In New York State and New Jersey, a stunning coastline strung with sugar sand beaches provides endless summer escapes from the hustle and heat of Manhattan. But leaving the Big Apple isn’t the only way to spend a day or weekend at the beach. New York City has its share of seaside communities, and all are located within an hour or two of Midtown.
Before battling bumper-to-bumper traffic on the Long Island Expressway or New Jersey Turnpike, pack your swimsuit and sunscreen and head to any of these six beaches in the boroughs of New York City.
Jacob Riis Park
Maintained by the National Park Service, this harbor park lies in the Jacob Riis Park Historic District and is well known for its Art Deco bathhouse (listed on the National Register of Historic Places) and the Riis Park Beach Bazaar – a boardwalk soiree with gourmet eats, drinks, and live music. Beyond the history and party scene, though, this Far Rockaway beach is a favorite seaside destination among Queens locals because it’s a pleasant respite from city life, and the views of Sandy Hook and the Jersey shoreline are simply stunning.
Coney Island Beach
Since this legendary beach draws scores of visitors from Memorial Day to Labor Day, finding space to sunbathe could prove challenging. Still, this coastal enclave along the edge of Brooklyn is a must-visit for the boardwalk, amusements, and people-watching. From Nathan’s Hot Dogs to the New York Aquarium and world-famous Cyclone roller coaster, Coney Island promises an adventurous outing for visitors of all ages. Spend one day here, and you’ll see why Coney has remained a quintessential New York attraction, fascinating vacationers for decades.
Brighton Beach
Referred to as “Little Odessa” because of its Russian-speaking population and Easter European businesses, this Brooklyn beach is sandwiched between Coney Island and Manhattan Beach. Neil Simon’s Tony Award-winning play, Brighton Beach Memoirs may have made the beach town famous, but it’s the proximity to the Q subway train that keeps New York residents flocking here for sun and sand. In summer, lifeguards are on duty every day from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m., and swimming isn’t permitted when the beach is unsupervised. Quieter and less manic than its next-door neighbor, Brighton Beach is a stroll away on the boardwalk from Coney Island.
Fort Tilden
This former military base offers an unspoiled beach perfect for sunning or fishing. A shore sans lifeguards on the Rockaway Peninsula, Fort Tilden is part of Gateway National Recreation Area and a hub for nature enthusiasts. Though swimming isn’t recommended, this Queens beach is ideal for hiking, bird-watching, and taking scenic walks. Besides getting there by car, the New York Beach Ferry provides service on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays during summertime, leaving from Pier 11 at Wall Street in Manhattan. Ask New Yorkers, and they’ll vouch – Fort Tilden is considered one of the most beautiful beaches in New York City.
Rockaway Beach
As one of the cleanest and least touristy beaches in NYC, it’s easy to see why Rockaway is the city shore of choice for countless New Yorkers. Get to this popular coastal destination in Queens by hopping on the A train. Brought back to life after the wrath of Hurricane Sandy, Rockaway Beach is a hot surfing locale as well as a seaside spot for lounging, strolling, and playing sports like basketball and handball. When hunger calls, beach concessions include lobster rolls, pizza, tacos, and deli sandwiches.
Orchard Beach
Sure, it may be the Bronx’s only public beach, but in the 1930s, Orchard Beach held the title “The Riviera of New York,” and no other NYC beach can say the same. At just over one mile long, this human-made beach boasts a promenade, central pavilion, concessions, shops, playgrounds, picnic areas, and more. Sitting on the Long Island Sound, the beach’s water is shallower than that of ocean beaches, making Orchard Beach an excellent place for families with small children in tow.
By Tracy Kaler