You're going to a wedding at Water's Edge Resort & Spa in Westbrook, Connecticut. Congratulations! The lawns overlook Long Island Sound, and sunset photos here are hard to beat.
This guide covers the practical stuff guests ask about most: how to get there, what to wear, what to do with your free time and where to stay.
Before You Go: Book Lodging Early
Book your room or rental as soon as you RSVP. Water's Edge is one of Connecticut's most popular wedding venues, and the shoreline fills up quickly on summer weekends, fall foliage weekends and holidays. Waiting even a few weeks can mean a longer drive on the wedding night.
How Do You Get to Water's Edge?
Water's Edge is at 1525 Boston Post Road in Westbrook, CT, just off I-95.
By car
- From New York City: about 2 hours via I-95 North.
- From Boston: about 2 hours via I-95 South or I-395.
- From Hartford: about 1 hour via Route 9 South.
By train
- Shore Line East stops at Westbrook station on Norris Avenue, a few minutes' drive from the resort. It connects to Metro-North and Amtrak in New Haven.
- Amtrak Northeast Regional trains stop in Old Saybrook, the next town over.
- From NYC, take Amtrak from Penn Station to Old Saybrook, or Metro-North to New Haven and transfer to Shore Line East.
By plane
- Tweed New Haven Airport (HVN): the closest, roughly 35 to 40 minutes away.
- Bradley International (BDL), Hartford: about an hour's drive, with the most flight options.
- T.F. Green (PVD), Providence: about an hour and a quarter.
Is There Parking at Water's Edge?
Yes. Water's Edge offers complimentary self-parking and valet, plus three electric vehicle charging stations on a first-come basis. Still, many guests prefer not to drive after the reception. If you stay within walking distance, you can skip the car entirely.
What Should You Wear to a Water's Edge Wedding?
Follow the dress code on the invitation first. Beyond that, the setting matters: ceremonies often happen outdoors on the lawn, right by the water.
By season
- Summer: Light fabrics like linen, cotton or chiffon. Bring sunglasses and sunscreen for an afternoon ceremony.
- Fall: Layers. Warm afternoons can turn cool fast once the sun sets over the Sound. A wrap, shawl or light blazer is a must.
- Winter: Receptions move indoors to the ballroom. Dress warmly for the walk between car and door.
- Spring: Expect breezy, changeable weather. Pack a jacket even if the forecast looks warm.
Shoes and extras
- Choose block heels, wedges or dressy flats. Stilettos sink into lawns.
- Bring a light layer for any season. Shoreline evenings are breezier than inland.
- Secure your hairstyle and hat. The wind off the water is real.
Can You Bring Kids or Pets?
Kids: Check with the couple first, since some weddings are adults only. If kids are invited, plan for an early bedtime and a quiet place to rest between events.
Pets: The resort does not allow pets or emotional support animals, though service animals are welcome. If you're bringing a dog, book pet-friendly lodging nearby. Sunset Skies, a 5-minute walk from Water's Edge, welcomes one dog or cat under 50 pounds.
How Do You Get Home After the Reception?
Plan this before the wedding day. Westbrook is a small shoreline town, and rideshares can be slow late at night. You have three good options:
- Stay at the resort if rooms are available in the couple's block.
- Stay within walking distance so you can stroll home after the last dance.
- Book a designated driver or shuttle if you're staying farther away in Old Saybrook or Clinton.
What Is There to Do Before and After the Wedding?
Wedding weekends usually leave free time on Saturday morning and Sunday. Here's how to use it.
- Sunday Brunch at Water's Edge: Every Sunday from 9:00 am to 2:30 pm. A great way to see other guests one more time.
- The spa: Book ahead if you want a massage or manicure before the ceremony.
- Middle Beach: A quiet spot for a morning walk.
- Hammonasset Beach State Park: Connecticut's largest shoreline park, in nearby Madison.
- Tanger Outlets Westbrook: Minutes away. Perfect if you forgot shoes, a tie or a gift.
- Seaview Bistro: Live music Friday and Saturday nights from 9:00 pm to midnight, if you want an after-party spot.
Where Should Wedding Guests Stay?
It depends on your group.
- Couples: A room in the wedding block at the resort.
- Families and groups of friends: A whole-house rental within walking distance.
- Budget travelers: Hotels in Old Saybrook or Clinton, about 10 minutes away by car.
If you're coming with family or friends, Sunset Skies sleeps 14 across 6 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms, about a 5-minute walk from the resort. Past wedding guests call it close and convenient, and splitting the house often costs less per person than several hotel rooms.
For the full comparison, see the best places to stay near Water's Edge, or read our main guide on where to stay for a Water's Edge wedding.
Water's Edge Wedding Guest FAQ
What is the closest airport to Water's Edge? Tweed New Haven Airport is closest. Bradley International in Hartford has the most flights and is about an hour away.
Is there a train station near Water's Edge? Yes. Westbrook station on Shore Line East is a few minutes away, and Amtrak stops in Old Saybrook.
Can I walk to Water's Edge from nearby lodging? Some rentals are within walking distance. Sunset Skies is about a 5-minute walk.
Does Water's Edge allow dogs? No. Only service animals are allowed at the resort, so book pet-friendly lodging nearby.
What should I wear to an outdoor Water's Edge ceremony? Follow the invitation's dress code, wear lawn-friendly shoes and bring a layer for the evening breeze.
Is parking free at Water's Edge? Yes. Water's Edge offers complimentary self-parking and valet, plus EV charging stations on a first-come basis.
When should I book lodging for a Water's Edge wedding? As soon as you RSVP. Summer, fall foliage and holiday weekends fill up quickly along the shoreline.
What can wedding guests do the morning after? Sunday brunch at Water's Edge runs from 9:00 am to 2:30 pm and is a popular last gathering for wedding guests.
Where can a big family stay together for a Water's Edge wedding? Sunset Skies sleeps up to 14 across 6 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms, about a 5-minute walk from the venue.