Have you been longing to visit paradise? Well, you don’t have to leave Connecticut behind for a piece of island magic. You can opt for one of the state’s Thimble Islands cruises instead. You just sit back, relax, and soak in the views. When it comes to boat tours, few are more stunning than these Thimble Islands cruises. If you weren’t already longing for summer, you certainly will be now.

The Thimble Islands are located just off the shore of the charming Stony Creek. But you don’t have to observe from afar. Hop aboard a cruise and get up close and personal with these beauties.

Troy David Johnston/Flickr

The tours are roughly 45 minutes long, featuring narration. You can learn the islands’ funny names and hear the story of the infamous Captain Kidd, a pirate who supposedly left his treasure behind on one of these very locales!

Daniel Hartwig/Flickr

Some of the islands have properties on them as well, so you can gander at some massive waterfront properties as you watch sailboats pass by.

Troy David Johnston/Flickr

With a drink in your hand, these cruises feel like a distant oasis. Book a private ride with friends for a truly incredible experience they’ll never forget. Coastal Connecticut has never looked so good. Seriously.

slack12/Flickr

These are the kind of sunsets that make you believe in magic.

slack12/Flickr

There are three boats that offer Thimble Island cruises, each following different routes. You can check out their websites to decide for yourself which boat is the best fit. The boats are the The Islander, The Sea Mist, and the Volsunga IV.

Troy David Johnston/Flickr

Daniel Hartwig/Flickr

slack12/Flickr

For another scenic day trip, hop aboard the Essex Steam Train.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.