From the 1870s through 1941, Roton Point Park was one of the preeminent attractions along the shores of Long Island Sound. From its shady picnic grove overlooking the water to its sandy beaches, hotel, dance floor, carousel, roller coaster, and midway rides, Roton Point attracted thousands of visitors each season. Damage from the 1938 hurricane and the start of World War II led to the parks closing in 1941, and Roton Point was divided into two private beach clubs and a public beach. Some of the old buildings remain, including the bathhouse, hotel, and gazebo at Roton Point, and the roller-coaster entry at Bayley Beach.