Beach Closed For Season In Bridgeport Due To Invasive Species

BRIDGEPORT, CT — Pleasure Beach in Bridgeport is closed to the public for the 2025 summer season, due to "the discovery of multiple tick species on the island—including the invasive Asian longhorned tick," officials announced on Facebook.

The city consulted extensively with state environmental experts before making the decision to shut down the beach for the season. Bridgeport's other beaches, Seaside Beach, Seabright Beach and St. Mary's-by-the-Sea, remain open.

"In the interest of public health and environmental safety, the City will be conducting a series of treatment and containment efforts throughout the area," officials wrote about the Pleasure Beach closure, adding that there has also been "a significant increase in protected Audubon bird species nesting on the island, further reinforcing the need to reduce human interference and allow conservation efforts to continue uninterrupted."

The pier at Pleasure Beach, which has been used for fishing, is also closed for the season, according to officials.

"Given the island’s sensitive ecosystem, managing the risks of cross-contamination requires deliberate, long-term planning," officials said. "The City will continue to monitor conditions with the goal of reopening Pleasure Beach for public enjoyment in summer 2026, once it is safe to do so.

"We thank you for your understanding and cooperation as we prioritize the safety of our residents, visitors, and the natural environment."