Atlantic Beach
A quieter, sleepier beach, Atlantic hosts many beach clubs which contribute to its exclusive feel. Members are allowed up to six guests per day, so if you’re a resident, pack up the car and carpool to get the best deal. 1393 Beech St., Atlantic Beach Beach ID pass for residents only: $10.
Bay Park
Perfect for families, this beach and park along the water features a large jungle gym, pool, sprinklers, and gazebo. A picnic area is also available for a family cookout. 192 1st Ave., East Rockaway. Parking for Leisure Pass Holders: $10, Non-leisure pass holders: $32.
Cedar Beach
Featuring live music and bands daily, Cedar Beach is lively, clean and not as crowded
as neighboring beaches. The snack bar serves frozen mixed drinks as well as hot food.
There’s even a campground, playground, and plenty of volleyball courts. 244 Harbor Beach Rd., Mt Sinai Daily Entrance Fees for vehicles without Recreation Permit: $30 on weekends, $20 on weekdays.
Cupsogue Beach County Park
The soft sand here is home to many unique seashells and even sea glass. Enjoy a Margarita or two at one of the many beach bars that serve drinks and food, including the catch of the day. 906 Dune Rd., Westhampton Beach. Resident Parking with Suffolk Green Key: $9, Non-resident: $18.
Gilgo Beach
This quaint beach is a short walk from the parking lot. Surfing classes are available here at places like the Bunger Surf Shop, and the beach environment provides for a relaxed, no pressure lesson. Ocean Pkwy, Babylon. Resident season pass: $45, Non-residents: $20 on weekdays, $30 weekends.
Hither Hills Beach
Described by locals as “charming” and “simple,” Hither Hills is quiet and low-key with white sands and clear water. Its neighboring state park is a popular site for campers with access to barbeques and picnic tables. 164 Old Montauk Hwy, Montauk Public Parking: $10, $35 for campers, or free with Empire Pass Card ($80).
Lido Beach
Open to the public, Lido is busier than its Atlantic counterpart, and features food on the bay like Fisherman’s Catch. 235 Lido Blvd., Lido Beach. Resident parking: $10 per car, Non-resident: $25 per car, “walk-in” fees apply.
Meschutt Beach
Featuring a seaside pub, Rumba, with burgers and drinks, Meschutt does not disappoint locals who swear by its relaxed vibe and occasional live music. Sunsets here are not to be missed! 90 Dunes Rd, Hampton Bays. Resident Parking with Suffolk Green Key: $9, Nonresident: $18.
Montauk Point
In this unique spot, visitors have a stunning view of converging tides from the Atlantic and Block Island Sound. Striped bass swim in the area which makes it a great spot for surfing or fishing. 2000 Montauk Hwy, Montauk. Parking: $8, or free with Empire Pass Card ($80).
Nickerson Beach County Park
Ideal for families, Nickerson features a Fun Zone with a skate park and basketball courts in its cabana area, as well as two swimming pools at both ends of the park. 880 Lido Blvd., Lido Beach. Parking for Leisure Pass Holders: $13, Non-leisure pass holders: $35.
Pacific Blvd Beach
This spot is one of the lesser known beaches in Long Beach, yet attracts families with its quaint amenities like snack bars and a volleyball court on the sand. Children under 12 are admitted for free, so take advantage of the jungle gym and playground. Pacific Blvd., Long Beach. Resident Daily Pass: $12 per person, Non-resident: $15 person.
Philip B. Healey Beach
A quiet beach tucked in a residential area, this hidden gem is used mainly by locals. No concessions, so bring your own lunch, but enjoy the playground, swings, sprinklers, and of course, peaceful views. 30 Florence Ave., Massapequa. Resident Parking: $20, Non-resident: $50.
Point Lookout Beach
Nestled on the east end of Long Beach, this hidden gem is perfect for those trying to beat the crowds at Long Beach or Lido. Not many shops around, so pack your own lunch or get a snack from the ice cream truck that parks nearby. 1300 Lido Blvd., Lido Beach. Resident parking: $10 per car, Non-resident: $25 per car, “walk-in” fees apply.
Robert Moses State Park
Buy a beach getaway pass through the LIRR to avoid parking fees (around $20 round trip depending where you leave from and includes bus tickets to the beach). Notably clean and quiet, Robert Moses has umbrellas and chairs to rent and for chilling out on a lazy beach day. Robert Moses Causeway, Babylon. $10 to park from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. weekends, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekdays, or free with Empire Pass Card ($80).
Shinnecock East Park
This park is the ideal fishing location, with the waters bursting with blues and stripes. Lots of sand to walk along and enjoy the Hamptons sunshine. Nearby is Oaklands Restaurant and Marina which is known for its oysters, clam chowder, and more. Diners can eat while overlooking the ocean. 300 Dune Rd, Southampton. Resident Parking with Suffolk Green Key: $9, Non-resident: $25.
Smith Point Beach
Live music and snacks make this beach a popular hangout spot among locals. The Beach Bar Hut features bands and fresh seafood all summer long, and has been noted to have great fried calamari. William Floyd Parkway, Shirley. Resident Parking with Suffolk Green Key: $9, Non-resident: $18.
Sunken Meadow State Park
Thursdays from 6 to 9 p.m. enjoy country music at their weekly “Burgers, BBQ, and Blue Moons” night at the main beach, or have a relaxing “Sunday by the Sound” every Sunday 3 to 8 p.m. with a DJ and family friendly entertainment. State Highway 25A, Kings Park. $10 per car from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. weekends, 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. weekdays, or free with Empire Pass Card ($80).
Tanner Park
Complete with splash pad, sprinklers, skatepark, and snack bar, Tanner Park has all the amenities for the perfect beach day. There’s even a fishing pier for those who want to catch their own lunch. 400 Baylawn Ave, Copiague. Resident parking: $15 per car, Non-resident: $25 per car.
Webby’s Beach
A hidden gem that’s free to visit! Younger kids will enjoy the playground in the sand but all will appreciate the beautiful sand and optimal sunset-viewing location. 19 Laura Lee Dr., Center Moriches Free!
Zach’s Bay
Adjacent to the popular Jones Beach, Zach’s Bay is known for its shallow water and lack of waves, making it popular for parents with small children. The calm environment and serene atmosphere is ideal for those trying to escape the Jones Beach crowd. Ocean Pkwy Coastal
Greenway, Massapequa. $10 per car.
