Circa 1800. Since most of Connecticut's shoreline is privately owned, the Madison Beach Hotel is one of the few waterfront lodgings available. It originally was constructed as a stagecoach stop and later became a popular vacation spot for those who stayed for a month at a time with maids and chauffeurs. Art Carney is said to have driven a Madison Beach Hotel bus here when his brother was the manager. Rooms are furnished in a variety of antiques and wallpapers. Many rooms have splendid views of the lawn and the Long Island Sound from private porches.