Coastal Connecticut, often called the Connecticut Shore or the Connecticut Shoreline, comprises all of Connecticut's southern border along Long Island Sound, from Greenwich in the west to Stonington in the east, as well as the tidal portions of the Housatonic River, Quinnipiac River, Connecticut River, and Thames River.
It includes the southern sections of the state's Fairfield, New Haven, Middlesex and New London counties.
Many of the residents of coastal Connecticut are much more tied to coastal activity (i.e. boating, beaches) and the region sees an influx of tourists in the May to October season, compared to inland Connecticut.
Coastal Connecticut is the mildest area in Connecticut in winter and often has a frost-free season that is up to one month longer than inland areas.
Snowfall in coastal Connecticut is often light and melts quickly due to the oceanic influences.