The best city hikes and walks in Jones Beach State Park
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Urban hiking trails in Jones Beach State Park offer a unique blend of coastal landscapes and accessible pathways. The park is situated on a barrier island, characterized by extensive white-sand ocean beaches and bay beaches. Natural features include maritime dunes, ephemeral pools, and salt marshes, supporting diverse coastal plant and animal life. The terrain is generally flat, providing opportunities for easy to moderate walks along the shore and through protected natural areas.
Best urban hiking trails in Jones Beach State Park
- The most popular urban hiking route is Jones Beach State Park – Jones Beach State Park loop from Jones Beach Theater, a 2.9 miles (4.6 km) trail that takes 1 hour 10 minutes to complete. This easy loop offers views of the surrounding coastal environment.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Long Beach loop from City of Long Beach, a moderate 5.5 miles (8.8 km) path. This route provides continuous coastal views and can be completed in about 2 hours 15 minutes.
- Local hikers also love the Long Beach Boardwalk loop from City of Long Beach, a 2.4 miles (3.9 km) trail leading through the popular boardwalk area, often completed in about 1 hour.
- Hiking in Jones Beach State Park is defined by coastal paths, boardwalks, and dune ecosystems. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy strolls to moderate loops.
- The routes in Jones Beach State Park are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.3 stars from 3 reviews. More than 100 hikers have used komoot to explore Jones Beach State Park's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 13, 2026
16
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
14
hikers
3.23km
00:50
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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19
hikers
5.04km
01:16
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
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27
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3.88km
00:58
0m
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Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Long Beach Boardwalk is a wide, pedestrian-friendly path perfect for a run, relaxing bike ride or walk along the ocean. Stretching for over 2 miles, it offers fresh sea air, beach access, and plenty of spots to stop for food or drinks. Early mornings are quieter, while afternoons can get busier.
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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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The Norman J. Levy Park & Preserve was created by converting the former Merrick Landfill into a nature preserve. There are 3 miles of hiking and jogging paths with exercise equipment at different points. In the preserve there is the chance to see some of the wildlife that is found on the south shore, including foxes, turtles and various birds and fish. There is also a great view of the Atlantic Ocean and the town of Merrick from the top of Merrick Mountain.
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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 urban hiking trails can I find in Jones Beach State Park?
There are 4 urban hiking trails in Jones Beach State Park, ranging from easy to moderate difficulty, offering diverse experiences along the coast and through natural areas.
What is the typical terrain like on urban hikes in Jones Beach State Park?
Urban hikes in Jones Beach State Park primarily feature flat, paved surfaces, boardwalks, and sandy paths through maritime dunes. The terrain is generally easy, making it accessible for most hikers.
Are there family-friendly urban hikes in Jones Beach State Park?
Yes, many of the urban trails are suitable for families. The flat and paved surfaces, like those found on the Jones Beach State Park loop from Jones Beach Theater, are ideal for all ages and strollers.
Can I bring my dog on urban hiking trails in Jones Beach State Park?
Jones Beach State Park has specific regulations regarding dogs. While dogs are generally permitted on the boardwalk and certain paved paths, they are typically not allowed on the ocean beaches or in protected dune areas. Always check park signage for the most current rules before heading out with your pet.
What kind of natural features and viewpoints can I expect on urban hikes here?
Urban hikes in Jones Beach State Park offer stunning coastal views of the Atlantic Ocean and Sloop Channel, along with unique maritime dunes, ephemeral pools, and salt marshes. On clear days, the west end even provides views of the New York City skyline. You can also explore the Jones Beach State Park itself, known for its extensive white-sand beaches.
Are there any loop trails for urban hiking in Jones Beach State Park?
Yes, there are several loop options. For instance, the Jones Beach State Park loop from Jones Beach Theater offers a convenient circular route. Another great option is the Long Beach loop from City of Long Beach, which provides a scenic urban coastal experience.
What is the best time of year for urban hiking in Jones Beach State Park?
Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds, making them ideal for urban hiking. Summer can be busy, but the coastal breezes provide relief, and winter offers a stark, beautiful landscape, though some facilities may be limited.
How long are the urban hiking trails in Jones Beach State Park?
The urban hiking trails vary in length. For example, the Norman J. Levy Park & Preserve loop from Merrick is about 3.2 kilometers, while a longer option like the Long Beach loop from City of Long Beach stretches nearly 8.8 kilometers.
What do other hikers enjoy most about urban hiking in Jones Beach State Park?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars. Reviewers often praise the stunning ocean views, the accessibility of the flat trails, and the unique experience of hiking along the barrier island.
Are there places to eat or drink near the urban hiking trails?
Jones Beach State Park has refreshment stands and snack bars along its boardwalk, especially during peak season. For more extensive dining options, you'll find various cafes and restaurants in nearby towns like Long Beach or Merrick, a short drive from the park.
Is parking available for urban hiking trails in Jones Beach State Park?
Yes, Jones Beach State Park offers ample parking, particularly at its West End 2 area and near the Jones Beach Theater, which serve as convenient starting points for many urban trails. Parking fees may apply, especially during peak season.
Can I reach the urban hiking trails by public transport?
Jones Beach State Park is accessible via public transport, primarily through Nassau Inter-County Express (NICE) bus services, which connect to Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) stations. Check the NICE bus schedule for routes that serve the park, especially during the summer months.
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