The smallest of the three town beachs in Madison, West Wharf is tucked away between the Madison Beach Hotel and the beachfront homes on Middle Beach West.

The downtown retail area also is within a short walking distance. A boat rack for kayaks and small sailboats is available. It's a prime spot for small boats, since a fishing pier jutting out into the Sound provides protection when launching and landing in rough weather.

Beach stickers are available from the Beach and Recreation Department. They are valid from Memorial Day  through Labor Day weekends. Anyone with an assessed tax liability of $1,000 or more is eligible for a beach access sticker. Seasonal rates per vehicle are $10 for resident senior (age 60+) and $40 for all other town residents.

Passes for additional vehicles in same household can be obtained at a cost of $20 per vehicle at time of original sale only. The daily rate for a resident is $10 and for a non-resident is $25. For more information, go to the Madison Beach and Recreation website and click on the "Beach Pass Form" link under "Forms." Daily passes are also sold at the Surf Club gate.