Experience the Ocean Parkway Coastal Greenway: Long Island's Premier Seaside Path

Coastal Greenway Introduce

For New Yorkers seeking an unparalleled outdoor experience that combines scenic beauty with active recreation, the Ocean Parkway Coastal Greenway stands out as a true gem on Long Island. This isn't just a simple hiking area; it's a magnificent shared-use path that stretches for miles along the picturesque barrier islands, offering breathtaking views of both the Great South Bay and the mighty Atlantic Ocean. Located with a prominent section near Gilgo Beach, this greenway is a testament to thoughtful urban planning, providing a safe, accessible, and exhilarating environment for walkers, runners, cyclists, and inline skaters alike. This article is designed to be a comprehensive guide for local users in the New York region, inviting them to discover the expansive beauty and diverse activities available along this remarkable coastal pathway. We'll explore its unique features, accessibility, and why it has become a cherished destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

The Ocean Parkway Coastal Greenway, sometimes referred to as the Ocean Parkway Shared Use Path, is a relatively new addition (completed in its extended form around March 2021) to Long Island's impressive network of recreational trails. It parallels the iconic Ocean Parkway, which itself has been a "crown jewel of the Long Island parkway system" since the 1930s. The Greenway is not a traditional rugged hiking trail in the woods but rather a wide, paved, ADA-compatible path. This design allows for a broad range of activities and ensures accessibility for people of all ages and abilities. The path's unique "Sea Rail," designed with cut plate and rods, complements the stunning vistas, providing both safety and aesthetic appeal as users traverse the barrier islands. Its seamless connection to major state parks and beaches along the south shore transforms a simple walk or ride into a grand coastal adventure, making it a "must-do" for active New Yorkers.

The Ocean Parkway Coastal Greenway spans a significant portion of Long Island's barrier islands, with a key section accessible from Gilgo Beach, NY 11702, USA. Its extended length now allows for a continuous path from Jones Beach's West End beaches to Captree State Park in Suffolk County, making it a truly expansive experience.

By Car: The most common way to access the Greenway is by car, utilizing the extensive parking facilities available at various points along the Ocean Parkway. These include parking lots at Jones Beach State Park (including Zachs Bay and Field 5), Tobay Beach, Gilgo Beach, Cedar Beach Marina, and Captree State Park. Standard state park parking fees may apply, especially during peak seasons (check the New York State Parks website or individual beach/park sites for current rates). Many New Yorkers opt for an Empire Pass for unlimited access to NY State Parks.
By Public Transportation: While direct public transportation to the Greenway itself might be limited, some bus routes on Long Island could connect to areas near Jones Beach or other points, requiring a short taxi or rideshare to reach a specific entry point. The LIRR to nearby stations like Wantagh or Farmingdale could also be an option, followed by a taxi or rideshare.
By Bicycle: The Greenway is specifically designed for cycling and connects with other regional bike paths. For example, you can connect from the Ellen Farrant Memorial Bikeway (which itself links to Cedar Creek Park in Seaford) at Jones Beach, allowing for longer rides originating further inland on Long Island. This interconnectedness makes it highly accessible for dedicated cyclists.
Accessibility Features: As an ADA-compatible paved path, the Greenway ensures ease of access for individuals using wheelchairs, strollers, or those with mobility challenges, making it an inclusive outdoor space for everyone.

The multiple access points and parking options make it convenient for New Yorkers from across the region to experience this remarkable coastal pathway.

The Ocean Parkway Coastal Greenway itself is a shared-use path, and its services are primarily focused on supporting a comfortable and safe outdoor experience. However, its integration with numerous state and county parks along its route means visitors have access to a wealth of additional services:

Paved Path: A wide, smooth, and well-maintained paved surface ideal for biking, running, walking, and inline skating.
Benches and Rest Areas: Strategically placed along the path, offering opportunities to rest and enjoy the views.
Informational Kiosks and Educational Signs: Providing details about the local ecosystem, history, and points of interest.
Bicycle Parking: Designated racks and storage areas are available at key locations, including Tobay Beach, Gilgo Beach, Cedar Beach Marina, and Captree State Park.
Restroom Facilities: Accessible at connected state parks and beaches (e.g., Jones Beach, Tobay Beach, Captree State Park).
Concession Stands/Restaurants: Available at various connected beaches and parks, offering refreshments and meals.
Beach Access: Tunnels and access points allow users to cross under Ocean Parkway to reach the ocean beaches at Jones Beach and other locations.
Safety Rails: The unique "Sea Rail" protects users from the adjacent Ocean Parkway.
Mile Markers: Painted on the asphalt, helping users track their distance.

