The Best Beaches Near NYC

New York City may be one of the most densely populated corners of the world, but it’s also surrounded by water—and lots of it. We’re lucky that a trip to the beach is just a MetroCard swipe away, but how to choose where to sprawl in the sand? This year, with NYC beach season extended for the first time through September 13, you’ve got time to try them all! To get you started, we’ve broken down the basics of several of the city’s most popular beaches. And if you’re looking to get out of the city entirely, scroll below for some of our favorite weekend beach getaways in the East.

For our complete 2016 Summer Family Fun Guide, click HERE!

IN THE CITY

Brighton Beach
The vibe: Next to Coney Island, Brighton Beach is a slightly calmer South Brooklyn beach—with a Russian twist.

Getting there: Public transport takes about an hour from Midtown Manhattan; take the B or the Q to Brighton Beach.

Cool feature: Known as “Little Odessa,” many local shops feature Cyrillic signs and authentic Eastern European food and shopping. Get your fill of “old-world” Russian delights as you stroll the boardwalk.

Coney Island
The vibe: A carnival-type atmosphere, provided by the amusement area filled with 30+ rides, prevails over this historic playland for New Yorkers.

Getting there: Public transport takes about an hour from Midtown Manhattan; take the D, F, N, or Q to Coney Island-Stillwell Avenue.

Cool feature: The Coney Island Amphitheater opens this summer with a lineup that will appeal to the whole family, including a Kidz Bop Kids concert on July 17.

Jacob Riis Park
The vibe: Wide stretches of sandy beach and a famous Art Deco-style bathhouse make Jacob Riis Park a popular getaway among local families.

Getting there: The more secluded feel means slightly trickier public transport logistics. Public transport takes about an hour and 20 minutes: From Manhattan, take the American Princess New York Beach Ferry from Pier 11 at Wall Street and the East River or the 2 train to Flatbush Avenue, followed by the Q35 bus to the beach.

Cool feature: This summer, you’ll be able to rent beach chairs and umbrellas through the Riis Park Beach Bazaar ($10 online, $15 on-site), and order food and drink directly to your chair using a smartphone.

Manhattan Beach
The vibe: Manhattan Beach is known as a great destination for family picnics and barbecues, and is smaller and more low-key than nearby Coney Island and Brighton Beach.

Getting there: Take the B or the Q from 34th Street to Brighton Beach, then the B1 bus to Oriental Boulevard/ Mackenzie Street.

Rockaway Beach
The vibe: A classic NYC seaside spot that’s also popular with local surfers.

Getting there: Public transport takes just over an hour from Midtown Manhattan; take the A train to Broad Channel; transfer to the Shuttle and get off at Beach 116th Street.

Cool feature: The beach features seven playgrounds for children, and the entire boardwalk will be open this summer for the first time since Hurricane Sandy. Not to mention that it’s the largest urban beach in the country!

OUT OF THE CITY

Sandy Hook, NJ
The vibe: This New Jersey beach offers great views of the city and makes for a perfect day-trip that feels like a true seaside escape.

Getting there: The Seastreak Ferry offers the easiest—and most scenic—trip. Board at East 35th Street or Wall Street docks, and once you arrive, the ferry offers complimentary shuttle service that takes you between each beach. (seastreak.com)

Cool feature: The Sandy Hook Lighthouse is one of the oldest working lighthouses in the US.

Jones Beach
The vibe: A great destination for active beachgoers who want to take advantage of not only the 6.5 miles of white-sand beach, but also to fish, visit a historic exhibit, and play mini golf, shuffleboard, and basketball.

Getting there: Take the Long Island Railroad to Freeport, and then take the Jones Beach shuttle bus.

Cool feature: Check out a concert at Nikon at Jones Beach Theater—a 15,000-seat outdoor arena.

WEEKEND GETAWAYS
The Northeast has no shortage of easy, family-friendly beach getaways. Here are some of our favorite spots for a weekend of sun, fun, and family adventure.

Cape May, NJ
The vibe: A family-friendly resort town with award-winning beaches.

Getting there: About a 3.5-4 hour drive from midtown Manhattan, or take New Jersey Transit to Cape May Bus Terminal (about 5.5 hours).

Cool feature: Climb to the top of the Cape May Lighthouse for great views of the shoreline and ocean.

Amagansett, NY
The vibe: Amagansett is known for being a low-key, family friendly Hamptons destination. Indian Wells Beach and Atlantic Avenue Beach, a beloved boogie-boarding spot, are popular with young kids and families.

Getting there: About a 2.5-hour drive from Midtown
Manhattan; or take the LIRR to Amagansett Station (just under 3 hours).

Cool feature: Both beaches provide easy access to food trucks and restaurants.

Montauk, NY
The vibe: Montauk is beloved for its wide stretches of beach, naturally beautiful bluffs, and free-spirited, surfer feel. Kirk Park Beach is a very popular public beach on the eastern end of Montauk, with a park and picnic area across the street, as well as restaurants and shops within walking distance. Gin Beach is known as a kid-friendly beach that features small waves, warm waters, and clean sand.

Getting there: Montauk is about a three-hour drive from midtown Manhattan; or a 3.25-hour ride on the LIRR to the Montauk stop.

