Guide To Memorial Day Weekend At Babylon Town Beaches

BABYLON, NY — The Town of Babylon has announced changes to beach access and rules ahead of the traditional opening Memorial Day weekend. Here's our guide to what's new and who is allowed where, when.

Across Long Island, townships decided to close access to non-residents and limit beaches to partial capacity to limit crowding during the coronavirus pandemic. Babylon is no exception: Overlook, Cedar and Gilgo Beach will close at 50 percent capacity. Residents must show proof of residency with a valid driver's license to enter. There will be no fee this weekend but season stickers are required beginning June 6.

Beaches will be open with lifeguards on duty 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. on Saturday, Sunday and Monday.

The following amenities will be closed:

• Cedar Beach Marina
• Playgrounds
• Picnic table dining areas
• Beach volleyball and other beach sports
• Ball fields

Restrooms will, however, be open at the ocean beaches. Masks are required, as they are when residents leave their towel area or the ocean. Masks are required to patronize the two open concession stands: Salt Shack at Cedar Beach and the Gilgo Beach Inn.

The bay beach areas, Tanner Park and Venetian Shores, will also be open to town residents only and will close at 50 percent capacity. Swimming is prohibited.

The spray park at Tanner Park is closed until June 27, and no lifeguards will be on duty until then.

Summer beach permits go on sale June 1 at Phelps Lane in North Babylon, with a lowered fee of $35. Town pools, day camps and outdoor concerts and events are all closed until further notice.