Boardwalks East End

Located on the picturesque North Shore of Long Island, at Sunken Meadow Boardwalk, Kings Park, NY 11754, USA, Boardwalks East End offers a captivating experience as a premier scenic spot. This area is an integral part of the larger Sunken Meadow State Park, known for its diverse topography and abundant opportunities for outdoor recreation. Visitors are drawn to its tranquil environment, wide array of services, unique features, and the welcoming atmosphere that makes it a cherished destination for local users and beyond.

The environment at Boardwalks East End is truly remarkable. It boasts a beautiful three-quarter mile boardwalk that stretches along the serene North Shore coastline of the Long Island Sound. This provides breathtaking views of the water, often with Connecticut visible in the distance, creating a sense of calm and escape. The beach itself is noted for its cleanliness, offering a peaceful alternative to ocean beaches with its calm waters, as it is on the Long Island Sound side, meaning fewer waves. While some areas might have rocks in the water, many visitors find this adds to its natural charm. Beyond the immediate beach and boardwalk, Sunken Meadow State Park encompasses a wide range of natural beauty. Three lovely bridges span Sunken Meadow Creek, which flows from the park's interior to tidal flats near the mouth of the Nissequogue River. South of these flats, acres of undeveloped and heavily wooded rolling hills offer a contrasting landscape, providing a habitat for diverse flora and fauna. This rich environment makes it ideal for observing nature and enjoying the tranquility of the outdoors.

As a comprehensive scenic spot and recreational hub, Boardwalks East End, within Sunken Meadow State Park, provides a wide array of services and facilities designed to enhance the visitor experience. Parking is readily available in large, paved lots, with accessible spaces designated for those with permits. There is a vehicle entrance fee, which varies depending on the season, typically $8-$10 per car during peak times. For those who frequently visit New York State Parks, the Empire Pass offers unlimited day-use entry. Restrooms are conveniently located in the breezeway at the main entrance and within the snack pavilion near Parking Lot 3, with accessible stalls and wheelchair-accessible sinks. Two snack bars are situated along the boardwalk, one at the main entrance and another at the east end, providing refreshments and light meals. Picnic areas with grills are available in Parking Fields 2 and 4, making it a popular spot for family and group outings. For larger gatherings, the park features a large pavilion available for day use, accommodating up to 200 people, which can be reserved in advance. Additionally, there's a Nature Center at the main entrance, open Wednesday through Sunday, offering interactive activities for younger children and educational opportunities. Beach wheelchairs are available on a first-come, first-served basis at the Park Office, and mobi-mats are deployed at the main entrance and at Beach 3 to facilitate access to the water.

The features of Boardwalks East End and Sunken Meadow State Park cater to a wide range of interests and activity levels. The main attraction, the three-quarter mile boardwalk, is not only a scenic pathway but also a popular spot for measured walks, contributing to the health and wellness of its users. Along the boardwalk, numerous benches, many donated by families with tributes to loved ones, offer places for rest and reflection while enjoying the views. For those seeking more vigorous activity, the park boasts six miles of hiking trails, including the northern terminus of the Long Island Greenbelt Trail, which is known for its hilly terrain and is often used for cross-country running events. Bicycling is permitted throughout the park from sunrise to sunset, with specific hours for boardwalk access to ensure safety during peak times (weekdays only from 6 am - 9 am during the summer season). Swimming in the Long Island Sound is a popular activity during the warmer months, with designated swimming areas at Main Beach (Field 1) and East Beach (Field 3). The park also offers facilities for watersports such as windsurfing, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and canoeing, with launching available from Field 3. Anglers can enjoy fishing year-round with the appropriate permits, including options for night fishing. Golf enthusiasts will appreciate the 27-hole Sunken Meadow State Park Golf Course, designed by Alfred Tull, which features Red, Green, and Blue courses, a driving range, and a putting green. The courses offer moderate challenges amidst mature woodlands, providing an attractive and relaxing outdoor experience. Playgrounds, playfields, softball fields, soccer fields, and basketball courts are available year-round, making it a family-friendly destination. During winter, cross-country skiing is available as conditions permit, though not on the golf courses.

Promotional information highlights Boardwalks East End (Sunken Meadow State Park) as a vibrant community hub with a diverse events calendar. The park frequently hosts various activities that promote outdoor appreciation and community engagement. These include nature walks and guided tours led by knowledgeable naturalists, offering insights into the park's ecosystems, flora, and fauna. Educational programs, workshops, and interactive demonstrations are designed to foster environmental stewardship. Seasonal celebrations, featuring live music, food vendors, and family-friendly activities, create a festive atmosphere throughout the year. Fitness and wellness events, such as beach yoga sessions and group runs, encourage visitors to stay active in a beautiful natural setting. Community cleanup initiatives invite local residents and environmental groups to contribute to the park's preservation. The park also embraces art and culture through exhibitions and performances. Specific examples of recurring programs include "Tiny Tots" programs for young children, focusing on nature exploration, and "Rainbow Lantern Walks" during Pride Month, offering unique evening experiences. Seafood nights are occasionally hosted at the Pavilion, offering a culinary experience with a view. Visitors are encouraged to check the official New York State Parks website or local event listings for the most up-to-date schedule of events, fees, and operational hours, as these can vary seasonally. Sunken Meadow State Park aims to be an inclusive space, providing accessible features and welcoming people of all abilities, ages, identities, and backgrounds to connect with nature and enjoy its offerings. Its serene environment and diverse activities make it an ideal destination for a relaxing day by the sound, an active outdoor adventure, or a memorable family outing.

Boardwalks East End

Sunken Meadow Boardwalk, Kings Park, NY 11754, USA