The best walks and hikes in Jones Beach State Park
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Hiking in Jones Beach State Park offers access to a unique barrier island ecosystem on Long Island's southern shore. The park features expansive white, sandy beaches, maritime dunes, and salt marshes, providing diverse coastal environments for exploration. Its trail system includes both sandy paths and paved multi-use routes, catering to various hiking preferences. This landscape is shaped by the Atlantic Ocean and Sloop Channel, presenting a dynamic natural setting.
Best hiking trails in Jones Beach State Park
- The most popular hiking route is Jones Beach Bikeway, a 5.4 miles (8.7 km) trail that takes 2 hours 12 minutes to complete. This paved path offers ocean views along the coast.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Jones Beach State Park loop from Jones Beach Theater, an easy 2.3 miles (3.7 km) path. This route provides a circuit around the park's central features, often completed in about 55 minutes.
- Local hikers also love the Tackapausha Preserve Trail, a 2.4 miles (3.9 km) trail leading through a preserve environment, often completed in about 58 minutes.
- Hiking in Jones Beach State Park is defined by coastal paths, maritime dunes, and salt marsh environments. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy loops to longer multi-use paths.
- The routes in Jones Beach State Park are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from 4 reviews. More than 128 hikers have used komoot to explore Jones Beach State Park's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 25, 2026
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hikers
8.75km
02:12
10m
10m
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.
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hikers
5.79km
01:27
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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16
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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22.2km
05:42
120m
60m
The Bethpage Bikeway Trail offers a unique blend of natural escape and semi-urban exploration, making it a standout option for hikers on Long Island. You'll journey through the serene, shaded paths of the Massapequa Preserve, where Massapequa Lake and Creek provide picturesque views and opportunities to spot local wildlife like ducks and swans. The terrain varies from smooth paved sections to more rugged dirt paths with exposed roots, especially within the preserves, offering a true hiking feel.
Planning your hike on this 13.8-mile (22.2 km) route, which involves 387 feet (118 metres) of elevation gain and typically takes 5 hours and 41 minutes, is straightforward thanks to numerous access points and available parking. If you prefer public transport, the LIRR station in Massapequa provides easy access to the trail's southern end. This difficult-rated trail is dog-friendly, so your leashed canine companion can join you for the adventure.
What truly sets the Bethpage Bikeway Trail apart is its ability to connect diverse environments, traversing two state parks and two wetland preserves. It's one of Long Island's longest multi-use trails, offering both easier paved sections and challenging unpaved options. Keep an eye out for historical remnants, like a banked turn from the old Vanderbilt Motor Parkway near Bethpage State Park, adding a layer of local history to your outdoor experience.
31.2km
07:51
20m
20m
If you're after a truly unique coastal hiking experience on Long Island, the Ocean Parkway Coastal Greenway delivers a long, flat journey with continuous bay views. This difficult 19.4-mile (31.2 km) route, which typically takes around 7 hours and 50 minutes to complete, offers expansive vistas of the Great South Bay, marshlands, and native beach flora, with only 60 feet (18 metres) of elevation gain. You'll pass by the impressive Jones Beach Water Tower and might even catch a distant view of the Fire Island Lighthouse, making for a scenic, if lengthy, day out.
Planning your visit is straightforward, with multiple access points and amenities along the way. You'll find convenient parking and restrooms at locations like Jones Beach, Tobay Beach, Gilgo Beach, and Captree State Park, many of which also have food concessions. Be prepared for exposure to the elements; strong headwinds can significantly increase the perceived difficulty of this otherwise flat and paved trail, so check the forecast before you go.
The Ocean Parkway Coastal Greenway stands out for its continuous waterfront connection and accessibility, making it a popular choice for various users. It's a multi-use path, well-maintained with mile markers, and offers educational panels about Long Island's natural history. This trail provides a seamless way to access multiple beaches and observe diverse ecosystems, all while enjoying unparalleled coastal views that can even include glimpses of the New York City skyline on a clear day.
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Popular around Jones Beach State Park
Tips from the Community
this is the first monument I saw with is not a remembrance for dead bikers. Beginning oft the bikeway to beaches at Jones Beach Park. During the sommer a large fun park
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Finally a work of art for cyclists. And in the USA
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Jones Beach at Jones Beach State Park is home to 6.5 miles of beautiful white-sand beach on the Atlantic Ocean on the south shore of Long Island. Although many of the 8 million visitors per year enjoy swimming, beach-walking, and sunbathing, there is so much more to do here. Wildlife enthusiasts can enjoy bird watching, spotting species such as Oystercatchers, Terns, and Northern Harrier Hawks along the shore. The park's boardwalk and bike paths provide a scenic route for cyclists, with connections extending to nearby parks. Water sports, including surfing, stand-up paddle-boarding, wind surfing, and kayaking, are popular activities along the beachfront. Fishing and crabbing are also available, particularly at Field 10, where there is a bait and tackle shop on site. For those with mobility impairments, Beach Wheel Chairs are available at Zach's Bay for easy access across the sand and into the water. Special events such as the Bethpage Air Show, July 4th Fireworks Spectacular, and concerts at the Northwell Health Theatre offer fun experiences for visitors all year.
