Scavenging the Sound: Discovering New London from Ocean Beach Park
Turn a beach day into a city-wide treasure hunt—walk, think, and uncover New London’s shoreline secrets.
The sand feels like a soft, cooling grain underfoot as the Atlantic rolls a slow, steady applause against the seawall. Salt breathes off the Long Island Sound; gulls wheel like punctuation marks in the sky. On a bright morning at Ocean Beach Park, the city of New London is both postcard and open secret — a coastal ribbon of boardwalks, picnic groves, and low dunes that lead into a working harbor and a layered maritime history. You could come merely to lay a towel, but the shoreline here invites movement, curiosity, and a little friendly competition. That’s where the Nutty New London Scavenger Hunt begins: a phone-led, live-host urban game that turns a beach day into a detective walk through this small, storied port town.
Trail Wisdom
Bring a portable battery
The scavenger hunt runs through your phone with a live remote host—carry a charger so the game doesn’t end early.
Start late afternoon
Begin in the afternoon to avoid mid-day crowds and finish with golden-hour light over the Sound.
Wear supportive shoes
Expect paved promenades and some sandy stretches—closed-toe walking shoes keep your feet comfortable.
Respect dunes and signage
Stick to designated paths; the park protects fragile coastal vegetation and nesting areas.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Fort Trumbull State Park (short detour with harbor views)
- •Custom House Maritime Museum and small local galleries in downtown New London
Wildlife
harbor seals, shorebirds (sandpipers, plovers)
Conservation Note
Stick to designated paths to protect dune vegetation and nesting shorebirds; use refillable bottles and support local businesses to keep the area vibrant.
New London grew as a 19th-century shipping and whaling center and today hosts maritime institutions including the U.S. Coast Guard Academy.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: wildflower viewing, cool-weather walks, birdwatching
Challenges: unpredictable weather, cool water temperatures
Spring brings migrating shorebirds and fresh coastal air—layers and flexible plans are essential.
summer
Best for: swimming, family outings, evening festivals
Challenges: crowds, parking scarcity
Summer is peak season for beachgoers and events; arrive early or choose late-afternoon start times.
fall
Best for: calmer beaches, photography, long walks
Challenges: cooling temperatures, shorter daylight
Fall offers crisp light and fewer people—ideal for photography and reflective exploration.
winter
Best for: storm-watching, quiet seaside walks
Challenges: cold, windy conditions, limited services
Winter is raw and dramatic on the Sound—dress warmly and check local access before heading out.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Smartphone with data planEssential
The scavenger hunt operates through a live host and prompts delivered to your phone.
Portable battery packEssential
Keeps your phone powered for navigation, photos, and the interactive host.
Comfortable walking shoesEssential
Support for mixed surfaces: boardwalk, pavement, and compact sand.
Refillable water bottle & sunscreenEssential
Hydration and sun protection are essential for a multi-hour coastal walk.
Common Questions
How long is the scavenger hunt route?
Expect to walk 1.5–3 miles and spend roughly 2–3 hours, depending on how many clues you pursue and the pace of your group.
Do I need to download an app?
The Nutty New London Scavenger Hunt works through a phone-based interface and a live remote host; confirm booking instructions for any specific app or web link.
Is the route wheelchair/stroller friendly?
Much of the route uses paved promenades; however, some sections may include boardwalk segments or compacted sand—check specific accessibility needs before booking.
Are kids welcome?
Yes—this scavenger hunt is family-friendly and designed to engage children with visual and creative clues.
Can I do the hunt in bad weather?
You can, but strong winds, storms, or heavy rain will make the experience unpleasant; rescheduling is recommended during severe weather.
Do I need to bring cash for parking or food?
Bring a card or small cash—parking can require payment in summer, and local eateries and concessions may be card or cash-friendly.
What to Pack
portable phone charger, refillable water bottle, comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen—keeps your phone running, you hydrated, feet supported, and skin protected.
Did You Know
New London is home to the U.S. Coast Guard Academy and was a key maritime and whaling port in the 19th century—its shoreline reflects that layered history.
Quick Travel Tips
1) Arrive early for summer parking; 2) Bring a charger for your phone; 3) Time the hunt for late afternoon to avoid crowds; 4) Wear layers—coastal weather shifts quickly.
Local Flavor
After the hunt, refuel with local seafood—clam chowder, lobster rolls, and fried clams are neighborhood staples—then wander to a downtown bar with local brews or a casual bakery for pastry and coffee.
Logistics Snapshot
Where: Ocean Beach Park, New London. Duration: 2–3 hours. Terrain: paved promenades, compact sand. Booking: phone-hosted scavenger hunt; reserve online. Accessibility: mostly flat; check details for mobility needs.
Sustainability Note
Follow ‘leave no trace’ on the beach, use refillable containers, and support local businesses—the scavenger hunt highlights community spots worth preserving.