Summer on Long Island is something special. From sprawling beaches to tree-lined hiking trails, there’s no shortage of beautiful outdoor spaces to explore. Whether you're looking to soak up the sun, take the kids on a fun weekend outing, or just enjoy some peace and quiet, Long Island’s parks offer something for everyone. Here are some of our favorite spots to check out this summer:
1. Eisenhower Park – East Meadow
Often referred to as Long Island’s answer to Central Park, Eisenhower Park spans over 930 acres and offers a diverse range of amenities, including golf courses, playgrounds, tennis courts, and a beautiful lake for relaxing walks. During the summer, the park also hosts concerts and fireworks shows—perfect for family nights out.
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Hours: Open daily from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM
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Website: Eisenhower ParkCounty Office
2. Belmont Lake State Park – North Babylon
This peaceful park is ideal for boating, fishing, picnicking, and biking. Rent a pedal boat or a kayak and enjoy a tranquil ride on the lake. There's also a fantastic playground and open fields where kids can run free while parents enjoy a shady spot under the trees.
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Hours: Open daily from sunrise to sunset
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Website: Belmont Lake State Park
3. Sunken Meadow State Park – Kings Park
Located along the North Shore, Sunken Meadow offers a unique combination of beach, boardwalk, and hiking trails with scenic views of the Long Island Sound. It’s a perfect spot for families and nature lovers. Don’t forget to bring a camera—sunsets here are truly breathtaking.
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Hours: Open daily from sunrise to sunset
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Website: Sunken Meadow State Park
4. Heckscher State Park – East Islip
A great spot for outdoor sports, Heckscher State Park is known for its wide open fields, waterfront views, and breezy walking trails. You’ll often find windsurfers, kite flyers, and bird watchers taking full advantage of the park’s open spaces and coastal charm.
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Hours: Open daily from sunrise to sunset
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Website: Heckscher State ParkParks Guidance+3Caumsett Foundation+3New York State Parks+3
5. Caumsett State Historic Park Preserve – Lloyd Harbor
This hidden gem offers serene trails perfect for hiking, biking, and even horseback riding. The preserve is rich in natural beauty and history, featuring woodlands, meadows, and salt marshes. It’s a peaceful escape that feels miles away from everyday life—though it's just a short drive from many Long Island towns.
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Hours: Open daily from sunrise to sunset
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Website: Caumsett State Historic Park PreserveNew York State Parks
6. Jones Beach State Park – Wantagh
No Long Island summer list would be complete without Jones Beach. This iconic beach draws visitors from all over with its white sand, long boardwalk, and live music at the Northwell Health Theater. Whether you’re swimming, tanning, or just people-watching, Jones Beach captures the essence of summer fun.
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Hours: Ocean swimming available from June 22 to September 2, with varying hours:
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June 22–August 11: 10:00 AM–8:00 PM (Sat, Sun & Holidays)
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August 12–September 2: 10:00 AM–7:00 PM (Sat, Sun & Holidays)
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Explore More Than Parks This Summer
While you’re enjoying everything Long Island has to offer, you might also be thinking about making a move—whether that’s finding your dream home or selling your current one. That’s where The Galluzzo Team comes in. We live, work, and play right here on Long Island, and we’re passionate about helping our neighbors navigate the local real estate market with confidence.
Call us at 631-774-3333 if you're thinking about buying or selling a home—we’d love to help you make your next move the right one.
