Captree State Park in New York, USA - map and visitor information

Research checked: 2026-11-05. Check linked official notices before travel.

Captree State Park sits at the east end of Jones Beach Island on Long Island, New York. Fish from one of its two piers or head onto Great South Bay or the Atlantic with the Captree Fleet. The piers are an option if you prefer to stay on shore.

Pick a pier, a fishing boat or the Overlook

The Overlook picnic area faces Fire Island and its lighthouse across the inlet. For a trip on the water, choose between an open fishing boat and a private or group charter.

Know before you go

Fees, hours, and seasonal access

Check state requirements before launching a motorboat

If you operate a private motorboat, carry accepted proof of boating safety certification or qualifying credentials. An original certificate, a New York credential with the Adventure License anchor icon, or a copy of a valid U.S. Coast Guard license can meet the applicable requirement. Separate rules apply to rentals. Check the state boating education guidance before operating your own craft.

Use the right permit for fishing after hours

From April 1 through December 31, the 2026 Night/Sport Fishing Permit allows after-sunset parking for fishing at Main Field, Overlook Field and the north side of Captree Drawbridge. For vehicles towing boat trailers, Captree allows parking under this permit from April 1 until 5 p.m. on the Friday of Memorial Day weekend, and September 15 through December 31. This parking exception does not authorize boat use or launching under the fishing permit. Check launch hours and rules separately. Apply January 1 through March 31 or from the Tuesday after Labor Day through December 31. The permit costs USD 35 for New York residents and USD 60 for nonresidents. Apply with a valid driver's license, vehicle registration and New York marine fishing registry enrollment. The permit applies to the listed plate. State Parks does not issue temporary permits for rental or loaner vehicles. The permit holder and each passenger over 12 need a rod, reel and line with bait and hooks or lures. The regular vehicle fee still applies during collection hours. After 48 consecutive hours or two consecutive nights, you must leave for 48 consecutive hours or two consecutive nights before returning.

Neither fishing permit allows four-wheel-drive access, beach driving or beach parking. Under either permit, do not camp, light fires, use generators, drink alcohol or bring pets or drones. Swimming and other water activities are outside the fishing permit. Check the guide for activities that need a separate permit.

The USD 25 2026 Seven-Nights Sport Fishing Permit is valid for seven consecutive days from purchase, within the Memorial Day to Labor Day period only. It allows after-sunset parking for fishing at Main Field, Overlook Field and the north side of Captree Drawbridge. Boats and trailers are prohibited under this permit. Apply with a valid driver's license, vehicle registration and New York marine fishing registry enrollment. The plate and fishing gear rules above also apply. State Parks issues one permit per eligible person and vehicle per year. Pay the regular vehicle fee during collection hours. After 48 consecutive hours or two consecutive nights, leave for 48 consecutive hours or two consecutive nights before returning.

Ask the fleet about trips and group bookings

Compare open boats and private charters through the Captree Fleet or call 631-669-6464 about trips and prices. Picnicking groups of 50 or more need a permit; the park lists no picnic permit fee.

Go to the end of Ocean Parkway

Use 3500 E. Ocean Parkway, Bay Shore, NY 11706, for the main entrance. The state park is on Jones Beach Island. Captree Island, which shares its name, is a separate residential island on the causeway approach.

Nearby state parks on Long Island’s south shore

Jones Beach State Park is on Ocean Parkway in Wantagh. Robert Moses State Park on Long Island is reached by Robert Moses State Parkway.

Fish, crab or watch the boats

For shore fishing, anglers 16 and older targeting regulated marine fish generally need to enroll in the Recreational Marine Fishing Registry. Registration does not apply to crabbing or to fishing aboard an appropriately licensed party or charter boat. If you prefer a picnic, the Overlook has a view of boat traffic. The fleet also advertises sightseeing excursions. Confirm the trip type and sailing time with your operator before you go.

Boat basin, launch and food

The state lists accessible fishing, boat-launch and playground facilities. The launch described by the park serves boats larger than 14 feet and gives access to the State Boat Channel. The bait and tackle shop operates the fuel pumps, and the basin concessions operate seasonally. Check the park page for concession contacts and hours.

A working boat basin on the barrier island

The park occupies the eastern tip of Jones Beach Island. The basin is the departure point for the public fishing fleet and faces the inlet between the barrier islands.

The early causeway connection

The state’s regional plan dates the causeway span from West Islip toward the barrier islands to 1951. It identifies Captree Island as the first island exit on that approach.

Bay and barrier island habitats

Great South Bay is part of a larger coastal habitat that includes marsh islands, wetlands and barrier beaches. The water and islands you see from the park are part of that system.

Contact Captree State Park

Call 631-669-0449 or check the official Captree page for permits, vehicle charges and accessibility information.