The best cycling routes around Hewlett Bay Park

The Veterans Memorial Park – Long Beach Boardwalk loop from Island Park offers a delightful touring cycling experience, primarily on paved surfaces. You'll pedal along the iconic Long Beach Boardwalk, soaking in continuous ocean views and fresh sea air, with direct beach access available. The route also weaves through urban green spaces like Veterans Memorial Park, which provides "awesome" vistas, and includes segments of the Shoreline Pedestrian Bikepath, a wide concrete trail perfect for bikes.

Planning your ride is straightforward; this easy 13.8-mile (22.2 km) loop with only 57 feet (17 metres) of elevation gain is suitable for all skill levels and takes approximately 1 hour and 35 minutes. The Long Beach Boardwalk is well-lit at night, offering flexibility for evening rides, and you'll find community amenities and potential stops for refreshments near Veterans Memorial Park. Parking is generally available in the Island Park area, making it an accessible starting point.

This route stands out for its blend of coastal beauty and urban parkland, connecting to a broader network of off-road paths in the Long Beach area. It's an excellent choice for family-friendly cycling or for beginners looking for an accessible bike route in Long Beach, New York. The minimal elevation changes, particularly on the boardwalk sections, ensure a comfortable and enjoyable journey for everyone.

Embark on a diverse touring bicycle adventure with the Rockaway Beach Boardwalk loop from Lynbrook, a route that transitions from quiet suburban streets to the vibrant Atlantic coast. You'll pedal along mostly paved surfaces, eventually reaching the iconic 5.5-mile concrete Rockaway Boardwalk, where the ocean stretches out before you. This 38.7-mile (62.2 km) journey offers a blend of green spaces and seaside views, making for a varied and engaging ride.

Rated as moderate, this cycling loop requires good fitness due to its nearly four-hour duration, though the 268 feet (82 metres) of elevation gain is quite gentle. While the route begins in Lynbrook, the Rockaway Beach section is well-equipped with amenities, especially during warmer months. Consider starting early to make the most of the day and avoid the busiest times on the boardwalk.

Rockaway Beach is celebrated as the largest urban beach in the United States and New York City's only legal surfing beach, adding a unique cultural element to your ride. Beyond the immediate coastal charm, the wider Rockaway area provides opportunities to explore ecological sites like the Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge, known for its bird species, or historical landmarks such as Floyd Bennett Field, enriching the experience beyond just the ride itself.