Cedar Beach, Gilgo, New York

Quick Facts

• Location: Gilgo Beach area, Town of Babylon (Suffolk County)

• Address: Ocean Parkway, Gilgo, NY

• Beach Type: Atlantic Ocean beach

• Sand Type: Wide, soft Atlantic sand

• Water Conditions: Strong surf; open Atlantic exposure

• Best For: Babylon residents, surf fishing, quieter South Shore access

• Best Time to Visit: Late June–Labor Day

• Beach Hours: Seasonal daytime operation

• Pet Policy: Dogs restricted during swim season

• Beach Cleanliness: Maintained town beach

• Average Rating: ⭐ 4.6

• Pricing: Town of Babylon resident permit required in season

• Parking: Permit-controlled parking lot

• Accessibility: Basic beach access; some seasonal mats

• Crowd Level: Moderate; less crowded than Jones Beach

Overview

Cedar Beach in Gilgo sits along the South Shore of Long Island and offers true Atlantic shoreline exposure. It is operated by the Town of Babylon and typically requires a resident parking permit during peak summer months.

The beach is wide and open, similar in feel to Robert Moses or Jones Beach, but generally less crowded. It attracts swimmers, sunbathers, and surf fishermen.

This is a full Atlantic surf beach — expect waves and wind, especially on open ocean days.

Amenities & Access

• Large parking area (permit required in season)

• Seasonal lifeguards (varies by year)

• Restrooms

• Outdoor showers

• Fishing access

No boardwalk like Long Beach or Jones Beach.

Safety & Conditions

• Strong Atlantic rip currents possible

• Swim only in designated lifeguard areas

• Surf can be rough on windy days

Water colder in early summer, warmest August.

Things to Do

• Swimming

• Surf fishing

• Sunbathing

• Walking along dunes

Nearby Attractions

• Robert Moses State Park (east)

• Jones Beach (west)

• Fire Island access points

• South Shore coastal drives

Where to Stay

• Babylon / West Islip hotels

• Long Island accommodations

• NYC stays (drive required)

Tips & Rules

• Confirm resident permit requirements

• Arrive early on peak weekends

• Bring shade

• Wind can be strong

Best Time of Day

• Morning: Calmer surf

• Late Afternoon: Cooler ocean breeze

Who This Beach Is Best For

• Babylon residents

• Surf fishermen

• Ocean swimmers

• Visitors wanting less crowd than Jones

Bottom Line

Cedar Beach offers full Atlantic shoreline access with wide sand and strong surf. It’s quieter than Jones Beach but typically restricted to Town of Babylon residents during peak season.