Best Beaches Near New York City
Searching for the best beaches near New York City? Well, you are in the right place! Since living in New York City for 10 years, I've discovered that the city may be a concrete jungle, but just beyond the skyline lies an entire world of sand, sea, and fun in the sun! After all, Manhattan is an island (man-made, but still an island!) After a busy week at work, these beaches remind me of that and offer me a welcome change of pace throughout all the seasons.
Some of my favorite beaches are just a subway ride away (a perfect day trip from NYC!), while others require a ferry or scenic drive, but all deliver something New Yorkers secretly (and not-so-secretly) dream of: space to breathe. Here are my very favorite beach finds that I hope you will love too.
Best Beaches Less Than 1 Hour from NYC
These are my favorite beach spots when I just want a quick morning or afternoon near the ocean because they are quick to get to.
1. Manhattan Beach, Brooklyn - 30 minutes from NYC
If you’re looking for one of the most laid-back beaches near New York City, this one is a standout. Tucked quietly at the far edge of Brooklyn, Manhattan Beach is a calm crescent of sand.
Though just a few miles from Coney Island, to me, it feels worlds apart: peaceful, residential, and touched by that nostalgic seaside atmosphere that belongs only to Brooklyn’s southern shore.
I enjoyed walking along the promenade, stopped for an ice cream from a local vendor, and watched the tide roll in as kids played at the shoreline.
We love how this underrated spot delivers one of the best waterfront experiences in NYC, especially when we want a calm and joyful getaway.
The wide sandy beach feels clean, relaxed, and refreshingly uncrowded, making it an amazing place for long walks, sunbathing, or a peaceful swim.
I always think the views here are spectacular, with gentle waves, open skies, and a laid-back atmosphere that feels almost unusual for Brooklyn.
We often bring a picnic and settle near the calm water, which makes it one of my favorite affordable ways to enjoy a weekend escape.
The nearby Manhattan Beach Park adds to the experience with shady paths, tennis courts, and green spaces that feel perfect for a family afternoon.
What I find most interesting is how quiet it feels compared to other NYC beaches, giving it that secret, local-only vibe.
We usually stroll toward Sheepshead Bay afterward for seafood, which turns the day into a cool and complete coastal adventure.
What I loved best:
There’s something romantic about watching the sun dip low over the water here, especially when the breeze cools the air.
2. Orchard Beach - 35 minutes from NYC
This is one of my favorite easy beach escapes from New York City because it feels surprisingly removed from the urban rush.
Often called “The Riviera of the Bronx,” this crescent-shaped beach curves gracefully along Pelham Bay, framed by parkland.
I love that Orchard Beach offers wide shoreline views, and a long promenade.
I especially enjoy visiting on warm days when the breeze off the water keeps things comfortable and relaxed.
We took the 6 train to Pelham Bay Park and walking the short path through trees that suddenly opened onto a wide, golden stretch of sand.
Beyond the beach itself, Pelham Bay Park unfolds into miles of trails, hidden coves, and salt marshes.
What I loved best:
My personal highlight was wandering along Split Rock Trail and watching egrets feeding by the lagoon before circling back in time for sunset.
3. Brighton Beach - 30 minutes from NYC
We absolutely love Brighton Beach, and have been many times. This New York beach stands out as a beach experience that feels both energetic and deeply rooted in its community.
With its long stretch of sand, steady ocean breeze, and bustling boardwalk, it’s the kind of place where I can relax by the water and then head straight into the neighborhood for incredible food.
I took the Q train to the end of the line and found myself in a world that feels both nostalgic and new. Mornings began with walks along the sand, and afternoons were for exploring Little Odessa’s food scene. I grabbed buttery khachapuri and hot tea from a Georgian café, then wandered along Brighton Beach Avenue where markets overflowed with pastries and pickles. The nearby Coney Island Boardwalk buzzed with early-season rides, street performers, and live music from Luna Park. How far is Brighton Beach from Coney Island Beach? It's a quick walk (around 15 minutes), or a 5-minute subway ride on the B/Q lines!
- Location Map
- Subway Access: Q to Brighton Beach
What I loved best:
For me, Brighton Beach is one of the best beaches near New York City because it's fun and unique!
Floating in the Atlantic while the boardwalk pulsed with conversation behind me was my personal hightlight! Music, laughter, languages, it all rolled together like the waves.
