Summer Fun |
Summer fun at Bell Island bridge in Rowayton, another local classic / Photo by Coulter Lewis and Rory Callhan
Presenting a little bit of local knowledge to lift the summer even higher. Try one, try them all. There’s no missing with these gems hidden in plain sight, right in our own backyard.
1. Sail into Summer
Escape on the water and enjoy the wonder of Long Island Sound on public sails aboard the 80-foot SoundWaters schooner. Two-hour sunset and afternoon sails offered Wednesday to Sunday all summer long. Passengers can bring their own dinner and beverages; $45 per person. SoundWaters also offers afternoon sails on Saturdays and Sundays; $35 for adults and $20 for children ages 5 to 12. All public sails depart from the Cohen SoundWaters Harbor Center, 200 Southfield Avenue in Stamford. For more information, email schooner@soundwaters.org or call 203-323-1978 (M–F).
2. Calling All Nature Lovers & Explorers
Adventure awaits at the Olson Woods Nature Preserve, a lesser-known Darien Land Trust property open to the public from dawn until dusk. Trek trails through majestic cottonwoods and sycamore trees along the banks of the Noroton River, pause atop the handcrafted walking bridge, and scramble up the hillside to Piacentini Preserve. Fun for all ages. Park in the cul-de-sac at the end of Heather Lane and access it from Heather Lane or Echo Drive North. Dogs welcome but must be on-leash to protect the fragile wetlands.
3. I Scream, You Scream…
We all scream for ice cream at Brendan’s 101 in Rowayton. It is the spot for the best ice cream around. It may be in the next town over but it’s old school Darien all the way. Find it at 101 Rowayton Ave. For some extra fun, get your cone and walk to the town dock a short stone’s throw down the street.
4. Dig for Clams
You’ll need a permit from the Darien Health Department and a boat, kayak or paddleboard to get there but how cool is it that you can actually dig for your own clams in Darien along the eastern shore of Long Neck Point?! The permit will run you $20 and you’ll need the right tools. You’ll also have to check to find out which beds are open before you go. For more information and a map of where the beds are, visit darienct.gov/209/Recreational-Fishing-Shellfishing.
5. Go Fish
For some really choice spots, try the back of Weed Beach where Holly Pond empties into Long Island Sound when the tide is going out. The public docks in Rowayton are pretty sweet too.
6. Darien Boat Club
If you ever want a boat in your life, get on the list to join the Darien Boat Club located at 135 Pear Tree Point Road (at the quiet end of Pear Tree Point Beach). Even if you don’t, it’s got a great deck on the water for all kinds of summer fun, food and cocktailing. There are even spots to keep your paddleboard and kayak. With the multi-year wait at most private clubs in town, it’s a no brainer. Find out more about it at darienboatclub.org.
7. Kid-Friendlier Beach
Back by the Darien Boat Club at Pear Tree Point Beach, there’s a great stretch of sand perfect for infants and toddlers. No waves, fewer rocks, less bedlam. You can even order pizza to be delivered there …to go with your BYOB. For beach permit info, visit darienct.gov.
