Sandy Island Beach State Park

Sandy Island Beach State Park is a natural area with sandy beaches and dune systems along Lake Ontario in western New York. The grounds cover roughly 229 acres and include wetlands, forests, and an undeveloped shoreline that supports various wildlife and plant species.

The area operated as a private beach resort from the 1950s through the early 1970s before becoming a state park. This transition led to protection measures for the natural shoreline and dune formations.

The park serves as a gathering place for birders and nature enthusiasts who come to observe species along Lake Ontario. The wetland and dune habitats attract visitors interested in seeing wildlife typical of this shoreline region.

The park offers beach access and walking trails with basic facilities like parking and restrooms. It is wise to check about seasonal conditions and hours before visiting, as visitor amenities may vary depending on the time of year.

The grounds contain one of the region's few freshwater dune systems, where hardwood forests develop slowly on sandy foundation over extended periods. These gradually forming forest ecosystems demonstrate how both strong and delicate natural systems can be at once.