15 Best Beaches in New York
Forget what you think you know about New York. While the towering skyscrapers and bustling avenues certainly define its iconic skyline, a secret world of sun-drenched shores and crashing waves awaits just beyond the city’s concrete jungle. Prepare to be astounded by the sheer diversity of New York’s beaches, stretching from the vibrant boardwalks of Brooklyn to the serene, windswept dunes of Long Island and even the historic charm of the Jersey Shore. This isn’t just about escaping the heat; it’s about discovering a different side of the Empire State, where salty air replaces exhaust fumes and the rhythm of the ocean sets the pace.
You will uncover hidden gems, iconic landmarks, and perfect spots for every mood, whether you crave lively entertainment, peaceful solitude, or an adventurous surf. The best time to visit these coastal havens is undoubtedly during the summer months, from Memorial Day to Labor Day, when lifeguards are on duty and all amenities are fully operational. However, if you prefer cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, the shoulder seasons of late spring and early fall offer their own unique charm, perfect for long walks and quiet contemplation by the sea. Get ready to dip your toes into the unexpected beauty of New York’s best beaches!
💰 Travel Cost Overview
| Category | Budget | Mid-range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation (per night) | $80-150 (Hostel/Motel) | $180-300 (Hotel/Airbnb) | $350-800+ (Boutique/Resort) |
| Food & Dining (per day) | $30-50 (Street food/Deli) | $60-100 (Casual restaurants) | $120-200+ (Fine dining/Multiple meals) |
| Transportation (per day) | $5-10 (Subway/Bus) | $15-30 (Ride-share/Limited car rental) | $40-80+ (Full-day car rental/Taxis) |
| Activities & Attractions (avg. per day) | $0-15 (Free beaches/Parks) | $20-50 (Amusement rides/Entry fees) | $60-100+ (Tours/Premium experiences) |
| Total Daily Budget | $115-215 | $275-430 | $570-1180+ |
| Weekly Budget Estimates | $800-1500 | $1900-3000 | $4000-8200+ |
Coney Island, Brooklyn
Coney Island in Brooklyn is not just a beach; it’s an American institution, a vibrant explosion of nostalgia and excitement that has captivated visitors for over a century. What makes this place truly unique is its iconic boardwalk, a lively promenade teeming with street performers, classic carnival games, and the legendary Luna Park amusement park. You can expect to spend hours riding the historic Cyclone roller coaster, taking in panoramic views from the Wonder Wheel, and indulging in classic boardwalk fare like Nathan’s Famous hot dogs. The atmosphere here is electric, a symphony of joyful screams, laughter, and the distant clang of arcade games.
It’s a place where history meets modern fun, offering a timeless escape from the urban grind. The best time to visit is during the summer for the full experience, especially around sunset when the lights of Luna Park illuminate the sky. Families with children will absolutely adore the rides and games, while couples can enjoy a romantic stroll along the beach, and solo travelers can soak in the unique cultural tapestry. Its rich history as one of America’s first amusement districts adds a layer of charm to every visit.
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Manhattan Beach, Brooklyn
Manhattan Beach, nestled just east of Coney Island and Brighton Beach, offers a distinctly different vibe from its boisterous neighbors. This Brooklyn gem is known for its quieter, more upscale atmosphere, making it a favorite among families and those seeking a more relaxed beach day. What makes it special is its well-maintained, crescent-shaped shore, often less crowded than other NYC beaches, providing ample space for sunbathing, picnicking, and gentle swimming. You can expect clean sands, calm waters perfect for children, and well-maintained playgrounds nearby.
There are also courts for tennis, handball, and basketball, providing active alternatives to lounging on the sand. The best time to visit is on a weekday morning or early afternoon to enjoy the peaceful ambiance before any potential weekend crowds arrive. Families with young children will particularly appreciate the calm environment, while couples seeking a serene escape will find it ideal. Its strategic location allows for easy access to the excitement of Coney Island if you desire a change of pace, but it feels a world away in terms of tranquility.
