Long Island stretches 118 miles from New York City to Montauk Point, creating hundreds of miles of diverse coastline that ranges from protected bay waters to wild Atlantic surf. Each beach offers something different—some provide family-friendly amenities and calm waters, while others deliver the kind of untamed beauty that makes you forget you’re just hours from Manhattan.
The challenge isn’t finding a beach on Long Island; it’s choosing which ones deserve your limited beach days and weekend road trips. Here is a list of 17 Long Island beaches that offer experiences worth planning your summer around.
Coopers Beach
This Southampton gem consistently ranks among America’s finest beaches, and one visit explains why the accolades keep coming. The sand stretches soft and white for nearly a mile, while the dunes provide natural windbreaks that create surprisingly calm areas even on breezy days.
Parking requires a permit for non-residents, but the fee grants access to pristine facilities and lifeguard protection that justifies the expense
Montauk Point State Park
The easternmost tip of Long Island delivers dramatic scenery that feels more like coastal Maine than suburban New York. Rocky outcroppings create tide pools perfect for exploration, while the historic lighthouse provides a stunning backdrop for beach walks.
The fishing here rivals anywhere on the East Coast, though swimmers should respect the powerful currents that make this area better suited for experienced ocean swimmers.
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Jones Beach State Park
This massive complex spans over six miles of oceanfront and handles massive crowds without feeling overcrowded, thanks to thoughtful design and extensive facilities. The bathhouses, boardwalk, and organized activities create a classic beach experience that hasn’t changed much since the 1930s.
Multiple parking fields and beach sections allow visitors to choose between active areas with volleyball courts and quieter zones perfect for reading and relaxation.
Fire Island National Seashore
Accessible only by ferry, this barrier island creates a beach experience unlike anywhere else in the New York area. The absence of cars transforms the entire island into a pedestrian paradise where the biggest transportation decision involves choosing between walking and biking.
The beaches themselves offer both protected bay sides for families with young children and ocean sides that provide excellent surfing and body boarding.
Cupsogue Beach County Park
This Westhampton Beach location provides excellent surf fishing and some of Long Island’s most consistent waves for body surfing. The beach faces southeast, catching swells that other beaches miss while maintaining enough protection to avoid dangerous conditions.
Food trucks and a small concession stand provide refreshments, but the real draw remains the uncrowded shoreline and excellent fishing opportunities.
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Main Beach East Hampton
The Hamptons’ most famous public beach combines social scene energy with a genuinely beautiful oceanfront that lives up to its exclusive reputation. Celebrity spotting opportunities aside, the beach offers excellent swimming conditions and well-maintained facilities that justify the premium parking fees.
The adjacent village provides upscale dining and shopping, making this an ideal destination for a full day of luxury beach experiences.
Robert Moses State Park
Located on the western tip of Fire Island, this park offers easy car access to barrier island beaches without requiring ferry transportation. The lighthouse and museum provide interesting diversions when beach time needs a break, while the fishing pier extends far enough into the ocean to reach species that stay beyond the surf line.
Multiple beaches within the park cater to different preferences, from family areas to sections popular with surfers.
Hither Hills State Park
This Montauk location combines camping opportunities with some of the region’s most spectacular ocean beaches. The dunes here reach impressive heights and create natural amphitheaters that provide wind protection and privacy for beachgoers.
The park’s location on the Atlantic side of the South Fork delivers consistent waves and strong fishing, though swimmers should be prepared for cooler water temperatures even in summer.
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Shinnecock East County Park
This Southampton beach provides a more relaxed alternative to the busy Hamptons scene while maintaining the same high-quality sand and surf conditions. The beach faces directly south, creating excellent conditions for both swimming and fishing throughout the season.
Parking rarely fills, making this an excellent choice for spontaneous beach trips when other locations might be overcrowded.
Gilgo Beach
Popular with surfers and fishing enthusiasts, this barrier island location provides consistent waves and excellent access for beach driving with proper permits. The beach extends for miles with relatively few access points, creating long stretches of uncrowded sand perfect for serious beach walking.
Food options remain limited, so come prepared with supplies for a full day of ocean activities.
Cedar Beach
This Babylon location offers excellent swimming conditions with lifeguard protection and family-friendly amenities that make it particularly popular with parents of young children. The beach faces the Great South Bay rather than the ocean, creating calm water conditions ideal for learning to swim and water sports like kayaking.
The adjacent marina provides boat launch facilities and fishing charters for those wanting to explore beyond the immediate beach area.
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Sunken Meadow State Park
Located on the Long Island Sound, this Kings Park beach provides a different perspective on Long Island waterfront experiences. The boardwalk extends over marshland, creating excellent opportunities for bird watching and nature photography between swimming sessions.
The calmer Sound waters make this location particularly attractive to families, while the golf course and hiking trails provide alternatives when beach time needs variety.
Orient Beach State Park
This North Fork location provides a sense of isolation despite being easily accessible by car, creating beach experiences that feel genuinely remote. The beach faces Gardiners Bay, protecting ocean swells while maintaining enough open water to feel expansive.
The park’s location makes it an excellent base for exploring North Fork wineries and farm stands after beach time concludes.
Smith Point County Park
This central Fire Island location requires a longer drive than some beaches but rewards visitors with excellent fishing, uncrowded beaches, and consistent surf conditions. The park provides beach driving access with proper permits, allowing serious fishermen to reach remote spots that produce better catches.
Camping facilities make this an excellent choice for extended beach vacations rather than day trips.
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Tobay Beach
This Nassau County location provides protected bay waters ideal for families while maintaining easy access and reasonable parking fees. The beach includes playground equipment and picnic areas that extend beach visits beyond just swimming and sunbathing.
The calm water conditions make this an excellent choice for introducing young children to beach experiences without ocean wave concerns.
Theodore Roosevelt Memorial Park
Located in Oyster Bay, this North Shore park offers access to Long Island Sound along with amenities like golf courses, tennis courts, and nature trails. The beach itself offers excellent swimming conditions and stunning views across the Sound toward Connecticut.
The diverse amenities make this location ideal for groups with varying interests who want options beyond traditional beach activities.
Lido Beach
This Nassau County location provides ocean access with excellent public transportation connections, making it accessible even for visitors without cars. The beach offers classic Atlantic Ocean experiences with lifeguard protection and well-maintained facilities.
The nearby community provides restaurants and shops within walking distance, creating opportunities for full-day experiences that extend beyond beach time.
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Waves Never Stop Drawing Visitors East
Long Island’s beaches continue attracting millions of visitors annually because they offer genuine variety within a relatively compact area. From the wild beauty of Montauk to the refined elegance of the Hamptons, these coastal destinations provide experiences that satisfy different preferences while maintaining the natural beauty that makes beach days memorable.
The drive east becomes part of the adventure, building anticipation for whichever beach experience awaits at your chosen destination.
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