Cedarhurst, New York

Cedarhurst is a vibrant village in the Town of Hempstead in Nassau County, on Long Island’s South Shore. It is one of the communities commonly grouped within the Five Towns, alongside Lawrence, Woodmere, Hewlett, and Inwood. Best known for its active downtown, strong local identity, and mix of shopping, dining, and residential streets, Cedarhurst blends suburban convenience with a polished, walkable village center.
Downtown, Dining, and Community
Central Avenue is the heart of Cedarhurst’s commercial district. Boutiques, kosher restaurants, cafés, bakeries, and specialty shops give the area a lively feel, and the walkable layout makes it easy to browse on foot. The business district serves both local residents and visitors from across the Five Towns, giving Cedarhurst an energy that feels busier than its compact size might suggest.
Beyond shopping and dining, Cedarhurst has a visible civic and cultural presence. Andrew J. Parise Cedarhurst Park serves as a central public gathering space and may host seasonal programs and community events throughout the year. Public art also helps distinguish the village streetscape, with the Goldman-Kuenz Sculpture Park and other outdoor works adding an artistic dimension to everyday village life.
Transportation and Location
Cedarhurst sits within easy reach of John F. Kennedy International Airport, southwestern Nassau County, and neighboring Queens. The Long Island Rail Road’s Cedarhurst Station, on the Far Rockaway Branch, connects the village with Brooklyn and Manhattan-bound service, although schedules, terminals, and transfer patterns may change. Major roads including Peninsula Boulevard and Rockaway Turnpike provide convenient regional access for drivers.
Visitor Tips
For visitors, Cedarhurst is easiest to experience on foot around Central Avenue and the surrounding blocks. Store hours, parking regulations, holiday schedules, and community event details may vary by season or local observance, so it is smart to check ahead before making a special trip.
Cedarhurst, New York
Cedarhurst, NY
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Town of Hempstead, Nassau County, Long Island’s South Shore |
| Population | About 7,000 residents |
| Setting | Compact incorporated village in the Five Towns area |
| Known For | Central Avenue shopping and dining, kosher options, public art, and a strong community identity |
| Transportation | LIRR Cedarhurst Station (Far Rockaway Branch), convenient access to JFK Airport, and regional roadways |
| Nearby Communities | Lawrence, Hewlett, Woodmere, and Inwood |
| Schools | Public school attendance depends on address; private and religious schools are also prominent in the area |
With its elegant residential streets, active commercial corridor, and strong sense of place, Cedarhurst remains one of the best-known villages in southwestern Nassau County. Whether you are browsing Central Avenue, visiting local eateries, or spending time in the park, Cedarhurst offers a distinct slice of Long Island life within easy reach of New York City.