Outside & Loving It: The 5 Best Parks in Port Washington, NY
Quick Answer
The five best parks in Port Washington, NY are Manorhaven Beach Park, Sands Point Preserve, Blumenfeld Family Park, North Hempstead Beach Park (also known as Bar Beach), and Merriman Park. Each offers something unique — from a waterfront pool complex and a historic Guggenheim estate to splash pads, sports courts, summer concerts, and quiet neighborhood playgrounds.
Why Port Washington's Parks Are Special
One of the things I always tell my buyers is that Port Washington isn't just a place to live — it's a place to actually enjoy your life. And nowhere is that more obvious than in its parks. From waterfront pools and splash pads to nature preserves that once belonged to the Guggenheims, the outdoor life here is something special.
Here are five of my favorites.
1. Manorhaven Beach Park: The Most Scenic Park in Port Washington
I'm just going to say it — Manorhaven Beach Park might be the most scenic park you'll ever visit. Sitting right on the water with picturesque Manhasset Bay as the backdrop, this park has it all.
What's at Manorhaven Beach Park:
A 25,000-square-foot main pool with competition and lap swim lanes
Zero-depth entry for little ones and beginners
Two giant water slides and state-of-the-art water play features
A separate kiddie pool
Two playgrounds
Basketball courts
Newly resurfaced tennis and pickleball courts
Handball, racquetball, bocce, and horseshoe pits
A skate spot
Athletic fields for soccer and softball
Picnic areas
A boat ramp
Best for: A full-day family outing with everything in one place.
2. Sands Point Preserve: My Personal Favorite
I'll just say it — Sands Point Preserve is my favorite park, not just in Port Washington but on all of Long Island. This 216-acre preserve sits on what was once the Guggenheim Estate — yes, that Guggenheim — and it shows.
What's at Sands Point Preserve:
Historic mansions and the Phil Dejana Learning Center
Miles of nature trails through woodlands
A woodland playground
A dog run
Direct access to a beach overlooking the Long Island Sound
Cost: A 12-month family membership is $160 and gets you unlimited free admission — honestly one of the best deals around. Walk-in admission is $15 per car.
Best for: Nature lovers, history buffs, and anyone who wants to feel a little fancy on a Saturday afternoon.
3. Blumenfeld Family Park: The Perfect Midday Stop
Located right in the center of town, Blumenfeld Family Park is the ideal pit stop if you're spending a day exploring Main Street and the local restaurants.
What's at Blumenfeld Family Park:
Vibrant flower gardens
Comfortable seating overlooking the playground
A splash pad (a summertime game-changer)
Easy access to Main Street shops and restaurants
Best for: Families exploring downtown who need a place to let the kids cool off and recharge.
4. North Hempstead Beach Park (Bar Beach): Day and Night Activities
Ask any Port Washington local about Bar Beach and watch their face light up. This 60-acre park spans a half-mile of beachfront on the Long Island Sound and has something for just about everyone.
What's at Bar Beach:
A half-mile of beachfront on the Long Island Sound
Lifeguards on duty in the summer for swimming
Courts for basketball, shuffleboard, handball, and paddleball
Horseshoe pits
Picnic areas with barbecue grills and shelter pavilions
A playground
Live music on the waterfront on summer evenings
Note: A fee is required for beach access, and permits are needed for use of fields and picnic areas.
Best for: Summer evenings with friends — bring chairs, snacks, and stay for the music.
5. Merriman Park: A Hidden Gem in Manhasset Bay Estates
Tucked away in the Manhasset Bay Estates neighborhood, Merriman Park is the kind of place only locals know about — and that's part of its charm.
What's at Merriman Park:
A playground
A baseball diamond
A quiet, low-traffic atmosphere
Best for: Families who want a peaceful outdoor afternoon away from the crowds.
Port Washington Parks at a Glance
Best for a full beach day: Manorhaven Beach Park
Best for nature and history: Sands Point Preserve
Best midday stop with kids: Blumenfeld Family Park
Best for summer evenings: North Hempstead Beach Park (Bar Beach)
Best hidden gem: Merriman Park
Frequently Asked Questions About Port Washington Parks
What is the biggest park in Port Washington? Sands Point Preserve is the largest at 216 acres, followed by North Hempstead Beach Park (Bar Beach) at 60 acres.
How much does it cost to visit Sands Point Preserve? Walk-in admission is $15 per car. A 12-month family membership is $160 and includes unlimited free admission.
Does Manorhaven Beach Park have a pool? Yes. Manorhaven Beach Park features a 25,000-square-foot main pool with competition lanes, a zero-depth entry area, two giant water slides, water play features, and a separate kiddie pool.
Do you need a permit for Bar Beach? A fee is required for beach access, and permits are needed for the use of athletic fields and picnic areas.
Are dogs allowed at Sands Point Preserve? Yes. Sands Point Preserve has a dedicated dog run, making it one of the most dog-friendly parks in the area.
Which Port Washington park is best for young kids? Blumenfeld Family Park is ideal for young kids thanks to its centrally located playground and seasonal splash pad. Manorhaven Beach Park is also excellent with its zero-depth pool entry and two playgrounds.
Where can I see live music outdoors in Port Washington? North Hempstead Beach Park (Bar Beach) hosts live music on the waterfront on summer evenings.
Thinking About Moving to Port Washington?
Port Washington is a town where the outdoors is genuinely part of everyday life — and these five parks are a big reason why. Whether you're raising a family, walking your dog, or just looking for a place to exhale after a long week, you'll find your spot here.
If you'd like to see it all for yourself, I'd love to show you around.