4. Coney Island Beach - 30 minutes from NYC
I thought this was the best family beach near New York City when I moved here. Interestingly, the first time we came here was in March which has a different kind of magic — quieter, moodier, and beautiful.
The rides may still be resting, the boardwalk not yet crowded with summer visitors, but the ocean is as alive as ever (my favorite!). The air carries a salty chill, and, for me, there’s something soulful about watching the waves roll in under the soft gray light of early spring.
Chris agrees with me that this is truly one of the best beaches and worth visiting year round for that peaceful vibe!
We took the Q train down to Stillwell Avenue, stepping out to a nearly empty boardwalk — a world away from Manhattan’s pace and we stayed at the 3-star Best Western Plus Brooklyn Bay Hotel (from $269/night) for two relaxing days.
- Location Map
- Subway Access: D, F, N, Q to Coney Island–Stillwell Ave
- Cost: Free beach; pay for rides and food
- Coney Island Beach
What I loved best:
My personal highlight was lying back on the sand listening to the ocean.
5. Fort Tilden Beach - 35 minutes from NYC
To me, this beach is New York’s best-kept summer secret! I loved the wild dunes, soft golden sand, and ocean waves rolling endlessly beneath a wide sky.
Just an hour from the city, this stretch of the Rockaways feels completely untamed, a quiet escape where I can trade subway noise for seabirds and salt air.
To get to Fort Tilden from Manhattan, I usually take the subway to Brooklyn and then transfer to a bus toward the Rockaways. One of the easiest routes is taking the A train toward Rockaway Park, then hopping on a local bus or biking the final stretch. The total trip typically takes around 35–50 minutes, depending on where you start, and costs the standard $3 USD subway fare. You can also bike over the Marine Parkway Bridge if you’re feeling adventurous—this is one of my favorite ways to arrive.
I took the NYC Ferry, then checked into 4-star The Rockaway Hotel (from $200/night) for a relaxing weekend on the beach.
I love the way Fort Tilden’s old military bunkers peek through the dunes — weathered, and half reclaimed by nature.
I climbed Battery Harris East for panoramic views of the ocean, Jamaica Bay, and even the Manhattan skyline faintly in the distance. Sunset was my favorite time when Fort Tilden Beach glowed in tones of rose and amber.
I’ll say this upfront: Fort Tilden is more about nature and atmosphere than nonstop activities. There aren’t many food vendors nearby, so bringing snacks is a smart move. The laid-back vibe is exactly what makes it special, but it’s best enjoyed if you come with a plan—whether that’s beach time, biking, or exploring the old fort structures.
If it’s your first time visiting the area, pairing Fort Tilden with nearby Jacob Riis Beach or a guided outdoor tour can be a great way to make the most of the trip. Some small-group walking or biking tours focus on the Rockaways’ history and coastline, and they’re a fun way to learn about the area while covering more ground. Alternatively, renting bikes and exploring on your own is just as rewarding and gives you total freedom to move at your own pace.
- Access: Bike or bus via Rockaway; walking required
- Location Map
- Fort Tilden Beach website
What I loved best:
My personal highlight was finding a quiet spot with no one else nearby, hearing only the surf and gulls.
A downside? The currents can be strong and it’s a bit of a trek from public transit. If you want to swim, you can walk to Jacob Riis Park Beach instead.
6. Jacob Riis Park Beach - 45 minutes from NYC
For anyone searching for one of the best beaches near New York City that doesn’t feel touristy, Jacob Riis Park is a standout.
I love that it’s easy to get to, full of character, and offers that rare feeling of escape without leaving the five boroughs.
I think that this historic Rockaway stretch, often called “The People’s Beach,” has an easy, nostalgic energy. I adored the mix of vintage charm, art-deco beauty, and the laid-back spirit of New York in full vacation mode.
I drove down the Rockaway Peninsula on a bright Saturday morning, passing beach houses and dunes shimmering in the heat. The moment I stepped onto the boardwalk, I felt the familiar rhythm — waves breaking, laughter floating from the concessions.
The Atlantic was perfect for swimming (of course!). Between dips in the ocean, I explored the old bathhouse, now a mix of pop-up cafés and artisan stalls, and grabbed tacos and frozen lemonade before settling under a striped umbrella for a lazy afternoon of sea breezes.
- Subway + Shuttle Access: 2/5 to Flatbush + Q35 bus
- Location Map
- Jacob Riis Park Beach website
What I loved best:
What I Loved Most: was watching surfers ride the morning waves with my coffee for 30 minutes.
