The Five Mile Point Lighthouse was constructed in 1847 and replaced an earlier 1805 tower.
The park's carousel contains 69 hand-carved horses, one camel, and two chariots.
It is a premier site for the 'Hawk Watch' program conducted by local ornithologists each fall.
The lighthouse is a 60-foot-tall octagonal tower built from New England brownstone.
During the War of 1812, the original lighthouse site was used as a vantage point to spot British warships entering the harbor.
Lighthouse Point Park is a 82-acre public space situated at the eastern edge of New Haven Harbor, centered around the historic Five Mile Point Lighthouse. The park features a mile-long beach area overlooking the Long Island Sound. It serves as a significant migration stopover point for hawks, falcons, and other raptors during the autumn months. The facility includes a restored 1916 carousel, which is one of the few remaining examples of the Illions Supreme Carousel models. Visitors utilize the park for birding, picnicking, and saltwater swimming. The grounds provide expansive views of the harbor entrance and distant coastal scenery. Extensive splash pad facilities are available for children during warmer months. The park functions as a key component of the New Haven park system, maintaining active waterfront access. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
The grassy vantage point directly in front of the Five Mile Point Lighthouse with the harbor as a backdrop.
Check the wind direction, as the exposed point can be significantly cooler and windier than downtown New Haven.
Bring binoculars if visiting in September or October to witness the peak hawk migration.
Utilize the designated walking paths near the shoreline to avoid damaging protected dune vegetation.
Do not attempt to climb or enter the lighthouse tower, as it is closed to the public and fenced for safety.
The park beach and splash pad are seasonally operated; the carousel operates on a limited weekend-heavy schedule from spring through early autumn.
Leashed dogs are permitted in park areas but are prohibited from the swimming beach; carry-in/carry-out trash policy applies.
