Gilgo Beach, New York
Gilgo Beach is part of the barrier island system in Babylon, Suffolk County. Known for its surf culture, Atlantic Ocean beaches, and quiet natural setting, Gilgo Beach is also internationally recognized because of the Gilgo Beach murders investigation.
Geography & Location
- Situated on the barrier island between Jones Beach and Robert Moses State Park
- Accessible via the Ocean Parkway
- Part of the Town of Babylon
- Nearby landmarks: Jones Beach, Captree State Park, Robert Moses
History
- Originally a small oceanfront hamlet with summer bungalows and fishing shacks
- Incorporated into the Town of Babylon beach park system
- Remains a mix of recreational beach and residential leaseholds under town management
Recreation & Amenities
- Surfing: Gilgo is a premier surfing spot on Long Island, with consistent breaks
- Beach Access: Known for swimming, sunbathing, and fishing
- Parking: Babylon Town resident and non-resident seasonal permits required
- Facilities: Lifeguards in summer, bathrooms, concession stand (seasonal), picnic areas
- Boating: Gilgo Beach Marina on the bayside provides boat slips and access to Great South Bay
Ecology & Wildlife
- Part of the barrier island ecosystem protecting the South Shore
- Dune systems and nesting habitats for birds, including piping plovers and terns
- Marshlands along the bayside support marine life and waterfowl
Notoriety: The Gilgo Beach Murders
- In 2010, remains of four women (the “Gilgo Four”) were discovered along Ocean Parkway near Gilgo Beach.
- Further searches uncovered additional victims, eventually linked to Rex Heuermann, arrested in 2023 and now facing trial.
- The case drew international attention, placing Gilgo Beach into headlines around the world.
Quick Snapshot
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Ocean Parkway, Town of Babylon, Suffolk County, NY |
| Beach Type | Atlantic Ocean barrier island beach |
| Popular For | Surfing, swimming, boating, fishing |
| Facilities | Lifeguards, parking, concessions, bathrooms, marina access |
| Ecology | Dunes, bayside marshes, migratory bird habitats |
| Notoriety | Linked to the Gilgo Beach serial killer investigation |
Did You Know?
- Gilgo Beach is considered one of the top surfing beaches on Long Island.
- The Gilgo Beach Inn, a long-standing seasonal bar and restaurant, is a favorite among locals and surfers.
- The surrounding marshes and dunes are part of federally protected coastal ecosystems.
- The community includes privately leased homes but remains under Town of Babylon jurisdiction.
