The 6 Best Beaches to Visit Near NYC – No Car Needed

While NYC might not be known for its beaches, there are several spots worth checking out for a dip in the Atlantic. Here are some of the best beaches near NYC!

Whether you live near NYC, or are headed there on vacation this summer, you might be interested in getting out of the city and towards the ocean. No need to worry if you don’t have a car, we’ve compiled a list of the best beaches near NYC that you can reach using public transit. 

1. Rockaway Beach

Just five minutes from the Beach 90 Street subway station in Queens is Rockaway Beach and Boardwalk. This popular getaway destination spans six miles along the Rockaway Peninsula, making it the largest urban beach in the US. While it can get crowded at times, it’s a hot spot for a reason! Rockaway Beach has plenty of space for all to enjoy. Head down during the week for a more relaxed environment, or follow the sound of the party on Memorial Day Weekend. You’re bound to have a good time.

2. Plumb Beach

Located on the north shore of Rockaway Inlet, right on the southern tip of Brooklyn is Plumb Beach, a great spot to go for a swim and explore the surrounding green spaces. In the summertime, this beach is popular for kite flying and boarding, thanks to the southern sea breaze. Take the B44 to Knapp St/Shore Pkwy and walk less than fifteen minutes to get to the shore. 

3. The People’s Beach at Jacob Riis Park

Less than five minutes from the Rockaway Beach Blvd/Beach 149 St. station is the People’s Beach at Jacob Riis Park. Compared to Rockaway Beach, Jacob Riis is a smaller beach with a more laid back environment. The site is great for swimming, picnicking, and sunbathing for the whole family. Lifeguards are on duty between Memorial Day and Labor Day from 10AM to 6PM, making it a great choice for families with children. The park is also historically popular amongst the queer community, and has been a site for activism since its design.  

4. Jones Beach

Jones Beach is a six mile stretch of public beach along Long Island that is free from any housing developments and private clubs. Take the subway to Jones Beach West Bath and walk just five minutes to get to the water. Enjoy the Art Deco architecture and bath houses along the strand.

5. Long Beach

Take the subway to Long Beach Station and walk just a few minutes to dip your toes in the water. Known for being one of the cleanest beaches in the US, Long Beach is a popular destination for New Yorkers. The oceanfront city is a cute spot to get some swimming in before enjoying the local restaurants and bars in the evening. 

6. Great Kills Beach

The Great Kills Park spans about two miles along the southern portion of Staten Island, containing almost 600 acres of salt marsh, beach, and woodlands. At the southern tip lies the Great Kills beach, a beautiful, relatively secluded spot surrounded by green space. The beach takes a bit longer to get to and you’ll need to walk about half an hour through the park from the subway station, but it’s well worth it. Nature walks through the park offer bird-watching areas, viewpoints, and fishing spots. Once you get to the beach, you’ll have a 270 degree view of the ocean.

Read more:

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• Wild Swimming: 5 Great Reasons to Try It
• Black Owned Businesses NYC: 8 Sustainable Companies to Support

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Tags: environment Green Living Guide