A long stretch of sandy beach extending into New Haven Harbor that is popular for birding. Faclities include sanitary facilities (seasonal), fishing, unsupervised swimming, trails, walkways. The island mainly serves as a breeding ground for several species of shoreline birds, including the least tern, the roseate tern, the piping plover, the American oystercatcher, and the herring gull, among others. It is also used for recreational purposes. The island is a popular beach for people because of its seclusion. It is also good for parents of young children because the water doesn't get much deeper than knee-deep along the shore. Today, the island is in the possession of the Land Conservancy, but is run in partnership with the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service. 

Visit The West Haven Beach Parking website for parking pass information: 

http://www.cityofwesthaven.com/166/Human-Resources