Your Guide to the Best Beaches on Long Island, NY for 2026

With summer just around the corner, Nassau County, NY residents are getting ready to head to the shore. From the famous boardwalk at Jones Beach State Park in Wantagh to the quieter local spots, choosing the right beach Long Island NY offers is a key part of the season. To help you plan, we've put together a guide with clear, actionable information for residents. Whether you're a family in Levittown looking for calm waves or a young professional from Mineola seeking a lively scene, this guide will help you find the perfect spot.

This list breaks down 12 of the top beaches, focusing on favorites within Nassau County. We provide current details on parking fees, lifeguard hours, and amenities, which often change from town to town. You'll learn which beaches are best for surfing, which offer easy access for everyone, and how to use public transit for a car-free day. Our goal is to give you the information you need to plan your visit with confidence, so you can spend less time searching and more time enjoying the sand.

For each beach, from the expansive Robert Moses State Park to the local charm of Point Lookout, we offer insights on the best times to visit, family suitability, and nearby dining options. This guide is a practical tool for planning your perfect summer day. To stay informed about local happenings all season long, be sure to visit our Nassau County events calendar. Now, let’s find your ideal beach.

1. Jones Beach State Park

A true icon in Nassau County, NY, Jones Beach State Park in Wantagh is more than just a beach; it's a massive recreational complex that has been a summer staple for Long Island families since 1929. With 6.5 miles of Atlantic Ocean beachfront, it is the ultimate beach long island ny destination. Its famous Art Deco-style bathhouses and landmark water tower are recognized by millions of visitors each year. This is a must-visit spot for residents looking for a full day of summer activities.

The park offers a wide range of activities, making it a great choice for families from towns like Levittown and Garden City. Beyond swimming, you can play mini-golf, walk the 2-mile boardwalk, or let the kids enjoy one of the playgrounds. The Northwell Health at Jones Beach Theater also hosts major concerts all summer, offering a perfect night out for residents.

Practical Information & Insider Tips

• Location & Fees: Ocean Parkway, Wantagh, NY 11793. The parking fee is typically $10 per vehicle.

• Amenities: Multiple concession stands, boardwalk shops, restrooms, showers, and first aid stations. The Theodore Roosevelt Nature Center offers educational exhibits.

• Actionable Advice: To get a good parking spot at Field 6 or 4 on weekends, arrive before 10 AM. For a quieter visit, try a weekday or head to the West End 2 field.

• Family-Friendliness: Jones Beach is very family-friendly, with lifeguards and designated swimming areas. For more family ideas, explore our guide to the best beaches on Long Island.

2. Long Beach

Known as the "City by the Sea," Long Beach, NY offers a unique blend of urban energy and classic beach town feel, making it a standout beach long island ny destination. Unlike the larger state parks, Long Beach has a beautiful 2.5-mile beach and boardwalk that are integrated into the city itself. This setup is perfect for residents looking for a beach day that can easily turn into an evening of dining and fun.

The city’s vibrant atmosphere is supported by a lively downtown area just steps from the sand, filled with shops, cafes, and restaurants. Long Beach also hosts numerous events, including the popular Long Beach International Film Festival. This mix of beach culture and city life offers residents a refreshing alternative to more traditional beach outings.

Practical Information & Insider Tips

• Location & Fees: Entrances are along the boardwalk in Long Beach, NY 11561. Beach passes are required; daily passes are $15 for non-residents.

• Amenities: The boardwalk features food concessions, surf shops, bike rentals, restrooms, and showers. The downtown area offers many dining and shopping options.

• Actionable Advice: For a car-free day, take the LIRR directly to the Long Beach station; it’s a short walk to the beach. For fewer crowds, visit on a weekday.

• Family-Friendliness: Long Beach is great for families, with designated surfing and swimming zones. After your beach day, explore some of the best spots for waterfront dining in Nassau County.

3. Tobay Beach

Located in Massapequa, NY, Tobay Beach offers a family-focused atmosphere for Town of Oyster Bay residents. This popular spot in Nassau County is known for being clean and well-maintained, providing a great beach long island ny experience without the huge crowds of the state parks. With both an oceanfront and a calmer bay side, it's perfect for families with young children from nearby communities like Rockville Centre and Levittown.

