Launching a kayak in the Norwalk area is much easier and less costly than other types of boats that require a trailer, mooring or docking at a marina. Kayaks can easily be car-topped using a rack system or foam blocks and straps, some kayaks will fit in the bed of a pick-up truck or van and there are several local boat launches available for public access to the water.
My favorite spot, and I am biased since I live in Norwalk, is the launch at Calf Pasture Beach Park. The launch is restricted to non-motorized boats and the park includes food service, restrooms and plenty of parking. The Norwalk Islands are in full view at the launch, from Sheffield Island in the west, to Cockenoe Island in the east and it's a relatively short paddle to several public islands, including Shea, Grassy, Cockenoe and the public beach on Chimon Island. Norwalk residents enjoy free access to the launch with a vehicle beach emblem and a seasonal vehicle pass can be purchased by residents of nearby land-locked towns. Entrance fees at the gate starting May 1st for vehicles without a Norwalk beach emblem is $25 on weekdays, $30 on weekends and holidays and $10 after 5 pm.
Another launch in East Norwalk with free access to the water is at the end of Second Street which brings you to the Norwalk Harbor. The disadvantage of this spot is the limited number of on-street parking spots available and the boat congestion of the Norwalk Harbor and navigation channel near the launch can be a safety problem.
Public access in Rowayton is found at Community Beach on Rowayton Ave and on the Five Mile River. Community Beach was constructed with federal, state and local funds for public access to the water. Parking at the seven spots is free, but unfortunately and despite the posted signs, the parking is often taken by contractors working on homes in the area. If all the spaces are filled, you can drop off your boat and find a place to park on a nearby side street. Launching from here provides good access to the coast of Darien, Farm Creek around Bell Island and the western tip of Sheffield Island is about 1-½ nautical miles away.
Rowayton's Sixth Taxing District residents can launch from Bayley Beach by purchasing a vehicle beach emblem from the district. A pass is also needed for walk-in traffic. Storage racks are also available to Rowayton residents at the small beach.
There is also free public access to the water available within newer developments on the west side of the Saugatuck River across from the State ramp, but unloading, loading and parking is problematic making the State ramp a better choice.
Westport residents, as well as non-residents, who purchase a vehicle beach emblem and a launch permit can launch from the Compo Beach ramp and the Longshore Park marina ramp. Storage racks are also available to Westport residents at Compo and the beach includes food service and restrooms. Emblem and launch permit holders can also launch from the Sherwood Mill Pond Preserve on Hillspoint Rd to paddle around the mill pond.
Entrance fees starting May 1st for vehicles to enter Westport parks without a beach emblem is $30 on weekdays and $50 on weekends and holidays. A daily launch permit will also need to be purchased at the gate to Compo Beach. And please note, there is no public access for kayaks at Old Mill Beach, Sherwood Island State Park and Burying Hill Beach in Westport.
One of the greatest places for sea-kayaking in New England is available to us locally and with plenty of public launch spots available to get us out and on the water. Have a safe and happy paddle!