Stretching along a narrow strip of land on Long Island’s southern shoreline is this beautiful sandy beach. Relax in the sun or get active on the sand or water.
Ponquogue Beach is a beautiful stretch of sand accessed by a bridge across Shinnecock Bay. Join local residents on the 600 feet (180 meters) of sand to relax in the sun. Bring the family to build sand castles, play beach volleyball, fly a kite or simply enjoy a lovely day at the beach. The water is blue, the waves are gentle and the ocean floor is mostly sand.
Lifeguards patrol the beach in the summer during business hours. Avoid picking up sand on your feet on your way out of the water by following the rubber pad from the shore to the pavilion. This walkway serves as handicap access to the water a limited number of beach wheelchairs are available.
At the beach pavilion, use the amenities of outdoor showers, restrooms and changing areas. Pack a gourmet lunch to enjoy on the picnic tables on the outdoor deck or purchase snacks and drinks from the concession center.
Just north of the beach is the new Ponquogue Bridge. Adjacent to it are the remains of the old Ponquogue Bridge, forming two jetties extending into Shinnecock Bay. Scuba dive with caution near the old bridge, where you might see starfish and crabs. Park for free at the north end of the old bridge and do some fishing. This area known as Edward J. Warner Sr. Old Ponquogue Bridge Marine Park has a boat launch, picnic area and scenic overlook.
Ponquogue Beach has a huge parking lot, with over 500 spaces. It is usually open from Memorial Day to Labor Day. During summer expect to pay a fairly high parking fee, except in the very early morning or late evening. Purchase your beach access permit at the beach. The area can get quite crowded on lovely summer weekends, with as many as 100,000 visitors in a summer. Drive south from Hampton Bays to reach the beach in less than 10 minutes.