The feeling at Tobay is very community-oriented. In addition to the ocean, the beach has a large playground and a spray park, which provides hours of fun for kids. The on-site restaurant and concessions mean you can easily spend the whole day here. It’s a valued local spot that focuses on providing a safe and enjoyable environment for families in the Town of Oyster Bay.

Practical Information & Insider Tips

• Location & Fees: Ocean Parkway, Massapequa, NY 11758. Access is for Town of Oyster Bay residents with a beach pass. Non-residents can enter for a daily fee (around $60) on weekdays only.

• Amenities: A full-service restaurant, concession stands, a large playground, spray park, restrooms, and showers are available. The bay side has a marina and calm water for swimming.

• Actionable Advice: To ensure you get a parking spot on a summer weekend, arrive before 10 AM.

• Family-Friendliness: This beach is extremely family-friendly, especially with the spray park and calm bay waters. To find more local spots, see our guide to the top public beaches in Nassau.

4. Nickerson Beach Park

Located in Lido Beach, NY, Nickerson Beach Park is a Nassau County treasure that offers a great mix of natural scenery and family fun. This 121-acre park has a beautiful mile-long beach, providing a more manageable alternative to the larger state parks. It's an excellent beach long island ny destination for families from Rockville Centre or Merrick who want a full day of activities without dealing with massive crowds.

The park is very well-equipped for a day of fun. Besides the shoreline, it has playgrounds, sports fields, and a popular skate park. Its cabanas and campgrounds make it a versatile spot for everything from summer camp trips to family gatherings. The calm waters here are particularly good for families with younger children, offering a safe swimming experience.

Practical Information & Insider Tips

• Location & Fees: 880 Lido Blvd, Lido Beach, NY 11561. Parking fees apply for non-residents; Nassau County Leisure Pass holders get a discount.

• Amenities: The park offers restrooms, showers, food concessions, picnic areas with grills, two swimming pools, and beach cabana rentals.

• Actionable Advice: To avoid the biggest crowds, visit on a weekday morning. If you're planning a family party, you can book the pavilions in advance for a guaranteed shaded area.

• Family-Friendliness: Nickerson is one of the most family-friendly beaches in Nassau County, NY. Pack a picnic and beach toys for the kids. For more local outing ideas, check out our guide to Nassau County family events.

5. Robert Moses State Park – Field 5 Beach

For Nassau County residents willing to take a short drive into Suffolk County, Robert Moses State Park offers a more natural beach setting. Located on the western end of Fire Island, Field 5 has a stunning 5-mile stretch of Atlantic shoreline that feels far away from the busy mainland. This beach long island ny destination is known for its beautiful, windswept dunes and a calmer atmosphere.

This park is a favorite for swimmers and nature lovers who appreciate the unspoiled environment. A visit here can be a full-day adventure; pack a lunch and enjoy the surf before taking a walk to the historic Fire Island Lighthouse. The quieter vibe makes it a great choice for couples from towns like Mineola or Great Neck, or for families who want a classic, nature-focused beach day.

Practical Information & Insider Tips

• Location & Fees: Robert Moses State Park, Babylon, NY 11702. The vehicle fee is typically $10.

• Amenities: Field 5 has a large bathhouse with concessions, restrooms, showers, and a first aid station. There's also a pitch-and-putt golf course nearby.

• Actionable Advice: To get parking on a summer weekend, arrive before 9 AM. For an even better experience, visit during May, early June, or September when the weather is nice and the beach is less crowded.

• Angler-Friendliness: The park is a popular spot for surf fishing. For more information on great fishing spots, check out our guide to fishing on Long Island.

6. Hempstead Lake State Park Beach

For a different kind of beach long island ny experience, Hempstead Lake State Park in West Hempstead, NY offers a freshwater alternative right in the heart of Nassau County. While there are no ocean waves, its lake beach provides a calm and safe environment, making it a favorite for families from nearby towns like Garden City and Rockville Centre. The park is a large green space perfect for picnics, walks, and a relaxing day out.

