Charles Island, Tidal island in New Haven County, US.
Charles Island is a 14-acre tidal island in Long Island Sound that connects to the Connecticut mainland by a natural sandbar exposed at low tide. The island has grassy areas, sandy shores, and the remains of structures from its years of human occupation.
The island was originally called Poquehaug and later Milford Island until Charles Deal purchased it in 1657, giving it its present name. In the 20th century, Dominican friars established a religious community here, which eventually closed.
The Dominican friars who arrived in the 1930s built a small religious community with a chapel and living quarters that reflected their contemplative way of life. Today, the empty buildings stand as reminders of this monastic experiment in an isolated island setting.
Check tide schedules before your visit, as the sandbar linking the island to shore is submerged at high tide, making it inaccessible during those hours. The best time to explore is a few hours around low tide when the crossing is safe.
Oyster farmers have operated an active shellfish farm in the waters west of the island since 2013, sustaining a local aquaculture tradition. This modern use of the surrounding waters contrasts with the island's quieter, historical role.
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