Rockaway Beach
1-98 Cross Bay Parkway, New York City, New York City, NY, 11693
Technically located in Queens, Rockaway Beach is an oceanfront stretch home to golden beaches, a plethora of food vendors, and an array of beginner-friendly surf spots; in fact, it’s the city’s only legal surfing beach. In summer, come here to soak up the sun, go splashing in the waves, and surfer-watch along the gorgeous, 5.5-mile (8.8-kilometer) boardwalk lining the coast.
The Basics
As one of New York's sandy Atlantic-side beaches, the Rockaways’ boardwalks are lined with apparel vendors and beachside concessions selling everything from frozen yogurt to fish tacos. Nearby surf shops sell beachwear, rent surfboards, and provide surf lessons to beginners. A great way to see the Rockaways is by water—guided or independent Jet Ski adventures typically take you to the nearby Jamaica Bay. Jet Ski rentals are often available in the Rockaways.
Things to Know Before You Go
Surfers should check out New York's favorite surfing beaches—between 67-69 Street, and 87-92 Street.
If you plan on hitting the beach, bring a swimsuit, sunblock, sunglasses, and a hat.
Ocean swimming is only allowed if there are lifeguards on duty.
Gourmands should consider packing burgers and grilling at one of the sanctioned barbecue areas.
How to Get There
You can visit Rockaway Beach on a day trip, by public transportation, or by car via the Belt Parkway. Public transit options include the A subway train with stops at Beach 67 Street, Beach 90th Street-Holland, and Beach 98 Street. The most fun way to travel is by ferry from Pier 11 in Manhattan; the boat stops at Beach 108th Street and Beach Channel Drive following about one hour of cruising time.
When to Get There
Rockaway Beach is most lively in June, July, and August, New York's summer months. You can expect daytime, weekend, and summer holiday crowds, particularly on Labor Day, Memorial Day, and the Fourth of July. During the week, you'll find more room on the beach though some food vendors may be closed.
How to Visit Jacob Riis Beach
The People's Beach at Jacob Riis Park—situated just west of Belle Harbor—is a fun and family-friendly oceanfront destination. You'll find ample paid parking, an art deco bathhouse, basketball courts, outdoor grills, food trucks, and boardwalk bars. This is the perfect place to meet friends and stretch out for a day of sunshine and swimming.
Ways to explore
As one of New York’s best sandy Atlantic-side beaches, Rockaway Beach’s boardwalks are lined with apparel vendors, beachside concessions selling everything from New York pizza to frozen yogurt to fish tacos, and plenty of volleyball courts and playgrounds for kids. Nearby surf shops sell beachwear, rent surfboards and Jet Skis, and provide surf lessons to beginners. A great way to see the Rockaways is by water—guided or independent Jet Ski adventures typically take you to nearby Jamaica Bay, too.
Accessibility
Rockaway Beach offers some accessibility features, including beach mats at selected locations for wheelchair access to the sand. Beach wheelchairs are available for loan from Beach 86 and the Shorefront Parkway Beach Operations Office.
Age limits
None, though children should be supervised by adults when near the water.
What to pack
Sunscreen, beach towels, water, snacks, beach toys for kids, cash for concessions, swimwear, extra set of clothes
What to wear
Swimwear for swimming, comfortable clothing, sun protection (hat, sunglasses), and sturdy footwear for the boardwalk. Layers are good, too, as it can get windy and chilly.
Not allowed
Swimming is not allowed in designated surfing areas or when lifeguards aren’t on duty. Signs and red flags show the areas where swimming is not permitted.
Amenities
Restrooms, showers, concession stands, rental kiosks, a plethora of recreational facilities, mobile charging stations
Address
Rockaway Beach is easy to get to—just head for the water.
Driving
Follow signs for Rockaway Beach via Marine Parkway Bridge or Cross Bay Veterans Memorial Bridge. Free parking lots are available at Beach 11-15 and Beach 94-95.
Public transportation
Take the A train to Far Rockaway or the Rockaway Park Shuttle (S) to Beach 116th Street station. You could also ride the NYC Ferry’s Rockaway route from Wall Street or Sunset Park.
Best times to visit
If you’re looking to swim, lifeguards are on duty daily from 10am to 6pm during beach season (typically May to September). To avoid the crowds, come even earlier.
Best days to visit
Weekdays are significantly less crowded than weekends. If you’re visiting Friday to Sunday, arrive early to secure a good spot—the beach fills up quickly.
Best months to visit
Late May through early September is the official beach season, and that’s when swimming is allowed and lifeguards are on duty. Outside that season, it’s significantly less crowded (though colder).
Special events
Rockstock happens in June, and the annual Rockaway Beach Bodysurf Competition takes place in September.
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