This inland spot is a great option for residents looking to avoid the coastal crowds, especially on hot summer days. The park’s combination of waterfront relaxation and scenic trails makes it ideal for family gatherings. It offers a beautiful setting without the long drive to the South Shore.

Practical Information & Insider Tips

• Location & Fees: 1000 Lake Drive, West Hempstead, NY 11552. A vehicle fee of $8 is typically collected on weekends and holidays.

• Amenities: Picnic tables, pavilions, playgrounds, restrooms, and numerous hiking trails. A carousel and tennis courts are also on-site.

• Actionable Advice: This beach is perfect for families with toddlers since there are no strong currents. Bring your own picnic lunch for an affordable family outing and visit on a weekday for the quietest experience.

• Family-Friendliness: Very family-friendly. The calm lake and playgrounds make it a safe and fun destination. Combine your visit with a walk on one of the nature trails.

7. Atlantic Beach

Located on the Long Beach Barrier Island, Atlantic Beach offers a more exclusive oceanfront experience in Nassau County, NY. This village combines a beautiful, often private, beach with an upscale community feel. It's a popular destination for residents from the nearby Five Towns communities who are looking for a quieter coastal escape without the typical boardwalk crowds, making it a unique beach long island ny choice.

The atmosphere in Atlantic Beach is more serene and resort-like, with many access points managed by private beach clubs. This means the sand is clean and the environment is peaceful, perfect for a relaxing day. Beyond the shore, the village has a great dining scene with well-known waterfront restaurants, making it a good spot for a special occasion.

Practical Information & Insider Tips

• Location & Fees: The Village of Atlantic Beach, NY 11509. Access can be tricky as many beaches are private. Public access is limited and often requires buying a daily pass from a beach club, with prices that can be high.

• Amenities: High-end beach clubs offer cabanas, pools, and restaurants. Public areas have fewer amenities, so plan ahead.

• Actionable Advice: Research beach access before you go. Check the websites for clubs like The Sands or Sunny Atlantic Beach Club for non-member day pass information. For a more accessible option, consider the nearby Town of Hempstead beaches at Nickerson or Lido.

• Best For: Atlantic Beach is ideal for couples and special celebrations. It's less suited for families on a budget due to high access costs. Plan to dine at one of the village's restaurants after your beach time.

8. Point Lookout Beach

At the eastern tip of the Long Beach barrier island, Point Lookout Beach in Nassau County, NY offers a quiet and exclusive alternative to its busier neighbors. This Town of Hempstead beach has the charm of a small seaside community, providing a peaceful escape from the summer crowds. Its clean sand and gentle waves make it a favorite spot for residents from nearby Merrick and Bellmore who are looking for a family-oriented beach long island ny experience.

The atmosphere here is relaxed and friendly. Visitors can enjoy a walk along the quiet boardwalk with beautiful views of the ocean and Jones Inlet. The beach is popular among local families who appreciate its well-kept facilities and less commercial feel. It’s a true hidden gem in Nassau County where you can relax without interruption.

Practical Information & Insider Tips

• Location & Fees: 1300 Lido Blvd, Point Lookout, NY 11569. Access is mainly for Town of Hempstead residents with a seasonal pass. Daily passes for non-residents may be available but are limited.

• Amenities: The beach has a concession stand, clean restrooms, showers, and a playground. Lifeguards are on duty during the summer.

• Actionable Advice: For the most peaceful experience, visit on a weekday morning. After your beach time, explore the local restaurants in the village for fresh seafood.

• Family-Friendliness: Point Lookout is very welcoming for families due to its calm environment. For more local events, check out our Nassau County events calendar.

9. Freeport Beach

Freeport Beach in Nassau County, NY, offers a different kind of waterfront experience. Located along the working channels of the South Shore, this destination provides a look into Long Island's fishing industry. It's less about wide sandy beaches and more about an authentic maritime atmosphere, making it a unique beach long island ny outing for residents from towns like Merrick and Bellmore.

The main attraction here is the waterfront culture. Freeport is home to the famous "Nautical Mile," a strip along Woodcleft Canal filled with seafood restaurants, charter boats, and fish markets. Residents can enjoy fresh seafood, watch fishing boats unload their catch, or book a fishing trip. This mix of industry and leisure celebrates Long Island's maritime heritage.

