The Gold Coast of Long Island isn’t just famous for its Great Gatsby-esque estates. It’s also home to some of the best beaches and attractions in Nassau County, N.Y.
Check out some wonderful hidden gems on Long Island’s Gold Coast that offer smaller crowds, scenic views, and a peaceful summer vibe.
Whether you’re looking to relax on the water, explore charming villages, or savor fresh seafood best enjoyed with a view, this weekend beach itinerary has you covered.
Day 1:
Morning:
Arrive at the Sea Cliff Beach, on the Boulevard in Sea Cliff, to snag a prime spot on the sand by Hempstead Harbor.
The beach is equipped with a pavilion with restrooms, first-aid, and showers. Sun-worshippers craving a bite can stop by Cliffside Café and sit outside for a meal.
The beach is open from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend, although on weekends only until the end of June. Admission is $10 for Sea Cliff residents and $25 for non-residents.
Lunch:
Check out K.C. Gallagher’s for a low-key lunch—or brunch. On weekends, brunch is served from noon to 3 p.m. and all entrées include home fries and your choice of a Bloody Mary, Mimosa, or Screwdriver. K.C.’s is known for its burgers, wings, and grilled cheese, although those looking for lighter fare can choose from its selection of spinach, chicken, or shrimp salads.
Afternoon:
Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the funky, artsy village of Sea Cliff. The eclectic downtown is home to a variety of restaurants, independent boutiques, and vintage shops. Get your caffeine fix at the Sea Cliff Daily Grind and then pop into My Beautiful Mess to browse antiques, local handicrafts, and vintage clothing.
You can never have too many water views on your beach weekend. Make sure to stop at Veteran’s Memorial Park, a.k.a. “Hippie Park,” to take in the sight of the Hempstead Harbor, Long Island Sound, and the shorelines of New York and Connecticut.
Dinner:
After a long day spent on the beach, there’s nothing better than digging into some fresh seafood while taking in a sunset on the water. Since 1905, Louie’s Prime Steak & Seafood has offered fine dining in lively Port Washington. Start with the Lobster Shrimp Bisque or L.I. Littleneck Clams or Blue Point Oysters from the raw bar, followed by the Wagyu Bacon Burger or Atlantic Swordfish.
Nightlife:
If you’re looking for a fun night out, hit Main St. in Port Washington. Finn MacCool’s Restaurant and Bar often has live music on weekends. Lennon’s Pub is known for its friendly bartenders and old-school atmosphere.
Accommodations:
There are plenty of places for beachgoers to stay nearby, from more affordable, centrally located hotels to a Gilded Age estate transformed into luxury retreats. Here are a few hotels to consider:
Once the summer White House for President Herbert Hoover, the Mansion at Glen Cove radiates historic charm. Guests who want a break from the beach can lounge in one of the cabanas or chairs in the mansion’s pool club. Constructed in 1910, the former estate is located near the Welwyn Preserve, the Holocaust Memorial and Tolerance Center, and the Glen Cove Golf Club.
The Roslyn, Tapestry Collection by Hilton
Guests can book rooms or suites at this convenient hotel, located just off NY-25A, near the Nassau County Museum of Art, and within a few minutes of central Roslyn. Those looking for a wellness experience can check out the nearby Roslyn Salt Cave, a spa offering massages, workshops, and yoga classes.
Treat yourself to one of the six rooms at this luxe boutique hotel on the Manhasset Bay in bustling Port Washington. Built on the site of the former Knickerbocker Yacht Club, the hotel is just about a mile from the Long Island Rail Road and 18 miles from Manhattan. Fun perk: The marina has slips available for those traveling by boat.
Day 2:
Morning:
Those who would like to perfect their tans on a new stretch of sand can check out the North Hempstead Beach Park, at 175 W. Shore Rd. in Port Washington. The 60-acre park, which sits on a half-mile stretch of shore, features bathhouses, bocce ball, a playground, kayaking, picnic areas, among other amenities.
Nassau County residents pay $10 or $15 per visit, while non-residents pay $18 or $20 depending on whether they pay with cash or credit card.
Lunch:
If you’re looking for a casual lunch, Organic Krush Kitchen & Eatery should be your go-to pick. Order from the board at this healthy, fast-food restaurant in Roslyn. Then take a seat to enjoy a smoothie or chicken, steak, or tofu bowls, sandwiches, and salads chock-full of vegetables.
Afternoon:
If you’re looking for a break from the beach, there are plenty of things to do locally that can more than fill up a summer afternoon.
Get in some culture at the Nassau County Museum of Art in Roslyn Harbor. The museum is housed in the former Frick estate, a three-story Georgian mansion set on 145 acres. The permanent collection includes more than 500 pieces of American and European art created in the 19th and 20th century. There is also a sculpture garden on the grounds. Admission is $10 for adults and $4 for children.
The Sands Point Preserve Conservancy, located on the former Guggenheim estate, has been turned into a 216-acre park. Visitors can tour the mansion, explore educational programs, or walk through the trails. Admission is $15 per car or $4 for walk-ins.
Golf-lovers may want to pay a visit to Harbor Links, an 18-hole, public, championship golf course in Port Washington. There is also mini-golf and instruction available.
Beyond just beaches, there is so much to see and do on the Gold Coast of Long Island. Start planning your perfect summer weekend today.
