Affiliate Disclaimer: This article may contain affiliate links. We may earn a small commission if readers clicks through and make a purchase. See Affiliate Disclosure here.

17 Stunning Beaches In New York State That Are Too Beautiful To Ignore

When you think of New York, your mind might jump to the bright lights of Times Square or the buzz of city life—but did you know the Empire State has some incredible beaches too? 

From sandy shores along the Atlantic Ocean to hidden gems by peaceful lakes, New York is packed with spots where you can soak up the sun, take a swim or just enjoy the view. 

Whether you’re into surfing, hiking trails that lead to the water, or simply relaxing with your toes in the sand, there’s a beach here calling your name. 

Keep reading to discover some of the best spots to kick back and enjoy the waves, no matter what kind of beach day you’re after!

1. Coopers Beach

Raleene Cabrera / Flickr

Coopers Beach, located in Southampton on Long Island’s South Fork, is famous for its soft, white sand and sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean. 

It’s known for its calm vibe, beach chairs and umbrellas for rent, and a snack bar serving everything from lobster rolls to ice cream. 

Fun fact: the beach sits along dunes lined with historic mansions, giving you a peek into the charm of the Hamptons while you soak up the sun.

2. Southwick Beach State Park

Southwick Beach State Park, located on the eastern shore of Lake Ontario, is a fantastic spot for outdoor adventures with its wide sandy beach and calm freshwater waves (although this can vary depending on weather conditions). 

The area is framed by woodlands and grassy dunes, making it great for spotting wildlife or camping at one of the park’s well-equipped sites. 

Bonus: the sunsets here are unforgettable, lighting up the sky with fiery shades of orange and pink to end your day on a high note.

3. Fire Island

Fire Island, a mostly car-free escape off Long Island’s south shore, is home to some of New York’s most stunning beaches. 

Whether you’re relaxing on the powdery sand of Ocean Beach or exploring the quieter stretches like Watch Hill, this barrier island feels like a total getaway. 

Don’t miss the Fire Island Lighthouse for epic views, and keep an eye out for deer that wander freely along the dunes.

4. Million Dollar Beach

diane cordell / Flickr

Million Dollar Beach in Lake George is the crown jewel of the Adirondacks, offering crystal-clear water and a spacious shoreline perfect for swimming and sunbathing. 

This family-friendly beach has plenty of amenities, including lifeguards, picnic areas, and a boat launch if you’re up for exploring the lake. 

The mountain views surrounding the beach make it feel like a serene escape, with the added bonus of being just a short walk from the charming shops and restaurants in town.

5. Green Lakes State Park

Jason Gouger / Flickr

Green Lakes State Park near Syracuse is famous for its two glacial lakes, both with striking emerald-green water that feel almost tropical. 

The sandy beach along Green Lake is perfect for swimming or relaxing, with plenty of space to stretch out and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. 

Fun fact: the lake’s unique color comes from its rare meromictic waters, which means the layers of water don’t mix—making your beach day a bit of a science lesson too!

6. Long Beach

pml2008 / Flickr

Long Beach on Long Island offers a lively beach scene with its wide shoreline, soft sand, and a bustling boardwalk stretching over two miles. 

It’s a favorite spot for surfers catching waves, families building sandcastles, and anyone who loves strolling along the boardwalk with an ice cream cone in hand. 

Pro tip: visit during the summer concert season when the beach comes alive with live music and a festive atmosphere that’s hard to beat.

7. Bennett Beach

Bennett Beach, located on the shores of Lake Erie near Buffalo, is a hidden gem known for its quiet, natural beauty and wide-open spaces. 

The sandy beach is perfect for a laid-back day of swimming, picnicking, or simply enjoying the peaceful sound of the waves. 

It’s also surrounded by grassy dunes and a nature preserve, so it’s a great spot for birdwatchers and anyone who loves a more peaceful beach vibe.

8. Ontario Beach

Ontario Beach in Rochester is a classic summer destination, located on the sandy shores of Lake Ontario. 

The beach is great for swimming, with lifeguards on duty, and there’s plenty more to explore, including a historic carousel. 

With picnic areas, volleyball courts, and nearby ice cream shops, it’s a perfect spot to soak up the sun and enjoy a day by the lake.

