Brighton Beach
New York City, NY
A waterfront neighborhood in southern Brooklyn, Brighton Beach is known for its boardwalk, sandy shore, and traditional restaurants, reflecting the community’s Russian and Eastern European residents. Often considered more low-key than nearby, well-known Coney Island, Brighton Beach comes alive in summer, when locals and visitors arrive to swim, sunbathe, explore food markets, and shop along the boardwalk.
The basics
Sometimes called “Little Odessa,” Brighton Beach is a residential neighborhood in Brooklyn flanking the beach and Atlantic Ocean. In addition to the beach and boardwalk, the neighborhood is known for its vibrant nightlife. Spend the day in Brighton Beach as part of a larger visit to New York City; it is accessible by subway (lines B, Q). Be sure to stroll the Riegelmann Boardwalk and Brighton Beach Avenue, home to traditional Eastern European restaurants.
Things to know before you go
Brighton Beach offers the sun and surf alongside a glimpse into a Brooklyn residential neighborhood.
The boardwalk at Brighton Beach is flat and offers ramps to the sand, providing some accessibility for people using wheelchairs and strollers.
Bring a bathing suit, towel, and sunscreen to spend a day at the beach.
Some local vendors only take cash.
There is a playground next to the boardwalk.
How to get there
The easiest way to reach Brighton Beach is by public transportation. Take the subway (B or Q train) to the Brighton Beach stop, two blocks from the beach. Alternatively, you can drive and park in the Brighton Beach Municipal Lot (though arrive early, as space is limited and does fill up). Limited metered street parking is available.
When to get there
A sunny June, July, or August day is the best time to explore Brighton Beach. If you want to skip the crowds, try for a spring or fall visit when the weather is pleasant, though the ocean may not be warm enough for swimming. Locals are fond of sunsets at Brighton Beach, so linger after your beach day to enjoy the view.
Whale watching from southern Brooklyn
Brooklyn offers nature lovers more than the beach and boardwalk. In recent years, tour providers offering whale-watching excursions have grown. These boating excursions allow you to see bottlenose dolphins, humpback whales, and more. The chance to see humpbacks leaping out of the water with the backdrop of New York City is a special experience.
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