Practical Information & Insider Tips

• Location & Fees: The main area is the Nautical Mile, along Woodcleft Avenue, Freeport, NY 11520. Access to the waterfront is generally free, though some businesses may have fees.

• Amenities: This area has dozens of restaurants, public docks, restrooms, and shops. The focus is on dining and boating rather than swimming.

• Actionable Advice: For the best experience, plan a visit around lunch or dinner at a local spot like Rachel's or Otto's Sea Grill. A walk along the docks in the early afternoon is a great time to see the fishing boats.

• Family-Friendliness: While not a traditional swimming beach, it's a great educational trip for families. Kids will love seeing the boats. For more classic beach day ideas, check out our guide to the top family-friendly activities on Long Island.

10. Island Park Beach

Tucked away in a quiet part of Nassau County, NY, Island Park Beach offers a simple and local alternative to the area's larger shores. This is a neighborhood beach that reflects the community-focused lifestyle of Island Park. It’s a great spot where local families can enjoy an easygoing afternoon, representing an authentic side of the beach long island ny experience.

The atmosphere here is very low-key, making it perfect for families with young children or anyone seeking a peaceful outing. Its charm is in its simplicity: a sandy shoreline for swimming, calm waters, and a friendly, uncrowded feel. It’s a popular choice for residents from nearby communities like Oceanside who want a quick and stress-free beach trip.

Practical Information & Insider Tips

• Location & Fees: Masone Beach, 250 Waterford Rd, Island Park, NY 11558. Access is typically for Town of Hempstead residents, with seasonal or daily pass fees.

• Amenities: Basic amenities include restrooms, a playground, and picnic tables. It's a good idea to pack your own food and drinks.

• Actionable Advice: For the most relaxing experience, visit on a weekday morning. The beach is smaller, so an early arrival on weekends is a good idea. Bring your own chairs and umbrellas.

• Family-Friendliness: Very family-friendly due to its calm waters and neighborhood feel. For more coastal activity ideas, check out our guide on clamming on Long Island.

11. Lido Beach

Located between Long Beach and Point Lookout, Lido Beach offers a more relaxed coastal experience in the Town of Hempstead, NY. Known for its beautiful, well-kept sand, this destination provides an upscale alternative to some of the larger state parks. It’s a sophisticated beach long island ny spot that appeals to families from nearby Rockville Centre and young professionals from Mineola seeking a quiet day by the ocean.

The atmosphere in Lido Beach is calm, mixing natural beauty with good amenities. While the main beach is run by the Town of Hempstead, the area is also home to Nickerson Beach Park, which offers cabanas, pools, and sports fields. This combination of quiet shoreline and full facilities makes it a great choice for those looking to enjoy the Atlantic without big crowds.

Practical Information & Insider Tips

• Location & Fees: 630 Lido Blvd, Lido Beach, NY 11561. Access is through the Town of Hempstead Lido Beach Park or Nickerson Beach Park. Fees vary; Nickerson Beach often has daily parking fees around $14 for Nassau residents.

• Amenities: Nickerson Beach has pools, cabanas, a skate park, sports courts, playgrounds, and concessions. The main town park offers restrooms and showers.

• Actionable Advice: For affordable access with great amenities, choose Nickerson Beach Park. Arrive early on summer weekends as the parking lot can fill up.

• Family-Friendliness: Extremely family-friendly, especially Nickerson Beach. The calmer vibe of Lido Beach is great for families with younger children. For more weekend ideas, check our guide to Nassau County family events.

12. Rockaway Beach (Beach 86th Street to 116th Street)

While it's in Queens, Rockaway Beach is a popular and easy-to-reach spot for many Nassau County residents. Its 6-mile stretch of sand has become a cultural hotspot, mixing a classic beach day with a great food and arts scene. This unique vibe attracts young professionals from towns like Mineola and families looking for a change from the traditional beach long island ny scene.

The area between Beach 86th Street and 116th Street is the center of the action, with surf schools and creative food vendors. The revitalized boardwalk is perfect for a walk or bike ride, capturing an energy that sets it apart. It’s a great choice for those who want to combine a relaxing day by the ocean with exploring a vibrant community.

