doing what it has done for generations: giving families a place to swim, skip stones, and watch the evening light turn the Sound to hammered pewter. Pack everything in, pack everything out, and you'll fit right in.
Places, rentals, tours and events within walking and driving distance of Dubois Beach.
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DuBois Beach is generally safe for families with children due to its relatively calm, sheltered waters in Stonington Harbor. The beach has a gradual slope and is protected from strong ocean currents. However, it's a small beach without lifeguards on duty, so adult supervision is essential. Check water conditions before swimming, especially after storms. The rocky areas at the edges can be slippery, so water shoes are recommended. The beach's gentle waves and shallow areas near shore make it popular with local families for wading and playing.
Summer (June through August) offers the warmest water temperatures and best swimming conditions at DuBois Beach, with temperatures reaching the mid-70s°F. However, this small beach can get crowded during peak summer weekends. Late spring (May) and early fall (September) provide pleasant weather with fewer crowds, ideal for beachcombing and picnicking. Winter visits offer serene coastal views and beautiful sunrises, though swimming isn't advisable. The beach is accessible year-round, making it perfect for off-season walks and wildlife watching along the Connecticut shoreline.
DuBois Beach has a small parking lot on Bayview Road in Stonington Borough. Parking is extremely limited with only about 15-20 spaces, and during summer it's restricted to Stonington residents with permits. Non-residents should arrive very early or visit off-season. Alternatively, park in Stonington Borough's public areas and walk (about 10-15 minutes). The beach is located off Bayview Road, accessible from Water Street in the historic village. Street parking near the beach is limited and subject to local regulations, so check posted signs carefully before parking.
DuBois Beach has no on-site facilities, restrooms, or food vendors, so come prepared with supplies. However, Stonington Borough village center is a short walk away and offers excellent dining options, including seafood restaurants, cafes, and ice cream shops along Water Street. Dog Watch Cafe and Noah's Restaurant are popular nearby choices. For lodging, the village has several charming bed-and-breakfasts and inns within walking distance. Bring your own beach chairs, umbrellas, and coolers, as there are no rentals available. Public restrooms can be found in the village center.
Yes, DuBois Beach offers views of the Stonington Harbor Light, Connecticut's oldest lighthouse museum, which is visible from the beach and located just a short walk away. Built in 1840, this historic stone lighthouse sits at the end of Water Street and now houses a museum depicting local maritime history. After enjoying the beach, many visitors walk to the lighthouse to climb the tower for panoramic views of Fishers Island Sound and Long Island. The combination of beach time and lighthouse exploration makes this a quintessential New England coastal experience in historic Stonington Borough.
