The best family-friendly hikes and walks in Montauk Point State Park
4.8
(9)
71
hikers
15
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails in Montauk Point State Park are situated at the easternmost tip of Long Island, New York, spanning over 860 acres. The park features a diverse landscape where the Atlantic Ocean meets Block Island Sound, creating a rugged shoreline with coastal bluffs and sandy beaches. Trails wind through heavily wooded areas, freshwater ponds like Oyster Pond and Money Pond, and offer opportunities for wildlife observation. The terrain includes both expansive ocean views and sheltered woodland paths.
Best…
Last updated: May 13, 2026
4.5
(4)
24
hikers
9.96km
02:36
70m
70m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
hikers
5.99km
01:34
50m
50m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Sign up for free
7
hikers
6.96km
01:48
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
7
hikers
6.84km
01:46
30m
30m
Moderate hike. Great for any fitness level. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.0
(1)
6
hikers
3.64km
00:56
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
There are, by the way, some beautiful places here in the north of Long Island. Large colonial-style villas, some with park-like gardens, are a sight to behold. The sophistication is reminiscent of places like Kampen on Sylt.
3
0
Montauk, by the way, has a walk-through lighthouse, which houses a small but fine museum that, among other things, explains the history of the Native Americans who once lived on Long Island.
8
0
Anyone visiting Long Island should definitely visit Montauk, as this end of the island is not only scenically very attractive - Pocahontas' life took place here, which is historically interesting. The "Hamptons" are also not far away. These places are beautiful: the picture-perfect east coast.
12
0
The Old Montauk Highway leads to a trail through the woods with a gate that says closed to traffic. We took it and it’s fine. There’s a nice parking area with a cliff view at the end just before you get to the lighthouse, check it out.
0
0
Camp Hero State Park covers 415 acres of wooded areas and a beachfront with a historic military installation. Hikers, runners, bikers, and horseback riders can explore the trail systems going through forests, freshwater wetlands, ocean vistas, and bluffs. Swimming is not allowed here.
0
0
At 136 acres and the second-largest pond in Montauk State Park, Oyster Pond is a unique land formation separated from the ocean by just a small strip of land.
0
0
At the easternmost point of Long Island & New York's first lighthouse, Montauk Point Lighthouse built in 1796 was one of the first sights that immigrants saw when arriving in the USA by ship.
0
0
This short trail takes you to a spot where you can watch seals from a distance.
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are available in Montauk Point State Park?
Montauk Point State Park offers a variety of family-friendly hiking options. You'll find around 15 routes suitable for families, with 9 of them rated as easy, making them perfect for all ages.
What kind of terrain can we expect on family hikes in Montauk Point State Park?
The park's trails offer a diverse landscape, from rugged coastal bluffs and sandy beaches where the Atlantic Ocean meets the Block Island Sound, to serene, heavily wooded areas. You'll experience a mix of environments, providing varied scenery for your family adventure.
Are there any easy circular routes suitable for families?
Yes, there are several easy circular routes. For a pleasant loop that takes you through diverse natural features, consider the Oyster Pond, Seal Haul Out, and Money Pond Trail Loop, which is rated as easy and offers beautiful pond views.
What natural features can we see along the family-friendly trails?
Montauk Point State Park is rich in natural beauty. You can explore freshwater bodies like Oyster Pond and Money Pond, witness the unique 'race' of converging tides, and enjoy expansive ocean views. The park is also a haven for wildlife, including migrating birds, red foxes, white-tailed deer, and even dolphins or humpback whales during migratory periods.
Are there any historical landmarks to visit during our hike?
Absolutely! A prominent historical landmark is the Montauk Point Lighthouse, New York State's oldest lighthouse, commissioned by George Washington in 1796. Many trails, like the Paumanok Path: Montauk Point Loop, offer views of or lead directly to this iconic structure. You can also find trails that connect to Camp Hero State Park, which has its own historical significance.
Where can we spot wildlife, especially seals, in the park?
Montauk Point State Park is an excellent spot for wildlife viewing. Harbor seals are often seen 'hauling out' to rest on offshore rocks, particularly between November and April. The Seal Haul Out Trail loop from Montauk Point State Park is specifically designed to guide visitors to these seal-watching locations. For more information on watchable wildlife, you can visit the NYS DEC website.
What is the best time of year to hike with family in Montauk Point State Park?
The park is enjoyable year-round, but the best time depends on your interests. For seal watching, visit between November and April. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery, while summer is ideal for combining hiking with beach activities. Winter hiking is also possible, with opportunities for cross-country skiing.
Are the trails in Montauk Point State Park suitable for strollers?
While many trails are easy, the park's diverse terrain, including rocky beaches, coastal bluffs, and wooded paths, means that not all routes are ideal for strollers. Some sections may be uneven or sandy. We recommend checking individual route details for specific conditions, but generally, trails with smoother, wider paths would be more suitable.
Can we bring our dog on the trails?
Yes, Montauk Point State Park is pet-friendly! The Paumanok Path and Camp Hero Loop is one example of a trail that welcomes dogs, allowing your furry family members to join the adventure. Always keep your dog on a leash and clean up after them.
Is there parking available for families at the trailheads?
Yes, Montauk Point State Park offers parking facilities, typically near popular trailheads and attractions like the lighthouse. It's advisable to arrive early during peak seasons to secure a spot, especially for family outings.
What do other hikers enjoy most about family hikes in Montauk Point State Park?
The komoot community highly rates the family-friendly hikes in Montauk Point State Park, with an average score of 4.75 stars from 9 ratings. Reviewers often praise the stunning coastal views, the chance to spot diverse wildlife, and the well-maintained paths that make for an enjoyable experience for all ages.
What are some good options for a shorter, easy family hike?
For a shorter and easy family hike, the Seal Haul Out Trail loop from Montauk Point State Park is an excellent choice. It's just under 4 kilometers and offers a great opportunity to see seals during the right season, making it engaging for kids.
Most popular attractions in Montauk Point State Park
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Hikes in other regions.
