Aquatics
The Ellington Parks and Recreation Department offers great programs for all ages.
Please note that not all programs available are mentioned on this page; for more information, please visit our Activenet page.
Click here to review the letter regarding having a raft at Crystal Lake; this letter was provided to the Town by Stephen Pendl, Risk Management Consultant, CIRMA Risk Management Services.
Swimming Lessons 2026 season: Unfortunately we will not be offering swimming lessons this summer. If you have any questions please email Assistant Recreation Director/Aquatics Director Mary M. Bartley @ mbartley@ellington-ct.gov
2026 CRYSTAL LAKE SANDY BEACH
The Crystal Lake Sandy Beach Facility will be open June 18th through August 16th, 2026
(weather & staff permitting)
BEACH PARKING PASSES for Ellington Residents Only, are available for purchase online through Activenet starting May 11th or in person at the Recreation Department during regular business hours. Photo ID Required.
Sandy Beach Memo 2026
Sandy Beach Rules 2026
2026 Season Parking Pass Rates - Ellington Residents Only - Place on windshield driver's side, lower corner.
$75.00 Primary Pass
$15.00 Secondary Pass (additional vehicle)
$15.00 Senior Pass (ages 60+)
2026 Walk-In Rates - Ellington Residents Only
$10.00 Adult (ages 18+)
$8.00 Child (ages 5-17) - ages under 5 are free
$1.00 Senior (ages 60+)
2026 Walk-In Rates - Non Ellington Residents
$20.00 Adults (ages 18+)
$10.00 (ages 5-17) - Ages under 5 are free
$1.00 Seniors (Ages 60+)
"Carry In/Out” trash policy will be in effect: Patrons must take out what they bring in. No receptacles will be available
for public use.
No Grilling or Fires allowed at the facility. No Smoking /Vaping is allowed at the beach.
Restrooms will be open.
Restrooms will be cleaned periodically throughout the day.
KNOW BEFORE YOU GO: Should the parking area or waterfront reach maximum capacity at any point, the beach will be
closed and notification will be posted immediately on the Ellington Recreation Department Facebook page at www.facebook.com/ellingtonparkandrec/. Any closures due to weather or staffing will also be posted.
Please be sure to check our Facebook page before departing for the beach.
Please note these requirements reflect our current guidelines, any changes or updates will be posted to our Facebook page. Beach officials have full authority to impose further restrictions to ensure a safe aquatic environment. Law enforcement will be monitoring beach activity and any willful violation of beach rules may result in immediate ejection from the premise, revocation of beach pass rights, and any further action deemed necessary by law enforcement.