Which beaches are open year-round?
Many of Long Island’s public beaches remain open year-round, even though swimming, lifeguards, concessions, and other seasonal services are generally available only during the summer. Throughout the year, visitors can enjoy walking, hiking, fishing, photography, birdwatching, surfing, and scenic ocean views at many state, county, and municipal beaches.
In Short
Most major state parks and many county beaches remain open throughout the year for recreational use. Winter visitors can enjoy peaceful shorelines, easier parking, and excellent opportunities for fishing, wildlife viewing, and photography.
Long Island Beaches Open Year-Round
| Beach | Location | Year-Round Activities |
|---|---|---|
| Jones Beach State Park | Wantagh, Nassau County | Walking, fishing, photography, birdwatching, sightseeing, and seasonal recreation. |
| Robert Moses State Park | Fire Island, Suffolk County | Beach walks, fishing, sightseeing, and access to the Fire Island Lighthouse. |
| Fire Island National Seashore | Fire Island, Suffolk County | Beach walks, hiking, wildlife viewing, photography, and fishing. |
| Hither Hills State Park | Montauk, Suffolk County | Beach walks, hiking, fishing, surfing, camping (seasonal), and scenic Atlantic views. |
| Sunken Meadow State Park | Kings Park, Suffolk County | Walking, birdwatching, fishing, and enjoying views of the Long Island Sound. |
| Orient Beach State Park | Orient, Suffolk County | Nature trails, kayaking, fishing, birdwatching, and shoreline walks. |
| Wildwood State Park | Wading River, Suffolk County | Beach walks, hiking, camping (seasonal), and scenic Long Island Sound views. |
| Long Beach | Long Beach, Nassau County | Walking the boardwalk, jogging, biking, photography, and ocean views throughout the year. |
What Changes During the Winter?
Although many beaches remain open year-round, seasonal services are reduced outside the summer months. Lifeguards, swimming areas, food concessions, equipment rentals, and beach admission booths are generally available only during the peak season. Parking is often free during the off-season at many state parks.
Popular Off-Season Activities
- Walking and jogging
- Surf fishing
- Birdwatching
- Nature photography
- Surfing where permitted
- Beachcombing
- Watching sunrises and sunsets
Quick Facts
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Are most Long Island beaches open year-round? | Many public beaches remain open throughout the year, although seasonal services are limited outside the summer. |
| Can you swim during the winter? | Swimming is generally not supervised outside the summer season, and water temperatures can be dangerously cold. |
| Is parking available? | Yes. Many beaches remain accessible by car year-round, and some state parks offer free off-season parking. |
| Are restrooms and concessions open? | Many facilities close or operate on limited schedules during the off-season. |
| What are the most popular winter activities? | Walking, fishing, birdwatching, photography, and sightseeing. |
| Which beaches stay open all year? | Most major state parks, including Jones Beach, Robert Moses, Hither Hills, Sunken Meadow, Wildwood, and Orient Beach State Park. |
If you’re planning a beach visit outside the summer season, you may also want to compare the best beaches on Long Island, learn which beaches have free parking, discover which beaches are the least crowded, or find out when Long Island beaches are open and closed.
Are you ready for fall on Long Island? Check out these local seasonal guides:
🍎 Apple Picking 🍓 Strawberry Picking 🎃 Pumpkin Picking 👻 Haunted Houses 🍂 Farm Festivals
