West Haven

West Haven is a coastal town in South Central Connecticut that extends along more than 3.5 miles (5.6 kilometers) of public beaches on Long Island Sound. The community contains residential neighborhoods and commercial areas organized across three distinct districts.

The settlement began in 1648 as West Farms and later became an independent city in 1961. The area came under British attack during the Revolutionary War in 1779 as part of broader coastal raids.

The name reflects the location's position on the western side of New Haven Harbor along Long Island Sound. Visitors can still see this geographic importance in how neighborhoods orient toward the water and in local landmarks that frame the waterfront.

A Metro-North Railroad station opened in 2013 and provides regular commuter service to New York City. The waterfront location makes it convenient for visitors to combine beach access with easy transit connections.

The Ward Heitman House from 1684 ranks among the state's oldest surviving saltbox structures with its original architecture intact. This early colonial dwelling offers insight into how settlers built and lived during the region's earliest years.

Location: South Central Connecticut Planning Region

Location: New Haven County

Inception: 1921

Elevation above the sea: 10 m

Shares border with: New Haven, Orange

Website: http://cityofwesthaven.com

GPS coordinates: 41.27389,-72.96778

Latest update: December 17, 2025 09:39