The best walks and hikes in Jones Beach State Park

Embark on the Jones Beach Bikeway for a moderate 5.4-mile (8.7 km) hike, offering expansive views of the Atlantic Ocean and the Great South Bay. This route, with a minimal elevation gain of just 32 feet (10 metres), takes approximately 2 hours and 12 minutes to complete. You will experience a mix of paved paths and boardwalk sections, particularly near the iconic Jones Beach Boardwalk. The flat terrain makes for an easygoing journey, allowing you to soak in the maritime dunes and coastal atmosphere. Keep an eye out for diverse bird species and even baby bunnies in the natural areas.

Parking is readily available at various locations, including Jones Beach, where you will also find convenient restrooms and food concessions. While the trail is accessible year-round, be aware that summer weekends can draw large crowds, especially along the boardwalk sections. For a more tranquil hiking experience, consider visiting during the quieter fall and winter months. Starting your hike earlier in the day can also help you avoid peak times and enjoy the coastal serenity.

This multi-use path is notable for its unique position within Jones Beach State Park, offering glimpses of the New York City skyline on clear days. The Park Preservation Area at the West End provides untouched natural settings, making it a prime spot for wildlife observation. The trail's blend of ocean vistas, bay views, and maritime dunes creates a distinctive coastal hiking environment.

Embark on the Bethpage Bikeway Trail for a challenging hiking experience that stretches 13.8 miles (22.2 km) and includes a total elevation gain of 387 feet (118 metres). This route, rated difficult, will take you approximately 5 hours and 41 minutes to complete. You will find yourself moving through varied landscapes, from the dense wooded sections of the Massapequa Preserve to the lush, greener settings within Bethpage State Park, often on parallel unpaved paths that offer a more natural feel with exposed roots and dirt. As you hike, keep an eye out for Massapequa Lake and Massapequa Creek, which add to the scenic beauty.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the trail boasts numerous access points along its entire length. If you prefer public transport, you can easily reach the southern end of the trail from the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) station in Massapequa. For those driving, various parking and trailhead access points are available along the route, making it convenient to start your adventure. Consider starting early to make the most of your day on this extensive trail.

What makes this trail particularly interesting is its unique blend of environments, allowing you to choose between paved sections and more rugged, unpaved options. You might spot local wildlife, such as ducks and swans, especially around Massapequa Lake and Massapequa Creek. The trail's path through both the Massapequa Preserve and Bethpage State Park highlights the diverse natural beauty of the area, offering a rich experience for hikers looking for a substantial outing.

Embark on a challenging coastal hike along the Ocean Parkway Coastal Greenway, a difficult 19.4-mile (31.2 km) route that takes approximately 7 hours and 50 minutes to complete, with a minimal elevation gain of 60 feet (18 metres). This paved path offers continuous, expansive views of the bay, stretching between Jones Beach Island and the Long Island mainland. As you hike, you will pass through marshlands and enjoy access to various beaches, with the iconic Jones Beach Water Tower serving as a prominent landmark along your journey.

Planning your visit to the Ocean Parkway Coastal Greenway is straightforward, with ample parking available at key locations such as Jones Beach, Tobay Beach, and Gilgo Beach. These spots not only provide convenient access to the trail but also offer restrooms and food concessions, making it easy to extend your outing into a full beach day. Consider starting early to make the most of the daylight for this extensive route.

The greenway is notable for its unique position, offering a constant connection to the waterfront environment and its diverse ecosystems. Keep an eye out for native plantings like beach grass and bayberry that thrive in this coastal setting. You might even spot local wildlife, including baby bunnies, or catch a distant glimpse of the Fire Island Lighthouse from Captree State Park, adding to the scenic appeal of this long-distance coastal experience.