What is the South Shore?

Montauk Point Lighthouse overlooks the Atlantic Ocean from the easternmost tip of Long Island, where rugged bluffs meet the sea. First commissioned by President George Washington in 1792 and placed into service in 1796, the historic lighthouse remains New York State's oldest and continues to serve as one of Long Island's most iconic landmarks and enduring symbols of the East End. — Montauk Point Lighthouse overlooks the Atlantic Ocean from the easternmost tip of Long Island, where rugged bluffs meet the sea. First commissioned by President George Washington in 1792 and placed into service in 1796, the historic lighthouse remains New York State’s oldest and continues to serve as one of Long Island’s most iconic landmarks and enduring symbols of the East End. File photo: Haveseen, licensed.

Long Island’s South Shore is the region that borders the Atlantic Ocean, stretching across southern Nassau County and Suffolk County. Known for its sandy beaches, barrier islands, waterfront communities, marinas, fishing, boating, and oceanfront parks, the South Shore is one of Long Island’s most popular destinations for recreation and coastal living.

In Short

The South Shore is the southern coastline of Long Island along the Atlantic Ocean. It is famous for its ocean beaches, barrier islands, bays, boating, fishing, waterfront parks, and vibrant coastal communities.

What Is the South Shore?

The South Shore refers to the southern portion of Long Island, extending along the Atlantic Ocean from western Nassau County through much of Suffolk County. The region is known for its broad sandy beaches, barrier islands, coastal bays, and relaxed waterfront lifestyle.

The South Shore includes many of Long Island’s best-known beach destinations, including Jones Beach State Park, Robert Moses State Park, Fire Island National Seashore, and Cupsogue Beach County Park. Offshore barrier islands help protect the mainland from the Atlantic Ocean while creating sheltered bays that are popular for boating, fishing, kayaking, and other water sports.

The region is also home to numerous waterfront communities, marinas, fishing ports, and parks that overlook the Great South Bay and surrounding waterways. From family-friendly beaches and lively boardwalks to quiet preserves and scenic waterfront villages, the South Shore offers a wide variety of recreational opportunities throughout the year.

Although the South Shore is best known for its beaches, it also features diverse downtown districts, seafood restaurants, cultural attractions, nature preserves, and outdoor activities that attract millions of residents and visitors each year. Combined with its easy access to the Atlantic coastline, these attractions make the South Shore one of the defining regions of Long Island.

Quick Facts

Category	Information
Location	Southern coast of Long Island along the Atlantic Ocean
Counties	Nassau County and Suffolk County
Known For	Ocean beaches, barrier islands, boating, fishing, marinas, parks, and waterfront communities
Major Waterways	Atlantic Ocean and Great South Bay
Popular Destinations	Jones Beach State Park, Robert Moses State Park, Fire Island National Seashore, and Cupsogue Beach County Park
State	New York State

Long Island’s South Shore is defined by its miles of sandy coastline, vibrant waterfront communities, and outstanding recreational opportunities. Whether spending the day at Jones Beach State Park, exploring Fire Island National Seashore, enjoying the waters of the Great South Bay, or relaxing along the Atlantic shoreline, the South Shore remains one of the most recognizable and beloved regions of Long Island.