Westport Longshore Club Park

For those of us living in Connecticut, seeking out premier recreational facilities that offer both active pursuits and serene natural beauty is a top priority. Westport Longshore Club Park stands out as one of our state's most exceptional destinations. This expansive 169-acre waterfront property isn't just a park; it's a vibrant hub of activity, leisure, and natural splendor, boasting breathtaking views of the Saugatuck River and Long Island Sound. It's a place where you can spend a full day, or even an entire weekend, enjoying a wide array of amenities right here in our own backyard.

Longshore Club Park has a rich history, once a private country club before becoming a municipally owned gem in the mid-1920s. This transformation has allowed residents and visitors alike to experience its world-class facilities and stunning coastal setting. Whether you're an avid golfer, a tennis enthusiast, a boater, or simply looking for a picturesque spot for a family picnic or a leisurely stroll, Longshore offers something for everyone. As one delighted customer who attended a wedding here raved, it had "absolutely wonderful service and the venue had breathtaking views. The entire venue was clean and organized. The food was delicious, and there was A LOT of food! I have no complaints at all." Another planning a wedding found the staff "more than willing to help," anticipating a "great wedding there." These testimonials speak volumes about the quality of experience and service you can expect at this iconic Westport destination.

Westport Longshore Club Park is ideally situated at 260 Compo Road South, Westport, CT 06880, USA. This prime waterfront location in Westport, a vibrant town in Fairfield County, makes it easily accessible from various points across Connecticut. Its position directly on the Saugatuck River and Long Island Sound offers unparalleled scenic beauty and convenient access for water-based activities.

Getting to Longshore is straightforward. Compo Road South is a major artery in Westport, connecting easily to Route 1 and other main roads. The park provides ample parking facilities for visitors. However, it's important for locals to be aware of specific access requirements during peak season. A "Westport Parking Emblem" is often required for vehicle entrance to designated Longshore parking lots (specifically Lot D & E, serving the Pool, Tennis, and Marina areas) during the summer months, typically from Memorial Day through Labor Day. This emblem is part of the Town of Westport Parks & Recreation's resident "Handpass" program, ensuring priority access for Westport and Weston residents. Non-residents may also be able to purchase daily parking passes or may need to park in general areas if available. It's advisable to check the Town of Westport's Parks & Recreation website for the most current parking and access information, especially during busy times. Despite these considerations, the park is designed to be welcoming, with pathways and facilities that accommodate a wide range of visitors.

Westport Longshore Club Park is a comprehensive recreational facility offering a wide array of services and amenities designed to cater to diverse interests:

• 18-Hole Golf Course: A centerpiece of the park, Longshore features a beautiful 18-hole golf course with scenic views. It's known as a top municipal course in Fairfield County and offers a driving range and a pro shop. Seasonal pass programs (Handpasses) are available for Westport residents offering discounted rates and advanced tee time reservations.

• Tennis Facilities: The park boasts nine Har-Tru tennis courts and one paddle tennis court, providing ample opportunity for racquet sports enthusiasts. Tennis Handpasses for residents often waive court fees.

• Swimming Pools: Longshore offers three swimming pools: a 1-foot wading pool for the youngest visitors, a 3-foot training pool (20 yards in length) for lessons and lap swim, and a 25-yard lap pool with depths from 3 to 9 feet for open swim. A bathhouse with locker facilities is also available.

• E.R. Strait Marina: For boating enthusiasts, the marina provides boat assignments and requires ramp permits for launch. It offers direct access to the Saugatuck River and Long Island Sound.

• Longshore Sailing School: Located within the park, this independent school offers sailing lessons and programs for all ages and skill levels, making waterfront recreation accessible.

• The Inn at Longshore: This on-site facility serves as a premier event venue, particularly popular for weddings, corporate events, and social gatherings. It features stunning waterfront views, catering services, and overnight accommodations (12 guest rooms).

• Dining Options: The Inn at Longshore provides extensive catering for events. Additionally, La Plage, a waterfront casual restaurant and oyster bar, offers coastal cuisine with views of the Saugatuck River and Long Island Sound, open for lunch, dinner, and weekend brunch. Joey's By the Sea is a concession stand offering casual dining options.

• P.A.L. Rink at Longshore: During the colder months (typically November to March), an outdoor ice skating rink is set up, providing a beloved winter recreational activity for the community.

• Picnic Areas & Playscape: Evan Harding Point offers a dedicated picnic area, and a large playscape provides entertainment for children, making the park very family-friendly.

Westport Longshore Club Park is distinguished by several key features and highlights that contribute to its status as a premier destination:

• Breathtaking Waterfront Views: The park's most striking feature is its stunning location overlooking the Saugatuck River and Long Island Sound. These panoramic views provide a picturesque backdrop for all activities, from golfing to dining to outdoor events, creating an unforgettable experience for visitors.

• Diverse Recreational Opportunities: Longshore is unique in the breadth of activities it offers within a single location. It seamlessly combines a top-rated municipal golf course, extensive tennis and swimming facilities, a full-service marina, and even a winter ice rink, ensuring year-round engagement for all ages and interests.

• The Inn at Longshore as a Premier Event Venue: The Inn is a major draw, especially for weddings and large gatherings. Its elegant facilities, catering services, and incomparable waterfront setting make it a highly sought-after location. Reviews consistently praise the "breathtaking views," "delicious food," and "wonderful service" for events held here.

• Impeccable Grounds and Cleanliness: Visitors frequently highlight the park's well-maintained "impeccable grounds" and overall cleanliness. This attention to detail enhances the visitor experience, creating a pleasant and inviting atmosphere for all activities.

