Cedar Beach, New York

Quick Facts

• Location: Oak Beach barrier island (Town of Babylon, Suffolk County)

• Address: Oak Beach, NY 11702

• Beach Type: Atlantic Ocean public beach

• Sand Type: Wide, soft Atlantic sand

• Water Conditions: Strong surf; open-ocean exposure

• Best For: Babylon residents, surfers, surf fishing

• Best Time to Visit: Late June–Labor Day

• Beach Hours: Seasonal operation

• Pet Policy: Dogs restricted during swim season

• Beach Cleanliness: Well maintained

• Average Rating: ⭐ 4.6

• Pricing: Town of Babylon resident permit required in season

• Parking: Large permit-controlled lot

• Accessibility: Paved access and facilities

• Crowd Level: Moderate

Overview

Cedar Beach in Oak Beach sits along the Atlantic-facing barrier island operated by the Town of Babylon. It offers full open-ocean exposure with strong surf conditions.

Compared to Jones Beach State Park, Cedar Beach feels less commercial and more community-oriented. The shoreline is wide and open, attracting swimmers, surfers, and anglers.

Access during peak summer months typically requires a Babylon Town resident parking permit.

Amenities & Access

• Large parking area (permit required in season)

• Seasonal lifeguards

• Restrooms and showers

• Concessions (seasonal)

• Fishing access

No amphitheater or state-park concert infrastructure.

Safety & Conditions

• Strong Atlantic rip currents possible

• Swim only in lifeguarded areas

• Wind exposure common

Surf strength varies with weather systems.

Things to Do

• Swimming

• Surfing

• Surf fishing

• Long beach walks

Nearby Attractions

• Overlook Beach

• Tobay Beach

• Robert Moses State Park

• Fire Island access points

Where to Stay

• Babylon / West Islip hotels

• Suffolk County accommodations

• NYC stays (drive required)

Tips & Rules

• Confirm resident permit requirements

• Arrive early on peak weekends

• Bring shade

• Expect open-ocean wind

Best Time of Day

• Morning: Calmer surf

• Late Afternoon: Cooler breeze

Who This Beach Is Best For

• Babylon residents

• Ocean swimmers

• Surfers

• Visitors wanting fewer crowds than Jones

Bottom Line

Cedar Beach offers wide Atlantic shoreline and strong surf with a more local feel than Jones Beach — but typically requires a Babylon resident permit in peak season.