Jones Beach, long Island

Jones Beach, located on the south shore of Long Beach, is by far the most popular and heavily visited beach not just in New York but on the entire east coast.

The  mile long beach facing the open Atlantic ocean is popular amongst locals and tourists for its natural setting with relatively minimal development, which makes for a good break from the urban surroundings of New York City and Long Island. This also makes Jones beach popular amongst local birdwatchers.

Apart from usual beach activities like surfing, cycling and sunbathing, there are also beachside miniature golf and shuffleboard courses that are available to play in as well as regular softball and volleyball tournaments.

Every summer, The Northwell Health Theater at Jones Beach hosts concerts by famous and upcoming musicians. The air show on memorial day weekend and the 4th of July fireworks are also popular fixtures on the summer calendar and draw large numbers of people to the beach.