Kokimo’s Restaurant and Beach Bar: Escape to the islands in nearby Old Lyme Ct.

***Tropical cocktails, white sand beach equals the perfect day.***

Imagine a white sand beach, waves breaking on the shore, and palm trees gently swaying in the ocean breeze. It is so easy to believe you are in the Caribbean. This slice of paradise awaits you at Kokimo’s in nearby Old Lyme, Ct.

This restaurant is the perfect destination as Kokimo’s sits directly on the beach facing the waters of Long Island Sound. Go for lunch, dinner or you can enjoy the entire day. Kokimo’s has three distinct areas, the cozy inside dining/bar room, the semi enclosed bar with large windows looking out over the water, and the beach itself. The beach area includes tables and umbrellas for dining as well as chairs around a fire pit. Closer to the water are several cabanas ( for rent and reservation only) which are shaded from the sun and are furnished with comfy couches and a coffee table. Perfect for enjoying cocktails and taking in the beach vibe. There are also lounge chairs (also for rent) that directly face the water. Palm trees have been planted in the sand which complete the Caribbean feel. Cocktail service is available from the attentive and friendly staff. We made sure to reserve a cabana which enhanced our experience at Kokimo’s.

The cocktail program at Kokimo’s is as impressive as they are delicious. Taking inspiration from the lyrics of the iconic Beach Boys hit, “Kokimo”, the menu includes such creative libations as “Off the Florida Keys”, “Jamaica” “Bahamas” and “That Monserrat Mystique. Some other of our island favorites include the Hartford Hurricane, The Koko Mojito, and the Soundview Rum Punch.

Dining selections are perfect for seaside dining. Salads, small plates and sandwiches are all available. Consistent with Kokimo’s theme is menu stocked with plenty of seafood selections. We ordered from the raw bar which served up a delicious platter of jumbo shrimp and lobster meat over ice. Local oysters were a must order and we sampled three local varieties, “Moonstone, “Mystic” and “Nectar”. These local oysters were fresh, delicious, and had the requisite hint of brine.

The lobster roll was tasty and the soft buttery roll was filled with fresh lobster claw meat. Perfect choice. The Tuna Steak was expertly prepared and the was the perfect entrée for a lunch on the beach. There are plenty of other options, and for the vegetarian in your party, there is salad and a delicious veggie burger.

After lunch a dip in the water was needed and the sand is soft and not rocky like some Sound beaches. After a walk down the beach searching for that perfect sea shell, we returned to our cabana for a late afternoon treat of a basket of fried clams and French fries. Another round of tropical cocktails were also in order.

The island vibe you crave is just a car drive away. No plane ticket, no airport, and no passport needed. Escape to the white sand, palm trees, and cool breezes at Kokimo’s and get your island vibe going. Kokimo’s is open all year. Check their website for fun daily specials.