Westport - Where Culture Meets the Coast
Westport, Connecticut, located in Fairfield County along the Long Island Sound, is a vibrant coastal town known for its blend of historic charm and modern amenities. Originally a farming community and then a bustling shipping center, Westport has evolved into a desirable residential area and a cultural hub. Its downtown boasts a mix of shops, restaurants and cultural venues, like the Westport Country Playhouse and the Levitt Pavilion, all set on the scenic Saugatuck River. Residents enjoy a sophisticated coastal lifestyle, characterized by upscale dining, boutique shopping, and a strong sense of community. Westport is also celebrated for its top-rated public school system, including Staples High School, which consistently ranks among the best in Connecticut. Westport boasts a high quality of life due to its beautiful beaches, abundant parks, and convenient access to New York City. Commuting is made easy via Interstate 95, the Merritt Parkway, and the Metro-North Railroad.
Golf, Tennis, Swimming, Sailing and much more at Westport’s Longshore Club and Park
Longshore Golf Club and Park offers a wide array of amenities and activities for Westport residents all set against the picturesque backdrop of Long Island Sound. The centerpiece is an 18-hole golf course, a premier municipal course in Fairfield County known for its scenic views. In addition, visitors can enjoy nine tennis courts, as well as two paddle tennis courts. The park boasts a swimming pool complex with three pools, including a wading pool, a 3-foot pool, and a 25-yard lap pool. For those who enjoy being on the water, the Longshore Sailing School offers classes and rentals for sailing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. Year-round amenities include the Inn at Longshore, featuring elegant accommodations and the waterfront La Plage restaurant. During the winter months, Longshore features an outdoor ice skating rink. Longshore Club and Park truly provides a resort-like atmosphere with something for everyone to enjoy, whether it's a round of golf, a swim, a game of tennis, or simply relaxing by the water.
The Westport School District consistently ranks among the top districts in both the state and the nation. Serving over 5,300 students from pre-kindergarten through 12th grade across eight schools, the district maintains an impressive student-teacher ratio of 11:1. Academically, Westport schools demonstrate exceptional performance; U.S. News & World Report highlights students' consistent scores above state and national averages on standardized tests. Notably, Niche recognized Staples High School as the #1 high school in Connecticut. Beyond strong academics, Westport Schools are dedicated to providing a holistic education. This includes robust arts programs that cultivate creative thinking and problem-solving skills, alongside a strong emphasis on student well-being. The school system benefits from active community involvement, evidenced by strong parent organizations like the PTA. The Westport School System is widely recognized for its unwavering commitment to academic excellence, comprehensive programming, and robust community support.
Westport Schools District
Westport boasts a rich artistic heritage, a legacy stretching back to the late 19th century. This vibrant arts scene is supported by key institutions such as the Westport Country Playhouse, Levitt Pavilion, and Westport Community Theatre, all dedicated to the performing arts. Visual arts also flourish, with prominent venues including the Museum of Contemporary Art (MoCA CT), various galleries like Westport River Gallery, and the extensive Westport Public Art Collections (WestPAC). Organizations such as the Westport Arts Advisory Committee (WAAC) play a crucial role in fostering this dynamic environment, culminating in annual events like the Westport Fine Arts Festival. Beyond its artistic renown, Westport has been home to numerous celebrated individuals across various fields, including actors, musicians, writers, and business figures. Notable past and present residents include Paul Newman, Robert Redford, Martha Stewart, Shonda Rhimes, Michael Bolton, and Anne Hathaway.
Westport Art Scene
Westport offers a variety of public beaches along the picturesque Long Island Sound, each with its unique character and amenities. Compo Beach, the largest and most popular, offers a sandy beach, boardwalk, pavilion, concession stand, volleyball courts, pickleball courts, a large playscape, bathroom facilities, lockers, and even a skate park. It's a favorite for picnics, sunsets, and enjoying recreational activities. Burying Hill Beach with sand and rocks, offers a more tranquil experience, featuring picnic tables, grills, a restroom and changing area. Westport also includes Sherwood Island State Park, Connecticut's first state park. Sherwood Island boasts beach and woodlands, offering swimming, fishing, hiking trails, a nature center and picnic areas. These diverse beaches provide ample opportunities for residents to enjoy Westport's scenic coastline.
Westport Beaches
785 Post Rd E, Westport, CT 06880