
Shadmoor State Park Montauk New York
A 99-acre coastal sanctuary with dramatic bluffs, serene trails, and secluded beaches offering breathtaking Atlantic views.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Crisp air, fewer crowds

Shadmoor State Park Montauk New York
Best Time
Crisp air, fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 99-acre coastal sanctuary with dramatic bluffs, serene trails, and secluded beaches offering breathtaking Atlantic views.
"Shadmoor State Park might be the most peaceful trail in Montauk."

🚶♀️ Peaceful Trails Await
Experience the quiet beauty of Shadmoor's trails, perfect for solo strolls or romantic walks.
🌊 Bring a Beach Chair
Pack a backpack-style beach chair for an easy hike to Ditch Plains.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Dramatic Bluff Views
Atlantic Ocean coastline
Towering cliffs meet the vast Atlantic, offering breathtaking panoramic ocean vistas. A truly awe-inspiring sight.

Peaceful Hiking Trails
Throughout the park
Wander through tall grasses and unique glacial terrain on well-maintained paths. Perfect for a serene nature walk.

Secluded Beach Access
Base of the bluffs
Discover quiet stretches of sand perfect for relaxation, birdwatching, or simply enjoying the ocean breeze.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Off-Season Calm
Dog Policies & Tick Awareness
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Peaceful Trails Await
Experience the quiet beauty of Shadmoor's trails, perfect for solo strolls or romantic walks.
🌊 Bring a Beach Chair
Pack a backpack-style beach chair for an easy hike to Ditch Plains.
🐶 Check Dog Policies
Dogs are usually beach-allowed only in winter. Verify current rules before visiting.
📸 Capture the Scenery
Don't forget your camera! The dramatic cliffs and ocean views are incredibly photogenic.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Peaceful Trails Await
Experience the quiet beauty of Shadmoor's trails, perfect for solo strolls or romantic walks.
🌊 Bring a Beach Chair
Pack a backpack-style beach chair for an easy hike to Ditch Plains.
🐶 Check Dog Policies
Dogs are usually beach-allowed only in winter. Verify current rules before visiting.
📸 Capture the Scenery
Don't forget your camera! The dramatic cliffs and ocean views are incredibly photogenic.
🦟 Tick Prevention
Be aware of ticks, especially in grassy areas. Use repellent and stay on paths.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Shadmoor State Park's serene atmosphere, dramatic bluff views, and peaceful hiking trails, calling it a hidden gem for a tranquil escape. Some note the seasonal restrictions for dogs and the need for tick awareness, but overall, it's praised for its natural beauty and quiet charm.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
From NYC, you can drive to Shadmoor State Park, which is about a 2.5-3 hour journey depending on traffic. Alternatively, you can take the LIRR train to Montauk station and then use a taxi or rideshare service to reach the park.
Yes, parking is available within Shadmoor State Park. It's recommended to arrive early, especially during peak season, to secure a spot.
Biking to Shadmoor State Park is possible, especially if you are already in the Montauk area. The park is accessible by road, but be aware of traffic conditions.
The best way to explore Shadmoor State Park is by hiking its scenic trails. You can also access the beach from the bluffs.
Shadmoor State Park is conveniently located near other Montauk attractions, including Ditch Plains Beach and the Montauk Lighthouse.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Shadmoor State Park is a New York State Park, and typically there is no entrance fee for pedestrian access. However, there may be parking fees, especially during the summer season. It's always best to check the official New York State Parks website for the most current information.
Shadmoor State Park is generally open year-round from dawn to dusk. However, specific facilities or access points might have seasonal hours. Always check the official New York State Parks website for the most up-to-date information.
No, you typically do not need to book tickets in advance for Shadmoor State Park as it's a public park. Entry is usually on a first-come, first-served basis for parking.
While Shadmoor State Park itself may not have an entry fee, some New York State Parks offer Empire Pass for year-round access to many state parks. Check the NYS Parks website for details on passes and potential discounts.
To avoid crowds at Shadmoor State Park, aim for weekday mornings or afternoons, especially outside of the peak summer months. Spring and fall offer a more tranquil experience.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
