Looking for the perfect spring break getaway? Long Island, NY, offers a mix of sun, sand, adventure, and culture. From the iconic shores of Jones Beach to the scenic vineyards of the North Fork, our island is the perfect blend of relaxation and excitement. Enjoy breezy beach days, fresh seafood straight off the docks, and hidden-gem hiking trails bursting with vivid blooms.
Whether you're here for a romantic getaway, a family-friendly adventure, or a solo recharge, Long Island is the perfect place to soak up the season.
Best Beaches to Visit During Spring Break
Long Island boasts some of the most beautiful beaches on the East Coast, each providing its own unique charm.
Jones Beach State Park offers miles of sandy shoreline, perfect for a relaxing day by the water. Stroll along the iconic boardwalk, enjoy excellent birdwatching, or simply soak up the early spring sunshine.
Nestled in Southampton, Coopers Beach features pristine white sand, full facilities, and rental options for chairs and umbrellas. It’s a fantastic spot for a fun beach day complete with breathtaking ocean views.
For those who love a quieter experience, Robert Moses State Park is a hidden gem. Take a leisurely walk along the shore, visit the historic Fire Island Lighthouse, or catch some early-season waves at one of the park’s surfing spots.
For a more off-the-beaten-path beach day, hop on a ferry and set sail for Fire Island National Seashore. With its stunning, car-free coastal landscapes and opportunities for wildlife spotting, it’s a great escape from the everyday.
Spring Break Outdoor Activities
Spring is the perfect time to enjoy Long Island’s great outdoors. Here are some top activities to add to your itinerary:
Hiking & Nature Trails
Explore photo-worthy hiking and biking trails, including the North Shore Rail Trail, a scenic multi-use path. Belmont Lake State Park offers picturesque trails alongside its serene lake while Heckscher State Park provides stunning waterfront paths and birdwatching opportunities along the Great South Bay.
Seal Watching
Experience one of nature’s most breathtaking wildlife encounters by booking a seal-watching tour along the coast! From Montauk to Jones Beach, harbor, gray, and harp seals can often be seen basking on rocks and sandbars, especially at low tide when their favorite resting spots are exposed. November through May is the best season to catch these playful marine mammals, though Montauk features sightings year-round.
Kayaking & Paddleboarding
Take advantage of Long Island’s beautiful waterways by kayaking, paddleboarding or canoeing along spots like Peconic River, Cold Spring Harbor, and the Great South Bay. You’ll find local outfitters offering rentals and guided tours.
Cherry Blossom Viewing
Spring brings gorgeous cherry blossoms and other flowering blooms to Long Island. Visit locations like the Bridge Gardens, Old Westbury Gardens, and Planting Fields Arboretum to experience these pink and white flowers. Be sure to check out the Best Places to See Cherry Blossoms on Long Island for even more stunning floral displays across the region!
Kid-Friendly Attractions
Dive into the wonders of marine life at the Long Island Aquarium, where kids can get up close with sharks, sea lions, and colorful reef creatures. When the weather heats up, Splish Splash Water Park offers thrilling water slides, lazy rivers, and splash zones perfect for cooling off. Classic amusement park lovers can enjoy the rides, games, and nostalgic charm of Adventureland. Those are just a few of the many kid-approved attractions.
Spring Break Festivals & Events
Springtime on Long Island brings a burst of color and excitement with a variety of festivals and events perfect for the whole family.
Celebrate the season at the North Babylon Kite Festival, where vibrant kites dance across the sky in a dazzling display. Immerse yourself in the beauty of spring at the Tulip Festival, featuring fields of stunning blooms and photo-worthy landscapes at Waterdrinker.
For those enchanted by cherry blossoms, the Cherry Blossom Festival in Greenport offers a picturesque setting with cultural performances and family-friendly activities. Garden lovers can explore the Flower & Garden Show in Westbury, showcasing breathtaking floral arrangements, gardening tips, and seasonal inspiration.
Foodies won’t want to miss Long Island Restaurant Week, a perfect opportunity to indulge in seasonal flavors at top local eateries.
Discover More Spring Inspiration, Dining & Where to Stay
Looking for even more ways to enjoy this season on Long Island? Plan the ultimate getaway with this Spring Break Trip Itinerary featuring top destinations and activities. For those craving a luxurious escape, our Spring Break Weekend in the Hamptons blog highlights the best spots to stay, dine, and explore.
Whether you're searching for an oceanfront resort, a charming bed-and-breakfast, or a vacation rental, our destination has accommodations to suit every style. And when it’s time to dine, enjoy an unforgettable meal inside a waterfront restaurant or on a picturesque outdoor patio where you can soak in breathtaking coastal views.
No matter how you choose to spend your spring break, Long Island has something special in store! Start planning your seasonal escape today.