The boardwalk at Jones Beach is stunning day or night.Photo L.I. HOME
Long Island’s boardwalks beckon at this time of year, offering simple strolls, delicious dining and more seasonal fun for a day with the family, a romantic outing, a walk with your dog or even some one-to-one time with yourself. Day and night, from the Atlantic Ocean to the Long Island Sound, our many boardwalks offer unique ways to take in a range of Long Island landscapes and beaches, to discover the wildlife, waterways and other wonders that await. It’s time to take a stroll…
Of course, no list would be complete without a mention of the glorious boardwalk at Jones Beach, where the view of the mighty ocean and the sound of the crashing surf is both a main attraction and a backdrop to the family fun and activities—mini golf, basketball, volleyball and then some—dining and drinking options, live music and more. But while a list such as this may need to start there, it certainly isn’t the end…
Eel Creek Boardwalk
Also known as the Sagamore Hill Boardwalk is a 366-foot-long path—the same that Theodore Roosevelt and his family took for swimming and camping—that provides access to the beach and salt marsh on Cold Spring Harbor. It was rebuilt in 2014 after Hurricane Sandy, so the structure is nice and sturdy and ready to be walked upon again! This path is for viewing nature and wildlife; so no toys, coolers, or typical recreational beach activities and keep dogs leashed at all times.
Crab Meadow Beach Boardwalk
The boardwalk at Crab Meadow Beach is planked with recycled lumber, and offers plenty of dining options after you’ve worked up an appetite after being in the sun swimming, canoeing, kayaking, or fishing. This public paradise can be enjoyed by all and is also handicapped-accessible, with parking. Enjoy the sight of the LI Sound, wildlife like Marsh Fiddler Crabs and Great Egrets, or make use of the picnic area, kayak launch, and La Casa Cafe.
Long Beach Boardwalk
Of course, the “City of the Sea” Boardwalk had to make our list, considering the endless options of bars, restaurants, and overall entertainment that line the 2.25-mile boardwalk. Walk it, bike it, or grab your blades and skate it — however you wanna move Long Beach’s soft sandy shores and surf-able water will call your name this summer!
Norman Klipp Park Beach Boardwalk
This is not your typical miles-long walk at Norman Klipp Park Beach, otherwise known as Gull Pond Beach, which encourages people to head to the water with its easy access. Sailing, snorkeling, scuba diving, kayaking or canoeing, you’ll be able to have a fun day hanging by the picnic tables, fishing off the pier, or watching the kids on the playground.
Orient Beach State Park Boardwalk
This North Fork boardwalk will draw you in, but you’ll stay for all the fun that surrounds you. The family beach offers kayak, canoe or bicycle rentals, or you can simply relax and take in the view of Gardiner’s Bay or the maritime forest in the park.
Sunken Meadow State Park Boardwalk
Catch a view of Connecticut in the distance when walking the Sunken Meadow quarter-mile boardwalk. This has been a Long Islander hotspot for staying active by going for walks, jogs or runs and taking in the gorgeous waterscape—and if you’re hot, go and take a dip in the calm waters of the Sound.
Peconic Riverfront Park Boardwalk
Riverhead isn’t just for outlet shopping, you know. A stroll along the Peconic River boardwalk offers the perfect way to take in the flora and fauna of a relatively unsung spot at the gateway to Long Island’s East End.
Sea Cliff Beach Boardwalk
This North Shore boardwalk is great for family picnics and offers yet another perfect spot to watch the sunset on a date night. It’s perfect for watching the boats float on by or checking out the estates. The Sea Cliff community gathered funds for 15 years to build this 1,000-foot boardwalk, and the community pride shines through with every step taken.
Captree State Park Boardwalk
This boardwalk is ideal for any Long Islander looking to catch some fish. The setting is perfect for casting that line, or you can hop on a charter boat nearby when you’re done with your stroll. You can also watch the stunning sunset and see Fire Island and the Fire Island Lighthouse from here.
Robert Moses State Park Boardwalk
Head down to Field 5 at Robert Moses State Park and take your pick: a short sweet walk or a longer walkway through the dunes that lead to the Fire Island Lighthouse, where you can take in a lighthouse tour (climb to the top and, on a clear day you just might catch a glimpse of the New York City skyline). You can actually keep walking east and wind up on Fire Island itself, where another bounty of boardwalks awaits.
