Long Island Beaches

If you’re local, you know the drill — hop in the car, brave the LIE, Sunrise Highway, or Ocean Parkway, and you’re there. For visitors, the easiest way is by car, but you can also take the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) to towns like Long Beach, Jones Beach, or Montauk and grab a short cab or rideshare from the station. Just remember — traffic is part of the Long Island experience, so give yourself extra time, especially on summer weekends.

For the most part, yes — but manage your expectations. Long Island isn’t the Caribbean; our waters are a little murkier. That said, calm spots like Montauk’s Fort Pond Bay or some North Shore beaches are beginner-friendly. Stick to lifeguarded areas, go on calm-water days, and if you’re brand new, start close to shore.

Absolutely. Many of the bigger beaches — Jones Beach, Robert Moses, Long Beach — have concession stands, food courts, even sit-down spots. Smaller or town beaches might just have vending machines or none at all. Locals know the trick: pack a cooler, but check the rules, since some beaches don’t allow alcohol or glass.

Summer is prime time — June through early September. That’s when lifeguards are on duty, concession stands are open, and the water is warm enough to swim. If you’re not a swimmer, May and September are gems — fewer crowds, cooler temps, and still plenty of sunshine. Fall beach walks? Highly underrated.

Yes, they are. The main beaches are patrolled, family-friendly, and safe during the day. Stick to lifeguarded areas if you’re swimming, keep an eye on your belongings, and use common sense like you would anywhere. Plenty of locals head to the beach solo to read, walk, or just clear their head — it’s a Long Island ritual.

Some, yes. Many town beaches require a resident pass or charge higher fees if you’re from out of town. State parks like Jones Beach or Robert Moses have standard parking fees, no residency requirement. If you’re visiting, plan to pay for parking — it’s usually $10–$15 in season. Check the beach’s website ahead so you don’t get surprised at the gate.

Not on most beaches. Overnight camping is usually a no-go unless you have a special permit. A few state parks, like Hither Hills in Montauk, allow camping but you’ll need to book well in advance — those spots fill up fast. Otherwise, once the sun goes down, it’s pack up and head home.