Best Places to Fly a Drone on Long Island  

The FAA provides a comprehensive guide on where you can fly your drone. These regulations help promote safety, responsible flying, and minimal financial losses.

Long Island, home to numerous fantastic beaches on the eastern end of New York State, offers multiple drone-friendly spots.

The following information highlights some lovely places to fly your drone on Long Island.

Regulations on flying drones on Long Island #

Before visiting the following incredible drone-flying destinations, you must understand the rules guiding this activity. Here is a breakdown of the top rules provided by the FAA.

• Your drone must not fly more than 400ft (120 meters) above the ground.
• Always be on the watch out for human-crewed aircraft.
• You can only fly a single drone at a time.
• Be skilled enough to fly this device lest you expose people to safety issues.
• You are prohibited from flying UAVs over restricted places, including military bases and government premises.
• It would be best to get consent before flying drones, as it helps protect other people’s privacy.
• You can only fly your drone in the daytime, within permitted areas, and if the weather permits.
• You are prohibited from flying drones over personal property, including homes and private premises.
• Always keep your drone within your line of sight.
• Keep your drone from flying over premises that could expose the public to safety issues, including emergency operations, police stations, firefighting premises, and near car crashes.

Always pay attention to the UAV flying rules above to avoid penalties or fines.

Places to fly drones in Suffolk County #

This county boasts multiple parks and state beaches that allow for drone flying. Here are a few insights into the top destinations to consider.

1. Belmont Lake State Park #

Address: 625 Belmont Avenue, West Babylon, NY 11704Airspace Map: Aloft

Nothing can be as sightful as the migratory waterfowl population in this park. Flying your drone over the park allows you to enjoy this view.

This place is famous for fishing and diving enthusiasts, meaning you can capture their images while flying over them. Besides fishing, boating, kayaking, and skiing regularly take place here.

In addition, Belmont Lake State Park has multiple trails and incredible vegetation, making it an appealing site. Its scenic views make it an ideal spot for picnicking and sightseeing.

2. Connetquot River State Park #

Address: 4090 Sunrise Highway, Oakdale, NY 11769Airspace Map: Aloft

Connetquot River State Park is the largest park in Suffolk county, boasting stunning views and natural surroundings.

This park offers multiple entertainment activities, from fishing and hiking to snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.

Thanks to the numerous recreational activities and stunning views, the park is an incredible destination to fly your drone.

This park measures approximately 3,473 acres of land, which is a significant size to fly over.

This size makes it ideal for propagating animals, fish, birds, and vegetation. Besides, it is close to the Connetquot river, which is scenic and recreational.

3. Lakeland County Park #

Address: Johnson Ave, Islandia, NY 11749Airspace Map: Aloft

Situated close to Colony Park and Islandia, Lakeland County Park has become a popular destination for drone flying enthusiasts.

You can attribute this to its scenic views and incredible natural surroundings.

Lakeland County Park has incredible trails, particularly around the BringFido area. These breathtaking trails are worth taking pictures of.

In addition, you’ll like its marshy regions and forests, which highlight serenity.

This delightful wetland is popular among fishing and environmental protection enthusiasts. It guarantees scenic views of wildlife, waterfowl, vegetation, and wetlands.

Taking videos or images of these elements will be fulfilling.

Places to fly drones in Queens County #

Queens County is the second largest county on Long Island, boasting a population of over 2.4 million. Besides, it has incredible spots for drone flying, including the following.

1. Gantry Plaza State Park #

Address: 4-09 47th Road, Queens, NY 10007Airspace Map: Aloft

Suppose you want scenic views of the Manhattan skyline. In that case, flying your drone over Gantry Plaza State Park would be best.

This incredible destination offers a perfect view of Manhattan, the East River waterfront, and the Empire State Building.

This state park has multiple amenities and recreational spots suitable for families. Also, dogs are allowed in the region. The top options include playgrounds, playing fields, and fishing spots.

However, you’ll need film or photo permits to fly your UAV.

2. Rockaway Beach #

Address: 12416 Rockaway Beach Blvd, QueensWebsite: nycgovparks.orgAirspace Map: Aloft

Popularly known as the Irish Riviera, Rockaway Beach is famous for its large Irish American population.

This stunning beach is easily accessible via the subway and has plenty of sand and surf, making it a top destination for lots of people.

This beach is breathtaking, highlighting incredible shorelines and sand. It is also an excellent surfing destination, making it a perfect spot for photography.

Further, you can capture the skyline at sunrise or sunset, highlighting the region’s beauty.

Places to fly drones in Nassau County #

Nassau is popular among drone enthusiasts, guaranteeing multiple spots to fly unmanned aerial vehicles. The following are the top spots you can fly your device.

1. Blydenburgh County Park #

Address: Veteran’s Memorial Highway, Smithtown, NY 11788Airspace Map: Aloft

Blydenburgh is a distinguished gem in Smithtown, featuring a stunning lake at its center. This lake has incredible trails surrounding it, guaranteeing an immersive experience in the park.

This spot is suitable for drone enthusiasts, offering an immersive view of the lake and park. Its incredible trails and hiking spots are a sight to behold.

This destination also attracts fishing and swimming enthusiasts. Flying a drone over it provides in-depth insights into what this class of people enjoys when they visit.

2. Morgan Memorial Park #

Address: Germaine St, Glen Cove, NY 11542Airspace Map: Aloft

Morgan Memorial Park is an incredible spot for drone flying, boasting a lake that stretches over 350 meters along the Long Island Sound.

However, you must be a Glen Cove resident to access some parts of the park, including Pryibil and Crescent beaches.

While these beaches are monitored, you can fly your drone to get stunning images.

This memorial park offers lovely natural surroundings, multiple recreational spaces, and stunning views. It is famous for fashion and wedding shoots, which you can do with your drone.

3. Joe Stanco Park #

Address: Glen Cove, NY 11542, USAAirspace Map: Aloft

Joe Stanco is a family-friendly park in Glen Cove, boasting incredible entertainment options for children and adults.

It has a unique fountain that attracts both adults and children. Its striking views make it an ideal spot for drone flying.

Besides, multiple activities happen here, including cross-country skiing, ice skating, and fall festivals.

4. Jones Beach State Park #

Address: 1 Ocean Parkway, Wantagh, NY 11793Airspace Map: Aloft

Jones Beach State Park is among the top-rated beaches on Long Island, making it one of the busiest spots.

Although it is a protected area and state park, you can fly your drone over it.

This beach stretches approximately 6.5 miles along the southern shore. Soft sand, breathtaking shorelines, and calm waves are worth taking pictures of.

Various family-friendly activities happen here, from boating and fishing to skiing. This beach park has a golf course, basketball courts, and pools.

While this beach is family-friendly, pets are not allowed.