Marker
  • Sheffield Island Unit
    Sheffield Island Ferry 70 Water Street Norwalk, CT 06854

  • The forest, shrublands and beaches of the Norwalk Islands are recognized as regionally significant habitat for colonial nesting birds like herons and egrets, vital nesting and migratory habitat for neotropical birds, and high-quality wintering grounds for waterfowl.


    Sheffield Island's nature trail and sandy beach offer visitors an excellent vantage point to observe and photograph water birds, beach life, and other scenes of nature. Guided tours of the nature trail, beach and the historic Sheffield Lighthouse are often available during summer.

    Sheffield Island lighthouse with visitors awaiting entry
    Image Details
    Driving Directions

    Visitors may reach the island by private boat, or - in summer - by taking a scenic ferry ride with the Norwalk Seaport Association. Ferry tickets are available at their dock, located near Norwalk's Maritime Aquarium. Private vessels will have to pay a small docking fee if using the Seaport Association dock. More information about boating at the refuge.

    Sheffield Island Trail, Beach and Lighthouse
    Sheffield Island (refuge portion)
    Open daily, 1/2 hour before sunrise to 1/2 hour after sunset
    Ferry service and Seaport Association operations (historic lighthouse tours, etc.)
    Available May through September