Sheffield Island Lighthouse and Nature Trail

The Norwalk Seaport Association’s Friends of the Norwalk Islands offers a cultural, environmental, and historical journey to Sheffield Island. Built in 1868, the Sheffield Island Lighthouse provides a unique venue which strives to increase awareness, appreciation and consideration for our environment and how the preservation of historic buildings and nature contribute to our quality of life. Getting to Sheffield Island is half the fun. Take a 45 minutes picturesque boat ride from South Norwalk aboard the Seaport’s ferry down the Norwalk River to the entrance of the harbor. The coast of Norwalk is filled with marinas, yacht clubs and lovely waterfront properties. Upon arrival at tranquil Sheffield Island your pace slows down. You can tour the two and half story, 10 room lighthouse. You can venture down the nature trail into the Stewart B. McKinney Wildlife Refuge which is adjacent to Sheffield Island to the observation deck. You may spot egrets or other water fowl. Pack a lunch and have a picnic in the picnic grove. Make sure you take a walk along the rocky beach and hunt for sea shells. We also offer Thursday evening dining on Sheffield Island from June through September. Depart from South Norwalk at 6 p.m. and while you explore the Island the Seaport’s caterers prepare you choice of lobster, chicken of beef dinner. There is not a more glorious site then watching the sun set from the coast of Sheffield Island. It is our belief that preservation strengthens the perpetual partnership between past, the present and the future.