Summer has arrived in New York City — unofficially, at least — and the Big Apple’s beaches are now open for swimming.
Lifeguards will patrol most of the 14 miles of open beaches around the five boroughs from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. every day until Sept. 7.
“As with every year, visitors may see sections of beach closed off for swimming/capacity restrictions based on daily lifeguard staffing,” a Parks Department spokesperson said. “Our goal is always to accommodate as much swimming space as possible.”
We’ve rounded up information about all nine of NYC Parks’ beaches so you can find the one that fits your family the best. And the best part? All of these beaches are free and open to the public!
Brighton Beach, Brooklyn, 50 min to 1 hour via subway (from Midtown)
Known for its Russian population and popular neighborhood “Little Odessa,” this neighbor to Coney Island is a famous beach located in the southern part of Brooklyn. This beach is a vibe — pack a picnic or pick up some of the delicious food at some of the nearby eateries and enjoy the sunshine.
Coney Island, Brooklyn, 1 hr 15 min via subway (from Midtown)
Coney Island isn’t just a beach: it is an experience. Families can also visit fun spots around Coney Island before you take your place on the sand, such as the New York Aquarium, Luna Park and Deno’s Wonder Wheel.
The beach itself is always packed, so if you want a quiet beach day, you may want to go early before the crowds arrive.
Or embrace this busy beach and enjoy the boardwalk food stands—just make sure to get your tickets for any extra fun, like rides or the aquarium, if you plan to include these attractions in your beach day.
Manhattan Beach, Brooklyn, 1hr 20min via subway (from Midtown)
If your ideal day at the beach involves you, your family and a good book without all the bells and whistles, you’ll want to check out Manhattan Beach.
There is a park for the kids, and you can bring your barbecue grill and cook right by your beach spot. The waves aren’t huge, and the vibe is chill, making it perfect for families with young kids.
Rockaway Beach, Queens, 1hr 30min via subway (from Midtown)
If you want less spectacle and more surfer destination with snack shacks (Rockaway Beach Surf Club) and food Californians call everyday life, you’ll want to pack up the beach bag (and kids) and head over to this chill beach.
Clocking in at an hour car ride and 1 1/2-hour subway ride, it is a worthwhile day trip if you are a beach bum at heart.
Orchard Beach, Bronx, 1hr 45min via subway (from Midtown)
This Robert Moses-designed beach is the Bronx’s only public beach, and it does not disappoint. At 115 acres, the beach includes a promenade, and for the kids who need to stay active, there are two playgrounds, 26 basketball courts, volleyball, and handball.
With two picnic areas, you can grab a spot to eat food from the snack bars or bring along food and munch while you enjoy the view of City Island.
Midland Beach, Staten Island – 1 hr 20min via subway (from Midtown)
A trip to Midland Beach is one that families will love to take this summer! Not only is it great, but there are also a ton of activities kids can do when they aren’t swimming or lounging on the beach!
The beach is home to the popular Sea Turtle Fountain where young kids can run through the sprinklers and to the Playland Playground that is also a great spot to bring your kids to. Midland Beach also shares Franklin D. Roosevelt Boardwalk where families can find delicious treats and refreshments.
South Beach, Staten Island – 1 hr 20 min via subway (from Midtown)
Sunbathe in the shadow of the Verrazzano Bridge. South Beach is one of the city’s most popular beaches, and for good reason. Visitors can bike, jog on the boardwalk, kayak, play tennis, fish and more. Don’t leave without stopping to see the popular Fountain of Dolphins!
Cedar Grove Beach, Staten Island – 1 hr 30 min via subway (from Midtown)
If you’re looking for a new favorite beach spot, why not check out the city’s newest beach? The converted oceanfront bungalow colony, Cedar Grove Beach, offers a more tranquil experience than some of the neighboring beaches and is a popular choice for local families.
Wolfe’s Pond Beach, Staten Island – 1 hr 45 min via subway (from Midtown)
You’ll want to take a day to check out the city’s best-kept secret. Wolfe’s Pond Beach on Staten Island offers access to the ocean without the chaos that tends to come with some of the city’s more well-known beaches. Get away from the summer crowds with a secluded beach day.