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Bethpage State Park is home to 5 world-class golf courses, some of which have hosted the likes of the PGA Championship and the U.S. Open Championship.
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This place is a highly popular fishing spot, regularly stocked with trout, drawing a considerable crowd on weekends. The area is rich in wildlife, with various species such as birds, squirrels, chipmunks, snakes, raccoons, and rabbits. It also serves as a peaceful retreat for those looking to relax and enjoy the natural surroundings.
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Jones Beach State Park (and Jones Island stretching to the east of the Park) is a nice spot to come ride your bike at. You can enjoy delightful landscapes, beach stops and a beautiful bike path. Lovely all along! Remember to yield to pedestrians on any multi-use paths.
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Jones Beach State Park (and Jones Island stretching to the east of the Park) is a nice spot to come ride your bike at. You can enjoy delightful landscapes, beach stops and a beautiful bike path. Lovely all along!
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available in Jones Beach State Park?
Jones Beach State Park offers a variety of hiking experiences with over 10 routes available. These trails cater to different preferences, ranging from easy loops to longer multi-use paths, all set within the unique barrier island ecosystem.
What kind of terrain can I expect on the hiking trails in Jones Beach State Park?
The park's trails feature diverse terrain, including expansive white, sandy beaches, maritime dunes, and salt marshes. You'll find both sandy paths and paved multi-use routes, such as the Jones Beach Bikeway, which offers a flat, paved surface with ocean views.
Are there any easy or beginner-friendly hiking options in Jones Beach State Park?
Yes, Jones Beach State Park has several easy options perfect for beginners or those seeking a relaxed walk. An example is the Jones Beach State Park loop from Jones Beach Theater, an easy 2.3-mile path that provides a circuit around central park features.
What natural features or wildlife can I observe while hiking in Jones Beach State Park?
Jones Beach State Park is a prime location for wildlife observation. Hikers can explore unique barrier island ecosystems, including maritime dunes and salt marshes. It's an internationally recognized stop for migrating songbirds and shorebirds, and you might spot horseshoe crabs, diamondback terrapins, and the endangered Piping Plover in summer. Fall brings migrating hawks and monarch butterflies, while winter offers sightings of harbor seals and snowy owls. The Park Preservation Area in the West End is particularly important for protecting various species.
Are there any circular hiking routes in Jones Beach State Park?
Yes, you can find circular routes within the park. A popular option is the Jones Beach State Park loop from Jones Beach Theater, which offers an easy 2.3-mile circuit around the park's central areas.
What are some notable attractions or landmarks to see near the hiking trails?
Beyond the trails, Jones Beach State Park itself is a major attraction, offering a two-mile boardwalk along the beach. The Theodore Roosevelt Nature Center in the West End provides environmental displays and educational programs. On clear days, the western end of the park also offers striking views of the New York City skyline. You can explore more about the park's highlights, such as Jones Beach State Park, Long Beach Boardwalk and Beach, and Life Guard Jones Island Beach Field 6.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Jones Beach State Park?
The hiking experiences in Jones Beach State Park are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Reviewers often praise the unique coastal paths, the beauty of the maritime dunes, and the diverse salt marsh environments, highlighting the opportunity to explore a distinctive barrier island ecosystem.
Is Jones Beach State Park suitable for family-friendly hikes?
Absolutely. The park offers several easy and relatively flat trails that are well-suited for families. The diverse terrain, including beaches and boardwalks, provides engaging environments for children, and the opportunities for wildlife spotting add an educational element to family outings.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Jones Beach State Park?
Jones Beach State Park offers unique experiences year-round. Spring is excellent for migrating songbirds and shorebirds, while summer allows for spotting horseshoe crabs and piping plovers. Fall is spectacular for migrating hawks, kestrels, and monarch butterflies. Even winter provides opportunities to see harbor seals and snowy owls, making it a great destination for hiking in any season, depending on your interests.
Are there specific parking areas for hikers in Jones Beach State Park?
Jones Beach State Park has numerous parking fields throughout its expansive area. While specific hiker-designated parking isn't typically marked, you can use the general parking lots available at various points along the park, such as near the Jones Beach Theater or West End, to access the trailheads and boardwalk.
Can I reach Jones Beach State Park hiking trails using public transportation?
Yes, Jones Beach State Park is accessible via public transportation. During peak season, bus services often connect to the park from various points on Long Island, including LIRR stations. It's advisable to check the Nassau Inter-County Express (NICE Bus) schedule for the most current routes and times to plan your visit.
Are dogs allowed on the hiking trails in Jones Beach State Park?
Dogs are generally permitted in certain areas of Jones Beach State Park, but specific rules apply, especially regarding beaches and protected wildlife areas. It's best to check the official New York State Parks website or signage upon arrival for the most up-to-date regulations on where dogs are allowed on trails and if they need to be leashed.
Most popular routes in Jones Beach State Park
Most popular attractions in Jones Beach State Park
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