It is summertime in New York City! And there is no better time than now to enjoy the outdoors and our areas access to sun, sand and the shoreline. That鈥檚 right, it is officially beach season! With eight public beaches within the city limits, as well as multiple private beaches and beach clubs, there is no shortage of places to dip your feet in the sand and splash in salt water.
Thanks to the , here are five of the best public beaches in NYC, you too can enjoy and each with its own unique charm and amenities.
1. (Queens)
This is New York City鈥檚 longest urban beach and a fantastic spot for surfers, with designated surfing areas. The Rockaways (for short) boasts a lively boardwalk with various food vendors, playgrounds, and sports fields, making it a popular choice for families and those seeking a vibrant beach atmosphere. And if you鈥檙e in Manhattan, it鈥檚 a beautiful one-hour ride with great sightseeing!
2. (Brooklyn)
An iconic New York experience, Coney Island Beach is famous for its amusement park rides (like the Cyclone and Wonder Wheel), the historic boardwalk, and a bustling atmosphere. It's less about pristine swimming conditions and more about the quintessential boardwalk fun, complete with classic carnival food and entertainment. Easy to get to using the NYC Subway, it鈥檚 always fun at Coney Island!
3. (Queens)
Known as "The People's Beach," Jacob Riis Park offers a wide, sandy shore with Art Deco architecture and almost a mile of stylish boardwalk. It's often favored for its more relaxed vibe compared to Coney Island, and it's particularly popular with the LGBTQ+ community. That said, I also love beach area for 鈥攁 collection of food and retail vendors, bars, live music, events, and good times! It does take a subway ride and a bus to get here, but it's worth the effort.
4. (Bronx)
The Bronx's only public beach, Orchard Beach is a crescent-shaped, man-made beach within Pelham Bay Park. It's often referred to as "The Riviera of New York" and is a great family-friendly option with calm waters, a promenade, playgrounds, two picnic areas and various sports courts. It may seem far into the Bronx but you can take a train and a bus. It's also just a short drive to (offering , galleries, and some of the best seafood restaurants in the city).
5. (Staten Island)
Offering a delightful escape with a range of activities for every beachgoer, South Beach invites you to sunbathe while enjoying a picturesque view of the Verrazzano Bridge! Patrons can also get active by biking along a scenic trail and jogging on the boardwalk. For water enthusiasts, kayaking is a popular option, and anglers can cast a line from the Ocean Breeze Fishing Pier (a city favorite). The beach also caters to seniors with a dedicated park featuring chess tables, benches, and bocce courts. And don't miss the iconic , a beloved landmark along the boardwalk! After you get off the Staten Island Ferry, just hop on the S51 bus.
There are many additional activities we recommend, hotels to stay at, Broadway shows to see, and world-class dining! Keep checking back monthly as we continue sharing things to do in NYC (and London)!
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