Cedar Beach, New York
Cedar Beach, located along Ocean Parkway in the Town of Babylon, is one of Long Island’s most popular South Shore destinations – a lively barrier island beach where the Atlantic Ocean, Great South Bay, and coastal culture come together. Known for its clean sand, family-friendly atmosphere, and vibrant summer scene, Cedar Beach combines classic seaside recreation with beautiful natural surroundings.
Location & Access
Cedar Beach sits on Jones Beach Island, part of the chain of barrier beaches stretching from Tobay Beach in Nassau County to Captree State Park at the eastern end.
It’s directly accessible from Ocean Parkway via Exit 38, with large, well-maintained parking lots, lifeguard stations, and beach facilities.
The park is operated by the Town of Babylon Department of Parks, Recreation & Cultural Affairs and is open seasonally to both residents and non-residents (fees and restrictions apply).
History
Cedar Beach has long been a favorite gathering spot for residents of Babylon and surrounding communities. Originally a natural bayfront area dotted with reeds and cedar trees (from which it takes its name), the site began to develop as a public bathing beach and recreation area in the mid-20th century as Ocean Parkway expanded eastward under the direction of Robert Moses.
By the 1960s, the Town of Babylon had officially established Cedar Beach Park, adding pavilions, lifeguards, and boat access. Over the years, enhancements like a marina, restaurant, and boardwalk promenade transformed Cedar Beach into one of the South Shore’s premier summer destinations while maintaining its relaxed, small-town character.
Features & Amenities
Cedar Beach offers facilities on both the ocean side and the bay side, giving visitors two distinct waterfront experiences in one location.
Ocean Side
- Expansive white-sand beach with lifeguard-supervised swimming
- Dune boardwalks and observation platforms
- Volleyball courts and open recreation areas
- Seasonal concessions and snack bars
- Ample parking and beach access ramps
Bay Side
- Protected marina for recreational boaters
- Launch sites for kayaks and paddleboards
- Fishing piers and calm-water access
- The Cedar Beach Marina Café, offering food, drinks, and live entertainment during summer evenings
Additional Amenities
- Restroom and shower facilities
- Picnic areas and shaded pavilions
- Playgrounds and family gathering spots
- Free summer concerts and community events hosted by the Town of Babylon
Recreation & Activities
Cedar Beach’s dual-coastline layout makes it ideal for nearly every kind of waterfront activity:
- Swimming & Sunbathing: Enjoy the Atlantic surf on the ocean side, with lifeguards on duty daily during the summer.
- Fishing & Crabbing: The bay side’s docks are favorites for local anglers and crabbers.
- Boating: The Cedar Beach Marina provides boat slips and easy access to the Great South Bay.
- Dining & Nightlife: The Cedar Beach Marina Café is a staple for casual meals, cocktails, and live music with a bayfront view.
- Events & Concerts: Summer concert series and holiday events make Cedar Beach one of Babylon’s liveliest waterfront venues.
Nature & Environment
Cedar Beach is part of the Jones Beach Barrier Island ecosystem, a critical coastal habitat that includes dunes, salt marshes, and wetlands. The area supports migratory birds, marine life, and native dune vegetation.
The Town of Babylon and Suffolk County work to maintain dune stabilization and erosion control to protect the natural environment and the adjacent mainland communities from storm surges.
Visitors are encouraged to use marked walkways, respect dune fencing, and participate in the town’s “Carry In – Carry Out” program to help preserve the beach’s pristine condition.
Key Facts & Details
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Ocean Parkway, Town of Babylon, Suffolk County, NY |
| Access | Exit 38 off Ocean Parkway |
| Operated By | Town of Babylon Department of Parks, Recreation & Cultural Affairs |
| Coordinates | 40.6275° N, 73.3402° W |
| Parking | Resident and non-resident permits available (seasonal fees apply) |
| Facilities | Lifeguards, restrooms, marina, playground, café, fishing pier |
| Activities | Swimming, boating, fishing, crabbing, volleyball, concerts |
| Water Bodies | Atlantic Ocean (south), Great South Bay (north) |
| Nearby Beaches | Tobay Beach (west), Gilgo Beach (east), Oak Beach, Captree |
| Best Time to Visit | Memorial Day – Labor Day |
| Signature Events | Summer concert series, holiday fireworks, community fundraisers |
Cedar Beach captures everything that makes Long Island’s South Shore special – sun, surf, and a sense of community. Whether you’re spending the day swimming in the Atlantic, grabbing dinner at the marina, or watching the sunset over the Great South Bay, Cedar Beach offers one of the most complete coastal experiences on the island.
A true Babylon landmark, it continues to unite generations of Long Islanders who come for its scenery, its spirit, and the simple joy of summer by the sea.
