Living in New York City has its perks—world-class dining, shopping, and culture. But amidst the urban jungle, it’s only natural to crave a break from the bustling streets, especially during the hot summer months. Luckily, within a short drive or train ride, you can access some of the most beautiful beaches, offering a refreshing escape from the city. Whether you’re seeking a day trip or a weekend getaway, here are the best beach trips from NYC that I, as a travel blogger, highly recommend.
1. The Hamptons: Luxury, Glamour, and Natural Beauty
The Hamptons are undoubtedly one of the most iconic beach destinations for New Yorkers. Located about 100 miles east of Manhattan, this series of seaside towns and villages on Long Island is famous for its luxurious lifestyle, stunning beaches, and upscale dining experiences.
Why Visit The Hamptons?
The Hamptons offer an elegant retreat for those looking to indulge in both beach time and a touch of glamour. With miles of sandy shores, chic beach clubs, and high-end restaurants, it’s no wonder that this destination has attracted celebrities, influencers, and beachgoers for years.
Some of the best beaches in the Hamptons include:
Coopers Beach in Southampton: Known for its pristine white sand and picturesque views, Coopers Beach is consistently ranked among the best beaches in the U.S. It’s a perfect spot for families or anyone looking to relax while enjoying the Atlantic Ocean’s cool waters.
Main Beach in East Hampton: Main Beach is equally stunning, offering wide stretches of sand and gentle waves. Visitors will find well-maintained facilities, including restrooms and lifeguards on duty, making it an ideal choice for families with children.
Montauk: If you’re looking for a more laid-back vibe, Montauk at the eastern tip of Long Island is where surfers, artists, and nature lovers gather. The Montauk Point State Park offers dramatic ocean views, hiking trails, and the iconic Montauk Lighthouse.
How to Get There?
By Car: The drive to the Hamptons can take anywhere from two to three hours, depending on traffic, especially on weekends.
By Train: The Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) offers regular service from Penn Station to several stops in the Hamptons. The journey takes around two to three hours.
2. Fire Island: A Peaceful Beach Escape
Fire Island is a car-free barrier island that sits parallel to Long Island and offers a more relaxed and rustic beach experience. It’s known for its charming beach communities, miles of sandy dunes, and a strong sense of preservation. The island is divided into various communities, each with its own unique vibe, from family-friendly Ocean Beach to the more vibrant LGBTQ+ enclave of Cherry Grove.
Why Visit Fire Island?
Fire Island is the perfect spot for those who want to disconnect from city life. With no cars allowed on the island (you can only get around by foot, bike, or water taxi), the pace of life slows down, allowing you to truly relax and enjoy nature.
Some of the best beaches on Fire Island include:
Ocean Beach: The largest town on the island, Ocean Beach, is a popular destination for families. The beach is wide, sandy, and offers calm waters that are ideal for swimming. The town itself is filled with quaint shops, restaurants, and a lively boardwalk.
Robert Moses State Park: Located at the western end of the island, this beach is one of the most accessible from NYC. Robert Moses State Park features five miles of sandy shores, picnic areas, and fishing spots. It’s also close to the Fire Island Lighthouse, which is a must-visit for history buffs.
How to Get There?
By Ferry: To get to Fire Island, you’ll need to take a ferry from several points along Long Island, such as Bay Shore or Patchogue. The ferry ride usually takes about 30 minutes.
By Train: Take the LIRR from Penn Station to Bay Shore or Patchogue, followed by a short taxi ride to the ferry terminal.
3. Jones Beach: The Quintessential New York Beach Experience
Jones Beach State Park, located on Long Island’s South Shore, is one of the most famous beaches near New York City. With over six miles of white sand, it’s perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and beach sports. The park also offers ample parking, picnic areas, and various facilities, making it a go-to spot for day trips.
Why Visit Jones Beach?
Jones Beach is ideal for those looking for a classic beach experience. The beach itself is beautiful, with soft sand and clear waters, but what makes Jones Beach special is its array of amenities and activities. From basketball courts to a bandshell that hosts live performances, there’s something for everyone.
Some of the activities to enjoy at Jones Beach include:
Swimming and Surfing: The beach is well-staffed with lifeguards, making it a safe option for families.
Picnicking: There are plenty of picnic areas equipped with tables and grills, so pack a lunch and make a day of it.
The Nikon at Jones Beach Theater: This iconic venue hosts concerts throughout the summer, featuring big-name artists. Nothing beats listening to live music with the ocean as a backdrop.
How to Get There?
By Car: Jones Beach is just 30 miles from Manhattan, making it one of the easiest beaches to reach. The drive usually takes around an hour, depending on traffic.
