Shadmoor State Park

At the end of Long Island in New York lies Montauk Point, along with Montauk Village. In between is a 2400-foot sandy beach. It's part of Shadmoor State Park, a 99-acre preserve that reaches from the shore north. While there's lots to do in the preserve, doggos love nothing so much as a long walk on a long beach, a rest on a blanket with their human parents, or a swim in the gentle surf of the Atlantic Ocean. And, of course, digging in the sand.

The dirt path that takes you and Fluffy to the 100-foot bluffs that are a backdrop to the beach is flat in places, and moderately hilly in others.  Finding a place to leave your car is no problem: the parking lot that is located at the path's head is large and free! When you get to the bluffs, before heading down to the beach, take the time to look around, watch some surfers on the waves, or check out one of the observation platforms with its birds-eye view. 

Two stairways descend to the beach below, which is hardly ever crowded and almost always jaw-droppingly barktiful. Its soft sand is a delight to walk in or lie on and the mesmerizing rhythm of the waves relaxes folks and their pups. The beach faces south, so the sun is with you most of the day, making for furlicious sunrises and dusks. 

There are no facilities on the beach, so be sure to bring everything you need, including dog waste bags and water. It's a pawrfect place to toss down a blanket and share a picnic with your furry friend. Remember that this is a Leave No Trace beach and everything must be removed when you go. After a long day on the sand, it might be refreshing to take a stroll on one of the preserve's 2.3 miles of trails along the tops of the bluffs or further north among the black cherry trees and threatened Sandplain Gerardia plants. Birds are plentiful and will serenade you all the way back to your car.

A little known oasis, Shadmoor State Park Beach is a must-do on a visit to the eastern end of Long Island!