Hotels in Essex

Discover Essex: Where River Reflections Meet Nature's Embrace

Nestled along the picturesque Connecticut River, Essex, Connecticut, is a charming haven for nature lovers and culture seekers alike. With its quaint marina, scenic waterfront, and inviting library, this delightful town offers a perfect blend of relaxation and exploration. Stroll through historic streets lined with beautifully preserved architecture, or embark on a river cruise to soak in the stunning landscapes. Discover delightful shops, art galleries, and cozy eateries that embody the town's warm spirit. Whether you’re seeking a romantic getaway or a peaceful retreat, Essex promises an enchanting experience filled with rich history and natural beauty. For our best hotel rates in Essex and to enhance your stay, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Discover great hotels in Essex

Essex, Connecticut offers a variety of hotel accommodations, from cozy inns to charming boutique hotels. Visitors can find several well-reviewed options that provide comfortable amenities and easy access to local attractions. Whether you're seeking a romantic getaway or a family-friendly stay, Essex has many hotels to choose from. Here are some of the most popular hotels with our travelers in Essex:

1. Copper Beech InnOpens in a new window: Nestled in a charming New England block, Copper Beech Inn is a quintessential 4.0-star hotel that promises a delightful escape. With a well-appointed restaurant offering complimentary breakfast and dinner options, guests can indulge in exquisite culinary experiences. The property features a series of recreational activities including hiking, sailing, and kayaking, perfect for leisure travelers seeking adventure. Review sentiments highlight the hotel’s elegant decor, comfortable accommodations, and inviting atmosphere, making it an ideal choice for those in search of a cozy and memorable getaway.
2. James Pharmacy Bed & BreakfastOpens in a new window: James Pharmacy Bed & Breakfast stands out as a lovely 4.0-star Bed and Breakfast, perfectly positioned for travelers wanting to explore the local area. This property offers complimentary breakfast options, ensuring a refreshing start to your day. The beautifully decorated rooms provide a comfortable and charming retreat, ideal for leisure travelers. Guests appreciate the cleanliness and cozy ambiance, making this inn a top choice for those seeking a quaint and intimate experience in Essex.
3. Madison Beach HotelOpens in a new window: For travelers seeking a blend of adventure and relaxation, Madison Beach Hotel is a luxurious 4.0-star hotel offering direct beach access. This property is designed for those who appreciate outdoor activities and fine dining. With multiple meeting rooms and conference spaces, it caters to a sophisticated clientele looking for a refined experience. Review sentiments reflect the hotel’s welcoming atmosphere and the dedicated service of the staff, ensuring a relaxing stay that embodies New England charm.

Top locations to stay in Essex

Some great areas to stay in when visiting Essex, Connecticut, are Westbrook Center, Madison Center, and Old Saybrook Center. Westbrook Center offers beach access and shopping, Madison Center boasts quaint shops and eateries, while Old Saybrook Center features historic sites and waterfront views. For first-time visitors, Old Saybrook Center is the best choice due to its charm and attractions.

1. Westbrook CenterOpens in a new window: Westbrook Center is a charming destination for travelers looking to unwind by the coast. Known for its beautiful beaches and scenic waterfront, this area offers a relaxed atmosphere perfect for leisurely strolls and beach days. You'll find unique local shops featuring artisan crafts and goods, as well as cozy cafes where you can enjoy a quick bite. Additionally, Westbrook is home to the beautiful Westbrook Town Beach, making it ideal for sunbathing or picnicking. The local parks provide lovely spots for outdoor activities, ensuring a refreshing escape in a picturesque setting.
2. Old Saybrook CenterOpens in a new window: Old Saybrook Center is rich in history and coastal charm, making it an appealing place to stay. Here, you can explore the historic downtown area with its quaint boutiques and art galleries that showcase local talent. A visit to the iconic Saybrook Point Lighthouse is a must, offering stunning views of the Connecticut River and Long Island Sound. The area is also renowned for its cultural attractions, including theaters and art performances, providing a vibrant community feel. Don't miss the opportunity to discover scenic waterfront parks that are perfect for a relaxing afternoon.
3. Madison CenterOpens in a new window: Madison Center is a delightful spot for travelers seeking a mix of coastal beauty and small-town charm. This area boasts a picturesque downtown filled with unique shops and local art galleries, perfect for leisurely browsing. The nearby beaches offer a serene setting for sunbathing and beachcombing, while the stunning views from the shoreline are truly breathtaking. Madison is also known for its community events and cultural activities throughout the year, providing visitors with a taste of local life. With its friendly atmosphere and beautiful surroundings, Madison Center is a lovely choice for a memorable stay.

