New York Beaches are Open for 2019: The Best Easy-to-Reach Beaches from New York City

We’ve waited so long for this time of the year and, happily, the moment has arrived when we finally get the chance to slather on the sunscreen, make sand castles with our kids, sip icy lemonade and take a dip in all the gorgeous waters around this amazing place we call home. Here are eight easy-to-access beaches to relax in this season:

long beach

Beach 411: A quick walk from the train to the sand

Beach locale: Long Beach, Long Island

There’s something very likeable about Long Beach, a Long Island town with a beach that’s a quick walk from the LIRR station. They’ve thought of everything, including changing areas and diaper changing stations, and there are loads of restaurants to choose from. Best of all, you don’t even have to leave the beach when it’s time for a snack or meal as most local restaurants will deliver right to your beach blanket. One extra-convenient feature: You can skip the schlepping, thanks to Beach Comfort, which is at the ready with beach umbrellas and chairs to rent for the day.

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photo via jcfamilies.com

Beach 411: Sand without surf? Count us in!

Beach locale: Newport Green, Jersey City

Bring a picnic and revel in the sheer relaxation of Newport Green, located in the lively Newport neighborhood of Jersey City. Considered the only urban beach on the Hudson River, though there’s no water to dip in, Newport Green provides a serene waterfront respite from the sticky city. You’ll find a sandy beach featuring Adirondack chairs and umbrellas and, surrounding the beach, a vibrant 4.25-acre lushly-landscaped park, an imaginative playground perfect for kids of all ages, a carousel, splash pad and scenic waterfront walkway to Hoboken, all with the sparkling Manhattan skyline as a backdrop. We love the fact that this spot is just a PATH train plus a five-minute walk away so there’s no chance you’ll waste the day sitting in traffic!

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liherald.com

Beach 411: It’s sure to be packed—but there’s lots to do!

Beach locale: Jones Beach, Long Island

There’s just so much to do when you spend the day at Jones Beach. This New York State Park is easily accessible for the car-less (there’s a free shuttle from the Freeport LIRR stop) and the bath house has recently been renovated for clean (and easy) diaper changes and beach prep. Plan to explore more than just the sand and surf, including WildPlay, a $1.5-million project opening this summer that will include rope courses, a 40-foot tall zipline, pathways and play areas for visitors of all ages.

long branch

Beach 411: Get your Jersey Shore fix—here

Beach Locale: Long Branch, NJ

If the Jersey Shore is on your bucket list, plan at least one day trip down to Long Branch. The beach is easily accessible for New York City folk via New Jersey transit and this iconic Jersey shore town promises a gorgeous beach, restrooms and shower towers, yummy meals (try tacos at Surf Taco, homemade ice cream at Gracie and The Dudes and burgers at the legendary Jr’s restaurant) and more than enough ways to have fun all day long. Be sure to stay for the glorious sunsets!

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photo via The New York Times

Beach 411: Tacos and high tides

Beach Locale: Rockaway, Queens

Thanks to the hard work that it took to jazz up this beach after Hurricane Sandy in 2012, Rockaway Beach is going to remain a super popular place to be this summer. The 170-acre stretch is sporting a new boardwalk and beachfront dining options. For the most variety, head to 97th Street where there are lots of concession stands with very innovative food/beverage offerings. Getting here is easy, too. For example, if you don’t feel like taking the A train to this Atlantic Ocean beach, consider hopping aboard the NYC Ferry by Hornblower to really experience our waterfront city. Then, once you arrive, sit back and watch the surfers work the waves at this, the city’s only legal surfing beach.

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Beach 411: A place to do more than soak up the sun

Beach Locale: Croton Point Park Beach, Westchester

Want to head north for a getaway? Hop aboard MetroNorth and head right to Croton Point Park Beach, a popular Westchester beach that’s a one hour ride to the Croton-Harmon stop and a 10-minute walk once you arrive at the station. Known for its scenic views and spacious layout, adventure seekers can explore the 508-acre Croton Point Park to discover a host of activities, including a boat launch, hiking trails, grills and grassy lawns for picnics. There are kayak rentals at the ready nearby on the Croton River or you can just take a long dip in the beach’s sparkling waters. It’s best to pack a picnic lunch or, for small bites, just walk to The Green Growler for tasty treats.

