New York City may be known for its iconic skyline and bustling streets, but did you know that it is also home to some of the most spectacular beaches in the United States? Whether you’re looking for a day trip or a weekend getaway, the beaches near New York City offer a wide range of activities and stunning views. From relaxing on the sand to swimming in the ocean, there are plenty of opportunities to explore the best beaches in the area. Discover the best beaches in New York and its surrounding areas with this guide!
The Beaches of Long Island
Long Island, a stretch of land that runs for more than 100 miles along the coast of New York, is a paradise for beach lovers. From the peaceful and serene beaches in the east to the lively and bustling ones in the west, Long Island has something for everyone.
One of the most famous beaches in Long Island is the Jones Beach State Park, a 6.5-mile stretch of white sand beach with numerous facilities such as swimming pools, sports facilities, and picnic areas. If you’re looking for a more tranquil spot, you can visit the Coopers Beach in Southampton, known for its clean and pristine waters.
Another beach worth visiting is the Robert Moses State Park, a barrier beach located on the western end of Fire Island. The park features five miles of beachfront and is a popular destination for fishing and surfing.
For those looking to escape the crowds, head to Montauk Point State Park, a quiet beach located at the tip of Long Island. The beach is surrounded by cliffs and offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.
Overall, the beaches of Long Island offer an array of experiences that will suit everyone’s taste. From family-friendly destinations to quiet and serene getaways, Long Island’s beaches have something for everyone.
The Famous Coney Island Beach
When it comes to iconic beaches in New York City, Coney Island Beach undoubtedly tops the list. This lively beach is located on the southern tip of Brooklyn and attracts thousands of visitors every year. The boardwalk is lined with amusement parks, carnival games, and iconic eateries, like Nathan’s Famous Hot Dogs.
One of the main draws of Coney Island Beach is the incredible view of the Atlantic Ocean. The water is clean and inviting, making it the perfect spot for a refreshing swim on a hot summer day. In addition to swimming, visitors can take part in beach volleyball games, sunbathe on the sandy shore, or enjoy the carnival atmosphere of the boardwalk.
Coney Island Beach is also home to the annual Mermaid Parade, a vibrant event where people dress up in their wildest costumes and parade down the boardwalk. It’s a spectacle that attracts people from all over the world.
Whether you’re looking for an exciting day trip or a fun weekend getaway, Coney Island Beach is definitely worth a visit. Just be prepared for the crowds, especially during peak summer months.
Sandy Hook Beach in New Jersey
Located just a short drive from New York City, Sandy Hook Beach is one of the top-rated beaches in the area. Known for its beautiful sandy beaches, calm waters, and breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean, this beach is a must-visit for anyone looking for a quick escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
At Sandy Hook Beach, visitors can enjoy a variety of activities such as swimming, sunbathing, fishing, and hiking. The beach also has several picnic areas, perfect for a relaxing afternoon with friends and family.
One of the highlights of this beach is the historic Sandy Hook Lighthouse, which offers stunning panoramic views of the coastline. The lighthouse was built in 1764 and is the oldest operating lighthouse in the country.
Sandy Hook Beach is also home to the Fort Hancock Historic District, which was once a military installation during World War II. Visitors can take a self-guided tour of the fort, which includes the Battery Gunnison, which housed the world’s largest gun.
Overall, Sandy Hook Beach offers a perfect blend of history and natural beauty, making it a top choice for those looking to escape the city and enjoy a day at the beach.
Fire Island Beach
Located on Fire Island, this stunning beach is a true gem in the New York area. Accessible by ferry from the mainland, this 32-mile-long island is a favorite for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. The beach is easily the main attraction, with miles of soft white sand, crystal-clear waters, and plenty of space for sunbathing and swimming.
Fire Island Beach is also home to an abundance of wildlife, with over 300 bird species and a diverse range of flora and fauna. Hiking trails wind through the island’s unique ecosystem, providing an opportunity to see a variety of birds, animals, and plants.
In addition to its natural beauty, Fire Island Beach is known for its lively summer nightlife, with numerous bars, restaurants, and live music venues catering to visitors and locals alike. The Pines, Cherry Grove, and Ocean Beach are just a few of the island’s popular communities where you can find everything from laid-back beach bars to upscale dining experiences.
If you’re looking for a getaway that combines beautiful beaches with stunning natural scenery and a fun atmosphere, Fire Island Beach should be at the top of your list.
The Gorgeous Rockaway Beach
Located in the Rockaway Peninsula in Queens, the Rockaway Beach is one of the best beaches in New York City. With a 5.5-mile-long boardwalk and breathtaking ocean views, it’s easy to see why this beach attracts tourists and locals alike. Rockaway Beach is a perfect destination for families and friends looking for a fun and relaxing time in the sun.
In addition to sunbathing and swimming, there are plenty of activities to do at the Rockaway Beach. You can try your hand at fishing, surfing, kayaking, and even jet skiing. With its famous surf spots and consistent waves, Rockaway Beach is a must-visit destination for surfers from all over the world.
For those looking for some excitement off the beach, Rockaway Beach offers plenty of dining options with its diverse selection of restaurants. Try the famous fish tacos or some fresh seafood at one of the many beachside eateries. Additionally, there are several shops, art galleries, and music venues in the area for visitors to explore.
With its lively atmosphere, natural beauty, and various activities, Rockaway Beach is a must-visit destination when in New York City. It’s a perfect place to unwind, relax, and have some fun in the sun.
The Beautiful Jones Beach State Park
Located on the south shore of Long Island, Jones Beach State Park is known for its stunning beach and unique amenities. With miles of sandy shoreline, visitors can enjoy sunbathing, swimming, surfing, and fishing.
