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To say New York City’s beaches are unrivaled would be stretching the truth a bit. Crowded shorefronts and lack of remoteness might dissuade some from planning a day by the water. But that would be a mistake! Despite a few downsides that inherently come with outdoor spaces near big cities, the best beaches near NYC are a quintessential part of experiencing the region during the summer months.
For starters, the people watching is in a league of its own. Head for destinations like Rockaway or Orchard Beach to witness New York City culture on full, charismatic display. If somewhere you can finish your book and lower your blood pressure is more the vibe, Long Island’s tranquil swaths of sand should do just fine. And if an archetypal NYC experience is what you’re chasing, Coney Island and adjacent Brighton Beach are waiting with open arms and hot dogs aplenty.
There are no doubt many pristine beaches within a few hours’ drive of the city (Nantucket, Martha’s Vineyard, and those dotted along The Hamptons), but we presume if you’re searching for beaches near NYC, sunny coastlines that can be reached as swiftly as possible are the ticket (extra points for those accessible by public transit). Escape the muggy heat and put your straw hat to work at the 11 best beaches near NYC below.
Fort Tilden, Queens
Fort Tilden has long been regarded as the quieter alternative to boisterous neighboring beaches like Jacob Riis, which is still the case (though word has gotten out about this once well-kept secret, and its shoreline sees more visitors than in the past). It used to be a military site that kept watch on the approach to New York Harbor, but now serves as a peaceful respite for New Yorkers, complete with dunes, freshwater ponds, and even a maritime forest.
How to get there: Take the 2 train to Flatbush/Nostrand Avenue. Transfer to the Q35 bus and take it to Fort Tilden. Alternatively, it s approximately 1 hour by bike from Prospect Park.
Jones Beach, Long Island
For a beach that does it all, head to the white sands of Jones Beach. Along its six-and-a-half miles, sun dwellers can take a dip in the Atlantic, grab a snack on the boardwalk, or even drop in to the nature center for an educational talk. Also of note is the fireworks show that Jones Beach hosts every 4th of July (last year’s 25-minute pyrotechnics display was inspired by Barbie, Beyoncé and Taylor Swift).
How to get there: Take the Long Island Rail Road s Babylon Branch to Freeport station. Transfer to NICE s N88 bus, which runs nonstop to the beach.
Sandy Hook, New Jersey
At the northern tip of the New Jersey Shore, Sandy Hook is a barrier beach peninsula that feels worlds away from crowded subways and taxi horns. Swimmers love this shore region for its beautiful bay beaches, and birders take delight in its over-300 species. Sandy Hook is also home to the oldest operating lighthouse in America, plus a nature trail that leads through a shady holly forest and down a scenic salt marsh.
How to get there: Take the Seastreak high speed ferry from Manhattan to Sandy Hook between Memorial Day weekend and Labor Day.
Coney Island and Brighton Beach, Brooklyn
Immortalized in film, literature, and even psychological analysis (Sigmund Freud visited during his only trip to America in 1909), Coney Island is nothing short of legendary. Locals and visitors alike can combine their visit to the famous boardwalk with an afternoon at adjacent Brighton Beach for a cinematic beach day full of fun.
How to get there: Take a Coney Island-bound D, F, N, or Q train to Coney Island-Stillwell Avenue.
Wolfe’s Pond Beach, Staten Island
You won’t get the typical beach experience at this under-the-radar (and slightly difficult to reach) waterfront, but that’s the point. Wolfe’s Pond Beach is small, but surrounded by a large wildlife and plant preserve that spans over 300 acres. Go here to beat the crowds and immerse in nature—what else could you ask for?
How to get there: From Manhattan, take the Staten Island Ferry to St. George Terminal. Transfer to the S78 bus to Hylan Blvd/Cornelia Ave and walk 10 minutes to the beach.
Rockaway Beach, Queens
No NYC beach guide is complete without mention of Rockaway. The vibe can admittedly teeter into chaotic at this ultra-popular spot, but truthfully, that’s the fun of it. Pack a cooler, grab your friends, and set out for a lively day under the sun. There are plenty of concessions for snacks and drinks, or if you’re feeling ambitious, hop in the water to catch waves at the city’s only legal surfing beach. Better yet: book an overnight stay at The Rockaway Hotel + Spa and soak in ocean views from the property’s beautiful rooftop bar.
How to get there: Take the Far Rockaway-bound A train to any station from Beach 67th Street to Beach 36th Street.
Orchard Beach, Bronx
Pack your beach blanket and picnic basket and head for the “Riviera of New York City.” Orchard Beach was created in the 1930s and is the Bronx’s only beach, making it an especially popular spot for locals. Cool off from the heat by taking a dip in this 1.1-mile oceanfront complete with snack bars, picnic areas, playgrounds, and a lively promenade. Orchard Beach also has a strong cultural heritage and is known for its salsa dance scene, where it emerged in the mid-20th century.
How to get there: Take the 6 train to Pelham Bay Park. Transfer to the B12 bus to Orchard Beach.
South Beach, Staten Island
You can finally check swimming with views of the Verazzano Bridge off your to-do list after a visit to Staten Island’s South Beach. This popular summer spot also has a biking trail, fishing pier, and on-beach park with chess tables and bocce courts. There are free concerts and fireworks throughout the season, so be sure to check the beach’s calendar for the most up-to-date schedule.
How to get there: From Manhattan, take the Staten Island Ferry to St. George Terminal. Transfer to the S51 bus to Father Capodanno Blvd/Sand Lane. Alternatively, it’s approximately 30 minutes by car from lower Manhattan.
Sailors Haven, Fire Island
A bit more out of the way but easily doable as a day trip if you plan well, Fire Island is home to many beautiful beaches, each with their own distinct appeal (like Cherry Grove with its historic and thriving LGBTQ+ community). But for a beach day that will melt the stress away, head to Sailors Haven to experience the centuries-old Sunken Forest. There are also lifeguarded beaches for swimming and picnic tables with grills, and a no-cars policy.
How to get there: Take the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) to the Sayville ferry terminal, then take the Sayville ferry to Sunken Forest.
Pebble Beach, Brooklyn
Not technically a beach in the traditional sense, but nonetheless a lovely waterfront spot on the east river in Dumbo, Pebble Beach is the ideal destination to meet a friend for coffee or catch up on your podcasts. You can’t swim here, but you can sun lounge to your heart’s content, all while in the shadow of the city’s most beautiful bridge.
How to get there: The closest subway station is York Street, which serves the F train.
Robert Moses State Park, Fire Island
The five glorious miles of sandy beaches along Fire Island’s breathtaking Robert Moses State Park make for a can’t-miss summer outing. There are four bathhouses, a beach shop, and even a 18-hole pitch-putt golf course if that’s your cup of tea. Plus, the nature boardwalk takes visitors to the lighthouse where one can climb 182 steps to the very top.
How to get there: Rent a Zipcar and drive approximately an hour to reach the beach. Alternatively, you can take the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) to Babylon, then call an Uber for the remaining 15-minute drive.
