The Finest Long Island Beaches Of 2022
Beautiful, known for their family-friendly ambiance and natural beauty, can be found all along the north and south coasts of Long Island, not only in the Hamptons. Whether you're looking for a calm place to take your young children or a place to practice your body surfing techniques, Long Island has a beach that will suit your needs. Sand on your toes and a little wind await you at the seaside.
These family friendly Long Island beaches have amenities such as picnic areas, pools, playgrounds, ablution facilities, food trucks, and umbrella rentals. Check out our picks for the top Long Island beaches down below.
Remember that beach season in 2022 will surely be different from past years before loading the youngsters up with sunscreen and heading out the door. Though there are many open shores, there are more rules than usual. Beaches are typically staffed between Memorial Day and Labor Day unless otherwise noted.
To Walk On The Boardwalk In Long Beach
The locals all agree that this is a great area to spend the day. The 2.2-mile long boardwalk at Long Beach is a popular tourist attraction. The city has begun reconstruction of the boardwalk that was destroyed in 2012 by Hurricane Sandy. Walking along this stretch is both interesting and educational because of the use of repurposed wood, human-made artwork from the area, and informative signs detailing the area's history. Rent bicycles and ride down the boardwalk on your way to the beach, or bring your own. Umbrellas and chairs are available for daily rental to our guests. After a long day at the beach, take the kids to the ocean-themed playground on Magnolia Boulevard. Get something to eat at one of the many restaurants, food stands, or food trucks that line the beachfront. Getting to Manhattan from Long Beach is easy because to the convenient train service provided by the Long Island Rail Road, and there's plenty of parking available. Weekends in Long Beach are hectic, so plan accordingly. Non-locals are charged $15 and locals $12. There is no cover for kids less than 12.
In The State Park Named After Robert Moses
Current limits on capacity are set at 50%. Be in before they close so you don't get turned away. The playgrounds have been closed due to construction.
When looking for a beach to take the kids to, go no farther than Robert Moses State Park, which has over five miles of beautiful coastline. There are four fields with lifeguards where guests may swim, surf, and boogie board. Each stadium features concession stands, souvenir stands, medical tents, and rest facilities. A large children's playground, a nature walkway, and a boardwalk all lead to the Fire Island lighthouse from Field 5. Many lovely areas provide picnic areas complete with park barbecues and tables. It features an expansive picnic pavilion and an 18-hole pitch-and-putt golf course. From the Babylon LIRR station, you may take the bus to the park, or you can drive. Wi-Fi is free in Fields 2–5.
Park Of Nickerson Beach
Nickerson Beach is restricted to the people of Nassau County. This 155-acre property on the coast of the Atlantic Ocean is perfect for a day of fun in the sun with the kids. This beach is beautiful, with fine, silky sand and clear, inviting water. In contrast, families like to come here because of all the facilities available to them. In addition to a basketball court, a beach volleyball court, and a tennis court, the "Fun Zone" also features a skate park with multiple ramps and walls for daring riders. A beautiful nine-hole pitch-and-putt course nestled within the sand dunes is also at your disposal. There are two adult-sized pools and one smaller pool for children to enjoy. There includes a large shaded picnic pavilion, a playground, and a concession stand. Those without a Nassau County Leisure Pass may be put off by the expensive entry fee, but the beach has plenty to keep the whole family entertained for the day. You can use the restrooms, showers, and lockers as needed. Individuals with a valid Leisure Pass pay $15, while all others are charged $37.
Point Lookout Park In The Town
There will be no food or drink available, and only Nassau County residents will be admitted. If you're looking for a chill beach day, head to this one in the Town of Hempstead. There is a relaxed atmosphere here, making it a good alternative to the hustle and bustle of more well-known destinations. The parking lot is conveniently located close to the beach. Since there are no concessions or rentals available, guests will need to bring their own food, chairs, and umbrellas. The $10 per vehicle fee only applies to those who live in Hempstead proper.
Park Of Jones Beach
Currently, Jones Beach can only accommodate 50% of its potential visitors, therefore those planning to go there should get there as soon as possible to guarantee entry. Memorial Day weekend air show tickets sold out in record time. During the opening weekend of the season, admission to the park is ticket only.
Jones Beach State Park has been a favorite destination for many years. The park encompasses 612 kilometers of breathtaking coastline. In the past several decades, a number of improvements have been made, including the construction of new restaurants, a boardwalk, the maintenance of existing leisure paths, and the installation of playgrounds, a splash pad, and an adventure park. Visitors may enjoy a variety of activities, including swimming, walking the boardwalk, and exploring the Nature Center. Bicycles may be ridden on the new promenade. Fields3,4, and 5 enable access to the beach via the park's iconic beach tunnels; Field 10 is designated for fishing; and Field 5 offers seaside parking and access to Zach's Bay. As the waves at Jones Beach may be rather powerful, swimmers are only allowed in designated areas supervised by lifeguards. Mobility mats are spread out on the sand at Fields 2, 6, and Zach's Bay to make it easier for people to maneuver strollers, wheelchairs, and other beach gear. At a regular lunchtime food stand, you can get hot dogs and ice cream. In recent years, gourmet concession booths have been installed to the facility, with items such as pizza and truffle fries prepared to order.
Check out the Jones Beach Theater's summer music schedule while you're at it. Get there early on weekends and holidays to avoid the crowds at Jones Beach. Changing rooms and bathrooms are available at each venue.
State Park Of Orient Beach
Currently, we can only operate at 50% capacity. Don't risk being rejected by coming in early. Orient Beach, on the easternmost part of the North Fork, is a breathtaking natural attraction. All members of the family may enjoy the many outdoor activities available, such as swimming, fishing from the shore, kayaking, and hiking along the many trails. There is a large playground for the kids, and beyond it is a great spot for a picnic. Spend some time in the saltwater marsh and look for shells while keeping an eye out for birds. This undiscovered spot is stunning in its simplicity and serenity. You can use the nearby restrooms if you need to.
The Beach By The Ocean
At the center of Fire Island's party scene is Ocean Beach, a strip of the barrier island bordered by Great South Bay and the Atlantic Ocean. The only way to get there from Bay Shore is via boat, as the whole island of Fire Island is car-free. Midway through May until late October, mild ocean currents provide for pleasant swimming. You won't find any booze or radios at this beach. There are a few places to eat, notably those that specialize in seafood, and a few conveniently located restrooms along the water's edge. Tourists unfamiliar with the area may find it challenging to find their way about the hamlet, but the residents are kind and welcoming if they are approached for assistance. Taxis may take you from the Bay Shore LIRR station on the Montauk branch to the ferry terminal. The beach is open to the public without any admission fees.
Park Of Sunken Meadow
Currently, we can only operate at 50% capacity. To avoid getting turned away, it is best to arrive early. With three miles of beachfront, the placid waters of Long Island Sound are perfect for a relaxing summer outing. When the beach gives way to the wind-shaped cliffs, the view is breathtaking. On a clear day, you can make out Connecticut. Spend the day taking in the sights of the beach and relaxing on the boardwalk while refueling at the snack shack. There are also picnic areas, a large playground, and nature walks.
Park Of Hither Hills
This beautiful park features a sandy coastline beach, a playground, and a one-of-a-kind camping area with a breathtaking panorama of the ocean. There are paths for bicycling and hiking, as well as "walking dunes" at Napeague Harbor. Get something to eat nearby, or pack a picnic to enjoy at the picnic tables. Facilities include bathrooms and a changing area. State residents can spend the night camping for $35.