Best Beaches on Long Island

Whether you're looking for a bustling beach day with food and entertainment or a quiet escape surrounded by natural beauty, Long Island's beaches deliver. With options on both the Atlantic Ocean and the Long Island Sound, locals and visitors alike are never far from the perfect beach day.
Whether you’re looking for a bustling beach day with food and entertainment or a quiet escape surrounded by natural beauty, Long Island’s beaches deliver. With options on both the Atlantic Ocean and the Long Island Sound, locals and visitors alike are never far from the perfect beach day. File photo: cnicolestudio, licensed.

Best Beaches on Long Island

Long Island is home to some of the best beaches in the country, offering everything from iconic boardwalks and family-friendly shores to quiet stretches of sand perfect for peaceful getaways. Whether you’re a surfer, sunbather, or nature lover, there’s a Long Island beach that’s perfect for you.

Jones Beach State Park (Wantagh, Nassau County)

One of the most famous beaches in the United States, Jones Beach offers over six miles of shoreline along the Atlantic Ocean.

  • Highlights: Iconic boardwalk, swimming, concerts at Northwell Health Theater
  • Amenities: Food vendors, bathrooms, playgrounds, mini golf
  • Good for: Families, events, beachgoers looking for a lively scene

Robert Moses State Park (Babylon, Suffolk County)

Located on the western end of Fire Island, Robert Moses offers clean, uncrowded beaches and beautiful views.

  • Highlights: Surf fishing, Fire Island Lighthouse nearby
  • Amenities: Ample parking, snack bars, restrooms
  • Good for: Relaxing beach days, fishing, nature lovers

Long Beach (City of Long Beach, Nassau County)

This walkable beach city combines a vibrant downtown with a pristine beach and a popular boardwalk.

  • Highlights: Surfing, beach volleyball, nightlife
  • Amenities: Shops, restaurants, train station within walking distance
  • Good for: Young adults, day-trippers from NYC

Coopers Beach (Southampton, Suffolk County)

Ranked among the top beaches in the U.S., Coopers Beach features wide stretches of white sand and views of stately Hamptons homes.

  • Highlights: High-end charm, scenic dunes
  • Amenities: Umbrella/chair rentals, restrooms, snack bar
  • Good for: Luxury beach experience, couples, tourists

Cupsogue Beach County Park (Westhampton Beach, Suffolk County)

This barrier beach on the eastern end of Dune Road is known for its serene atmosphere and seal sightings in the winter.

  • Highlights: Scenic sunsets, seasonal beach bar
  • Amenities: Lifeguards, showers, food stand
  • Good for: Peaceful getaways, nature photography

Sunken Meadow State Park (Kings Park, Suffolk County)

Situated on the Long Island Sound, Sunken Meadow offers gentle waves and panoramic views—perfect for families with young kids.

  • Highlights: Boardwalk, hiking trails, golf course
  • Amenities: Grills, picnic areas, playgrounds
  • Good for: Families, picnics, outdoor activities

Hither Hills State Park (Montauk, Suffolk County)

Located near the tip of Long Island’s South Fork, Hither Hills is popular for both its beach and scenic campground.

  • Highlights: Ocean swimming, dunes, camping
  • Amenities: Campsites, restrooms, fishing spots
  • Good for: Outdoor adventurers, overnight stays

Planning Your Visit

  • Peak Season: Memorial Day through Labor Day
  • Beach Passes: Many beaches require day-use fees or seasonal permits
  • Early Arrival: Parking lots fill quickly, especially on weekends

Something for Everyone

Whether you’re looking for a bustling beach day with food and entertainment or a quiet escape surrounded by natural beauty, Long Island’s beaches deliver. With options on both the Atlantic Ocean and the Long Island Sound, locals and visitors alike are never far from the perfect beach day.