If you’re all too used to transit change alerts causing more confusion than convenience, you’re not alone.
But the latest update from the MTA might actually be one worth paying attention to: a refreshed Long Island Rail Road schedule is rolling out just in time for summer.
And If you’re looking forward to heading out on a summer adventure to the beaches of Montauk or Long beach, you’re in the right place.
LIRR’s New Summer Service
Starting May 11, 2026, the LIRR will introduce new train schedules, with additional summer service kicking off May 18.
While peak rush hour service remains unchanged, many midday weekday trains have been adjusted—some departing slightly earlier—to accommodate ongoing track work and accessibility upgrades.
If your summer plans include sun and sand, there’s good news. Service is expanding on key lines, including routes to Montauk, Long Beach, and Ronkonkoma, making it easier than ever to plan beach days or weekend getaways.
One standout upgrade: beginning May 18, a 5:13 p.m. weekday train from Penn Station will run all the way to Montauk Monday through Friday, adding more flexibility for
East End travelers and helping spread out the usual weekend crowds. For the return trip, select Sunday trains from Montauk will now run directly to Penn Station, giving riders more convenient one-seat rides back to the city (with holiday weekend adjustments in place).
More Changes To Note
- A new early morning weekday train from Farmingdale will get into Penn Station by 5:26 a.m.
- Some Ronkonkoma branch service has been tweaked, including minor departure time shifts
- Midday service at Westbury returns to every 30 minutes after track work completion
- Greenport midday weekday service resumes
- Late evening Brooklyn service will run every 30 minutes between Jamaica and Atlantic Terminal
Whether you’re planning a laid-back beach day, commuting into Manhattan, or heading out for a spontaneous summer adventure, these updates are designed to give riders more options—just be sure to double-check your train time before heading out.
