Orient Beach State Park

Orient Beach State Park is a natural wonderland located on the eastern tip of the North Fork of Long Island, featuring 45,000 feet of waterfront along Gardiner's Bay. Designated as a National Natural Landmark in 1980, the park offers families a rare combination of pristine beach, maritime forest, and abundant wildlife viewing opportunities. Kids will love exploring the sandy beach, playing on the playground, and spotting Great Blue Herons, Egrets, and Osprey throughout the park. The park is also a United States Light House Society Passport Stamp Location where visitors can view four historic lighthouses and get their passports stamped—a unique educational experience for families. The park offers a wide variety of recreational activities for all ages and skill levels. Families can swim in the bay during the official swimming season (June 28 - September 1, 10:30 AM - 6 PM daily), enjoy picnicking at tables and pavilions with showers available, fish from shore, or try water sports like kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, windsurfing, and canoeing (April-October with rentals available). Hiking and biking trails wind through the natural landscape, providing opportunities to experience the park's unique ecosystem of red cedar, black-jack oak trees, and prickly-pear cactus. Special programs and events throughout the year make Orient Beach a destination for family fun. The park hosts a Spring Egg Hunt, Holiday Tree Lighting, Bike-a-thons, and guided kayaking tours in cooperation with partners like the Long Island Paddlers. A pavilion is available for private parties, accommodating up to 120 people ($200-$250). The park also features a seasonal concession stand (Memorial Day weekend through Columbus Day weekend) with food and refreshments. Admission fees are affordable and accessible to families. Vehicle entrance fees are $8 for cars (increasing to $10 during peak season from June 21 - September 1), with buses charged at $35. The park operates on a seasonal schedule: 8 AM - 4 PM from November through early March, extending to 8 PM during peak summer season (May 24 - September 1). An Empire Pass ($80) provides unlimited day-use entry to most New York State Parks year-round, making it a great investment for families who plan multiple visits.

• 21 Best Parks in Long Island to Take the Kids - The RTK Realty Group