Best Summer Beach Destinations in Queens, New York, United States
1. Rockaway Beach
A popular summer destination known for its 7-mile boardwalk and strong surf. Ideal for both sunbathing and water sports.
- Surfing Opportunities: Consistent waves make it perfect for surfing
- Boardwalk Activities: Numerous food vendors, volleyball courts, and beach games along the boardwalk
- Public Transportation Access: Easily reachable via A train or bus
2. Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir
A unique beach spot in the heart of Queens, surrounded by a large park. Features a man-made lake perfect for swimming and kayaking.
- Urban Oasis: Beach experience within a park setting
- Kayaking Availability: Kayak rentals available for exploring the reservoir
- Central Location: Conveniently located in Central Park, accessible by subway
3. Fort Tilden Beach
A more secluded beach with pristine sand and beautiful coastal views. Great for picnicking and enjoying nature.
- Natural Beauty: Undeveloped coastline offering a natural beach experience
- Picnic Spots: Plenty of designated picnic areas for a seaside lunch
- Transportation Challenge: Requires a shuttle bus or biking to access
4. Gerritsen Beach
A family-friendly beach with calm waters and beautiful views of the city skyline. Ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking.
- Calm Waters: Sheltered waters great for swimming with kids
- City Skyline Views: Stunning views of Manhattan and the city skyline
- Community Atmosphere: Friendly, welcoming atmosphere among locals
5. Silver Beach
A peaceful beach located within the Gateway National Recreation Area. Offers quieter waters and a serene environment.
- Quiet Environment: Less crowded, offering a more tranquil experience
- Natural Wildlife: Abundant bird and marine life observation opportunities
- Park Activities: Adjacent to other park amenities like hiking trails and picnic areas
6. Broad Channel Beach
A beach located on a small island in Jamaica Bay. Known for its stunning views and peaceful atmosphere.
- Island Setting: Beach experience on a small, tranquil island
- Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge: Close proximity to the wildlife refuge for bird watching and nature exploration
- Seasonal Access: Accessible only by private boat or ferry service during summer months
7. Manhattan Beach
A smaller, less crowded beach perfect for a laid-back day at the shore. Ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking.
- Quieter Environment: Less crowded than other nearby beaches
- Public Art: Public art installations along the beach and boardwalk
- Community Events: Various community events held throughout the summer months
8. Oak Island Beach
A secluded beach located on a small island in Jamaica Bay. Offers peaceful waters and beautiful views of the bay.
- Island Setting: Beach experience on a small, tranquil island
- Peaceful Waters: Calm waters ideal for swimming and wading
- Access Challenge: Accessible only by private boat or ferry service during summer months
9. Neponsit Beach
A beautiful and clean beach located in the Rockaways. Known for its soft sand and scenic views.
- Scenic Views: Stunning views of the ocean and city skyline
- Soft Sand: Pristine, soft sand perfect for sunbathing
- Community Atmosphere: Friendly, welcoming atmosphere among locals
10. Breezy Point Beach
A picturesque beach located in the Rockaways. Known for its beautiful sunsets and vibrant community.
- Sunset Views: Breathtaking sunset views over the ocean
- Community Atmosphere: Vibrant, tight-knit community atmosphere
- Dining Options: Several beachside restaurants and bars nearby
11. Little Neck Bay Park
A park featuring a small, secluded beach. Offers peaceful surroundings for picnicking and relaxation.
- Secluded Environment: More private, quiet beach experience
- Picnic Spots: Ample picnic tables and grills for outdoor dining
- Community Events: Various community events held throughout the summer months
12. Twin Islands Beach
A beach located on two small islands in Jamaica Bay. Offers calm waters and beautiful views of the bay.
- Island Setting: Beach experience on a small, tranquil island
- Calm Waters: Peaceful waters ideal for swimming and wading
- Access Challenge: Accessible only by private boat or ferry service during summer months
13. Plumb Beach
A clean and quiet beach located in the Gateway National Recreation Area. Offers a peaceful environment for sunbathing and swimming.
- Quiet Environment: Less crowded, offering a more tranquil experience
- Natural Wildlife: Abundant bird and marine life observation opportunities
- Park Activities: Adjacent to other park amenities like hiking trails and picnic areas
14. Woodhaven Beach
A small but charming beach located in the Rockaways. Known for its clean waters and scenic views.
- Scenic Views: Stunning views of the ocean and city skyline
- Clean Waters: Well-maintained, clean waters for swimming
- Community Atmosphere: Friendly, welcoming atmosphere among locals
15. Beach 90th Street
A popular beach in the Rockaways with a vibrant atmosphere and beautiful ocean views.
- Vibrant Atmosphere: Lively, bustling beach environment
- Ocean Views: Stunning views of the ocean and city skyline
- Water Sports Opportunities: Offers jet-skiing, paddleboarding, and other water sports