In addition to the beach, Jones Beach offers a variety of activities for all ages. The boardwalk is lined with food vendors and games, making it a popular spot for families. The park also features several outdoor concert venues, including the iconic Jones Beach Theater, which hosts popular music acts throughout the summer.
For those who want to explore nature, Jones Beach has several hiking and biking trails that offer scenic views of the ocean and marshlands. The Theodore Roosevelt Nature Center also offers educational exhibits and programs on the local flora and fauna.
If you’re looking to stay overnight, the park has several camping options, including cabins and tent sites. There are also several nearby hotels and vacation rentals for those who prefer more comfortable accommodations.
Overall, Jones Beach State Park offers a unique and memorable beach experience that’s worth a visit for anyone in the New York area.
Montauk Beach for Surfers
Montauk Beach is one of the most famous beaches in the state of New York, known for its stunning coastline and world-class surfing conditions. Located at the very eastern tip of Long Island, this beach offers some of the best waves on the East Coast.
Surfers flock to Montauk Beach for its consistent and varied swells, which can reach heights of up to 10 feet during peak season. With a mix of reef and beach breaks, this spot is perfect for all levels of surfers. And if you’re a beginner, there are plenty of surf schools and shops around to help you get started.
Apart from surfing, Montauk Beach is also a great place for beach lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The beach stretches for miles, offering plenty of room for swimming, sunbathing, and exploring. And if you’re feeling adventurous, there are hiking trails, fishing spots, and bike paths nearby.
Montauk Beach may be a bit of a drive from New York City, but the trip is worth it for anyone looking to catch some waves or escape the city for a day. Just be sure to bring plenty of sunscreen, as the sun can be intense out on the water.
East Hampton Main Beach
If you’re looking for a beach that boasts of picture-perfect views and a vibrant atmosphere, East Hampton Main Beach is definitely a must-visit destination. Situated in the charming town of East Hampton, this beach is one of the most popular beaches on the East End of Long Island, and for good reason.
Known for its white sandy shores and crystal-clear waters, East Hampton Main Beach offers a wide range of activities such as swimming, surfing, sunbathing, and even playing beach volleyball. It’s also a great spot for families, as there are lifeguards on duty, clean facilities, and plenty of restaurants and shops in the nearby area.
Another highlight of this beach is the breathtaking view of the sunset. The sunset here is known for being one of the most beautiful ones you can catch on the East Coast. This makes it an excellent location for romantic dates, proposals, and even weddings.
East Hampton Main Beach can get pretty crowded during peak season, so it’s best to arrive early to snag a good spot. Keep in mind that there are parking fees, but the experience is definitely worth it. Come and discover for yourself why East Hampton Main Beach is one of the top-rated beaches in New York City and nearby.
Westhampton Beach
If you are looking for a beach that’s a little more exclusive and quiet, Westhampton Beach is the place to go. Located in Suffolk County, Long Island, this beach is popular among locals and visitors alike who want to escape the hustle and bustle of New York City.
Westhampton Beach is a long and wide sandy beach with crystal-clear water that stretches for miles. The beach has plenty of amenities such as showers, restrooms, picnic areas, and food vendors. You can also rent beach chairs and umbrellas if you don’t want to carry your own.
If you want to do more than just sunbathe and swim, Westhampton Beach has plenty of activities to offer. You can go fishing, windsurfing, kiteboarding, and jet skiing. There are also several nature trails nearby where you can go hiking or biking.
One of the highlights of Westhampton Beach is the Dunes Westhampton Beach State Park. This park offers spectacular views of the ocean, dunes, and wildlife. It’s a great place for birdwatching, fishing, and picnicking.
Overall, Westhampton Beach is an excellent option if you want to escape the crowds and enjoy a peaceful day at the beach. With its beautiful scenery and activities, it’s definitely worth a visit.
Hammonasset Beach State Park in Connecticut
While not technically in New York City, Hammonasset Beach State Park in Madison, Connecticut, is still a popular destination for beachgoers from the city. It’s less than two hours away by car and boasts over two miles of sandy beaches along Long Island Sound.
In addition to swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing, visitors to Hammonasset can enjoy a variety of recreational activities, such as fishing, boating, hiking, and biking. The park features two campgrounds, nature trails, and a nature center that offers educational programs for all ages.
One of the unique features of Hammonasset is the Meigs Point Nature Center, which is located on a peninsula at the end of the park’s main road. The nature center is home to a variety of marine life exhibits, and it also hosts regular nature walks and talks.
Hammonasset Beach State Park is a perfect getaway for nature lovers and families who want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy the beauty of the Connecticut coastline. Plus, the park is a popular spot for birdwatchers, as it’s situated along a major migratory flyway for birds traveling between the Arctic and South America.
A Quick Wrap
After exploring the beaches in and around New York City, it’s easy to see why so many people flock to these coastal areas every summer. Whether you’re looking for a place to sunbathe, swim, surf, or just relax with friends and family, there’s a beach on this list that will suit your needs.
Long Island is undoubtedly one of the top destinations for beach lovers, with beautiful spots like Fire Island and Jones Beach State Park. Meanwhile, Coney Island is perfect for those who want to combine beach fun with amusement park thrills.
Sandy Hook Beach in New Jersey offers breathtaking views of the Manhattan skyline, and Hammonasset Beach State Park in Connecticut is a peaceful retreat from the city’s hustle and bustle. Surfers will appreciate Montauk Beach’s legendary waves, and East Hampton Main Beach is one of the most pristine and luxurious beaches in the region.
From lively boardwalks to secluded stretches of sand, the beaches in and around New York City offer a diverse range of experiences. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, these destinations should be at the top of your list for summertime fun. So pack your sunscreen, towels, and snacks, and head to the beach for a day of relaxation and adventure.