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photo via beachclub-rye.com

Beach 411: A beach and an amusement park? Count us in

Beach Locale: Rye, NY

If you’re thinking of doing a double-duty fun day away from the city, Rye Beach and Playland, which are about a block apart, might your family’s idea of the best way to spend the day. The beach sports a fully outfitted diaper changing station and restrooms to change into beach gear, there’s an on-site restaurant serving yummy fare as well as a concession and snack shop with delicious beach fare. Best of all, it’s super easy to get here: Just take MetroNorth to Rye, hop the shuttle to Playland and walk down the block to the beach or stay at Playland and ride the Dragon Coaster over and over to your heart’s content.

Image result for orchard beach bronx
photo via NYCgo

Beach 411: Visit the former ‘Riviera of New York’

Beach Locale: Orchard Beach, The Bronx

On super sunny days, expect a crowd to flock to Orchard Beach, the only public beach in The Bronx, and with good reason. It’s 115 acres and 1.1 miles of endless sand situated overlooking the picturesque Long Island Sound. This beach is equipped with snack bars, food carts, two picnic areas and two playgrounds. Changing areas and showers are also available at this beach, accessible via the subway to Pelham Bay Park, followed by four stops on a local bus.

Lambeth Hochwald is a writer in New York City who focuses on lifestyle stories for a wide variety of publications. After spending her early years in the suburbs, she’s a big fan of quick train rides out of town with her husband and teenage son.

 

