Claiming New York City’s beaches are the best might be a stretch. Sure, they can get crowded and aren’t exactly remote, but skipping them would be a mistake. While urban beaches come with some drawbacks, the top spots near NYC are essential summer destinations.
The people-watching alone is worth the trip—Rockaway and Orchard Beach showcase NYC’s vibrant culture in full swing. Prefer peace and quiet? Long Island’s serene shores are perfect for relaxing with a book. And for that classic New York experience, Coney Island and Brighton Beach deliver with their lively boardwalks and endless hot dogs.
Sure, there are pristine beaches a few hours away (think Nantucket, Martha’s Vineyard, or the Hamptons), but if you’re looking for quick escapes from the city—bonus points for public transit access—these 11 beaches are your best bet to beat the summer heat.
### Fort Tilden, Queens
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Fort Tilden offers a quieter alternative to busier beaches like Jacob Riis, though it’s no longer the hidden gem it once was. Once a military outpost guarding New York Harbor, it’s now a peaceful retreat with dunes, freshwater ponds, and even a maritime forest.
How to get there: Take the 2 train to Flatbush/Nostrand Avenue, then transfer to the Q35 bus. Or bike from Prospect Park in about an hour.
### Jones Beach, Long Island
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Jones Beach is a one-stop destination with six-and-a-half miles of white sand. Swim in the Atlantic, grab snacks on the boardwalk, or visit the nature center. Don’t miss their spectacular Fourth of July fireworks show (last year’s was inspired by Barbie, Beyoncé, and Taylor Swift).
How to get there: Take the Long Island Rail Road to Freeport, then transfer to the N88 bus.
### Sandy Hook, New Jersey
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At the northern tip of the Jersey Shore, Sandy Hook feels miles away from city noise. Its bay beaches attract swimmers, while birdwatchers love spotting over 300 species. The area also boasts America’s oldest operating lighthouse and scenic nature trails.
How to get there: Take the Seastreak ferry from Manhattan (seasonal service from Memorial Day to Labor Day).
### Coney Island & Brighton Beach, Brooklyn
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Coney Island is legendary—immortalized in movies, books, and even by Sigmund Freud, who visited in 1909. Pair a trip to its famous boardwalk with an afternoon at Brighton Beach for the ultimate NYC beach day.
How to get there: Take the D, F, N, or Q train to Coney Island-Stillwell Avenue.
### Wolfe’s Pond Beach, Staten Island
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This low-key beach isn’t your typical sandy getaway—and that’s the appeal. Small but surrounded by a 300-acre wildlife preserve, it’s perfect for escaping crowds and soaking in nature.
How to get there: From Manhattan, take the Staten Island Ferry, then transfer to a local bus.Here’s your rewritten version with natural, fluent English while keeping the original meaning:
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Take the ferry to St. George Terminal, then transfer to the S78 bus to Hylan Blvd/Cornelia Ave. From there, it’s a 10-minute walk to the beach.
### Rockaway Beach, Queens
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No NYC beach guide would be complete without Rockaway. Sure, this ultra-popular spot can get a little wild—but that’s part of the fun. Grab a cooler, round up your friends, and enjoy a lively day in the sun. There are plenty of food stands for snacks and drinks, or if you’re feeling adventurous, hit the waves at the city’s only legal surfing beach. For an even better experience, book a stay at The Rockaway Hotel + Spa and enjoy ocean views from their rooftop bar.
How to get there: Take the A train (Far Rockaway-bound) to any station between Beach 67th and Beach 36th Street.
### Orchard Beach, Bronx
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Pack a picnic and head to the “Riviera of New York City.” Built in the 1930s, Orchard Beach is the Bronx’s only beach, making it a favorite among locals. Cool off in the 1.1-mile shoreline, complete with snack bars, picnic spots, playgrounds, and a bustling promenade. The beach also has deep cultural roots, known for its salsa dancing scene that took off in the mid-20th century.
How to get there: Take the 6 train to Pelham Bay Park, then transfer to the B12 bus to Orchard Beach.
### South Beach, Staten Island
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Cross “swimming with views of the Verrazzano Bridge” off your NYC bucket list at South Beach. This summer hotspot also features a bike path, fishing pier, and a park with chess tables and bocce courts. Free concerts and fireworks happen throughout the season, so check the beach’s schedule for events.
How to get there: From Manhattan, take the Staten Island Ferry to St. George Terminal, then transfer to the S51 bus to Father Capodanno Blvd/Sand Lane. Driving from lower Manhattan takes about 30 minutes.
### Sailors Haven, Fire Island
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A bit farther out but worth the trip, Fire Island has stunning beaches, each with its own charm (like Cherry Grove, known for its historic LGBTQ+ community). For a peaceful escape, visit Sailors Haven and explore the ancient Sunken Forest. The lifeguarded beaches, picnic areas with grills, and car-free policy make it a perfect getaway.
How to get there: Take the LIRR to Sayville, then the ferry to Sunken Forest.
### Pebble Beach, Brooklyn
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Not a traditional beach, but this charming waterfront spot in DUMBO is ideal for relaxing with coffee or catching up on podcasts. While swimming isn’t allowed, you can lounge in the sun with unbeatable views of the Brooklyn Bridge.
How to get there: The closest subway is York Street (F train).
### Robert Moses State Park, Fire Island
Photo: Getty Images
With five miles of pristine shoreline, Robert Moses State Park is a must-visit. The park has four bathhouses, a beach shop, and even an 18-hole mini-golf course. Don’t miss the nature boardwalk leading to the lighthouse—climb 182 steps for an incredible view.
How to get there: Drive about an hour (or take the LIRR to Babylon and Uber the last 15 minutes).
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