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Brighton Beach, Brooklyn
Brighton Beach, affectionately known as “Little Odessa,” offers a captivating cultural immersion just a stone’s throw from Coney Island. What truly sets this beach apart is its vibrant Russian-speaking community, creating a unique atmosphere filled with Eastern European charm. As you stroll along the boardwalk, you’ll hear Russian spoken, see shops selling imported goods, and find restaurants serving authentic cuisine. You can expect a bustling boardwalk experience, distinct from Coney Island’s amusement focus, where people gather to socialize, play chess, and enjoy the sea breeze.
The beach itself is wide and sandy, often less crowded than Coney, making it a good spot for sunbathing and swimming. The best time to visit is during lunch or dinner to fully experience the culinary delights of the area. Food enthusiasts and cultural explorers will find this destination particularly appealing, offering a taste of a different world without leaving New York City. Its history as a hub for Russian and Eastern European immigrants has shaped its distinctive character, making it a fascinating place to observe and participate in local life.
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Midland Beach, Staten Island
Midland Beach on Staten Island offers a more tranquil and family-oriented beach experience, a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle without venturing too far. What makes this beach unique is its extensive boardwalk, which is perfect for leisurely strolls, cycling, or rollerblading, connecting directly to its neighbor, South Beach. It also boasts a popular fishing pier, known as the Ocean Breeze Fishing Pier, which extends far into the Raritan Bay and offers stunning views, especially at sunset.
You can expect clean sands, calm waters ideal for families with children, and amenities like playgrounds, spray parks, and even a turtle fountain. The best time to visit is on a weekday morning or early afternoon to enjoy the serenity and easily find a spot. Families looking for a relaxed day by the water, keen anglers, and those seeking a scenic boardwalk walk will find this beach incredibly appealing. Its location on Staten Island provides a different perspective of the NYC coastline, often with views of the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge, adding to its quiet charm.
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Long Beach, Nassau County
Long Beach, often referred to as “The City by the Sea,” is a vibrant coastal community on Long Island that offers a classic beach town experience just a short train ride from Manhattan. Its defining feature is its stunning 3.3-mile boardwalk, one of the longest and most scenic in the region, perfect for walking, jogging, and cycling. What makes it unique is its consistent waves, making it a popular spot for surfers, yet the expansive sandy beach still provides plenty of space for sunbathers and swimmers.
You can expect a lively atmosphere, especially during summer weekends, with beachfront cafes, food trucks, and a buzzing community. The best time to visit is during the summer for the full beach town vibe, or in the shoulder seasons for a quieter stroll. Surfers, active individuals, families, and anyone seeking a quintessential East Coast beach experience will find Long Beach incredibly appealing. Its resilience and revitalization after Hurricane Sandy have further cemented its status as a beloved destination, showcasing the strong community spirit of its residents.
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Sandy Hook, Gateway National Recreation Area, Jersey
Sandy Hook, part of the Gateway National Recreation Area in New Jersey, offers a unique blend of pristine natural beauty and fascinating historical significance, just a short distance from New York City. What makes this barrier peninsula truly special is its undeveloped coastline, offering miles of unspoiled beaches, maritime forests, and salt marshes. You can expect to find diverse ecosystems, abundant birdlife, and breathtaking ocean views.
Beyond the natural allure, Sandy Hook is home to Fort Hancock, a historic military post with well-preserved batteries and barracks, and the oldest operating lighthouse in the United States, the Sandy Hook Lighthouse. Best times to visit are spring and fall for birdwatching and hiking, or summer for beach activities. Nature lovers, history buffs, birdwatchers, and those seeking a peaceful escape will absolutely love Sandy Hook. Its designation as a National Recreation Area ensures its preservation, allowing visitors to experience a slice of wild coastline unlike anywhere else in the metropolitan area.
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Fort Tilden Beach, Queens
Fort Tilden Beach in Queens stands out as a rugged, undeveloped stretch of coastline, offering a wild and tranquil escape for those seeking nature over crowds. What makes it unique is its designation as part of the Gateway National Recreation Area, meaning it remains largely untouched by commercial development. You won’t find boardwalks, concessions, or amusement rides here; instead, you’ll discover expansive dunes, maritime forests, and a raw beauty that feels miles away from the city. You can expect excellent birdwatching opportunities, quiet strolls along the shore, and a sense of peaceful solitude.
