The Best Beaches in and Around New York City

Amid New York City’s din, it’s good to remember that cool breezes and refreshing waters are just a train ride away. Four of the five boroughs boast excellent and highly popular beaches, while the glories of Long Island and the Jersey Shore offer easy day trips. Whether you’re looking for surf, sand, or a lively scene, you’re sure to find a spot to enjoy those hot summer days.

The Best Beaches Within New York City

1. Coney Island and Brighton Beach, Brooklyn

At Brooklyn’s southernmost point, Coney Island was developed as a resort in the 1800s, drawing crowds from all five boroughs to its amusement park attractions. Although its wide strand isn’t the cleanest, its boardwalk is hard to beat for people-watching.

Nearby, Luna Park features rides and games that are enjoyable for all ages. A must-try is the Cyclone, a wooden roller coaster dating to 1927. For those seeking a break from the sun or a rainy-day option, the nearby Coney Island Museum offers an overview of the neighborhood’s vibrant history.

A short stroll down the beach or boardwalk brings you to Brighton Beach, known for its laid-back atmosphere where locals socialize and enjoy the elements.

Planning Tip: After a day in the sun, venture off the Brighton Beach boardwalk for an authentic Russian or Ukrainian feast in this neighborhood, often referred to as Little Odessa.

2. Jacob Riis Park and Fort Tilden, Queens

Jacob Riis Park is a vast “people’s beach” on the Rockaway Peninsula, welcoming countless day-trippers. Enjoy its wide boardwalk, art deco pavilions, and food vendors, all set against beautiful sandy shores. At the far east end, the lively LGBTIQ+ scene adds to the beach’s diverse atmosphere.

Fort Tilden, with its surprisingly uncrowded beach, allows visitors to experience nature within city limits as you trek through trails leading to its serene environment.

3. Rockaway Beach, Queens

Wonderfully diverse and easily accessible, Rockaway Beach attracts over five million visitors every year. The 5.5-mile boardwalk, beautifully reconstructed post-Hurricane Sandy, features a dedicated surfers’ area and lovely dunes where seabirds thrive.

Planning Tip: Enjoy the bustling scene along the boardwalk, where various food spots serve delightful treats, allowing you to savor the rich flavors of the area.

4. Orchard Beach, the Bronx

Dubbed the “Riviera of New York” when it opened in the 1930s, Orchard Beach is the only beach in the Bronx. Expect a vibrant atmosphere filled with outdoor activities and numerous beachgoers enjoying its 1.1-mile shoreline.

Planning Tip: If you arrive by car, consider stopping at nearby City Island for fresh seafood at one of its beloved restaurants.

5. South Beach, Staten Island

This stretch south of Staten Island’s Verrazzano Bridge showcases New York’s unique charm. This 2.5-mile beach offers ample space for relaxation along with a picturesque boardwalk made from old wooden planks.

Planning Tip: Cycling to South Beach is a breeze, thanks to bike paths connecting it via the Staten Island Ferry.

The Best Beaches Near New York City

6. Long Beach, Long Island

Long Beach is just an hour away on the Long Island Rail Road, offering a family-friendly atmosphere with plenty of playgrounds and activities like surf lessons and bike rentals.

7. Asbury Park, New Jersey

Accessible by train, this resort town has become a unique beach destination, renowned for its fun atmosphere, lovely sands, and delightful boardwalk treats.

8. Fire Island, Long Island

Hop on a ferry to Fire Island, a car-free haven featuring scenic views and a variety of beach communities, catering to different atmospheres from lively to serene.

9. The Hamptons, Long Island

Famous for its fashionable summer crowds, the Hamptons offer stunning beaches with beautiful dunes and waves, making it a sought-after beach getaway.

10. Montauk, Long Island

At the easternmost point of Long Island, Montauk presents a lively summer scene and a charming, low-key atmosphere during off-peak months. Enjoy family-friendly Kirk Park Beach or the popular Ditch Plains for a classic beach experience.

This article highlights the diverse and vibrant beach culture in and around New York City, showcasing options for relaxation, adventure, and enjoyment for all beach enthusiasts.