Top 6 Scenic Beaches Close to New York City

Some beach vacations require jetting off to a tropical island and shelling out major cash to soak up ocean breezes and sandy shores. While a trip to a far-flung beach destination sounds delightful, time and money constraints don’t always permit it.

Local seaside getaways make doable day trips for both New York City residents and visitors. Although there are no beaches in Manhattan, stretches of sand can be found in every other New York City borough. Beaches in NYC offer many of the same pleasures as distant shores, provided you can do without the tropical palm trees. Nearby Long Island—just a short trip from the city—also boasts quaint seaside towns.

We’ve rounded up some of the best beaches near New York City. These shoreside jaunts meet the needs of any city dweller or visitor, whether for a day trip or weekend getaway.

Coney Island Beach

Coney Island Beach in Brooklyn offers three miles of coastline and a lively atmosphere. After a refreshing dip in the ocean or an afternoon of sunbathing, grab a Nathan’s Famous hot dog and stroll the boardwalk for some of the best people-watching in the borough. Alternatively, visit Luna Park to enjoy carnival games and ride roller coasters. Don’t leave without spinning on the iconic Coney Island Cyclone, the park’s historic roller coaster.

Rockaway Beach

Situated on the Rockaway Peninsula in Queens, this expansive urban stretch of sand is the city’s only legal surfing beach. The popular New York destination is accessible by public transportation, allowing you to grab your board without the hassle of traffic or parking. Snack bars and concession stands along the Rockaway boardwalk serve city-centric beach fare; amenities include barbecue pits, restrooms, and showers for a comfortable day trip. Stay nearby at The Rockaway Hotel + Spa for a perfect weekend getaway that’s easily reachable from Manhattan or Brooklyn via the NYC Ferry.

Orchard Beach

The only beach in the Bronx, Orchard Beach was once known as “The Riviera of New York City.” Located on the western end of the Long Island Sound, this area features calm waters suitable for swimming. Orchard Beach is part of Pelham Bay Park, which is three times the size of Central Park and encompasses 13 miles of sandy shoreline along with two golf courses and hiking trails. Additional amenities include snack bars, playgrounds, picnic areas, restrooms, showers, and courts for basketball and handball.

Midland Beach

Take the free Staten Island Ferry to the borough of Staten Island, home to some of New York’s best beaches. Family-friendly Midland Beach features a playground, handball and shuffleboard courts, and a whimsical sea turtle fountain for kids. Check out the veterans memorial honoring local residents who served in major wars. This area also provides views of the Verrazano Bridge and connects to neighboring South Beach via the Franklin D. Roosevelt Boardwalk. Seniors can enjoy a designated park complete with chess tables, benches, and bocce courts, while the Ocean Breeze Fishing Pier welcomes anglers hoping to catch snapper, fluke, and bluefish.

Brighton Beach

Brooklyn’s Brighton Beach is located along the Atlantic Ocean, not far from Coney Island, Manhattan Beach, and Sheepshead Bay. This wide beach can be bustling during hot summer weekends, but the atmosphere is vibrant. The local shops, restaurants, bars, and clubs offer traditional fare, including borscht, caviar, Russian vodka, and dumplings. Serious swimmers can utilize this water for long-distance swims to Coney Island or beyond. Be sure to carry a pull buoy to make your presence known to lifeguards.

Long Beach

On a peninsula south of Long Island in Nassau County lies Long Beach, one of the best beaches near New York City. This stunning shoreline features a two-mile-long boardwalk rebuilt after Hurricane Sandy, complete with benches overlooking the ocean and soft white sand. Visitors can walk or bike on the boardwalk, surf the waves, or relax on the beach (which offers complimentary Wi-Fi). This inviting location is easily reachable from the city, thanks to the Long Island Rail Road, with a stop just a few blocks away.