Things to do in Essex

Essex offers a delightful mix of scenic coastlines, lush parks, and tranquil rivers, perfect for relaxing or exploring. Enjoy wildlife spotting in serene nature reserves, hop on a boat for a leisurely sail, or take in the fresh air while hiking along picturesque trails. It's an outdoor lover's paradise!

• Essex Island MarinaOpens in a new window – Dock your boat or simply enjoy the scenic views at Essex Island Marina. This charming marina offers a serene atmosphere where you can explore the nearby library and indulge in nature walks along the river. Relax and soak up the tranquility of your surroundings.
• Gillette Castle State ParkOpens in a new window – Venture to Gillette Castle State Park, where you can tour the unique castle built by actor William Gillette. The park features beautiful hiking trails that wind through lush woodlands, offering breathtaking views of the Connecticut River. Enjoy a picnic in this picturesque setting!
• Harvey's BeachOpens in a new window – Spend a sunny day at Harvey's Beach, a delightful spot for swimming and sunbathing. The gentle waves make it perfect for families, while the sandy shoreline invites you to build sandcastles or take a leisurely stroll along the coast.
• Connecticut River MuseumOpens in a new window – Dive into local history at the Connecticut River Museum. Explore fascinating exhibits that showcase the river's vital role in the region's development. Don't miss the chance to take a scenic boat tour to experience the river from a different perspective!
• Hammonasset Beach State ParkOpens in a new window – Make your way to Hammonasset Beach State Park, Connecticut’s largest shoreline park. Enjoy miles of sandy beaches, ideal for swimming, picnicking, and beachcombing. With its scenic trails and natural beauty, it’s a perfect spot for a day of outdoor fun!

5 tips for savvy savings when booking a hotel in Essex

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly time to visit Essex is during January, February, and December, when hotel prices are lower. For an affordable getaway that offers great value for money, consider staying for at least 2 to 3 days. This duration is perfect for discovering the region's rich history and culture, including its scenic marina, charming library, and picturesque river. You'll also have the opportunity to explore the area's natural beauty, making your trip both enriching and enjoyable.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: To discover last-minute deals to Essex, visit the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section on Hotels.com, where you may find discounted rates on hotels as your travel date approaches. Enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com could keep you informed about flash sales and special promotions, helping you save on your stay. Additionally, the Smart ShoppingOpens in a new window tool available in the app allows travelers to compare hotel prices and amenities, so you're more likely to see the best options. With these resources, you’ll be the first to know about available rooms or price drops for your getaway.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices can fluctuate based on factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year, so being flexible with your travel dates might help you save on your stay at an Essex hotel. If you're seeking something special, boutique hotels can provide a more personalized experience and potentially offer better value. When you book through Hotels.com, we’ll inform you if the price for your chosen dates is above or below the average. If the price is on the higher side, we’ll recommend more affordable dates, increasing the likelihood that you could save on your booking.
4. Consider your location: Staying near major attractions or city centers can be convenient, but it usually tends to come with higher costs. For more affordable options, consider hotels in neighborhoods that are a bit farther out, striking a balance between price and accessibility to the sights you want to see. You might also look into independent hotels located further away, as they can offer a more authentic experience while being more likely to be budget-friendly.
5. Join One Key™: Become a One Key MemberOpens in a new window for free and book your next stay in Essex. Save on over 100,000 hotels worldwide with exclusive member prices. As a member, you can quickly progress through the tiers and enjoy perks, like free room upgrades when available and food and beverage discounts at select VIP Access properties.

Best time to go to Essex

Essex experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 31.3°F (-0.4°C), while July is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 73.8°F (23.2°C). October is usually the wettest month. July to September are the peak travel months in Essex, attracting a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, with light rainfall. On the other hand, January, February, and December tend to be quieter times to visit, marked by light rainfall and mostly sunny conditions.