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Dedimus Potestatem

<p>Dedimus Potestatem provides fun, engaging, academically challenging programs to students in primary, middle, and high school. Programs include Leadership, Debate, Model United Nations, Computer Programming, Financial Literacy, Filmmaking, Philosophy, Model Congress, Mock Trial, Etiquette, Bioethics, Stem and Bioethics, and more. We currently offer both virtual and in-person private, semi-private, and group sessions and after-school programs. Contact us to bring us to your school today!</p> <p>Sessions</p> <p>We currently offer both virtual and in-person private, semi-private, and group sessions as well as after-school programs. To register, visit <a href="https://www.potestatem.co/bookclassesnow" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.potestatem.co/bookclassesnow </a>or email us at <a href="mailto:[email protected]?subject=REGISTER" target="_blank" rel="noopener">[email protected]</a></p> <p><a href="https://www.potestatem.co/leadership" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Leadership: Middle School ages 10-13, High School ages 14-18</a></p> <p>This is a unique leadership course that gives students the skills they need to succeed in life. Using an activity-based syllabus centered around character traits most sought and admired in leaders (initiative, honesty, self-control, adaptability, empathy, persuasiveness, resourcefulness, diligence, tolerance, determination, generosity, punctuality, courage, reliability, endurance, deference, creativity and integrity) students learn how to deal with situations they encounter in life. These building blocks will ensure they grow to become the leaders so sought after by our burgeoning society. Our grading rubric was adapted with the permission of Neil Mercer, the Director of research and Head of Faculty at The University of Cambridge.</p> <p><a href="https://www.potestatem.co/little-leaders-prek-and-kindergarten" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Little Leaders: Primary School Ages 6-9</a></p> <p>Developed by former pre-school and elementary teachers, this ethics-centered program utilizes a play-based method to encourage students to explore and apply soft skills in their daily lives. While cultivating the skills they will need to build strong, successful relationships, they will learn how to find their voice and showcase themselves in the best way. Students will learn to communicate and negotiate so they can be better team leaders and team players. Students will learn how to deal with situations they encounter in life, such as bullying, cheating, conflicts between two or more parties, and more. The inculcation of these values in our children's formative years will ensure they grow to become the leaders so sought after by our burgeoning society.</p> <p><a href="https://www.potestatem.co/classes/beginnersdebate" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Speech & Debate</a> (competitive and non-competitive programs available)</p> <p>This online after-school program prepares students for formal and informal presentations. Participants learn to craft and present arguments and inform, persuade, and motivate an audience in a variety of ways. According to the English Speaking Union, debate is a natural fit for students and compliments common core standards. Debate builds literacy and multi-media research skills, fosters critical thinking and expanded perspectives, enhances public speaking skills, increases confidence, trains students to listen effectively, supports diverse learners and strengthens civil engagement and discourse. </p> <p><a href="https://www.potestatem.co/model-un" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Model United Nations (Ages 11-18)</a></p> <p>Model UN simulates the six major organs of the United Nations. Students role play as delegates from a country of their choosing and learn to write and present resolutions based on topics they are passionate about-just as if they were representing member states of the United Nations. We utilize materials from National Model UN and video tutorials to teach students how to write and present position papers, working papers, and draft resolutions. Students use debate and negotiation to enlist the support of other delegates for their resolution. Model UN is a great way to teach students leadership skills like communication, conflict resolution, negotiation, and delegation.</p> <p><a href="https://www.potestatem.co/self-defense-classes" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Self Defense and Empowerment</a></p> <p>Developed by a veteran Krav Maga specialist, this self-defense program will focus on the principle of healthy minds in healthy bodies. Students will focus on de-escalation techniques as well as safe and active means of self-defense. Through active games and fun drills, students will learn the disciplined focus, critical thinking, adaptability, and resilience necessary to achieve goals, as well as gain valuable social insights into leadership and teamwork. Students will expend energy and reduce stress while learning to stand and present confidently.</p> <p>Mock Trial (<a href="https://www.potestatem.co/classes/mock-trial-classes" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Fairy Tale Mock Trial for ages 7-9</a>, regular <a href="https://www.potestatem.co/mock-trial-classes" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Mock Trial Ages 10-18</a>)</p> <p>Mock trial is a hands-on simulation of the American judicial system. The goal is to help participants acquire a working knowledge of our judicial system, develop analytical abilities and communication skills, display leadership in a court of law, and gain an understanding of their obligations and responsibilities as participating members of our society. Materials for this course are provided by The American Bar Association.</p> <p><a href="https://www.potestatem.co/model-congress" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Model Congress: Ages 10-18</a></p> <p>This civics course simulates the legislative process. Students will learn about the electoral process, lobby for issues they are passionate about, draft and deliver bills, amend legislation, debate international policy, and learn how to effectively represent a constituent body of their choosing. We utilize materials from The Constitutional Rights Foundation, ICivics (founded by Justice Sandra Day O’Connor) and the National Model U.S. Congress. These resources have been proven to improve students’ civic knowledge, presentation, and core literacy skills. New research has also shown that the use of the aforementioned materials has also led to increased participation in the democratic process. Our objective in this course is to educate the next generation, nurture and inculcate a passion for civics and history and encourage young people to advocate for themselves.