9. Jones Beach

Jones Beach, on Long Island’s South Shore, is one of New York’s most iconic beaches, featuring over six miles of pristine sand and nonstop activity. 

It’s a hub for beachgoers who love swimming, strolling the boardwalk, or catching a summer concert at the outdoor amphitheater. 

With its stunning ocean views, mini-golf course, and retro concession stands, Jones Beach offers classic beach vibes that keeps everyone coming back for more.

10. Rockaway Beach

Rockaway Beach, located in Queens, New York City, is a wide sandy beach famous for its surfing scene, lively boardwalk and laid-back vibe. 

It’s the only legal surfing spot in NYC so it draws surfers to its designated surf areas, while the Rockaway Beach Boardwalk offers tasty bites like tacos and ice cream from local vendors. 

It’s easy to get there on a day trip from NYC by hopping on the NYC Ferry or taking the A train.

11. Plattsburgh City Beach

Plattsburgh City Beach, located along the shores of Lake Champlain in upstate New York, offers a peaceful escape with stunning mountain views and freshwater swimming. 

This beach is one of the largest freshwater beaches in the state, featuring soft sand, volleyball courts, picnic spots, and a calm atmosphere perfect for unwinding. 

You can rent kayaks or paddleboards to explore the lake, and the nearby trail system is great for a post-beach stroll surrounded by nature.

12. Hamlin Beach State Park

Hamlin Beach State Park, situated along the southern shore of Lake Ontario near Rochester, is a gem for outdoor lovers with its sandy beaches and lush green picnic areas. 

The clear, shallow waters are perfect for wading or swimming, and the park’s six miles of trails let you wander through peaceful woodlands and catch glimpses of wildlife. 

It’s a great spot for a full day out—pack a lunch to enjoy at one of the scenic pavilions or stay for the evening to watch a gorgeous Lake Ontario sunset.

13. Fair Haven Beach State Park

Fair Haven Beach State Park, perched on the eastern edge of Lake Ontario, features another beautiful sandy shoreline with a serene, nature-filled backdrop. 

The park has both swimming beaches and quiet coves, along with plenty of shady picnic areas and a sprawling campground if you’re up for an overnight stay. 

Don’t miss exploring Sterling Pond by boat, where you can discover wetlands and wildlife, or check out the calm waters of Little Sodus Bay.

14. Golden Beach Campground

Golden Beach Campground, tucked away along the shore of Raquette Lake in the Adirondacks, is a paradise for those who love camping right by the water. 

The sandy beach is perfect for swimming or lounging after a day of hiking the nearby trails, and the lake itself is ideal for kayaking, fishing, or just soaking in the mountain views. 

With campsites shaded by towering pines and the sound of loons echoing across the water, it’s a peaceful place to relax.

15. Woodlawn Beach State Park

Adam Moss / Flickr

Woodlawn Beach State Park, located just south of Buffalo on the shores of Lake Erie, is a local favorite for its wide sandy beach and laid-back atmosphere. 

The park is great for families, with calm waters for swimming and a picnic area complete with grills for a lakeside cookout. 

Stroll along the nature trails to spot local wildlife, or grab a snack at the on-site concession stand before relaxing on the shore with panoramic views of Lake Erie.

16. Brighton Beach

Brighton Beach, located in Brooklyn next to the more famous Coney Island, offers an escape from the city with its relaxed atmosphere. 

The beach is perfect for sunbathing or taking a dip in the Atlantic, while the nearby streets buzz with shops and restaurants serving up authentic Eastern European dishes like borscht and pierogis. 

After some beach time, make sure you explore the area’s lively boardwalk, where you can people-watch or catch a sunset over the water for a perfect end to the day.

17. Allegany State Park

daveynin / Flickr

Allegany State Park, situated in the rolling hills of Western New York, features two sandy beaches along its picturesque lakes—Red House Lake and Quaker Lake. 

These beaches are ideal for swimming, with lifeguards on duty during the summer, and the calm waters are great for kids to splash around. 

When you’ve had your fill of the beach, you can rent a paddleboat, explore the nearby hiking trails, or set up a picnic by the water.


Related Posts

Share to...