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April 27, 2022
Cycling
May 13, 2022
Road cycling
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Jones Beach State Park
4.9
(13)
451
riders
64.2km
03:05
30m
30m
The Ocean Parkway Coastal Greenway offers a truly spectacular cycling experience along Long Island's south shore, providing continuous waterfront views of the Atlantic Ocean, marshlands, and the Great South Bay. This paved path, also known in parts as the Jones Beach Bike Path, allows you to glide past open vistas of Seaman's Island and Olivers Channel, with the iconic Jones Beach Water Tower often in sight. It's a generally easy ride, but the open coastal exposure means you should be ready for potential headwinds that can add a surprising challenge to the 39.9-mile (64.2 km) journey.
Planning your ride on the Ocean Parkway Coastal Greenway is straightforward, as the trail connects Cedar Creek County Park to Captree State Park. You'll find convenient access to various beaches like Jones Beach and Gilgo Beach, many offering restrooms and food options. Cyclists arriving by bike are often exempt from beach access fees, and underpasses make it easy to reach the ocean side. While the 85 feet (26 metres) of elevation gain is minimal, remember that the 3 hours and 4 minutes estimated duration for this moderate route can be extended by strong winds, so check the forecast.
This greenway is considered one of the most spectacular bike paths in the New York Metro Region, thanks to its blend of natural beauty and accessibility. A significant extension in 2021 made it a continuous 20-mile path, enhancing the long-distance cycling experience. The out-and-back nature means a full ride covers approximately 40 miles, offering ample opportunity to enjoy the diverse wildlife and lush natural surroundings without needing to find a loop connection.
5.0
(1)
120
riders
21.8km
01:24
10m
10m
The Jones Beach Bike Path offers a truly unique road cycling experience, tracing the barrier island with continuous, expansive views of both the Atlantic Ocean and the Great South Bay. You'll find yourself pedaling on flat, paved surfaces, occasionally transitioning to boardwalk sections, particularly as you pass through Jones Beach State Park. This easy 13.5-mile (21.8 km) route, with only 29 feet (9 metres) of elevation gain, is a fantastic way to soak in the coastal scenery, though be prepared for potential headwinds that can add a challenge.
Planning your visit is simple, with numerous parking areas and amenities like restrooms and restaurants available at key points such as Jones Beach and Tobay Beach. If you're considering public transport, the LIRR Wantagh station provides access near the western start of the path. While the ride is generally easy, the exposed nature of the island means strong winds can make the 1 hour and 23 minutes duration feel longer, so check the weather before heading out.
This path is part of a larger coastal greenway, offering a continuous stretch of cycling that connects several state parks, including Jones Beach State Park and Captree State Park. You can lock up your bike and use underpasses to access the ocean side for a beach break. It's a multi-use path, so you'll share it with pedestrians, especially in popular boardwalk areas, making it a vibrant spot for outdoor activity.
8
riders
51.2km
02:22
70m
70m
The Hempstead Lake and Jones Beach Loop offers a unique blend of coastal and parkland cycling, perfect for a varied day on two wheels. You'll glide along the Jones Beach Bike Path with expansive ocean views, feeling the sea breeze, before transitioning to the tranquil, tree-lined paths of Hempstead Lake State Park, where you'll pass by the picturesque Hempstead Lake. This route provides a compelling contrast in scenery, from open coast to serene woodlands and wetlands.
Planning your ride is simple, with convenient parking available at both Hempstead Lake State Park and Jones Beach State Park, making trailhead access easy. This moderate 31.8-mile (51.2 km) road cycling route, with a minimal 242 feet (74 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes about 2 hours and 22 minutes to complete. It's an ideal choice for cyclists looking for a substantial ride without challenging climbs.
What makes this route stand out is its ability to combine two distinct environments into one engaging loop. The Jones Beach segment is known for its smooth, flat surfaces and iconic beachfront, while Hempstead Lake State Park offers a peaceful escape with its multi-use paths and opportunities for wildlife observation around its freshwater ponds. It's a fantastic way to experience the diverse natural beauty of Long Island.
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Wednesday 10 June
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17°C
34 %
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Max wind speed: 20.0 km/h
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