</p> <p><a href="https://www.potestatem.co/philosophy" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Philosophy</a></p> <p>The focus of the Philosophy class is to examine and understand the ideas behind the most popular philosophies embraced throughout the world. To do this, students examine ethical situations through the lens of these philosophies and engage in a Socratic style debate. Students are presented with an ethical question and they must identify stakeholders and players within the dilemma, discuss the key moral issues and present opposing viewpoints. This class was built for students who wish to <a href="https://nhseb.unc.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">compete in the middle or high school Ethics Bowl</a>. </p> <p><a href="https://www.potestatem.co/classes/money-matters-financial-literacy-for-kids-afterschool">Money Matters: Financial Literacy for Students</a></p> <p>The Money Matters course is built to help students manage their personal finances, from building credit and loan applications to interest rates and investing strategies. This class will cover the basics of financial health, savings, spending habits, and budgeting. After learning how to store, track, and spend responsibly, students will learn about risk management, APRs, and tax preparation. This class will use real-life examples and teach students how to set and achieve financial goals. This course is ideal for middle and high school students.</p> <p><a href="https://www.potestatem.co/stem-dna-ethics" target="_blank" rel="noopener">STEM and Bioethics: (Ages 10-18)</a></p> <p>Our STEM program will give kids the opportunity to think critically about science and society, and to practice communicating scientific topics in ways everyone can understand. To be a successful scientist in our modern world, one must not only have a broad understanding of scientific material learned at school, but also the ability to communicate effectively and share that knowledge with others. Each week of this program will build on the previous while also introducing new scientific topics for discussion.</p> <p><a href="https://www.potestatem.co/classes/virtual-after-school-etiquette" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Etiquette (Ages 5 and up)</a></p> <p>Due to increasing popular demand from groups and individuals, we have decided to offer our etiquette course as an eight week after-school class. Students will not only learn how to introduce themselves and their friends, they will explore appropriate language for quotidian and special occasions, how to enter and leave conversations, proper table behavior for different scenarios, effective strategies for conflict resolution and negotiation, the importance of tone, expression, and body language in every social interaction and why manners and soft skills are essential to a successful life.</p> <p><a href="https://www.potestatem.co/classes/essay-writing" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Speech and Essay Writing: Ages 10-18</a></p> <p>This group class includes eight one-hour online sessions focused on the creation, development, and delivery of informative and persuasive speeches. This program is tailored to the needs of the individual(s) in question and can include essay writing, use of stylistic devices, and persuasive rhetoric and/or instructions on how to craft and deliver a persuasive or informative multidimensional presentation with compelling slides, audio, and videos.</p> <p><a href="https://www.potestatem.co/classes/visual-storytelling" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Visual Storytelling</a></p> <p>Multimedia platforms have increasingly become more popular for educators, artists and businesses. Young people all over the world have begun using media to amplify initiatives, educate, share science, poetry, art, movement, culture and more. In this class students will learn to capture brief videos that share their voice and vision with the world.</p> <p>College application course </p> <p>Discover the fundamentals of style, narrative, and theme for the ideal college application essays! In these sessions, you will begin by examining outstanding Personal Statements and by brainstorming your own. Then, move on to draft and edit the specialized supplemental essays for each college on your list. Space is limited to ensure personalized attention.</p> <p><a href="https://www.potestatem.co/classes/essay-writing" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Academic writing</a> </p> <p>These are sessions focused on academic writing. Our tutors have years of experience in drafting, editing, and teaching essay writing. Each package will include a consultation with our tutors to assess individual needs. </p> <p><a href="https://www.potestatem.co/classes/test-prep-sat-shsat-act-gre-gmat-asvab-tachs-more">Test Prep: SAT, SHSAT, ACT, GRE, GMAT, ASVAB, TACHS + more</a></p> <p>These classes are focused on identifying the quickest and most efficient path toward improving students' standardized test scores. Starting with a diagnostic practice exam, this program will target the key subject matter your students need to master while integrating timing, triage, and practice strategies. We aim to regularly emulate the real-life conditions of tests until students are comfortable working quickly, accurately, and efficiently. Sessions can be one hour or two hours in length, as needed.</p> <p>Computer Programming: Coding for Kids</p> <p>In these sessions, we start by discussing the basics of computer programming, what it is, what it can do, and what it was built on. Then we will begin experimenting with block-based programming languages. Students will learn the basics of computer architecture, binary code, compilers, and algorithms. By the end of the course, students will be able to produce small programs of their own. The cost of materials is not included. This class is available to younger students (Ages K-1) and middle and high school students. </p> <p> </p> <p> </p>

The Ailey School – First Steps and Bounding Boys

<blockquote style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; background-color: #ffffff;"> <div dir="ltr"> <div class="m_-3740164643787738207m_4977048992707393770WordSection1"> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0px;"><span style="color: #0070c0;">At The Ailey School, FIRST STEPS offers a structured creative movement curriculum that allows girls (ages 3-6) and boys (age 3), to develop body awareness and control and learn the basics of dance technique. BOUNDING BOYS (ages 4-6) provides a more athletic experience, and an energetic approach to teaching dance skills.</span></p> </div> </div> </blockquote>

USC Gymnastics & Baseball Training Facility

<p><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;" data-sheets-value="{" data-sheets-userformat="{">We offer sports activities, after school programs, birthday parties & private lessons for kids ages 3–13 years! Our gymnastics classes are a great way to keep your child active and healthy. We strive to empower and challenge children through the sport of gymnastics.</span></p>