Summer on Long Island is fast approaching, but if you were planning a beach day out on the North Fork, you might need to adjust your itinerary. Southold Town Beach will be officially closed for swimming this summer after devastating winter storms left the shoreline unsafe for visitors.
Here is everything you need to know about the closure—and where you can still catch some rays nearby.
The aftermath of the 2026 blizzard
The historic Blizzard of 2026 took a massive toll on the coastline. At Southold Town Beach (officially named Lt. George R. Sullivan Beach), the severe erosion has caused a dramatic 6-foot drop down to the sand.
The brutal winter weather also left the beach’s gazebo teetering and caused 50 feet of asphalt in the parking lot to crumble. Town officials noted that previous attempts to replenish the sand simply didn’t last against Mother Nature’s relentless waves.
What this means for your summer plans
Because of the structural compromises, bathing and swimming are strictly prohibited this season. The town board made the tough call after recreation supervisor Janet Douglass advised that the area is no longer safe for beachgoers.
If you do visit, you will notice barricades blocking access to the crumbling edges of the parking lot. To limit liability and discourage crowds from entering unsafe zones, the on-site bathrooms will also remain completely closed.
It isn’t all bad news, though! Immediate repairs are underway to ensure that simply walking on the beach will remain safe. Plus, parking will still be allowed in designated safe areas, so you can absolutely still pull up to watch a stunning North Fork sunset.
Looking ahead to a long-term fix
Southold Town Supervisor Al Krupski is looking beyond temporary Band-Aids. Local officials are working with county, state, and federal representatives to find a long-lasting solution that accounts for rising sea levels.
This might eventually include elevating the adjacent County Road 48, a crucial route out of Greenport. Town engineers are also currently looking into a cobble-based approach to help reinforce the edge of the lot.
Where to swim instead
Don’t pack away your swimsuits just yet! If you decide to skip the drive and stay a little closer to home, you can always check out some of the best things to do this summer around NYC—including a few hidden beaches!
