Long Island’s North Shore is home to beaches and parks that most people would not believe.

While the coastlines are often more rigid and rocky than its South Shore counterpart, the beaches and state parks of the North Shore are nothing to scoff at. Beautiful views, amenities, and more await those wanting to take a short trip out to these beautiful locales.

We have created a list of just some of the North Shore’s favorite beaches below.

1. Sunken Meadow State Park: Sunken Meadow State Park hosts a large waterfront of over three miles. This spot is known best for its hiking trails, but long strips of beaches provide lovely views of the Long Island Sound. This location is excellent for picnicking and even swimming during the summer, with seasonal lifeguards at the ready.

Parking fees vary depending on the season. During the summer season, from June through September 6, parking costs $10 per car. Sunken Meadow State Park’s address is New York State Reference Rte 908K, Kings Park. Learn more about the park on the official New York Parks website.

2. Centre Island Beach: Centre Island Beach is a popular, modest-sized spot open to both residents and non-residents of Oyster Bay. Here, beach-goers can swim both in Oyster Bay Harbor and the Long Island Sound due to its geography. The spot has a refreshment stand, but other than that, there are minimal amenities, letting people soak in the views unobstructed.

You can visit the beach at 466 Bayville Ave, Bayville. The Town of Oyster Bay’s website has more information on their waterfronts.

3. Crab Meadow Beach: Crab Meadow Beach is a 1,000-foot public beachfront that gives beach-goers a great, extended view of the Long Island Sound. The water is shallow throughout and a popular spot for families with kids who can enjoy the shallow Sound with no issue. The beach is also host to plenty of amenities that make it attractive for Long Island residents. Grilling pavilions, boardwalk eateries, and playgrounds can all be found nearby or on the premises.

Crab Meadow Beach is located at Waterside Avenue in Northport. Due to the Coronavirus pandemic, Crab Meadow Beach and many others are limiting passes to residents only. Learn more on the Town of Huntington’s website.

4. Crescent Beach: Crescent Beach is perhaps best known for its use as a family-friendly picnicking spot. The water can be rockier, making it less ideal for swimming. However, there is much to be found at the location for those who partake in boating, kayaking, and other maritime activities. Otherwise, beautiful uninterrupted views of Huntington Bay are a delight to view from the shoreline with friends and family.

Crescent Beach can be found at Crescent Beach Dr, Huntington Bay. For further information on permits and hours, visit the Town of Huntington’s website.

5. Orient Beach State Park: Orient Beach State Park is an extensive beachfront overlooking Gardiner’s Bay. It is a leisurely beach located within Orient, the main attraction of its popular kayaking tours that take advantage of the unique local wildlife. Fishing, swimming, and picnicking are also common within the park. The park’s natural beauty has allowed it to earn status as a National Natural Landmark in 1980.

Orient Beach State Park is found at 40000 Main Road, Route 25, Orient. Visit the New York Parks website for more information.

6. South Jamesport Beach: South Jamesport Beach is located on Peconic Bay. It is a large beach, primarily known for its vast amount of activities. There are tennis courts, beach volleyball, picnic areas, and a playground. This spot is especially great for families with its safe and accessible swimming. During the summer, there is a snack shack offered as well.

You can find South Jamesport Beach at Town Beach Drive in Jamesport. Visit the Town of Riverhead website for more information.

7. Morgan Memorial Park Beach: Morgan Memorial Park Beach is a favorite destination for North Shore residents. The memorial park was created in honor of J.P. Morgan’s late wife, and as such, houses some unique landscaping and architecture. There are popular beach hiking trails and scenic bluffs, picnic areas, concessions, and a playground for children.

Morgan Memorial Park Beach is located at Germaine St, Glen Cove, through the park itself. Visit Glen Cove’s website for more information.

Comment your favorites below! Did we miss any? Let us know!