In addition, I like that there are usually lifeguards here in the summer which makes it safer for people.
7. Rockaway Beach and Boardwalk - 45 minutes from NYC
This place offers one of the best classic beach experiences near NYC, and it's definitely one of my favorite beaches near New York City for a summer beach getaway. Why? First off, to me it feels like the city’s pulse meeting the sea — energetic, sunlit, and alive.
In addition, the wide expanse of sand stretches for miles along the Atlantic, and the boardwalk hums with visitors and locals.
We like taking the NYC Ferry from Wall Street, a journey that already feels like a small adventure.
The ferry docked at Beach 108th, and we checked into the 4-star Rockaway Hotel for two care-free days (I spent the day barefoot in the sand!).
By afternoon, the beach was a joyful mosaic — surfers paddling into rolling waves, kids flying kites, and locals gathering around the open-air food stalls that have become Rockaway icons. I grabbed tacos from Tacoway Beach, and found a spot under an umbrella
What I loved best:
Watching the light shift from gold to honey as the sun dipped lower was my favorite highlight!
Best Beaches Over 1 Hour from NYC
These are my favorite beach spots when I'm in the mood for a long beach day or even a weekend getaway in the sun.
8. Jones Beach - 1 hour from NYC
This is one of my favorite easy escapes from New York City because it truly feels like a reset without the hassle of a long trip.
I love that the shoreline goes on for miles, with soft sand, waves, and iconic Art Deco architecture that gives the place real character. I also appreciated all the facilities at Jones Beach State Park, including a snack bar, pool, locker rooms, picnic areas & a summer concert venue.
Jones Beach had a relaxed, nostalgic charm that surprised me. The wide sandy shoreline, rolling dunes, and endless horizon made it feel open and calming, yet never remote or intimidating. Walking hand in hand along the iconic boardwalk, with the sea breeze and the sound of waves nearby, felt simple and grounding in the best way.
One of my favorite moments was spreading out a blanket near the water and just watching the waves roll in. The beach felt expansive and uncrowded, especially in the early morning or toward golden hour, giving us space to truly unwind together.
We loved wandering through the Central Mall area, where the Art Deco architecture gave the place a timeless feel. Stopping for ice cream and casual beach snacks, then lingering on a bench to people-watch, made the day feel pleasantly unstructured.
On another visit, we timed our trip with a live concert at the outdoor amphitheater, which added an unexpected but joyful layer to the experience—music, ocean air, and summer energy all blending together.
Evenings ended with long walks along the shore, shoes in hand, the sand cool beneath our feet. The simplicity of it all—sea air, open sky, and shared moments—made Jones Beach feel like a perfect, low-stress escape from the city.
What I loved best:
My personal favorite was watching waves off the beach.
Local tip:
There is a parking fee during peak season (Memorial Day to Labor Day), typically around $10 per vehicle, but there's no per-person entry fee for the beach itself.
9. Robert Moses State Park - 1 hour 10 minutes from NYC
If you’re craving a more untouched beach experience, this state park is hard to beat.
In fact, this beach draws some of the largest crowds (nearly 3.9 million visits in 2024!) because so many people love it.
What I loved best:
By late afternoon, the sky turned watercolor pink and lavender, my personal highlight.
Local tip:
There is a $10-$15 daily parking fee during peak season (May-Sept), but it's free in the off-season (winter months)!
10. Bayshore Waterfront Park - 1 hour from NYC
I think this is one of the absolute best low-key coastal escapes near the city! In fact, I love taking the ferry out to this beach at all times during the year, but especially once the summer crowds are gone and the place feels like my own private stretch of shoreline!
We took the Seastreak Ferry from Manhattan to Highlands (from $48 per person), and from there it was just ten minutes by car to Bayshore Waterfront Park in Port Monmouth, New Jersey - an easy day trip that felt worlds away from city life. I thought the long wooden pier stretching into Raritan Bay was perfect for watching the sunrise, and spotting gulls.
When I wanted to stretch my legs, I followed the Bayshore Trail that winds along the dunes and connects to other waterfront parks.
What I loved best:
I thought that Bayshore Waterfront Park is home to one of the best beaches near NYC.
I loved that we could get space to breathe on this beach near NYC year round! In the summer, it’s a favorite spot for fishing, kayaking, and evening picnics, but in the cooler months it’s wonderfully peaceful.
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