Cool feature: Go whale-watching with Viking Fleet (they offer trips to see porpoises, whales, and other marine life). (vikingfleet.com)

Robert Moses State Park, NY
The vibe: Make the trek out to these Fire Island beaches for more secluded access to clean sand and water. The state park has something to offer everyone—from a swimming beach to a nature trail and tennis courts.

Getting there: A 1.5-hour drive from Midtown Manhattan.

Cool feature: Take a three-quarter mile nature walk on the boardwalk from Field 5 to the Fire Island Lighthouse. If the kids are at least 42” tall, you can climb to the top for beautiful views.

Westerly, RI
The vibe: Watch Hill beach is beautiful and clean, though parking can be on the expensive side. Misquamicut State Beach offers fun waves for more active swimmers, and is home to Atlantic Beach Park, which offers bumper cars and kids’ rides.

Getting there: About a 3.25-hour drive from Midtown Manhattan.

Cool feature: After a day at the beach, stop by the historic Flying Horse Carousel in Watch Hill, where kids will love trying to score the brass ring. If they’re not successful, homemade ice cream from neighboring St. Clair Annex makes for a good consolation prize.

Laurissa Jane Music

Laurissa Jane Music Studio is a dedicated institution that offers a solid foundation for students to explore the captivating world of music and arts. With experienced instructors, we offer private and group lessons in piano, voice, and guitar, for all ages and skill levels. We provide year-round training for renowned programs such as NYSSMA (New York State School Music Association) and ABRSM (Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music). LJMS runs an annual Summer Musical Theatre Arts Program from July-August which offers a creative environment for young individuals with a passion for acting, singing, and dancing. We are proud to serve the vibrant communities of Jamaica Queens and can also provide classes virtually. At LJMS, we firmly believe in the transformative power of the arts. Call us today!

Dedimus Potestatem

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! Sessions We currently&nbsp;offer both virtual and in-person private, semi-private, and group sessions as well as after-school programs. To register, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.potestatem.co/bookclassesnow" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.potestatem.co/bookclassesnow&nbsp;</a>or email us at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:info@potestatem.co?subject=REGISTER" target="_blank" rel="noopener">info@potestatem.co</a> <a href="https://www.potestatem.co/leadership" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Leadership: Middle School ages 10-13, High School ages 14-18</a> 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. <a href="https://www.potestatem.co/little-leaders-prek-and-kindergarten" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Little Leaders: Primary School Ages 6-9</a> 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. <a href="https://www.potestatem.co/classes/beginnersdebate" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Speech &amp; Debate</a>&nbsp;(competitive and non-competitive programs available) 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.&nbsp; <a href="https://www.potestatem.co/model-un" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Model United Nations (Ages 11-18)</a> 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. <a href="https://www.potestatem.co/self-defense-classes" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Self Defense and Empowerment</a> 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. Mock Trial&nbsp;(<a href="https://www.potestatem.co/classes/mock-trial-classes" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Fairy Tale Mock Trial for ages 7-9</a>, regular&nbsp;<a href="https://www.potestatem.co/mock-trial-classes" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Mock Trial Ages 10-18</a>) 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. <a href="https://www.potestatem.co/model-congress" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Model Congress: Ages 10-18</a> 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&rsquo;Connor) and the National Model U.S. Congress. These resources have been proven to improve students&rsquo; 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. <a href="https://www.potestatem.co/philosophy" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Philosophy</a> The focus of the&nbsp;Philosophy&nbsp;class is to examine and understand the ideas behind the most popular&nbsp;philosophies&nbsp;embraced throughout the world. To do this, students examine ethical situations through the lens of these&nbsp;philosophies&nbsp;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&nbsp;<a href="https://nhseb.unc.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">compete in the middle or high school Ethics Bowl</a>.&nbsp; <a href="https://www.potestatem.co/classes/money-matters-financial-literacy-for-kids-afterschool">Money Matters: Financial Literacy for Students</a> 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. <a href="https://www.potestatem.co/stem-dna-ethics" target="_blank" rel="noopener">STEM and Bioethics:&nbsp;(Ages 10-18)</a> 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. <a href="https://www.potestatem.co/classes/virtual-after-school-etiquette" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Etiquette&nbsp;(Ages 5 and up)</a> 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. <a href="https://www.potestatem.co/classes/essay-writing" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Speech and Essay Writing: Ages 10-18</a> 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. <a href="https://www.potestatem.co/classes/visual-storytelling" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Visual Storytelling</a> 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. College application course&nbsp; 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. <a href="https://www.potestatem.co/classes/essay-writing" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Academic writing</a>&nbsp; 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.&nbsp; <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> 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. Computer Programming: Coding for Kids 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.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

BAMkids

BAMkids presents adventurous art and ideas for young audiences, igniting the imaginations of creative kids ages 3&mdash;11 with a fun and engaging lineup of workshops, movie matinees, and live performances from around the world. BAM Education connects learning with creativity, engaging imagination by encouraging self-expression through programs for students, teachers, and audiences of all ages. Explore the programs on their website to learn more about their opportunities for creative online engagement!