Hither Hills State Park 4x4 Beach Access Road #1

Hither Hills State Park 4x4 Beach Access Road #1, located at 2178 Montauk Highway, Montauk, NY 11954, serves as a gateway to one of Long Island's most sought-after coastal experiences. As a designated "Scenic Spot" within the broader Hither Hills State Park, this specific access point caters primarily to those with permitted 4x4 vehicles, offering a unique opportunity to drive directly onto the expansive, pristine ocean beach. This allows for convenient access for activities such as surf fishing and surfing, providing a distinct advantage over traditional beach access points.

The environment of Hither Hills State Park and its associated 4x4 beach access is renowned for its unspoiled natural beauty. The beach at Access Road #1 is characterized by "very smooth / fine sand," creating an inviting surface for walking, sunbathing, and driving. The waters are described as "nice clean water," indicating a high quality of the marine environment, ideal for swimming and fishing. Unlike some more crowded Long Island beaches, this specific access point, particularly the west end, is noted for being "not too crowded," offering a more tranquil and expansive experience for visitors. Beyond the immediate beachfront, Hither Hills State Park spans 1,755 acres, encompassing diverse landscapes including a two-mile sandy ocean beach, a 40-acre freshwater lake, woodlands filled with Russian olive, oak, shad, and pine trees, and the unique "walking dunes" of Napeague Harbor on its eastern boundary. This rich natural setting provides a stunning backdrop for all activities and contributes significantly to its appeal as a scenic destination.

Services at Hither Hills State Park 4x4 Beach Access Road #1 are primarily centered around facilitated access to the beach for permitted vehicles and the maintenance of the natural environment. While there aren't direct "goods for sale" at this specific access point in the traditional retail sense, the services provided are in the form of regulated access, safety enforcement, and environmental stewardship. New York State Parks operates the permit system, which is crucial for accessing the beach with a 4x4. These permits, which must be renewed annually, are available for different purposes, notably fishing and surfing. The park staff also ensures adherence to regulations, which include requirements for vehicle equipment (like shovels, tow chains, and tire gauges), proper tire pressure (airing down to one-half the maximum rated pressure is often recommended due to soft sand), and adherence to speed limits (10 MPH). The broader Hither Hills State Park offers additional services, including picnic areas with fireplaces, a playground, recreation programs, and facilities for a 190-site campground on the ocean, complete with comfort/shower stations and dumping stations for RVs. Anglers can also obtain permits to fish year-round and at night. These services contribute to a well-managed and enjoyable outdoor experience.

The features of Hither Hills State Park 4x4 Beach Access Road #1 are directly tied to its unique allowance for vehicular beach access and its integration within a larger state park. The ability to drive a 4x4 directly onto the sand is a defining feature, setting it apart from many other beaches. This feature requires specific equipment, including a shovel, rope or tow chain, portable toilet, jack, jack board, approved tires (maximum 35”x12.5”), a full-size spare tire, and a tire gauge capable of registering a minimum of 5 PSI. For fishing permit holders, possession of a fishing rod, reel, line, bait, or lures is also mandatory for each passenger over 12 years old. Surfing permit holders must possess surfing equipment (boogie boards do not qualify). The beach is open year-round for permitted 4x4 access, with 24-hour access available for fishing permit holders at Hither Hills, Montauk Point, and Napeague. For surfing permits, access is during daylight hours only (sunrise to sunset). The park also features bridle paths, hiking, nature, biking, and cross-country ski trails within its vast acreage. Courts for horseshoes, basketball, volleyball, and tetherball are available within the main park area. The "walking dunes" are a notable geological feature, rare in the Eastern United States, adding a unique natural element to the park's landscape. The park also maintains a large recycling program, reflecting an emphasis on environmental responsibility.

Promotional information for Hither Hills State Park 4x4 Beach Access Road #1 often highlights its appeal to outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking a less crowded beach experience. Customer reviews, such as those praising the "Beautiful beach with very smooth / fine sand" and its "Not too crowded especially the west end," serve as organic promotion. The advice to "make sure you air down the tires first" speaks directly to the experience and practical considerations for 4x4 users. The cleanliness of the water and beach, along with "nice decent people around," further enhance its reputation. The park's official New York State Parks website and the Long Island 4x4 Beaches Club website are primary sources for detailed information regarding permits, rules, and access. These platforms emphasize the necessity of obtaining the correct permits online, as in-person sales are often not available. Fees for 4x4 fishing permits typically cost $80 for NYS residents and $125 for non-residents, with surfing permits having similar pricing. The park encourages responsible recreation, reminding visitors to stay on designated access roads, not drive over dunes or vegetation, and to clean up after themselves. The phone number (631) 668-2554, also reachable at +1 631-668-2554, provides a direct line for inquiries, further facilitating access for local users interested in exploring this exceptional "Scenic Spot" on Long Island.

Hither Hills State Park 4x4 Beach Access Road #1

2178 Montauk Hwy, Montauk, NY 11954, USA