Practical Information & Insider Tips

• Location & Fees: Rockaway Beach Boardwalk, Queens, NY 11693. Access to the beach is free. Street parking can be hard to find.

• Amenities: Numerous boardwalk concession stands, restrooms, showers, and dedicated surfing areas are available. Lifeguards are on duty during the summer.

• Actionable Advice: To avoid parking issues, consider taking the A-train or the NYC Ferry. For the best conditions, visit on a weekday afternoon. Explore the food vendors around Beach 97th Street.

• Family-Friendliness: The beach is family-friendly with playgrounds and calm swimming areas. Keep an eye on our local Nassau County events calendar for festivals and events happening nearby.

12 Long Island Beaches: Comparison

Make the Most of Your Nassau County Summer

From the iconic boardwalk of Jones Beach State Park to the more secluded, residential feel of Point Lookout, it’s clear that finding a great beach in Long Island, NY, particularly within Nassau County, is less a matter of "if" and more a question of "which one today?" This guide has journeyed through a dozen unique coastal destinations, each offering a distinct flavor of summer life. We've detailed the practicalities: parking fees at Tobay Beach, lifeguard schedules in Long Beach, and the family-friendly amenities waiting for you at Nickerson Beach. The goal isn't just to list locations, but to empower you with the knowledge to craft your perfect beach day, whether you're a young professional from Mineola seeking a lively weekend scene or a family from Garden City planning a safe and fun outing for the kids.

The key takeaway is that strategic planning transforms a good beach trip into a great one. Knowing that Robert Moses State Park’s Field 5 is the gateway to the Fire Island Lighthouse can shape your entire afternoon. Understanding that Atlantic Beach offers a more exclusive, private club atmosphere helps manage expectations. For residents of Freeport or Island Park, knowing your local town beaches provides a quick, convenient escape without the trek to the major state parks. This hyper-local knowledge is your best tool for avoiding the peak-time traffic jams on the Meadowbrook Parkway and securing a prime spot on the sand.

Your Strategy for a Perfect Nassau Beach Day

To truly master your summer, think beyond just picking a destination. Your approach should be holistic, considering every part of the experience.

• Timing is Everything: For popular spots like Jones Beach, an early arrival (before 9:00 AM) isn't just a suggestion; it's a necessity on a hot July weekend to avoid parking closures. Conversely, consider a late afternoon visit after 4:00 PM, when crowds begin to thin, the sun is less intense, and parking fees may be reduced or eliminated.

• Pack for Success: A successful beach day is an equipped beach day. Sunscreen and towels are obvious, but think about the specifics of your chosen spot. If you're heading to a beach with fewer concession options, like some of the smaller town beaches, packing a well-stocked cooler is essential. To make the most of your summer days at the beach, staying hydrated with refreshingly cold beverages is key. Discover the best insulated water bottles to keep your drinks cool for hours, ensuring you have a crisp sip of water waiting after a swim in the Atlantic.

• Leverage Your Residency: If you live in towns like Hempstead or Oyster Bay, your town park sticker is a golden ticket, granting you access to exclusive or heavily discounted beaches like Point Lookout and Tobay. Don't let this valuable perk go unused. For residents of Long Beach, a season pass is an investment that pays for itself after just a few visits.

Beyond the Sand: Integrating Your Beach Trip

Your day doesn't have to end when you shake the sand from your towels. The beauty of Nassau County is how a beach trip can seamlessly transition into another local experience. After a day at Long Beach, you can explore the vibrant West End for dinner and nightlife. A trip to Robert Moses can be paired with a visit to the charming village of Babylon for post-beach ice cream. This integration turns a simple outing into a full-day adventure, showcasing the best our communities have to offer.

Ultimately, the diverse coastline of Nassau County is a core part of our local identity. It's where memories are made, from a toddler’s first encounter with the waves at Lido Beach to watching the sunset with friends after a concert at Jones Beach Theater. By using this guide to explore with intention, you're not just visiting a beach on Long Island, NY; you're actively participating in the vibrant, sun-soaked culture that makes living here so special.

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