July 4 wkend beach destinations within 3-4 hrs of NYC
 

Hi! For July 4th weekend, my gf and I are looking for a beach destination within a 3-4 drive of NYC. Ideally, we would like beach + nature trails with good seafood. Not looking for luxe -- a basic room with hot shower or cottage (with kitchen & grill if it's within a park) will do. Montauk, Fire Island and Cape May seem popular but was wondering if one of the state or national parks like Cape Henlopen State Park in Delaware or some other place in Maryland would be a bit different.

We'll be in Cape Cod later in the summer and were wondering if we should try something south of NYC for July 4th. Of course, if Fire Island, Montauk and Cape May are popular with good reason, then we'll be happy sticking with the tried & true. Appreciate any ideas.

Maybe others will have suggestions for you -- but isn't it <u>awfully</u> late to be looking for July 4th

Yes, lodging for July 4th weekend are likely long gone at any place even remotely popular. Also many places require a 3 night reservation - or even a full week - for the holiday. Houses or cottages especially will most likely be rented only a week at a time. And this is definitely high season in terms of price.

I would start searching budget motels ASAP to see if they have any openings - but don't expect low prices.

If you provide a specific budget people may be able to aim you at something.

Would you consider camping at a state park - although that may be full as well?

Sorry - have checked a few lower priced places in the Montauk/Hamptons area and they are all booked solid. But calling places that seem within your budget might results in a cancellation.

(Even places in suburban LI - at least an hour from teh resort area - seem to be almost booked almost solid for the weekend.)

You might try Watch Hill or Newport, RI, but they are probably booked as well.

The Inn at Fairfield Beach in Connecticut is available at $230 per night. It's by a private beach and the larger Jennings Beach is not far. The budget-friendly Fairfield Circle Inn is a few miles from the beach and has rooms @ $99 per night. Sherwood Island State Park is not far away, for hiking.

It's a college town so lots of casual dining nearby. The Lobster Port is the local seafood shack and it's very good. There's also Black Rock Oyster Bar, or Westfair Seafood in nearby Westport.

Thank you for your helpful insights. Alas, looks like it'll be a "staycation"... unless one of our friends invites us to their place on the shore! : ) Appreciate all the ideas and wishing you all a wonderful summer!