• Family-Friendly Amenities: With a large playscape, dedicated wading pool, and spacious areas for casual picnics and lawn games, Longshore is exceptionally well-suited for families, ensuring children have plenty of engaging activities.

• Historic Charm: Dating back to its origins as a private country club, the park retains an air of classic elegance and history. Its transformation into a public facility in the mid-1920s adds a layer of community heritage.

• Year-Round Appeal: From summer swimming and sailing to fall golf, spring walks, and winter ice skating, Longshore Club Park truly offers something for every season, encouraging continuous local engagement.

Westport Longshore Club Park, as a town-owned and operated facility, manages its promotions and special offers through the Westport Parks & Recreation Department and its various individual facilities. While direct commercial promotions like coupons may not be common for the entire park, various programs and specific facilities offer structured benefits:

• Resident "Handpass" Program: This is the primary form of "promotion" for Westport and Weston residents. Handpasses provide:

  • Discounted rates for the golf course.
  • Advanced tee time reservations for golf.
  • Access to the Longshore & Staples pools (often included with a Basic Handpass).
  • Waiver of court fees for tennis, pickleball, and platform tennis (with a Tennis Handpass).
  • Required vehicle parking emblems for designated lots during peak season (May 1 - Sept 30).

  These passes offer significant savings and priority access for local residents who frequently use the park's facilities.

• Non-Resident Program Fees: While non-residents can register for some activities (e.g., sports camps at any time, instructional programs and day camps 10 days prior to start if space is available), they are typically charged additional fees ($20 per child, $40 per adult per program). This isn't a promotion, but rather a differentiated pricing structure.

• Special Event Packages at The Inn at Longshore: The Inn at Longshore, as a premier wedding and event venue, may offer specific packages for different types of events, off-peak season rates, or inclusions with their catering services. Inquiries for event pricing should be made directly to The Inn's event coordination team.

• Longshore Sailing School Programs: The sailing school operates independently and offers a range of classes and programs. They may have early bird registration discounts or package deals for multiple lessons, which would be advertised through their own channels.

• P.A.L. Rink Promotions: During the winter season, the P.A.L. Rink might offer special public skate times, discounted rates for specific groups, or learn-to-skate program promotions, which would be announced closer to the season.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information on resident passes, program registrations, and event venue pricing, it is highly recommended to visit the official Town of Westport Parks & Recreation website or contact the specific facility directly.

For comprehensive information and to connect with the various facilities and services at Westport Longshore Club Park, here are the key contact details:

Park Address: 260 Compo Road South, Westport, CT 06880, USA

Main Town of Westport Parks and Recreation Offices: (203) 341-5090

General Park Phone: (203) 341-1000

Specific Facilities:

• Golf Course (Automated Tee Times): (203) 341-1833

• Golf Pro Shop: (203) 221-0900

• Tennis Courts: (203) 341-1180

• Swimming Pools: (203) 454-6107

• E.R. Strait Marina (Boat Assignments/Ramp Permits): (203) 341-1190

• The Inn at Longshore (Event Venue): (203) 226-3316

• Longshore Sailing School: (203) 226-4646

• The P.A.L. Rink at Longshore (Seasonal - Nov-Mar): (203) 226-RINK

Website: www.westportct.gov (for general park information and Parks & Recreation services); www.longshoregolfcourse.com (for golf-specific information); www.innatlongshore.com (for event venue details); www.LongshoreSailingSchool.com (for sailing programs).

These multiple contact points ensure that whether you're inquiring about golf, planning an event, or simply looking for general park information, you can easily reach the appropriate department or facility within this extensive park system.

For us Connecticut locals, Westport Longshore Club Park is far more than just a destination; it's a cornerstone of our community's recreational and social life, making it exceptionally suitable for residents across the state. Its multifaceted offerings and stunning setting provide immense value that resonates deeply with our lifestyle.

Firstly, its unparalleled range of amenities caters to virtually every age and interest. Whether you're an avid golfer seeking a well-maintained course with breathtaking views, a family looking for a fun day by the pool or playground, a tennis enthusiast, or a boater yearning for open water, Longshore has it all. This diverse offering means that families can easily find activities that appeal to everyone, making it a perfect spot for multi-generational outings. The convenience of having such a comprehensive recreational hub right here in Fairfield County is a true luxury.

Secondly, the park acts as a magnificent backdrop for life's special moments. The Inn at Longshore's reputation as a top-tier wedding and event venue, as echoed by satisfied customers who experienced "breathtaking views" and "delicious food," highlights its capacity to host memorable gatherings. For locals planning a wedding, a corporate event, or a significant family celebration, having such a pristine and well-serviced waterfront venue so close to home is an invaluable asset.

Furthermore, Longshore fosters a strong sense of community. It's a place where neighbors meet on the golf course, children learn to swim and sail, and families gather for picnics by the Sound. The municipal ownership ensures that this incredible resource remains accessible to residents, with programs and pass options designed to benefit locals. Even during peak seasons, the structured access via resident parking emblems emphasizes a commitment to prioritizing the local community.

In conclusion, Westport Longshore Club Park is a jewel in Connecticut's crown, offering a blend of active recreation, serene natural beauty, and top-tier event facilities. Its accessibility, diverse amenities, commitment to quality, and community-focused approach make it an indispensable and cherished resource for us locals, inviting us to play, relax, and celebrate against the stunning backdrop of the Long Island Sound. It truly embodies the best of what our state has to offer for quality of life.

Westport Longshore Club Park

Westport, CT 06880, USA