As the weather warms up and flowers bloom, it's the perfect time to venture outdoors with your little ones and soak up the sunshine. Long Island offers a plethora of outdoor parks, playgrounds, walking trails, and family-friendly activities that are sure to make your spring memorable.
Exploring Outdoor Gems on Long Island:
Parks and Playgrounds:
Montauk Point State Park - Montauk Enjoy stunning ocean views, explore hiking trails, visit the historic Montauk Lighthouse, and have a picnic overlooking the beach.
Southampton Youth Services Playground - Southampton A large playground with swings, slides, and climbing structures suitable for children of all ages. Adjacent to beautiful Agawam Park.
Agawam Park Playground - Southampton A charming playground nestled within Agawam Park, featuring colorful equipment and ample space for kids to run and play.
Conscience Point Historic Site & Nature Walk - Southampton Take a leisurely stroll along nature trails, learn about local history, and enjoy scenic views of North Sea Harbor.
Shadmoor State Park - Montauk Explore rugged bluffs, discover hidden beaches, and observe wildlife along hiking trails in this coastal park.
Sag Harbor Park Playground - Sag Harbor A quaint playground overlooking the harbor, offering slides, swings, and climbing structures for children to enjoy.
LongHouse Reserve - East Hampton Wander through beautiful gardens, admire contemporary sculptures, and participate in family-friendly art activities. longhouse.org
Good Ground Park - Hampton Bays This expansive park features a playground, splash pad, walking trails, and a dog park, providing fun for the whole family.
Ponquogue Beach Playground - Hampton Bays Play in the sand, swim in the calm waters, and enjoy the playground facilities at this scenic beach park.
Martha Clara Vineyards Playground - Riverhead While adults sample wines, children can have fun in the playground area featuring swings and climbing structures. marthaclaravineyards.com
Indian Island County Park - Riverhead Explore nature trails, have a picnic by the Peconic River, and enjoy birdwatching in this peaceful park. suffolkcountyny.gov/Departments/Parks/Our-Parks/Indian-Island-County-Park
Wildwood State Park - Wading River Camp, hike, fish, and enjoy breathtaking views of Long Island Sound at this scenic state park.
Blydenburgh County Park Playground - Smithtown Play in the expansive playground area, rent rowboats for a leisurely paddle on Stump Pond, or explore hiking trails. suffolkcountyny.gov/Departments/Parks/Our-Parks/Blydenburgh-County-Park
Sunken Meadow State Park Playground - Kings Park Spend a day at the beach, go for a hike, or enjoy a picnic in the picturesque surroundings of this state park.
Heckscher State Park Playground - East Islip Swim in the ocean, play volleyball, go fishing, or let the kids run wild on the playground equipment at this popular park.
Bayard Cutting Arboretum State Park - Great River Take a guided tour of the beautiful gardens, stroll along scenic paths, and enjoy family-friendly events and workshops.
Beaches:
Coopers Beach - Southampton Relax on pristine sandy shores, swim in the Atlantic Ocean, and enjoy amenities including restrooms and concessions.
Main Beach - East Hampton Rated one of the best beaches in the country, Main Beach offers soft sand, rolling waves, and lifeguard supervision during the summer months.
Ditch Plains Beach - Montauk A popular spot for surfing and beach combing, with breathtaking views and a relaxed atmosphere.
Ponquogue Beach - Hampton Bays Relax on the sandy shores, swim in calm waters, and enjoy amenities such as picnic tables and lifeguard supervision.
Cupsogue Beach County Park - Westhampton Beach Go birdwatching, beach combing, or fishing, and catch stunning sunsets over Moriches Bay. suffolkcountyny.gov/Departments/Parks/Our-Parks/Cupsogue-Beach-County-Park
Smith Point County Park - Shirley Swim, surf, or fish along miles of pristine shoreline, and explore nature trails in the adjacent wilderness area.
Cedar Beach - Mount Sinai Enjoy panoramic views of the Long Island Sound, go kayaking or paddle boarding, and relax on the sandy beach.
Robert Moses State Park - Fire Island With five miles of ocean beach, this park offers swimming, surfing, and beachside amenities including showers and concessions.
Tobay Beach - Oyster Bay Swim in calm bay waters, play volleyball, or take a leisurely stroll along the boardwalk at this family-friendly beach.
Shinnecock East County Park - Southampton Known for its excellent fishing opportunities, this park also offers beach access and beautiful views of Shinnecock Bay.
Sagg Main Beach - Sagaponack Relax on the sandy shores, swim in the Atlantic Ocean, and enjoy the tranquility of this pristine beach.
Pikes Beach - Westhampton Beach A quiet beach perfect for a peaceful day by the water, with soft sand and gentle waves.
Cedar Point County Park - East Hampton Explore coastal trails, go birdwatching, or launch a kayak at this scenic park overlooking Gardiners Bay.
Gilgo Beach - Babylon A popular surfing spot with wide sandy beaches, perfect for sunbathing and beach games.