Now that a few warmer days have seeped into the forecast, it’s the perfect opportunity to take advantage of Long Island boardwalks. Visitors can’t beat the beautiful scenery, delicious eats and fun activities all without getting sand in their shoes. From east to west, these are the best spots to hit before the crowds strike.
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Long Beach Boardwalk, Long Beach
long beach’s iconic boardwalk
image: flickr.com/photos/25830962
The renowned Long Beach boardwalk, which was given a $44 million revamp after Superstorm Sandy, is a gorgeous destination. At 2.2 miles, visitors can bike, run or walk along the tranquil pier with nothing but the delicate scent of ocean air by their side. A stop at Riptides 11561 (which will be reopening in the spring) to refuel with fried clams, tacos or fish and chips is a no-brainer. Go.
Jones Beach Boardwalk, Wantagh
image: facebook.com/pg/jonesbeachstatepark
The two-mile boardwalk is packed with friendly competition. Starting back up again April 1, get ready for an old-fashioned mini golf course where all the holes are named after state parks, and paddle board and shuffle board courts built for tournaments. Even though these are only weekend activities until Memorial Day, sunset watching is a daily ritual. Go.
Sunken Meadow State Park, Kings Park
image: yelp.com/biz/sunken-meadow-state-park-kings-park
The boardwalk at Sunken Meadow is nothing short of tranquil. It stretches three-quarters of a mile along the Long Island Sound and offers pristine views of Connecticut on a clear day. Visitors can walk, jog or run along the dunes to find their own peace of mind. Go.
Norman L. Klipp Park, Greenport
Even though this boardwalk is relatively small it doesn’t diminish the outlets for exploration. The boat ramp located inside the park makes for easy access to the water through sailing, kayaking and canoeing. Plus, there’s even a fishing pier and picnic area with grills to heat up your catch of the day. Go.
Eel Creek Boardwalk, Sagamore Hill, Oyster Bay
image: morgrar
The Eel Creek boardwalk provides access to Sagamore Hill’s beach that Theodore Roosevelt and his family visited for swimming and camping. The park’s coastline falls within the confines of the Oyster Bay National Wildlife Refuge, the largest refuge in the Long Island National Wildlife Refuge Complex, which means visitors are able to spot herons, belted kingfishers, osprey and horseshoe crabs from the 366-foot-long boardwalk. Go.