Located off the southern coast of Long Island, the Outer Barrier Island of Jones Beach is the original “play station” for generations of East Coast families and friends. The diverse attractions and the stunning 6-mile beach create an enticing invitation to all ages to come, enjoy adventures and attractions, relax, and eat. Here are our favorite gems of Jones Beach Island, along with a few in neighboring areas nearby.
Jones Beach Amphitheatre
The primary reason we visit Jones Beach Island is to attend concerts and events at the Jones Beach Amphitheatre. While we are big fans of amphitheatre concerts in general, Jones Beach Amphitheatre offers 15,000 seats and a wealth of additional features that both pump up the rock music for fans of all ages and brings the verve of every musical genre for all music lovers on the island. The amphitheatre offers stunning views of the ocean, open and easy parking, family or group side-by-side seating, and wheelchair accessibility. The Jones Beach Amphitheatre has a seasonal calendar; check out the upcoming concerts and available tickets online via Jones Beach Theater Tickets.
Jones Beach State Park
In addition to the Jones Beach Amphitheatre, the Jones Beach State Park offers incredible ocean swimming and a lengthy white, sandy beach that calls out to beachgoers from the moment they arrive. Take a water bottle and set off to walk as far as you like, checking for sea shells and sand crabs along the way. Walking this beach in the early dawn sunlight or the late afternoon golden sun makes an ideal day even better.
WildPlay Adventure Park
Families enjoy Jones Beach Island for the gems it offers, including those that appeal to all ages. In Jones Beach State Park, children can experience the delicious-fear factor of the WildPlay Adventure Park. This fun, challenging park includes zip lines, aerial obstacle courses, a 40-foot jump (hence the fear), and many ways to climb, stretch and pull yourself to reach the heights of the adventures. There are some restrictions and advisories; check the information online before grabbing those ropes.
Jones Beach Island Boardwalk
The four-mile boardwalk at Jones Beach Island is a perfect strolling and gathering place for families and friends. It is a gem because, unlike commercialized boardwalks, it is easy to find parking nearby, has an outstanding scenic platform and invites quiet observations of regional and migrating birds. Included in the wide array of birds are predatory species, such as the sharp-shinned hawk and peregrine falcon. The beach is often windy as the day continues, so recommendations suggest walking during the early morning hours. Biking is also invited on the boardwalk.
Jones Beach Energy & Nature Center
The Jones Beach Energy & Nature Center is an educational center that resides at the West End of the boardwalk and is worthy of a thoughtful visit. The purpose of the center is to educate or remind park visitors about the relationship between humans and energy systems, including systems that support environmental stewardship. Inside the center, visitors will find interesting exhibits, a variety of educational programs, and resources that demonstrate the coastal ecosystem and natural habitats surrounding it. Visitors can take two free mobile tours that further demonstrate the goals of the center and, as part of a high school curriculum, the center offers information regarding the relationships between people, energy and the environment.
What About Fishing?
The answer is “of course!” The best locations are at the piers in the back-bay area. Fishing can be either surf-fishing or a boat basin accommodates personal boat sizes. Popular catches include stripers and weakfish, with an occasional catch of sea bass included. Saltwater Fishing Permits are required and those can be obtained at the Jones Beach and Robert Moses Administration Building. If you like to fish after sundown, buy a Night Fishing Permit, as well. Check in at the Jones Beach Bait Station to determine which bait fish are biting and to buy any snacks needed for your day.
Eateries In The Jones Beach Island Area
At the end of your visit to Jones Beach Island, you’ll undoubtedly be ready for hearty food and delicious beverages. Favorite places to eat include the local hangouts in Massapequa, such as the All American Hamburger Drive In, offering incredible burgers, fries, rings, shakes and more. Eat outdoors in the summer to extend your relaxed day and try the double-double burger for a meal that truly satisfies. Burgerology in Massapequa also offers hamburgers, but does so with an upscale edge. Create your own burger or try a salad, sandwich or other bar fare. Sample the wide variety of cocktails and mocktails to replenish and hydrate after a day in the sun.
Other favorite nearby eateries include full service restaurants, such as the Buoy Bar in Point Lookout which serves seafood along with an excellent list of bar foods to share during cocktail hours. A deck overlooking the water and frozen cocktails ensures everyone in your party will be well-chilled after a delicious meal at this location. The entire family will find something special in the casual atmosphere of D.J.’s Clam Shack in Wantagh, where fried clams and French fries, lobster rolls, and fried calamari are always on the menu. The easy and friendly environment suggests kids of all ages are most welcome here.
Jones Beach Island suggests every day is a great day, from enjoying great music at the Jones Beach Amphitheatre to swimming, walking, fishing, and climbing ropes. Capping off your day with an inviting meal makes the full day of fun even better. We hope you enjoy these gems of Jones Beach Island!
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