At Shadmoor State Park, you can enjoy hiking scenic trails, walking along the bluffs with stunning ocean views, and relaxing on the beach. Birdwatching and saltwater fishing are also popular activities.
Dogs are allowed in designated areas of Shadmoor State Park, but they are typically only permitted on the beaches during the winter months. Always confirm the latest pet policies on the official park website.
Shadmoor State Park features unique terrain formed by glacier deposits, including rolling geography, dramatic cliffs, and kettle holes. The hiking trails wind through tall grasses and offer ocean vistas.
Absolutely! Shadmoor State Park is a photographer's dream with its dramatic coastal cliffs, expansive ocean views, and natural beauty. Sunrise and sunset can be particularly stunning.
Restroom facilities may be available within Shadmoor State Park, but their availability can be seasonal. It's advisable to check the official New York State Parks website or call ahead for the most current information on amenities.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no restaurants located directly within Shadmoor State Park. However, the park is close to Ditch Plains Beach, where you can find food trucks like Ditch Witch.
Near Shadmoor State Park, you can find various dining options in Montauk. Consider the popular Ditch Witch food truck at Ditch Plains for beachside bites, or explore restaurants in Montauk town for seafood and other cuisines.
Picnicking is a great way to enjoy Shadmoor State Park. You can bring your own food and find a scenic spot to relax. Remember to pack out all your trash to keep the park clean.
While there aren't cafes directly in the park, Montauk town offers several coffee shops and cafes where you can grab a coffee before or after your visit.
Ditch Witch, located near Shadmoor State Park at Ditch Plains, is known for its homemade beachside bites, serving up classic American fare perfect for a casual meal.
📸 📸 Photography
The dramatic cliffs overlooking the Atlantic Ocean are prime photography spots. The winding trails through tall grasses also offer beautiful, serene shots. Don't miss the expansive beach views.
Sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting for photography at Shadmoor State Park. Golden hour light beautifully illuminates the cliffs and ocean.
Drone usage in New York State Parks is subject to strict regulations. It's essential to check the official New York State Parks website for current drone policies before flying.
The bluff trails provide numerous natural viewpoints overlooking the Atlantic. Simply walking along the paths will reveal stunning perspectives of the coastline.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive ocean views and cliffs. A telephoto lens can be useful for birdwatching. A sturdy tripod is recommended for sunrise/sunset shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Peace Seekers
🐶 Dog Owners
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Shadmoor's Unique Terrain
The park's name itself hints at its natural beauty, derived from the shadbushes that likely once thrived here. The trails meander through tall grasses and coastal vegetation, providing a sense of seclusion and immersion in nature. It’s a place where the land’s geological history is palpable, offering a different perspective than the typical flat beach experience.
Many visitors find the terrain to be a refreshing change, offering both challenging inclines and gentle paths. The combination of bluffs, wetlands, and open spaces makes it a fascinating area for exploration and photography.
Shadmoor's Coastal Charm and Tranquility
Unlike some of Montauk's more popular beaches, Shadmoor retains a sense of untouched natural beauty. It’s a place where you can truly connect with the ocean and the coastal environment. The sound of the waves crashing against the shore and the salty air create a serene ambiance that many visitors find incredibly restorative.
Whether you're looking for a solo meditative walk, a romantic stroll with a partner, or simply a breath of fresh sea air, Shadmoor delivers. It’s a reminder of the raw, natural beauty that Long Island’s coast has to offer, often overlooked in favor of more developed areas.
Hiking and Activities at Shadmoor
Beyond hiking, the park provides access to its beaches, which are often less crowded than those in nearby areas. These beaches are perfect for a leisurely walk, beachcombing, or simply enjoying the ocean. Saltwater fishing is also a popular activity for those with the appropriate licenses and gear.
It's worth noting that while the park is beautiful year-round, specific activities like beach access for dogs are seasonal. Always check the official New York State Parks website for the most up-to-date information on park regulations and permitted activities.




Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit