The Thimbles, located off Stony Creek in Branford, Connecticut, is a coastal archipelago in Long Island Sound composed of numerous small, rocky islands formed from pink granite bedrock. The primary and often crowded public launch point is the town dock and boat ramp in the village of Stony Creek. Parking, especially for trailers, is very limited, though a nearby church offers paid trailer parking on Saturdays. Kayaks are not permitted to launch from the adjacent town beach. The area is characterized by significant powerboat traffic, particularly on summer weekends, resulting in frequent wakes. Paddlers should be prepared for substantial wind exposure and fetch across the open sound. Landing is strictly prohibited on all islands except Outer Island, which is public and a common destination for a lunch stop; paddlers wishing to stop elsewhere should carry an anchor. The islands are privately owned, and tensions with homeowners can occur, so it is prudent to maintain a respectful distance from shorelines. The best time to paddle is during weekdays or the off-season to avoid heavy boat traffic. A notable three-hour kayak tour route involves paddling from Stony Creek to Outer Island, which is approximately 1.75 miles in a straight line. The granite from local quarries, including on Bear Island, was historically used in significant national monuments like the Lincoln Memorial and the base of the Statue of Liberty. Facilities at the launch are minimal, with a portable toilet reported. The aesthetic is one of a rugged, island-dotted coastline with historic charm, though it is an area where privacy is heavily guarded by residents.