While our dream summer involves long days by the water, finding a quiet stretch of sand that isn’t packed shoulder-to-shoulder with towels, umbrellas, and coolers can feel impossible. But according to Travel & Leisure, there’s a way to beat the crowds–head east.
In their recent roundup of the best secluded beaches in the U.S., the trusted travel outlet named this Long Island spot as one of the top spots to find a peaceful, uncrowded shoreline. And no, we’re not talking Jones Beach or the Hamptons–this hidden gem is waaay out at the tip of the island’s North Fork.
A Natural Paradise at the Edge of Long Island
Located on the easternmost point of Long Island’s North Fork, Orient Beach State Park offers over 45,000 feet of pristine bay frontage along Gardiner’s Bay. But what really sets it apart is a rare maritime forest you won’t find at most Long Island beaches, where red cedar, black-jack oak trees, and even prickly-pear cactus thrive.
This unique ecosystem earned the park a National Natural Landmark designation in 1980 and recognition as an Audubon Important Bird Area thanks to its salt marshes and abundant wildlife. Birding enthusiasts can expect sightings of important bird species, including everything from Great Blue Herons and Egrets to Black Crowned Night Herons and Osprey.
You can also spot diverse marine wildlife!
What to Do at Orient Beach State Park
Whether you’re looking to fully unplug or pack your day with adventure, the park has something for everyone:
🏖️ Relax: Swim in calm bay waters, picnic under the trees, or simply enjoy the tranquility far from crowded south shore beaches
🚴♀️ Get Active: Hike, bike, or walk the nature trails, salt water fish, rent a kayak or stand-up paddleboard, or try your hand at windsurfing
🐦 Go Birding: Bring binoculars to spot the park’s diverse bird population in their natural habitats
🍔 Host a Gathering: Reserve the park’s pavilion for private parties and make use of grills and a seasonal snack bar
Why it’s the Perfect Tranquil Escape
Orient Beach State Park is now a U.S. Lighthouse Society Passport Stamp Location. From the scenic wooden deck, you’ll have views of four lighthouses, including the iconic “Bug Light,” making it a must for lighthouse enthusiasts.
Plus, its natural setting and peaceful vibe–a slower North Fork alternative to busier Hamptons destinations–make it ideal for a relaxing escape. The ranking writes:
Avoid the droves of beachgoers that hit the Hamptons and other popular Long Island spots by heading to beautiful Orient Beach State Park at the tip of the North Fork. You can bike, kayak, or just have a family cookout without the crowds. The beach is pretty small, but you’ll probably have more space than you would at well-known destinations like Jones Beach on the south shore.
So if you’re craving a peaceful escape and don’t mind venturing a bit farther, Orient Beach State Park just might be your summer sanctuary. See Travel & Leisure’s full list of secluded U.S. beaches here.
📍 40000 Main Road (Route 25), Orient, NY 11957 (~3.5 hours from NYC)