Short Beach, Hempstead, New York

Quick Facts

• Location: Lido Boulevard area, Town of Hempstead (Nassau County)

• Address: Hempstead, NY 11569

• Beach Type: Atlantic Ocean beach

• Sand Type: Wide Atlantic sand

• Water Conditions: Strong surf; open ocean exposure

• Best For: Hempstead residents, ocean swimming

• Best Time to Visit: Late June–Labor Day

• Beach Hours: Seasonal operation

• Pet Policy: Dogs restricted during swim season

• Beach Cleanliness: Maintained municipal beach

• Average Rating: ⭐ 4.5

• Pricing: Town resident permit required in season

• Parking: Permit-controlled lot

• Accessibility: Basic beach access

• Crowd Level: Moderate

Overview

Short Beach sits along the Atlantic barrier island within the Town of Hempstead. It offers full ocean exposure with strong surf conditions.

Unlike Jones Beach State Park, Short Beach is municipally operated and primarily serves town residents during peak season. The shoreline is wide and open, but facilities are more modest than large state beaches.

This is a true Atlantic swim beach.

Amenities & Access

• Parking lot (permit required in season)

• Seasonal lifeguards (varies by year)

• Restrooms

• Open sand shoreline

No major amphitheater or commercial boardwalk.

Safety & Conditions

• Strong Atlantic rip currents possible

• Swim only in lifeguarded zones

• Wind exposure common

Surf strength varies with weather systems.

Things to Do

• Swimming

• Sunbathing

• Surf fishing

• Long beach walks

Nearby Attractions

• Lido Beach

• Point Lookout

• Long Beach Boardwalk

• Jones Beach State Park

Where to Stay

• Long Beach hotels

• Nassau County accommodations

• NYC stays (45–60 min drive)

Tips & Rules

• Confirm permit requirements

• Arrive early in peak season

• Bring shade

• Expect open-ocean wind

Best Time of Day

• Morning: Calmer surf

• Late Afternoon: Cooler breeze

Who This Beach Is Best For

• Hempstead residents

• Ocean swimmers

• Visitors avoiding Jones crowds

Bottom Line

Short Beach delivers wide Atlantic shoreline with strong surf, primarily serving Town of Hempstead residents during peak season.