Gilgo State Park

For dining options near Gilgo State Park, visitors can enjoy a variety of cuisines. The Gilgo Beach Inn is a casual spot on the beach, offering a relaxed atmosphere with live music and cocktails. For seafood lovers, Babylon Fish & Clam Restaurant provides a nautical-themed dining experience with classic seafood dishes. Those seeking Italian cuisine can head to Ristorante Gemelli, known for its upscale Tuscan-style dining. Additionally, Tres Palms offers New American seafood with a cozy atmosphere, and Lily's Babylon serves pub grub with an Irish twist.

For accommodations near Gilgo State Park, options are available a bit further inland. The Hilton Long Island/Huntington offers modern amenities including two pools and a free local shuttle. Another choice is the Marriott Melville Long Island, which features a relaxed atmosphere with an indoor pool and dining options. Both hotels provide a comfortable base for exploring the area, though they are not directly on the beach.

Gilgo State Park is an undeveloped area, meaning it lacks traditional amenities like restrooms or showers. Visitors must carry out all trash and belongings, emphasizing a 'leave no trace' policy. This approach helps maintain the park's natural state and supports its role as a wildlife reserve. For those seeking more developed facilities, nearby beaches like Gilgo Beach offer amenities such as food services and restrooms.

Gilgo State Park is renowned for its surfing and fishing opportunities. The Atlantic Ocean provides consistent waves, making it a favorite among surfers. Anglers enjoy surf fishing, particularly during the striped bass migration in the fall. While swimming is not permitted, the park's tranquil environment makes it ideal for nature walks and birdwatching. Visitors can also explore the historical remnants of the old Coast Guard station.

Gilgo State Park's undeveloped nature means it lacks specific disability access features such as ramps or wheelchair rentals. The requirement for four-wheel drive vehicles to access the park also limits accessibility for those with mobility impairments. However, nearby beaches like Gilgo Beach offer more accessible facilities, including wheelchair-accessible restrooms and parking.

Parking at Gilgo State Park is limited and requires a four-wheel drive vehicle permit. The park's remote nature means that parking is not extensive, and visitors must be prepared to drive on the beach. This setup helps preserve the park's natural environment and ensures that only those with the proper equipment can access the area. For those without a four-wheel drive vehicle, nearby beaches like Gilgo Beach offer more conventional parking options.

Gilgo State Park has a rich history tied to its role as a former U.S. Life-Saving Service station, later absorbed into the U.S. Coast Guard. The park's undeveloped nature is part of its charm, with efforts focused on preserving wildlife habitats for species like the piping plover. The park's unique location on a barrier island also makes it a fascinating spot for observing coastal erosion and natural changes over time.

Near Gilgo State Park, visitors can explore other attractions along the Long Island coast. The nearby Jones Beach State Park offers a more developed beach experience with amenities like a boardwalk and concert venues. Additionally, the Robert Moses State Park on Fire Island provides another scenic beach destination accessible by ferry. For historical interest, the Montauk Lighthouse is a notable landmark further east on Long Island.