Water's Edge Resort & Spa in Westbrook is Connecticut's largest beachfront resort, and it's an easy weekend from New York, Boston or Hartford. You get a private beach on Long Island Sound, four places to eat, a full spa and live shows almost every weekend.
The best part? You can pack a lot into two days without rushing. Here's how to plan it.
When Is the Best Time to Visit Water's Edge?
The best time depends on what you want from the weekend.
- Summer (June to August): Beach days, outdoor dining at Sunset Bar & Grill and live music on warm evenings. Book early, because this is peak season.
- Fall (September to November): Fewer crowds, crisp air and foliage along the shoreline. Fall is also when the indoor show calendar picks up.
- Winter (December to March): Tribute concerts, comedy nights and holiday events. Rates are usually lower and the lobby fireplace is the place to be.
- Spring (April and May): Easter and Mother's Day brunches, plus quiet beach walks before summer arrives.
A Simple 2-Day Water's Edge Itinerary
Saturday
- Morning: Walk the beach or grab a coffee at Cappuccio Caffé on the resort grounds.
- Midday: Book a treatment at the spa. It has 8 treatment rooms and a nail salon, so it works for a group too.
- Afternoon: Head to Middle Beach or browse Tanger Outlets in Westbrook.
- Evening: Saturday is Surf & Turf night at the resort. Many Saturdays also have a tribute band show, so check the events calendar and book tickets ahead.
Sunday
- Morning to early afternoon: Sunday Brunch runs every week from 9:00 am to 2:30 pm. It's the resort's signature meal, so reserve a table.
- Afternoon: Take a last walk along the water before you head home.
Where to Eat at Water's Edge
Water's Edge has several restaurants, each with a different feel.
- Dattilo: The upscale Italian steakhouse. Good for a special dinner.
- Seaview Bistro: More casual, with live music on many weekend nights.
- Sunset Bar & Grill: Outdoor dining by the water. Best in summer.
- Julia's Beach Bar: A seasonal spot right on the sand.
- Cappuccio Caffé and The Pastry Shop: Coffee and baked goods.
If you're staying a few days, plan around the weekly specials:
| Day | Special | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Monday | New England Lobster Boil | 5:00 to 9:00 pm |
| Monday to Thursday | Happy Hour | 3:00 to 5:00 pm |
| Wednesday | Burger Special | 11:30 am to 9:00 pm |
| Friday | Prime Rib Dinner | 5:00 to 9:00 pm |
| Saturday | Surf & Turf | 5:00 to 9:00 pm |
| Sunday | Sunday Brunch | 9:00 am to 2:30 pm |
Specials can change, so confirm on the Water's Edge website before you go.
What Shows and Events Are at Water's Edge?
Water's Edge runs a busy entertainment calendar, especially from fall through winter.
- Comedy at the Edge: Most Friday nights.
- Thursday Night Trivia: A fun, low-key night out.
- Dueling Pianos: About once a month on a Wednesday.
- Tribute concerts: Saturday shows honoring artists like Bon Jovi, Billy Joel and Elton John, and Frank Sinatra.
- Mystery Dinner: An interactive dinner show a few times a year.
- Holiday events: Thanksgiving Buffet, Brunch with Santa in December, plus Easter and Mother's Day brunches.
Shows sell out, especially for groups. Buy tickets when you book your stay.
Things to Do Near Water's Edge
Westbrook is a small shoreline town, so everything is close.
- Middle Beach: A short walk or drive for a quiet morning on the sand.
- Hammonasset Beach State Park: Connecticut's largest shoreline park, in nearby Madison, with a long boardwalk and wide beach.
- Tanger Outlets Westbrook: Minutes from the resort.
- Clinton Crossing Premium Outlets: A short drive in the next town.
- Old Saybrook and Essex: Charming main streets, shops and seafood for a half-day trip.
Where to Stay for a Water's Edge Weekend
Where you stay depends on who's coming.
- Couples: A room or suite at the resort keeps everything on site.
- Small families: The resort's villas add a kitchen and more space.
- Groups of friends or extended family: A whole-house rental nearby lets everyone stay together and split the cost.
For groups, Sunset Skies is a renovated coastal home about a 5-minute walk from Water's Edge. It sleeps 14, has decks with water views and a fire pit, and was featured on the Emmy-winning travel series Staycation. Walk to brunch, walk back from the show, and end the night around the fire.
Comparing options? See our guide to the best places to stay near Water's Edge. Going to a wedding instead? Read the Water's Edge wedding guest guide.
Water's Edge Weekend Getaway FAQ
Can you visit Water's Edge without staying there? Yes. The restaurants, Sunday brunch, live music and shows are open to the public, and day spa guests are welcome. The outdoor pool and private beach are reserved for overnight hotel guests.
Does Water's Edge have a private beach? Yes. Water's Edge has a private white sand beach on Long Island Sound for hotel guests and Vacation Club members.
What time is Sunday brunch at Water's Edge? Sunday brunch runs every week from 9:00 am to 2:30 pm. Reservations are a good idea, especially on holiday weekends.
What nights are comedy and trivia at Water's Edge? Comedy at the Edge is usually on Friday nights and trivia on Thursday nights. Check the resort's events calendar for current dates.
Is Water's Edge dog friendly? No. The resort only allows service animals. If you're bringing a dog, book pet-friendly lodging nearby, like Sunset Skies.
How far is Water's Edge from New York City and Boston? About 2 hours by car from either city via I-95.
Where should a group stay for a Water's Edge weekend? A whole-house rental lets a group stay together and split the cost. Sunset Skies sleeps 14 and is about a 5-minute walk from the resort.
Plan Your Water's Edge Weekend
A Water's Edge weekend is easy to plan: pick your season, book a show or the spa, reserve Sunday brunch and choose where you'll stay. Do those four things early and the rest of the weekend takes care of itself.