11 Best Beaches In New York

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When we hear the words, New York, what often comes to mind is the hustle and bustle of the city.

People can sometimes forget that New York is a large state with much more to offer than Times Square and shopping.

Upstate New York is famous for its beautiful landscapes, nature, and wildlife.

This includes the iconic Fingerlakes region that produces some of the best wines in the world.

The state offers its 19.7 million residents a myriad of activities from world-class theater, fine dining, and professional sports, to boating, camping, hunting, and beach escapes.

In fact, New York has over 60 beaches in their state park system.

So choosing the right beach for you is fairly easy.

Whether you want to stay close to the city, go upstate and chill in the mountains, or go out to the eastern shore of Long Island, New York is dotted with plenty of sand and surf for everyone to enjoy.

Be sure to check out some of these great beaches on your next visit to The Empire States. 

11 Best Beaches In New York

11. Cherry Grove Beach – Brookhaven, New York

Far out in the Hamptons on the Fire Island section of the beachfront, lies this little piece of paradise.

Known for being laidback and welcoming to all, there are no congested roadways, only wooden walkways in and around the beach.

It’s quiet and comfortable and a great place to read a book, snuggle up in the soft sand, or go for a swim.

Restrooms and eateries are available.

As night falls, feel free to visit one of the many restaurants, clubs, or bars in the town.

10. Crescent/Sunset Beach-Shelter Island, New York

This moon-shaped stretch of sand has been welcoming sun worshippers since the early 1800s.

Before that, it was home to many indigenous tribes.

So if you’re a beach-loving, history buff, this spot is worth a visit.

The area has some great marshes, woods, and wetlands that are made for exploring.

There’s a pier where you can fish or just chill and watch the awesome sunsets the beach offers.

Restrooms and vendors are always available for your beverage and food cravings.

But feel free to bring your own picnic. 

9. Midland Beach – Staten Island, New York

If you have kids, the sea turtle fountain alone is reason enough to visit this adorable kid-friendly beach.

It’s usually uncrowded and if it weren’t for the panoramic views of the Verrazano Bridge, you’d forget you were in New York City.

Play some volleyball, or shuffleboard, or take the kids over to the playground.

You can stroll the lovely boardwalk and view the Veteran’s Memorial and watch fireworks each weekend coming from the beach.

Restrooms are available and plenty of eateries are nearby.

8. Southwick Beach – Henderson, New York

Located inside Southwick State Park, this beach is the hidden gem of this list.

The beach is spacious and has soft sand.

The water is clean and the waves are just right for wading and swimming.

Hiking trails and campsites are also available.

Bring a picnic lunch and enjoy the serenity. 

7. Million Dollar Beach – Lake George, New York

If you’re looking for a scenic, upstate lakeside beach getaway, look no further than Million Dollar Beach.

It’s the most visited beach in the area.

Lifeguards are on duty to ensure your safety as you basque in the sun, swim, boat, and play in the sand.

The white sand and crystal clear water are surrounded by beautiful mountains for a serene and tranquil feeling. A picnic area with grills is available.

6. Rockaway Beach – Queens, New York

This 5-mile stretch of beach has been the subject and setting for many songs and movies over the past 50 years.

Visitors can sunbathe, swim, surf (the only legal surf spot in the 5 boroughs), skateboard, and play volleyball.

For the kids, there are playgrounds and the waves are gentle enough to play in at low tide.

Free movies and concerts are hosted on the sand on weekends from May to September.

Restrooms, showers, and outdoor fitness equipment are available.

The boardwalk has tons of restaurants, bars, and vendors.

5. Coney Island – Brooklyn, New York

Perhaps the most well-known beach and boardwalk in the state, Coney Island brings together the refreshing fun of the beach and the excitement of a lively boardwalk to make for a fantastic family outing.

You can soak in the sun, swim, or surf fish on the 3 miles of beach.

Then hit the boardwalk for rides, games, arcades, shops, and food.

Be sure to walk around the town, nicknamed “Little Odessa”.

Here you can take in the neighborhood’s Eastern European vibe with some great food, crafts, and art.

4. Orchard Beach – Bronx, New York

Conveniently located in the Bronx, this man-made beach was called the “Riviera of New York when it was created in the 1930s.

Since then, it has become a family-friendly destination for those looking to sink their toes in the sand and dip their toes in the water.

Visitors can use the picnic areas that have BBQ pits, or buy food from one of the many concession stands.

There are basketball, handball, and volleyball courts available, and a playground for the younger crowd.

During the summer, the beach hosts fireworks and free concerts on a weekly basis.

3. Long Beach – Long Beach, New York

Long Beach is the centerpiece of this resort town of the same name. 

Nicknamed the “City by the Sea”, it’s got a great beach vibe for families and couples.

While the town is lively and full of pubs, restaurants, and shops, the beach itself offers a quiet oasis.

Visitors can simply sunbathe and relax, or go swimming, surfing, playing pickle ball, volleyball, or searching for shells.

The boardwalk offers a place for bike riding or a nice jog.

There are also several shops, restaurants, and free concerts and fairs during the summer.

2. Jones Beach – Wantagh, New York

The over 6 miles of sand, surf, and activities make Jones Beach one of the best in the state for families.

A hub of energy during the summer, visitors to the beach can take part in mini golf, volleyball, or shuffleboard.

There are also 2 oceanfront pools to swim in.

The iconic Nikon theater at the beach juts out into the Atlantic and offers top-shelf concerts all summer long.

A nature center is located at the top of the beach and offers tours.

The boardwalk is a popular place for leisurely strolls, jogging, and cycling.

For the kids, there’s a large playground that is made for children of all abilities.

Restrooms and showers are available, along with a ton of food vendors and restaurants.

1. Main Beach – East Hampton, New York

Main Beach in The Hamptons, consistently makes the top ten lists of the best beaches on the East Coast.

This includes the number 3 spot on Town and Country’s list.

Also known as “Hollywood East”, this beach is so great, you’re likely to find the occasional celebrity lounging nearby.

The beach is impeccably clean and the water is a clear blue.

The waves are great for board surfing, boogie boarding, and bodysurfing.

There are plenty of shells and natural treasures for beachcombers and kids.

The beach store and concessions at the covered pavilion offer everything you need for a great day at the shore.

Restrooms, showers, and volleyball courts are available. Just a short walk from the beach is the town center, where you’ll find quaint boutiques, eateries, and art galleries.

The beach is free to access, but you must pay for parking.

It’s open 24 hours a day all year round. 

New York Safety Overview

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Safety Index:

82

• OVERALL RISK: LOW
• TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: LOW
• PICKPOCKETS RISK: LOW
• NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: MEDIUM
• MUGGING RISK: LOW
• TERRORISM RISK: LOW
• SCAMS RISK: MEDIUM
• WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: LOW