Leisure Times On the North Shore

From its strategic location on Jericho Turnpike, the Inn at Fox Hollow is a mere stone’s throw from a number of leisurely outdoor activities that include peaceful beaches and state parks spread throughout both Nassau and Suffolk counties.

A Day At The Beach

It’s no secret that Long Island’s beaches are among the most admired in the world, from the rugged, yet idyllic North Shore to the white sand and waves of the South Shore. Because of the disparate terrain of the two shores, the type of beach day you’re looking for will play a major factor in which shore you should aim for. While the South Shore gets all the attention, the North Shore sits there in tranquility, awaiting you to visit and take in its beauty.

Beaches Of The North Shore

The Theodore Roosevelt Memorial Beach in Oyster Bay is like a trip back in time, thanks to its proximity to the town’s quaint village, which is dotted with unique eateries, small ice cream shops, and mom-and-pop businesses. The serene waters of the harbor, great for swimming, are complemented by playgrounds, a softball field, tennis courts, basketball courts, picnic areas, and marina.

Extending along the shore of Northport and into Fort Salonga, there’s Crab Meadow Beach. This stretch provides some of the North Shore’s most astonishing views, featuring an unimpeded, panoramic look at the Long Island Sound. There’s plenty of picnic areas to enjoy, a charming boardwalk, and a large playground. One of the beach’s best features are the small tide pools that form at low tide, perfect for children to go wading.

If you’re a dog lover, head over to Port Jefferson Public Beach and Dog Park, where man’s best friend is free to roam without a leash on the pristine coastline. Meanwhile, many nearby eateries are also pet-friendly, so no need to worry about the pooch when it’s time to eat. The entirety of the beach is also perfect in general for families, dog or no dog. The east and west beaches combine for more than two miles of shoreline, with fishing, sunbathing, or a walk on the sand.

A Stroll Through State Parks

Long Island’s state parks often include varied habitats, making a day’s visit an ever-changing experience. There are bike paths, hiking trails, great birdwatching, and some of the island’s most ideal vistas.

State Parks On The North Shore

Located in Kings Park, the three miles of Sunken Meadow State Park are backed by bluffs with a boardwalk traversing the edge. It’s a great summer spot, with concession stands, nature trails, grassy lawns, a boat launch, and more than a few playgrounds of youngsters. There’s even live music played the boardwalk during the week.

Huntington’s Caumsett State Historic Park Preserve is situated on a scenic peninsula extending into Long Island Sound. There are walking, jogging, biking, and hiking opportunities, along with bridle paths, acres of woodland and meadows, and a rocky shoreline and salt marsh. There are lush gardens to stroll, as well as fishing excursions and scuba diving.

Bethpage State Park has been made internationally famous by the PGA for its notorious Bethpage Black Golf Course, which has stifled some of golf’s greatest at two recent U.S. Open tournaments. But if the black course is too intense for your game, Bethpage has five total courses catering to all skill levels. Besides golf, the state park also boasts nature trails, picnic areas, pavilions, bridle paths, along with hiking and biking opportunities.

And finally, the closest to the Inn at Fox Hollow, there’s Trail View State Park in Woodbury. A mere five-minute drive from the Inn, Trail View connects Bethpage State Park to another great local park, Cold Spring Harbor State Park, via a 7.5 mile bike path. It encompasses a wide swath of habitats like hardwood forests, marshes and fields, while also being a favorite spot for birdwatchers.

Takeaway

There are numerous ways to relax on Long Island—but nothing beats the brand of relaxation one gets from the cool breeze of the beach or the nature stimulation of a state park. Be sure to ask the professionals at the Inn at Fox Hollow about their complimentary shuttle service.