7 Long Island Restaurants Where You Can Sit On The Sand

There are plenty of places to dine al fresco on Long Island, but for the beachiest of summer outdoor dining experiences, there are just a few local eateries where patrons can be seated at tables right in the sand.

Whether looking to grab a quick bite at a casual restaurant or relishing a three-course meal at a more upscale establishment, these waterfront locales’ sandy seating areas make them stand out from the pack of places boasting beachy ambiance.

Here is a roundup of LI restaurants where patrons can sink their toes in the sand while they eat.

HOUSER’S BAR
A section of Houser’s Hotel, this dockside surf bar offers seating at picnic tables in the sand overlooking the Great South Bay. Watch the boats pass by while savoring a delicious burger, chicken wrap, or taco. Or splurge on the 1 ¼ pound lobster special, served with mashed potatoes, corn on the cob, and drawn butter. That alone is worth the ferry ride to Fire Island. 781 Evergreen Walk, Ocean Beach, 631-583-7805, housershotel.com/housers-bar

KEY WEST
This casual waterfront restaurant and beer garden with Great South Bay views has seating available on its deck and on the sandy shore. Although it’s located in the Town of Islip-run Islip Beach, which requires a resident park pass to access, the restaurant is open until 9 p.m., so non-residents can visit for dinner after the parking attendants stop checking the gate at 6 p.m. 600 South Bay Ave., Islip, 631-277-5500, facebook.com/pg/Keywestrestaurantatislip

NAVY BEACH
This coastal eatery provides the perfect summer experience with an open bar and tables located on the sandy shore of Fort Pond Bay. Come with the family for a casual afternoon or night and indulge on a long list of signature seafood, burgers, pasta, and chicken dishes. From the gorgeous sunsets and the alluring scenery to the amazing menu, this is one memorable place to eat. 16 Navy Rd., Montauk, 631-668-6868, navybeach.com/montauk

OCEAN
Decompress at Ocean, The Crescent Beach Club’s resort-like restaurant overlooking the Long Island Sound. From their upper deck patio that provides spectacular views, their palm tree-lined sandy outdoor seating area, and their comfortable lounge, Ocean is a perfect destination to celebrate a special occasion. Highly regarded is the sushi bar, crafted by chef Mr. Lee and the fabulous beach shack menu that will not disappoint. 333 Bayville Ave., Bayville, 516-628-3330, cometotheocean.com

SALT SHACK
Guests will be sure to have a blast and then some at this casual Cedar Beach hot spot, where patrons can also grab some eats and enjoy their meal at a table in the sand surrounded by palm trees. Order casual pub fare such as hamburgers, hot dogs, sandwiches, poke bowls, or tacos from the takeout counter along with a fresh beer or cocktail. Their multitude of drink specials and daily live music performances will provide a pleasurable experience with every visit. Although at a Town of Babylon-run beach that only allows residents, non-residents can enter after 6 p.m. Salt Shack is open til 9 p.m. on weekdays and 11 p.m. on weekends. 100 Ocean Pkwy., Babylon, 631-422-7222, saltshackny.com

THE SHACK at ATLANTIQUE
Located at Atlantique Beach at Fire Island, this restaurant and full-service bar inside a concession stand features daily dinner specials, soothing adult beverages, beachside waters, and occasional live music performances. Coming from the beach? This casual picnic table set in the sand is a perfect place to unwind on a sunny day, for those up for a ferry ride to Fire Island. 245 Central Walk, Atlantique, instagram.com/THE_SHACK_ATLANTIQUE

WALL’S WHARF
Whether you opt to sit on its 10,000-square-foot beach or on the back deck, diners will be sure to get a kick out of Wall’s Wharf panoramic view of the North Shore. Fresh seafood, sirloin, signature sushi menu, or desert, complement pleasing atmosphere from this prestigious restaurant that gives a vacation vibe. 18 Greenwich Ave., Bayville, 516-628-9696, wallswharf.com

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