Goldsmith Inlet Park
A serene natural escape with wooded trails, a safe inlet for kids, and a rocky beach, perfect for sunset views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Goldsmith Inlet Park
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene natural escape with wooded trails, a safe inlet for kids, and a rocky beach, perfect for sunset views.
"It's just perfect! You get a beautiful beach, the inlet really looks like a big lake and you get a nice wooded area."
🚗 Parking Permit Needed
Town beach parking requires a Southold Town Beach Pass. Limited county resident parking on Soundview Ave.
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Trails can be uneven and the beach is rocky. Comfortable footwear is a must!
Quick Facts
Rating
4.7 · 176 reviews
Type
Park
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Wooded Nature Trails
Explore serene paths through the woods, leading to the tranquil inlet and beach. A peaceful escape into nature.
The Inlet's Calm Waters
Perfect for children to play safely in the shallow, lake-like inlet. A unique natural playground.
Rocky Long Island Sound Beach
Experience a classic, rocky beach with beautiful views of the Long Island Sound.
Sunset Views
Catch breathtaking sunsets over the water, a truly magical end to your visit.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Parking Permits & Access
Embrace the Natural Beauty
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking Permit Needed
Town beach parking requires a Southold Town Beach Pass. Limited county resident parking on Soundview Ave.
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Trails can be uneven and the beach is rocky. Comfortable footwear is a must!
🏖️ Inlet is Kid-Friendly
The shallow inlet is ideal for children to splash and play safely.
🌅 Sunset Magic
Plan your visit for sunset for stunning, unforgettable views.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Permit Needed
Town beach parking requires a Southold Town Beach Pass. Limited county resident parking on Soundview Ave.
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Trails can be uneven and the beach is rocky. Comfortable footwear is a must!
🏖️ Inlet is Kid-Friendly
The shallow inlet is ideal for children to splash and play safely.
🌅 Sunset Magic
Plan your visit for sunset for stunning, unforgettable views.
💧 No Facilities Onsite
Be prepared as there are no restrooms or other amenities available.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Goldsmith Inlet Park is praised for its unique natural beauty, offering a tranquil escape with wooded trails, a safe inlet for children, and a rocky beach. Visitors appreciate the stunning sunset views and the peaceful atmosphere. However, parking can be challenging, requiring specific town permits for beach access, and the lack of facilities is a notable drawback.
"Nice short nature trail leading through the woods to beach to inlet and then alongside the pond. Beach is typical rocky LI Sound beach with shallow inlet separating it from town beach. There is a pull-off parking along Soundview Ave for 2-3 cars, town beach is not part of the county park and requires township permit to park (also it is pointless to park there unless you plan to wade through inlet to access trails)."
Mike Z
"It's just perfect! If you park on soundview avenue (only for Suffolk county residents) you get to experience the nature trails, the inlet and the beach is maybe a 5-minute walk but it's absolutely worth it. You get a beautiful beach, the inlet really looks like a big lake and you get a nice wooded area with plenty of walking trails."
Thomas Fajardo
"Great place to catch the sunset. Parking available too with ice cream truck service."
Courtney Dodge
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Goldsmith Inlet Park is located on the North Fork of Long Island. Access is primarily via Soundview Avenue. Be aware that parking can be limited, especially on weekends.
Yes, there is limited pull-off parking along Soundview Avenue for Suffolk County residents. The main town beach area requires a Southold Town Beach Pass for parking.
Public transportation options are limited for reaching Goldsmith Inlet Park. It is best accessed by car. Consider ride-sharing services if available in the area.
From the west, take the Long Island Expressway to exit 71 for County Road 101 North. Continue on CR 101 N to Sound Avenue. Turn right onto Sound Avenue and then left onto Soundview Avenue. The park will be on your right.
Absolutely! Goldsmith Inlet Park is a wonderful destination for a day trip, offering a mix of nature trails, a calm inlet for play, and a rocky beach.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While the nature trails and inlet area are generally accessible, parking at the main town beach requires a Southold Town Beach Pass. Without a pass, you may be ticketed.
Goldsmith Inlet Park is typically open from dawn to dusk. However, specific hours for parking may vary, so it's advisable to check local regulations.
There is no general entrance fee for the park itself. However, parking fees or permit requirements apply to the town beach area.
Southold Town Beach Passes can usually be purchased at the Southold Town Clerk's office or at designated town beaches. It's best to check the official Southold Town website for current purchasing locations and fees.
Yes, you can often access the inlet area and nature trails without a beach pass by parking on Soundview Avenue, though parking is limited.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy walking the nature trails, playing in the shallow inlet, relaxing on the rocky beach, and watching the sunset. It's a great spot for nature lovers and families.
Yes, the calm and shallow inlet is perfect for young children to play safely. The wooded trails also offer a gentle exploration experience.
The beach is characterized by its rocky terrain, typical of the Long Island Sound. It offers a different experience than sandy beaches.
Unfortunately, there are no facilities such as restrooms or picnic areas at Goldsmith Inlet Park. Visitors should come prepared.
The inlet is shallow and calm, making it ideal for wading and playing for children. Swimming in the Long Island Sound from the beach may be possible depending on conditions.
📸 📸 Photography
The park offers diverse photographic opportunities, from the serene wooded trails and the unique inlet landscape to the rocky beach and stunning sunsets.
Late afternoon and evening are ideal for photography, especially for capturing the beautiful sunset. Golden hour light enhances the natural beauty of the park.
The areas overlooking the inlet and the beach facing the Long Island Sound provide excellent viewpoints. The trails also offer picturesque scenes.
A versatile lens is recommended to capture both the expansive landscapes and the details of the nature trails. A wide-angle lens is great for sunsets.
Drone usage regulations can vary by location and park. It's advisable to check with local authorities or the town of Southold regarding drone operation policies before flying.
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