When I think about escaping the busy streets of New York City, going to the beach is often the best option. There are several beaches nearby that offer a quick break from the noise and crowds. These spots provide a chance to relax, swim, or just enjoy the outdoors without traveling too far.
The 5 best beaches near New York City offer easy access, good facilities, and different atmospheres to suit what you want from your day by the water. Whether you are looking for a quiet place or a lively boardwalk, these beaches have something to offer. I’ve gathered a list that can help you pick the right beach for your next trip.
1) Brighton Beach
I visited Brighton Beach on a clear day, and it was a relaxing spot right by the water. The boardwalk stretches along the beach and is perfect for walking or biking. There are courts for sand sports if you want to play volleyball or just watch others having fun.
The beach area is well kept, and I noticed families using the playgrounds nearby. A few small amusement rides added a light, fun vibe without feeling crowded. It seemed like a great place for people of all ages to enjoy a day outside.
Brighton Beach also has a strong local culture with many shops and restaurants close to the boardwalk. It’s easy to spend a full day here, moving from the beach to the food or just relaxing with a view of the ocean.
Rating: 4.5 (30204 reviews)
Location: 601 Riegelmann Boardwalk, Brooklyn, NY 11235
Contact: (718) 946-1350
Website: Visit Website
2) Orchard Beach
I recently spent some time at Orchard Beach, a large oceanfront spot in the Bronx. The beach stretches about 1.1 miles and has a wide promenade lined with benches and a central pavilion. It reminded me of a classic, well-kept city beach, with plenty of space for both relaxation and activities.
There are two playgrounds nearby, which made it feel family-friendly. I noticed several picnic areas that were perfect for a casual meal outdoors. The snack bars offered typical beach food like burgers, hot dogs, and fries, which made grabbing a quick bite easy and convenient.
What stood out to me was the number of sports courts available. There are 26 courts for basketball, volleyball, and handball. I saw people playing and having a good time, which adds a lively vibe to the area. During the season, lifeguards watch over the swimmers from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., which makes it a safe place to go.
Parking is available but costs $10 on weekdays and $12 on weekends. If you’re over 65, there’s a senior discount on weekdays. Overall, Orchard Beach feels like a traditional city beach with solid facilities and plenty to do around the water.
Rating: 4.3 (1815 reviews)
Location: Bronx, NY 10464
Contact: (718) 885-2275
Website: Visit Website
3) Coney Island Beach
I recently spent time at Coney Island Beach, and it truly feels like a classic New York summer spot. The beach stretches almost three miles, offering plenty of space to relax or walk along the famous boardwalk. The sand is soft and inviting, perfect for sunbathing or just sitting and watching the ocean.
There is a lively atmosphere with seasonal lifeguards on duty during the summer, making swimming feel safer. Besides swimming, I noticed people playing beach volleyball and basketball nearby. The boardwalk is lined with food stands, so grabbing a snack or drink is easy while you enjoy the ocean breeze.
Even when it’s too cold to swim, the area still has a lot to offer. I checked out the New York Aquarium close by and saw the lively baseball games at MCU Park. The mix of beach fun and other nearby attractions makes Coney Island a good spot for a full day of activities.
The beach opens for swimming starting Memorial Day Weekend each year, and lifeguards watch over swimmers daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. When I visited, there were clear signs marking any closed swimming areas for safety. It’s a well-managed spot that stays busy but never feels overcrowded.
Rating: 4.5 (2110 reviews)
Location: Brooklyn, NY
Contact: (718) 946-1350
Website: Visit Website
4) The People’s Beach at Jacob Riis Park
I recently spent a day at The People’s Beach at Jacob Riis Park, and it felt like a hidden gem. The beach is wide and not too crowded, which made it easy to find a good spot to relax. The water was clean, and the sand felt soft under my feet.
One feature I liked was the old art deco bathhouse from 1932. It adds a bit of character and history to the place. Near the beach, there are ball courts, which gave people a spot to play sports. There are also places to grab snacks, so you don’t have to leave hungry.
The park feels well kept and managed by the National Parks Service. It’s easy to get to by car or public transport since it’s in Queens. I noticed families and groups of friends enjoying the day, making it a nice spot for all kinds of visitors.
Rating: 4.5 (1499 reviews)
Location: 157 Rockaway Beach Blvd, Queens, NY 11694
Contact: (718) 318-4300
Website: Visit Website
5) Rockaway Beach
I visited Rockaway Beach in early summer, just as the swimming season was about to start. The beach stretches along the Atlantic Ocean, offering plenty of space to relax on the sand or watch surfers ride the waves. It feels lively with a mix of families, surfers, and people just hanging out.
The boardwalk is a great place to walk or bike. There are concession stands where I grabbed a quick snack. I liked that there are multiple areas for surfing, fishing, and even kayaking. The lifeguards are on duty during the swimming season, which made me feel safer while in the water.
Parking was easy with free lots near certain streets, and I found street parking nearby as well. The beach stays busy during summer but never felt too crowded when I visited. There are also mobile charging stations around the boardwalk which is a useful touch for a day out.
Rating: 4.5 (1466 reviews)
Location: Boardwalk, Far Rockaway, NY 11693
Contact: (718) 318-4000
Website: Visit Website
Frequently Asked Questions
I have focused on beaches that are easy to reach from New York City, popular with families, and offer good amenities. Some beaches are well known for their convenience, while others are quieter spots perfect for a day trip. Travel options and beach features vary but many have lifeguards, food vendors, and nearby public transportation.
What are the top-rated beaches easily accessible from Manhattan?
Jacob Riis Park Beach, also known as The People’s Beach, is ranked highly for its size and cleanliness. Rockaway Beach is another favorite, known for its boardwalk and surf culture. Coney Island Beach remains a classic choice with plenty to do. These beaches are all reachable within an hour or so from Manhattan.
Which New York City beaches are popular destinations for families?
Orchard Beach in the Bronx is great for families. It has picnic areas, playgrounds, and calm waters. Coney Island Beach also appeals to families because of its amusement park and aquarium nearby. Brighton Beach offers a quieter atmosphere with its clean beach and family-friendly spots.
How can one travel by train to a beach near New York City?
You can take the subway to Coney Island. The D, F, N, and Q trains all end near the beach and boardwalk. For Rockaway Beach, the A train goes to Rockaway Parkway, followed by a short bus ride. These options allow easy day trips without driving.
Can you recommend some pristine beaches for a day trip outside NYC?
Brighton Beach has a quieter, more relaxed feel than some others. Jacob Riis Park Beach offers a long open stretch with fewer crowds on weekdays. Both are good choices to escape the busy city without traveling too far.
What amenities can be found at Coney Island Beach?
Coney Island offers lifeguards, food stands, restrooms, and showers. There is an amusement park, a boardwalk, and the New York Aquarium nearby. The beach also hosts seasonal events and fireworks in the summer.
Are there any hidden gem beaches within a short drive from NYC?
Besides the popular spots, the People’s Beach at Jacob Riis Park often feels less crowded. Brighton Beach has a more local vibe and good seafood nearby. Fort Tilden, while a bit further, offers a natural experience and less development. These beaches provide a quieter time close to the city.
