8 of the Top-Rated Beaches on Long Island - Trip Canvas
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8 of the Top-Rated Beaches on Long Island
Updated: August 07, 2025
Written byAAA Travel Editor, CW
Situated along the coast of Southeastern New York, Long Island, NY offers some of the best beaches for both locals and visitors to explore. Whether you’re looking for a beach that’s perfect for a fun family vacation or you want a relaxing, tranquil seaside escape in the Hamptons, there’s an ocean atmosphere for everyone at one of the best beaches on Long Island.
Given Long Island’s proximity to Manhattan, Long Island’s beaches are not only a popular tourist spot but are visited frequently by locals looking for day-trip escapes from the city atmosphere.
If you're not sure which Long Island beach to visit, read on to explore this guide that covers eight of the top-rated beaches on Long Island, to help plan for your upcoming Long Island trip.
1. Jones Beach State Park
istockphoto.com / Joseph Trentacosti
Parking: Small onsite fee
Amenities: Lounge chair and volleyball rentals are available
Things to do: Miniature golf, bocce ball, corn hole, table tennis and other activities
Jones Beach State Park is one of New York’s most famous beaches, offering over six miles of white sand beaches to explore. This popular tourist beach attracts all types of visitors, including families, hosting nearly six million visitors each year.
Located in Southern Nassau County, Jones Beach State Park makes the list of best Long Island beaches thanks to its great selection of things to do beyond relaxing on the beach. Adventurous tourists can try ziplining the Jones Beach Zipline or enjoy a classic meal at the Boardwalk Cafe. Throughout the peak visit season, Jones Beach State Park hosts entertainment and shows at the Northwell Health Theatre.
2. Sunken Meadow State Park
istockphoto.com / Jaclyn Vernace
Parking: Small onsite fee
Amenities: Concession stands, picnic areas and restrooms available
Things to do: Hiking and biking trails, boardwalk strolls, playgrounds, kayaking and golf at the Sunken Meadow State Park Golf Course
Located at the Northern tip of Long Island in Suffolk County, Sunken Meadow State Park is one of the best beaches on Long Island for sporting activities. Many pick-up sports are played in the open lawn and field areas at this park. Along the eastern portion of the park, various watersports such as paddle boarding and windsurfing are available.
Sunken Meadow State Park is a great place to relax and bathe in the sun, while also participating in exciting beach activities. Many runners and trail walkers enjoy walking the boardwalk and the surrounding Greenbelt trail as well.
3. Coopers Beach
istockphoto.com / TraceRouda
Parking: Daily fee (higher for non-residents)
Amenities: Chair and umbrella rentals, restrooms, showers and snack bar
Things to do: Swimming, sunbathing and scenic beach walks
If your idea of an ideal beach vacation includes a quiet and relaxed atmosphere, be sure to check out Coopers Beach. Coopers Beach is located in Southampton, offering over 15 miles of white sandy beaches to take in. Not only is this beach kept extremely clean, but it provides a tranquil setting ideal for people who want to swim, tan or simply read a book on the beach.
Coopers Beach is the ideal Long Island beach for visitors who simply want to go to the beach without the need for any additional attractions.
4. Main Beach
istockphoto.com / Kirkikis
Parking: Permit required (non-resident daily passes available in limited quantities)
Amenities: Restrooms, outdoor showers, snack bar and umbrella/chair rentals
Things to do: Swimming, sunbathing, beach walks and occasional summer events
Tourists and locals visit Main Beach, located in the Hamptons, for its many amenities. This beach is popular for those who want to surf, yet also provides the perfect atmosphere for those simply looking to get their feet wet. Throughout the peak summer months, you might even catch a glimpse of the local fireworks show at night.
Main Beach offers all the amenities you need for an enjoyable beach day, including a food stand, public restrooms and changing rooms and showers available for use. The area is also monitored by lifeguards, making it an ideal choice for families seeking a safe beach location when traveling with young children.
5. Cupsogue Beach County Park
istockphoto.com / demerzel21
Parking: Small onsite fee (free with Suffolk County Green Key)
Amenities: Snack bar, restrooms, showers and picnic areas
Things to do: Swimming, sunbathing, fishing, beach walks and occasional live music events
Cupsogue Beach County Park is another of Long Island's best beaches, perfect for an enjoyable day in the sun. Not only is this beach popular for regular beach activities, but it's also a popular beach for camping (permit required). While on the beach, guests can enjoy amenities such as a snack bar, restrooms and showers available. This pet-friendly beach is also great for visiting with dogs (must be leashed).
6. Gin Beach
istockphoto.com / WoodysPhotos
Parking: Small onsite fee (Town of East Hampton permit required; limited non-resident access)
Amenities: Restrooms, outdoor showers and nearby picnic areas
Things to do: Swimming, sunbathing, fishing and beachcombing
Ideal for those seeking a quiet beach experience, Gin Beach is a small, calm and quiet beach that is perfect for a relaxing getaway. Located in Montauk, Gin Beach is one of the best Long Island beaches for a simple beach day without too many frills. Pack a beach bag and a picnic and sit back and enjoy the sun at this serene beach location.
Gin Beach does not cost any money to enter and offers a roped-off area, ideal for families looking for safer swimming conditions. After you've worked up an appetite, check out the popular Gin Beach Cafe for an American-inspired meal to complete your beach day.
7. Robert Moses State Park
KellyCampbell / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA
Parking: Small onsite fee
Amenities: Restrooms, outdoor showers, concession stands and picnic areas
Things to do: Swimming, surfing, surf fishing, hiking trails and visiting the nearby Fire Island Lighthouse
Robert Moses State Park is a scenic and well-regarded destination located on the western tip of Fire Island. With five miles of oceanfront beaches along the Atlantic, it offers a slightly quieter and more relaxed experience than some of the larger Long Island beaches, while still providing a variety of activities for visitors of every type.
The park is especially popular with surfers and families looking for a less crowded alternative to nearby Jones Beach. Visitors can explore nature trails through the dunes, walk to the historic Fire Island Lighthouse or enjoy a full day of swimming and sunbathing.
With its natural beauty, well-maintained facilities and family-friendly atmosphere, Robert Moses State Park continues to be one of the top-rated beach destinations on Long Island.
8. Orient Beach State Park
Kate Stoupas / Getty Images / CC BY-SA
Parking: Small onsite fee
Amenities: Restrooms, picnic areas, outdoor showers, kayak and paddleboard rentals
Things to do: Swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding, hiking, biking and birdwatching
Orient Beach State Park is a peaceful and scenic retreat located at the tip of the North Fork of Long Island. Known for its calm waters and natural beauty, this beach is perfect for visitors looking to enjoy a quieter, more relaxed coastal experience.
The park features a rare maritime forest and saltwater marshes making it a haven for birdwatchers and nature lovers. A network of trails offers opportunities for walking, biking and spotting native wildlife. The shallow gentle waters of Gardiners Bay also make this a great location for families with young children or those interested in kayaking and paddleboarding.
Recognized as a National Natural Landmark, Orient Beach State Park is one of Long Island’s hidden gems ideal for those seeking both recreation and a connection to nature.
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