The city dwellers of New York don't have to venture too far to find plenty of stunning beaches where sun, sand, sea, and surf can be enjoyed. Many beaches in this world-famous region of the US rival even the prettiest shorelines of Florida, California, and other sun-seeker tourist hotspots. Whether relaxation, building sandcastles, beach sports, swimming, or surfing are on the cards, these following NY beaches are undoubtedly some of the very best in and around New York City where visitors can do just that.
10 South Beach, Staten Island, New York
Boasting dazzling views of the Verrazano Bridge, Staten Island's South Beach is easy to reach - simply hop on the Staten Island Ferry to be whisked away to this little piece of paradise that's just a stone's throw from NYC's bustling metropolises.
This sandy stretch of shoreline boasts a boardwalk, pretty bike trails, a pier for fishing, and a lovely park. It's also within quick walking distance of several typically New York pizza joints, which are the perfect break in between topping up the tan, building sandcastles, frolicking in the Atlantic, and enjoying a fun game of beach volleyball.
9 Midland Beach, Staten Island
From Fort Wadsworth to Miller Field, Midland Beach is situated right next to South Beach on the other side of the Franklin D. Roosevelt Boardwalk. It's South Beach's much quieter and less crowded sister and is ideal for those who need the simplicity of peace and tranquillity (along with photography-worthy coastline). The beach also offers shuffle ball and tennis courts for some competitive fun, and there's even a sea turtle fountain for little ones to enjoy.
8 Coney Island
Coney Island is one of New York's most popular beaches and amusement areas, and it's easy to see why once visitors dip their toes in the sand. This gorgeous beach at Brooklyn's tip is easy to access by subway trains, which makes it a great escape for those stuck in the city seeking a quick break. It has two amusement parks - Deno's Wonder Wheel and Luna Park - along with a boardwalk and a lovely seafront.
If that wasn't enough reason to visit, guests also have the legendary Nathan's Famous Hot Dogs - the one and only original Nathan's restaurant opened here in 1916 on the corner of Surf and Stillwell, and it's still going strong. The well-loved establishment even hosts the annual Hot Dog Eating Contest every July 4th weekend, so belly busters with big stomachs will be particularly well fed during this time. There are other notable events held at Coney Island beach as well, such as the Mermaid Parade in June, which is the largest art parade in the United States. Visitors also have the New York Aquarium nearby to add to a superb day trip out at the seaside.
7 Kismet Beach, Fire Island
Kismet Beach is part of the Fire Island National Seashore and is an easy ferry trip from Bay Shore or a quick walk after driving to Robert Moses State Park. The beach itself is sandy and spectacular, with lapping waves and lots of fresh air to breathe and unwind amidst. But one of the best things about the beach (and Fire Island itself) is that vehicles aren't permitted in most parts, which means it's an idyllic and serene place to disconnect, escape the city traffic, and truly retreat from pollution and busy civilization.
6 Orchard Beach, The Bronx
On Long Island Sound in Pelham Bay Park, Orchard Beach is The Bronx’s only public beach. It's a man-made 1.1 mile-long beach built in the 1930s consisting of 115 acres. This picturesque shore offers a promenade, a central pavilion, several tempting snack bars, picnic areas, two playgrounds, and 26 courts for basketball, volleyball, and handball. Famously known as “Riviera of New York,” this outstanding beach has everything folks need to enjoy a brilliant day out at the seaside.
5 Jones Beach State Park, Long Island
6.5 miles of manicured and well-maintained public beach in Wantagh hamlet is one of New York metropolitan area's most famous beaches. There's so much going on here to check out in between sunbathing and sandcastles, including a lengthy two-mile-long boardwalk, tons of fun activities like mini-golf, shuffleboard, softball and volleyball tournaments, free entertainment at the bandshell, Art Deco bathhouses, and convenient parking for visitors stretched across several fields. There are also summer concerts at the Northwell Health outdoor arena, along with other noteworthy events such as the Bethpage Air Show every Memorial Day weekend, and a mind-blowing 4th July fireworks show.
4 Rockaway Beach, Queens
Rockaway Beach is the city’s only legal surfing beach and is the only shoreline within city limits prime for wave-riding. It's also the largest urban beach in the entire US, stretching from Beach 3rd to Beach 153rd Streets. Thanks to the heart-pumping waves here, it's an incredibly popular spot for surfers (both locals and visitors!) There are also two well-reputed surf schools within the vicinity - Skudin Surf or New York Surf School - which offer ideal opportunities for beginners to try their feet at this incredibly fun water sport.
The beach is also home to plenty of concession stands selling hot dogs, burgers, and seafood, as well as a beautiful boardwalk with bike and skate paths, and eight playgrounds along the shore.
3 Long Beach, New York
The Long Beach boardwalk alone is an excuse to take the easy 50-minute train ride from Manhattan. Rebuilt in 2013 after Hurricane Sandy, the pretty 2.2-mile boardwalk is free to access, and offers scenic walking and biking opportunities. Nearby, beach-goers can enjoy the soft white sands, rent beach chairs, and umbrellas, catch some rays, and swim in the inviting waters.
The area also boasts a few irresistible food joints along the main road ranging from hearty Italian eateries to frozen yogurt and dessert shops. Every summer, there's even a free concert series, the Boardwalk festival, and a farmers' market at the Kennedy Plaza each Saturday.
2 Manhattan Beach, Brooklyn
Located on Oriental Blvd between Ocean Avenue and Mackenzie Street, Manhattan Beach is a serene seaside spot that's much quieter than most other sandy stretches in and around NYC. The name can be misleading because it's actually in Brooklyn - not Manhattan like one might think - located east of Brighton and Coney Island. People tend to rate this beach highly for its laid-back atmosphere, calm vibe, fewer crowds, and family-friendly energy that singles, couples, and parents with kids alike all frequently enjoy.
1 Cooper's Beach, Southampton
Cooper's Beach in the Hamptons is frequently cited as one the very best beaches in America, and it's no surprise why: a 500-foot stunning stretch of seaside on Long Island's South Shore with an Instagram-worthy backdrop of sand dunes, shimmering ocean views, and historic mansions. Great for families, the soft sand here is ideal for sandcastle building, and the gentle waves are superb for splashing and swimming. Handily, there are beachside freshwater showers for visitors to rinse off the sand and saltwater at the end of their outing. In summer, there are lifeguards on duty at Cooper's Beach as well.