The remnants of the historic Fort Tilden military batteries add an intriguing historical backdrop, inviting exploration. The best time to visit is during the shoulder seasons of spring and fall for serene walks and birdwatching, or on a weekday in summer for a quieter beach day. Nature photographers, birdwatchers, solitude seekers, and anyone looking for an authentic, untamed beach experience will find Fort Tilden truly special. Its quietude offers a stark contrast to the bustling beaches nearby.
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Jacob Riis Park Beach, Queens
Jacob Riis Park Beach, often dubbed “The People’s Beach,” is a vibrant and historically significant stretch of sand in Queens, renowned for its Art Deco bathhouse and inclusive atmosphere. What makes it truly special is its rich history as a public beach designed for all New Yorkers, a legacy reflected in its diverse and welcoming crowd. You can expect a lively social scene, often with impromptu dance parties, live music, and a wide array of food vendors offering global cuisines.
The iconic bathhouse, a magnificent example of Art Deco architecture, serves as a central hub with changing rooms, restrooms, and concessions. The best time to visit is on a sunny summer weekend to soak in the full, vibrant energy, or a weekday for a slightly less crowded experience. Families, groups of friends, and solo travelers seeking a social and culturally rich beach day will find Jacob Riis Park immensely appealing. Its designation as part of the Gateway National Recreation Area preserves its public access and unique character.
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Rockaway Beach, Queens
Rockaway Beach in Queens has transformed into a thriving surf mecca and a vibrant community hub, making it a unique and dynamic urban beach destination. What sets it apart is its status as New York City’s only legal surfing beach, attracting surfers of all levels to its consistent waves. Beyond the surf, Rockaway boasts a lively boardwalk dotted with trendy eateries, pop-up shops, and a palpable creative energy. You can expect to see surfers catching waves, families enjoying the wide sandy shores, and foodies savoring diverse culinary offerings from tacos to seafood.
The beach culture here is laid-back yet energetic, reflecting the resilience and rejuvenation of the community post-Hurricane Sandy. The best time to visit is during the summer for the full experience, or in the shoulder seasons for dedicated surfing without the crowds. Surfers, foodies, families, and anyone looking for a cool, unpretentious beach vibe will find Rockaway Beach incredibly appealing. Its transformation into a desirable destination has made it a true New York success story.
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Main Beach, East Hampton
Main Beach in East Hampton epitomizes the Hamptons’ legendary allure, consistently ranked among America’s finest beaches. What makes it unique is its pristine, powder-soft sand, crystal-clear ocean waters, and immaculately maintained facilities, all set against the backdrop of luxurious estates. You can expect a refined and serene beach experience, where the focus is on relaxation and enjoying the natural beauty.
The beach is wide, offering ample space even on busy days, and the waves are generally gentle, perfect for swimming. The best time to visit is during the weekdays in summer for a slightly less crowded experience, or during the shoulder seasons for peaceful strolls. Those seeking a high-end, tranquil beach escape, families looking for clean and safe swimming, and couples desiring a romantic setting will find Main Beach truly exceptional. Its reputation for cleanliness and natural beauty precedes it, making it a quintessential Hamptons destination.
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Montauk, Long Island
Montauk, located at “The End” of Long Island, offers a distinctly laid-back, surf-centric vibe that contrasts with the Hamptons’ more formal atmosphere. What makes Montauk unique is its rugged natural beauty, consistent surf breaks, and historic lighthouse standing proudly at the very tip of Long Island. You can expect a blend of outdoor adventure and relaxed beach town charm, with opportunities for surfing, fishing charters, hiking, and exploring the iconic Montauk Point Lighthouse.
The beaches here, like Ditch Plains, are popular with surfers, while others offer calmer waters for swimming. The best time to visit is during the summer for the full range of activities and a vibrant scene, or in the shoulder seasons for excellent surfing conditions and fewer crowds. Surfers, anglers, outdoor adventurers, and those seeking a relaxed, bohemian-chic escape will find Montauk incredibly appealing. Its remote location fosters a strong sense of community and a deep connection to the ocean.
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Shelter Island, Suffolk County
Shelter Island, nestled between the North and South Forks of Long Island, offers an exclusive and serene island escape, accessible only by short ferry rides. What makes it unique is its tranquil, unspoiled natural beauty, preserved by large tracts of protected land, giving it a timeless, understated charm. You won’t find bustling boardwalks or major attractions here, but rather quiet beaches, peaceful coves, and scenic roads perfect for cycling.
