South Shore: Maritime Trail

Long Island’s South Shore is lined with miles of white-sand beaches and home to the iconic Jones Beach Theater, bustling boardwalks, seaside communities and more. Enjoy the nightlife and ocean-to-table fare of the Nautical Mile in Freeport, go fishing at Captree State Park, take a seal or whale watching excursion, or a surf lesson in Long Beach.  The South Shore is a water lover’s paradise.  And just off Long Island’s southern coastline you’ll find the world-famous car-free  summer escape, Fire Island.

Discover the Maritime Trail of Long Island’s South Shore

Family fun and recreation await in the region south of the Long Island Expressway, stretching from the Queens border, east of New York City for nearly 50 miles. The South Shore, touted as the Maritime Trail consists of the white sand, ocean beaches in Long Beach, Jones Beach, Robert Moses Beach and Fire Island. At the beach, head out for surfing, fishing or jump on a charter boat.

Public parks and venues mark the region including Bethpage Golf Course the backdrop of the US Open, PGA Championship and 2024 Ryder Cup events, Bethpage Ballpark home of the Long Island Ducks, and the Northwell Health at Jones Beach Theater.

Experience luxury and discount shopping at the Tanger Outlets. Take part in the lively downtown scene in Babylon and Patchogue with epicurean-driven culinary experiences and a vibrant nightlife. History buffs can explore the Cradle of Aviation Museum and Old Bethpage Village Restoration.

Arrive on the South Shore car-free using the Long Island Rail Road or fly into Long Island MacArthur Airport.

A visit to Suffolk County’s South Shore conjures up imagery of the summer sun, sand and surf. With miles and miles of white sand beaches, the South Shore welcomes visitors to come and play at its shore. There are many public parks and beaches to explore, from Robert Moses State Park and Connetquot River State Park to Smith Point County Park at the eastern end of the region.

Also not to be missed are the quaint shops and harbor front restaurants featuring the catch-of-the-day from local fishing boats. Or head out on an ocean fishing adventure yourself at one of the local marinas where captains will gear you up with everything you’ll need. Or maybe consider a more sedate dining cruise through the bay.

Maritime history is a large part of the South Shore region so be sure to explore a local maritime museum. And while many people consider the North Shore to have been the primary playground of the rich and famous from New York’s Gilded Age, the South Shore also features several mansions from that era, along with a beautiful arboretum and gardens on the Connetquot River.

Local South Shore Resources


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