By Public Transit: You can take the LIRR to Freeport, followed by a short bus ride to Jones Beach.
4. Rockaway Beach: Surf, Sun, and Street Tacos
Rockaway Beach in Queens is one of the few beaches within the five boroughs of NYC. It’s also the only beach in the city where you can legally surf, making it a popular spot for both beginners and seasoned surfers alike. If you’re not into surfing, don’t worry—there’s plenty of space for sunbathing, beach volleyball, and simply lounging by the Atlantic Ocean.
Why Visit Rockaway Beach?
One of the best things about Rockaway Beach is its accessibility. You can hop on the subway and be on the beach in under an hour. Beyond the convenience, the vibe here is fun and eclectic. From the surf shops and taco stands to the boardwalk buzzing with activity, Rockaway Beach is a slice of Californian surf culture right in NYC.
Some highlights of Rockaway Beach include:
The Rockaway Boardwalk: Stretching for miles, the boardwalk is perfect for a leisurely stroll, bike ride, or even rollerblading. Along the way, you’ll find plenty of food vendors selling everything from ice cream to gourmet street tacos.
Surfing: The beach offers surf lessons for beginners, and there’s a designated surfing area between Beach 68th and Beach 92nd Streets.
Beachside Eats: Be sure to stop by Rockaway Beach Surf Club, a laid-back spot serving up some of the best fish tacos and margaritas in the area.
How to Get There?
By Subway: Take the A train from Manhattan to the Rockaway Park-Beach 116th Street station. The journey takes about an hour.
By Ferry: The NYC Ferry also offers service to Rockaway Beach from Wall Street’s Pier 11, with a scenic ride taking about an hour.
5. Long Beach: A Surfing Haven Just a Train Ride Away
Another favorite spot for New Yorkers is Long Beach, located just a few miles east of Rockaway Beach on Long Island. Long Beach offers soft sandy shores, a lively boardwalk, and a laid-back, surf-friendly atmosphere. This beach town is ideal for those looking for a mix of beach relaxation and easy access to great dining options.
Why Visit Long Beach?
Long Beach offers a perfect blend of relaxation and activity. It’s a quieter alternative to the more crowded NYC beaches like Coney Island but still has enough going on to keep you entertained. Plus, it’s one of the best places to catch a wave, as it’s a well-known surfing destination.
Some must-see spots in Long Beach include:
The Boardwalk: Long Beach’s boardwalk spans over two miles and is ideal for walking, biking, and taking in the ocean views.
Surf Lessons: If you’ve ever wanted to learn how to surf, Long Beach is the place. There are several surf schools along the beach offering lessons for all skill levels.
West End: This neighborhood in Long Beach is filled with restaurants, bars, and shops. It’s a great place to grab a post-beach meal or a drink.
How to Get There?
By Train: Long Beach is easily accessible via the LIRR from Penn Station. The ride takes just under an hour.
By Car: If you’re driving, the trip will take about an hour from Manhattan, depending on traffic.
6. Asbury Park: A Retro Vibe with a Modern Twist
For those willing to venture a bit further afield, Asbury Park in New Jersey is an excellent beach destination. This historic town has seen a resurgence in recent years, thanks to its retro charm, great music scene, and a hip artsy vibe.
Why Visit Asbury Park?
Asbury Park is a place where history and modern culture collide. The town has a lively boardwalk, trendy restaurants, and a vibrant arts scene. It’s also famous for its live music venues, such as The Stone Pony, where Bruce Springsteen got his start.
Some highlights of Asbury Park include:
The Boardwalk: The Asbury Park Boardwalk is filled with eclectic shops, art galleries, and restaurants. Be sure to check out the Silverball Museum, where you can play vintage pinball machines.
The Beach: The sandy beach offers plenty of space for swimming, sunbathing, and playing beach volleyball.
The Stone Pony: No trip to Asbury Park would be complete without catching a live show at this iconic venue.
How to Get There?
By Train: The NJ Transit North Jersey Coast Line runs from Penn Station to Asbury Park, with the journey taking about two hours.
By Car: The drive from NYC takes about an hour and a half, making it an ideal option for a weekend getaway.
Conclusion
From the upscale shores of the Hamptons to the laid-back vibes of Rockaway Beach, there are countless beach destinations near New York City that offer the perfect escape from urban life. Whether you’re looking for a quick day trip or a longer weekend retreat, these beach getaways provide a refreshing break from the city grind. So, pack your sunscreen, grab your beach towel, and set out on one of the best beach trips from NYC!
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