With the summer months rapidly approaching, students are looking forward to visiting some of Long Island’s numerous beaches.
While their features are very different, with the North Shore’s rocky coasts and calm water and the South Shore’s soft sand and choppy ocean waves, all beaches of Long Island have various activities to offer. Enjoyable things to do include concerts at Jones Beach or a pleasant stroll down the boardwalk at Sunken Meadow.
“I normally go with my sister and my brother,” said sophomore Lily V.
She loves hiking along the streams in Sunken Meadow and boogie boarding at Robert Moses.
“I think most people go to the South Shore beaches more, just because there’s less rocks and […] bigger waves,” said Lily.
Jones Beach is the most popular Long Island beach on the South Shore with 8 million visitors per year, according to tripadvisor.com. There is no admission fee and the beach has a Memorial Day air show, nice boardwalks, and concerts. In addition, the beach is kept very clean and peaceful for a relaxing experience.
On the North shore, Sunken Meadow has about 3 million annual visitors and is ranked third in beaches on Long Island behind Jones Beach and Robert Moses respectively as stated by governor.ny.gov. Sunken Meadow has an $8-10 admission fee, depending on holidays and time of the week. It has several things to do as well such as windsurfing, canoeing, paddle boarding, and golfing.
“We usually go to Robert Moses or Sunken Meadow. They’re the easiest for everyone to get to,” said sophomore Estelle M., via text.
South Shore beaches of Long Island tend to be more popular for many different factors, whether it be location convenience or physical characteristics, according to longislandpress.com. People who favor the beaches of the South are more fond of the rough waves and smooth sand. Others enjoy the North Shore and may argue that they like the tranquil water of the Long Island Sound, especially with young children, along with the better sunset views.
“I love to go with my friends most of the time,” said junior Katie W. “The boardwalks are really nice, the little shops that you see, and the restaurants.”
Due to Long Island’s North and South Shore’s approximate 20 mile distance but vast difference in topography, there is something for everyone who takes pleasure in spending time at the beach and can be a fun way to bring family and friends together.
Going to the beach is a great pastime for students who want to decompress, relax, and connect with nature during summer break.◼️