The Ocean Parkway Coastal Greenway boasts an impressive list of features and highlights that make it a truly exceptional outdoor destination for New Yorkers:

Stunning Coastal Views: Enjoy "sweeping vistas of the Long Island mainland, Great South Bay and the Atlantic Ocean" throughout your journey. This "postcard-perfect panorama" is a constant highlight.
Extensive Length: The path extends for approximately 13.7 miles (about 20 miles in its continuous form from Cedar Creek County Park to Captree State Park), offering plenty of distance for long rides, runs, or multiple shorter excursions.
Multi-Use Versatility: Perfect for "cyclists, runners, skaters, and walkers," it caters to a wide range of outdoor activities and fitness levels.
Connection to Iconic Parks: Seamlessly links Jones Beach State Park, Tobay Beach, Gilgo State Park, and Captree State Park, allowing users to combine their Greenway experience with beach days, fishing, or other park amenities.
Wildlife Viewing Opportunities: The path offers "views of the marshland beyond" and chances to "spot local wildlife," particularly various bird species inhabiting the bay and coastal areas.
Aesthetic Design: The "Sea Rail" and enhanced landscaping contribute to an "aesthetically pleasing design to compliment the vistas" and make the experience even more enjoyable.
Family-Friendly Environment: Its wide, paved, and safe surface makes it ideal for families with children, whether on bikes, scooters, or in strollers.
Proximity to Attractions: Near the Jones Beach Theater, various beach facilities, and marinas, offering additional entertainment and dining options.
New and Well-Maintained: Being a recently completed project (extended in 2021), the path is in excellent condition, offering a smooth and enjoyable experience.

As a public amenity within the New York State Parks system and various municipal jurisdictions, the Ocean Parkway Coastal Greenway itself doesn't offer commercial "promotions" in the traditional sense. Its primary "offer" is free public access to its scenic pathway. However, there are broader opportunities for savings and engagement:

Empire Pass: For frequent users of New York State Parks, purchasing an Empire Pass is a significant "promotion," providing unlimited vehicle entry to most state parks for an annual fee. This covers parking at Jones Beach and Captree, for example.
Special Events: The Greenway is often utilized for charity runs, bike-a-thons (like the "Bike to the Beach New York" event, which incorporated over 35 miles of off-street riding on the Jones Beach bike path/Greenway), and other organized community events. These events may have registration fees but often offer unique experiences and contribute to good causes.
Seasonal Access: While the path is open year-round, access to some connected facilities (like certain beach amenities or parking lots) might be seasonal or require specific permits.
Free Access Points: Some users can access sections of the Greenway without paying a state park fee by parking at municipal parks that connect to the path, such as Cedar Creek Park in Seaford (though resident/non-resident fees may apply there on weekends in summer).

Locals interested in events or specific access details should check the New York State Parks website, the Town of Oyster Bay website, and event organizers' pages for the most current information.

For general information about the Ocean Parkway Coastal Greenway, Jones Beach State Park, or Captree State Park, contact can be made through the New York State Parks system.

Address: Ocean Parkway Coastal Greenway, Gilgo Beach, NY 11702, USA (This is a central access point; the Greenway extends further.)

There isn't a single direct phone number specifically for the "Ocean Parkway Coastal Greenway" itself, as it's a linear trail. However, for information related to its management, accessibility, or the state parks it connects to, you would typically contact the relevant New York State Parks regional office or specific park offices.

Jones Beach State Park Office: (516) 785-1600 (As the Greenway connects directly to Jones Beach, this is a good point of contact for information regarding the western section.)
Captree State Park Office: (631) 669-0449 (For information regarding the eastern section of the Greenway.)

For the most accurate and up-to-date information on operating hours, parking fees, accessibility, and specific rules, it is highly recommended to visit the official New York State Parks website, specifically the pages for Jones Beach State Park or Captree State Park, or search for "Ocean Parkway Coastal Greenway NY State Parks."

The Ocean Parkway Coastal Greenway is an absolute treasure for New Yorkers, making it exceptionally suitable for locals seeking diverse and engaging outdoor activities. Its primary appeal lies in its unique coastal setting, offering breathtaking ocean and bay views that provide an immediate sense of escape from the city's hustle. Whether you're a serious cyclist looking for a long, uninterrupted ride, a runner seeking a scenic route, or a family enjoying a leisurely stroll with a stroller, the wide, paved, and accessible path accommodates everyone. Its seamless connection to iconic Long Island state parks like Jones Beach and Captree means that a visit to the Greenway can easily be combined with beach days, fishing trips, or enjoying park amenities. For residents, it's a fantastic, easily accessible resource for daily exercise, connecting with nature, and simply enjoying the beauty of Long Island's coastline. The Ocean Parkway Coastal Greenway offers not just a hiking or biking trail, but a full coastal experience that enriches the lives of New Yorkers and truly promotes an active, outdoor lifestyle.