We're looking to drive from Conecticut (with a 2-year-old) to a beautiful beach and stay at a beachfront hotel (but preferably a cottage or rental, condo or place with all the amenities of home) on a quiet, walkable beach within a few hours. Is this at all a possibility. I'm thinking Cape Cod maybe? Any insider tips on where to stay, what to eat, best beaches, etc? Thanks.

Southern Maine would be a great option. It is probably closer than you think. I have done the drive from NYC in about 4.5 hrs going at normal speeds. Ogunquit is a beautiful wide long beach with some of the softest sand you will find. Not really sure about condo availability. Maine is a wonderful place. Plenty of spots to have some fresh lobster by the water and check out some quaint towns.

Ditto: head for Maine. Check out the Yankee magazine website (www.newengland.com).

New Hampshire -- Hampton Beach -- a great walking beach. kid friendly. stay at northern edge or back 1 street from beach in center area.
only 4 hrs from southern CT

Maine is also great but longer drive.

I would avoid Hampton like the plague; go to York, Maine; there are two beaches, Long Sands and Short Sands, the former great for walking, the latter great for kids; go to Nubble Lighthouse too.