All Long Island beaches are public, except those on private property at homes or hotels. But not all Long Island beaches are free to use. In fact, most charge a daily fee for non-residents.
Best Public Beaches on Long Island
There are dozens of public beaches on Long Island; however, almost every single one requires a fee of some kind to use. Many are also not dog-friendly.
Usually, guests only need to pay during peak season through Memorial Day and Labor Day, and sometimes the beaches are free after sundown.
The cost for the day can vary from $10-$50, and is often less expensive for Long Island residents than they are for out of towners.
But if you’re willing to pay a bit, you can enjoy the day at some of these fantastic Long Island public beaches.
NOTE: If you’re planning to spend quite a lot of time at Long Island beaches over the summer, you may want to invest in a season’s pass as it will save you money in the long run.
Long Beach
Long Beach does charge a fee for non-residents between Memorial Day and Labor Day during daylight hours.
But if you’re heading to Long Island during off-peak season or are hitting the beach after 6:00 PM, this beach is one of the most beautiful the island has to offer!
If you’re planning a getaway to Long Beach, you should definitely stay at The Rockaway Hotel and eat a delicious oceanfront lunch at Lost and Found!
Jones Beach State Park
A Long Island favorite, Jones Beach State Park has public restrooms, picnic areas, a pool, and a snack bar!
And one of the best things about Jones Beach State Park is that it’s one of the few free beaches on Long Island.
While you’re there, you can stay at the beloved Allegria Hotel and you absolutely should eat at the Surf Shack.
Coopers Beach
If you’re looking for a relaxing and beautiful beach with basic amenities, you will love Cooper’s Beach!
While you will have to pay $50 as a non-resident to enjoy your day by the sea, most people agree that it’s definitely worth the cost.
If you plan to stay overnight, there aren’t many hotels directly on Coopers Beach, but you can stay in town at The 1708 House for a truly authentic South Hampton experience.
And you definitely don’t want to leave without having a bite to eat at Coopers Beach Cafe; the tacos are amazing!
Wading River Beach
Last but certainly not least, you should absolutely visit Wading River Beach on your next trip to Long Island.
It’s one of the smaller beaches in the area, but it’s also one of the least visited! And with a kid’s park, restrooms, and plenty of nearby restaurants, it’s a great spot for the family.
When you visit Wading River Beach, you should stop by North Tavern and try the crab cakes.
As well, if you love a nice glass of wine, you can take a short drive over to the Baiting Hollow Farm Vineyard where you can enjoy live music and a friendly atmosphere.
Want to stay overnight? While there are no hotels directly on Wading River Beach, The Inn And Spa At East Wind is right in town and has fantastic service.
Orient State Park
Orient State Park is not only one of the best beaches on Long Island, but it’s also a great spot to check out some of the island’s natural wildlife and its red cedar forest.
And the best news is that the only fee you’ll need to pay is for parking!
If you want to enjoy a beer, cocktail, or plate of oysters while you’re visiting the park, you can do so directly on the beach at The Beach Club at Duryea’s Orient Point.
As well, if you’re loving it so much that you want to stay overnight, you can’t really do better than The Inn at Orient.
Which Beaches in Long Island Are Not Public?
Other than those beaches that are located in front of private property such as homes and hotels, all Long Island beaches are technically public.
However, it’s important to understand that all of the beaches that you can search on Google Maps or various other blogs and articles are public. Private beaches are not promoted online.
If you’re looking for a private beach to enjoy all by yourself, you will have to find a hotel or Airbnb that offers that amenity.