You can expect a truly relaxed pace, ideal for unwinding, kayaking in calm waters, or exploring nature preserves like the Mashomack Preserve. The best time to visit is during the quieter shoulder seasons of late spring or early fall to fully appreciate its peaceful ambiance, though summer offers warmer swimming. Couples seeking a romantic getaway, nature enthusiasts, and those desiring a peaceful retreat will find Shelter Island utterly enchanting. Its isolation by water contributes to its preserved character and idyllic atmosphere.
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Robert Moses State Park, Fire Island
Robert Moses State Park, located on the western tip of Fire Island, is a pristine barrier island beach renowned for its natural beauty and iconic lighthouse. What makes this park unique is its expansive, undeveloped shoreline, offering miles of soft sand and rolling dunes, allowing for a truly immersive coastal experience. You can expect breathtaking ocean views, excellent swimming conditions, and a strong sense of being away from the urban sprawl.
The Fire Island Lighthouse, a historic landmark, offers panoramic vistas from its top, making for a memorable climb. The best time to visit is during the summer for swimming and lighthouse tours, or in the shoulder seasons for peaceful walks and birdwatching. Families, nature lovers, photographers, and anyone seeking a classic, uncrowded ocean beach will find Robert Moses State Park incredibly appealing. Its designation as a state park ensures its natural preservation and provides excellent public amenities.
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Orchard Beach, Bronx
Orchard Beach, famously known as “The Riviera of the Bronx,” is the only public beach in the Bronx and holds a unique place in New York City’s history as a man-made marvel. What makes it unique is its crescent shape, created in the 1930s by Robert Moses, using landfill to construct a vast recreational area. It boasts a mile-long promenade, a central pavilion, and expansive sandy areas. You can expect a bustling, family-friendly atmosphere with playgrounds, picnic areas, and sports courts.
It’s a popular spot for barbecues and large gatherings, reflecting the diverse communities of the Bronx. The best time to visit is during the summer for the full vibrant experience, especially on a sunny weekday to avoid the peak weekend crowds. Families with children, large groups looking for picnic spots, and those seeking a lively urban beach experience will find Orchard Beach highly appealing. Its historical significance as a major public works project adds to its intrigue, providing a unique insight into NYC’s urban planning.
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Asbury Park, Jersey Shore
Asbury Park on the Jersey Shore has undergone a remarkable revitalization, transforming into a vibrant cultural hub with a rich musical heritage and a captivating boardwalk. What makes it unique is its blend of historic charm, artistic flair, and a lively entertainment scene, far beyond just a beach. You can expect a wide, clean beach perfect for sunbathing and swimming, but the real draw is the iconic boardwalk, home to legendary music venues like The Stone Pony, quirky shops, art galleries, and diverse dining options.
The city’s deep connection to music, particularly Bruce Springsteen, permeates the atmosphere. The best time to visit is during the summer for the full boardwalk experience and live music, or in the shoulder seasons for a more relaxed vibe and still plenty of charm. Music lovers, art enthusiasts, foodies, and anyone looking for a dynamic beach town with a distinct personality will find Asbury Park incredibly appealing. Its rebirth from a faded glory to a thriving destination is a testament to its enduring spirit.
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Plan Your Visit
As you’ve journeyed through this guide, it’s clear that New York’s coastline is far more diverse and captivating than many imagine. From the exhilarating carnival atmosphere of Coney Island to the peaceful, undeveloped shores of Fort Tilden, and the vibrant cultural tapestry of Brighton Beach to the artistic pulse of Asbury Park, you will discover a beach for every mood and every traveler. This collection of coastal gems offers not just sandy escapes but rich historical narratives, thriving communities, and unparalleled natural beauty.
So, pack your bags, slather on some sunscreen, and prepare to be genuinely surprised by the sandy stretches that await you. Whether you’re planning a budget-friendly day trip on the subway or a luxurious Hamptons retreat, New York’s beaches promise unforgettable memories. Start planning your coastal adventure today; the salty air and endless horizons are calling your name, inviting you to explore a side of New York you never knew existed.
