The Best Picnic Beaches on Long Island: A Perfect Escape into Nature
Long Island, with its sprawling coastline, offers some of the most beautiful beaches on the East Coast. From relaxing sunbathing spots to picturesque picnic areas, Long Island’s beaches provide an ideal setting for a perfect day out. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, there are plenty of great picnic beaches on Long Island that offer stunning views, serene environments, and the perfect spot to unwind. If you’re looking to enjoy a relaxing beach day with your loved ones, here’s a list of the best picnic beaches on Long Island that you should consider.
One of the most popular picnic beaches on Long Island is Robert Moses State Park, located on the western tip of Fire Island. This beautiful park offers long stretches of sand, picnic tables, and an incredible view of the Atlantic Ocean. With several designated picnic areas, visitors can easily pack a lunch and enjoy a meal while taking in the fresh sea air. The park also offers ample opportunities for hiking, swimming, and fishing, making it a fantastic destination for a day trip. The ease of access, coupled with the beautiful surroundings, makes Robert Moses one of the top picnic beaches on Long Island.
If you’re looking for a more secluded and peaceful spot to enjoy your picnic, Sunken Meadow State Park is an excellent choice. Situated along the Long Island Sound, Sunken Meadow features scenic picnic areas surrounded by nature, offering a tranquil setting away from the crowds. The park has several spots with breathtaking views of the sound and lush greenery, making it an ideal location for a relaxing picnic with family or friends. The beach here is smaller but charming, and the park also offers walking trails, sports facilities, and barbecue areas, allowing for a complete day of outdoor enjoyment.
For a family-friendly beach with a variety of amenities, Jones Beach State Park is an excellent choice for a picnic outing. Located along the south shore of Long Island, Jones Beach is known for its expansive beach, iconic boardwalk, and many recreational activities. The park offers numerous picnic areas with grills, so you can enjoy a barbecue along with a swim in the ocean. In addition to its stunning beach and picnic spots, Jones Beach also has outdoor theaters, playgrounds, and even mini-golf, making it one of the best picnic beaches on Long Island for families with children.
Another excellent beach for picnicking is Hither Hills State Park, located on the eastern tip of Long Island in Montauk. This park is a favorite for nature lovers due to its diverse landscape and the spectacular views it offers of the Atlantic Ocean. Hither Hills features several picnic areas scattered throughout the park, where you can enjoy your meal while gazing at the ocean waves or surrounded by the park’s wooded areas. The beach itself is a great spot for swimming and surfing, and the park also has hiking trails, making it a perfect location for a day of outdoor adventures.
For those seeking a more relaxed, low-key atmosphere, Cupsogue Beach County Park in Westhampton is a hidden gem. This quiet, serene beach provides a fantastic location for a peaceful picnic day by the water. The park offers picnic tables with views of the ocean and the scenic Fire Island Inlet. The beach is less crowded than other popular Long Island beaches, giving you the space and tranquility to truly unwind. Cupsogue also offers opportunities for kayaking, fishing, and birdwatching, making it an ideal spot for nature lovers who want to enjoy a quiet day by the beach.
Long Island is also home to Meschutt Beach County Park in Hampton Bays, a favorite among locals for its relaxed atmosphere and beautiful surroundings. The park offers designated picnic areas, and its location along Shinnecock Bay provides calm, warm waters perfect for wading or relaxing on the shore. Meschutt Beach is well-known for its calm, family-friendly environment, making it a great spot for a picnic with children. In addition to picnicking, you can enjoy the beach, launch a boat from the nearby ramp, or explore the area’s natural beauty with a leisurely walk along the water.
Another beautiful picnic beach to consider is Orient Beach State Park, located on the North Fork of Long Island. This park offers sweeping views of Long Island Sound and features picnic tables near the water’s edge. Orient Beach is less commercialized than some of the other beaches on the island, making it a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The park is also home to a designated swimming area, hiking trails, and opportunities for birdwatching, making it a great spot to enjoy a quiet picnic surrounded by nature.
For those who enjoy both beach time and a bit of history, Fort Tilden Beach in Queens is a unique location. This former military base is now part of the Gateway National Recreation Area, and it offers a tranquil atmosphere perfect for a beach picnic. The area features picturesque views of the ocean and nearby Jamaica Bay, and the beach itself is often quieter compared to other nearby beaches. Visitors can enjoy picnicking in shaded areas, exploring old military structures, or simply relaxing by the water.
Lastly, Tiana Beach in Hampton Bays is another fantastic picnic spot on Long Island. This lesser-known beach is great for those looking for a more peaceful and secluded experience. Tiana Beach features picnic tables and access to beautiful views of Shinnecock Bay, making it perfect for a quiet day of relaxation. The calm waters also make it an excellent location for swimming or kayaking. It’s an ideal spot for those seeking an escape from the crowds and the perfect beach picnic experience.
In conclusion, Long Island boasts a variety of stunning beaches that cater to those looking to enjoy a picnic by the sea. Whether you prefer a bustling beach with amenities or a secluded spot in nature, the best picnic beaches on Long Island offer something for everyone. So pack your basket, grab your loved ones, and head to one of these top spots for a memorable day of sun, sand, and relaxation.