LongIsland is famous for its Atlantic beaches. The Hamptons Long Island and Montauk Long Island have long shared the reputation of havingsome
of the world’s greatest coastline. But not one to be left out, Central Suffolk has
its share of great beaches too. Here is
a list of Central Suffolk’s three best beaches.
North Shore
Cedar Beachlocated
in Mount Sinai, NY
On the NorthShore in Mount Sinai, just east of Port
Jefferson, lies Cedar Beach. Unlike the southshorebeaches
which lie on the Atlantic Ocean, the northshorebeaches arelocated on theLong IslandSoundand
are known to be very rocky.
On the west side of the parking lot one will find the
beginnings of Cedar Beaches’ renowned nature path. This cement walkway is
carved right into nature and winds its way through natural foliage with salt water
breezes and seagull sound effects. There are plenty of benches lining this
trail where one can rest andenjoy the sights and sounds of nature.
There is an inlet to Mount Sinai Harbor as well as a popular
fishing pier located at thewestern end of the nature trail. If you prefer to
drive rather than walka small parking lot is available next to the public
bathrooms. At this end of the trail you will find a small sandy beach popular
with the locals for picnicking and watching the boats make their way in and out
of the harbor.
West Meadow Beach located
in Setauket, NY
Twice a day during low tide West Meadow Beach becomes a sand
bar paradise. People of all ages flock to this beach to watch these sand
islands rise out of the Long Island Sound. There is no Caribbean beach or islandadventure
that has anything over West Meadow Beach during low tide.The pools that form between
these sand islandsare as warm as bath water and teaming with fish and crabs.
This beach is also home to an endangered and protected species of birds.
On the west side of the parking lot onewill find a walking
trail on a peninsula lying between the Long IslandSound and the salt marshes.
This peaceful walkway is oneworth exploring and a real memory maker. This one
of kind beach is well worth the trip and is sure to become a favorite getaway. There
is a small fee for parking, or you can purchase a permit for the season.
South Shore
Watch Hill located
on Fire Island
Located directly across the Great South Bay from Patchogue,
and located on the western edge of the Otis Pike Fire IslandHigh Dune
Wilderness, is Watch Hill.This beach is accessible by a ferry from Patchogue, or
you can rent a boat from one of the marinas found in the Water Sports section
of this book. At this park located on the Atlantic Ocean you will find nature
trails, a refreshment stand,picnicarea, bathrooms and a general store.
Watch Hill provides an interesting and enjoyable alternative
to the Hampton’s beaches whilestaying on Central Long Island.
