Rockin' New York City Beaches for Kids! 🎉
Coney Island, Brooklyn
Top-Rated Beaches Close to NYC in 2025: A Handy Guide for Family Vacations
The Vibe: This renowned "People's Playground" is loaded with amusement parks, food vendors, and the NY Aquarium! While it can be bustling, it's a perfect spot to grab some beach and fun before hitting other attractions.
Stuff to Do: Luna Park and Deno's Wonder Wheel, B&B Carousell, Phoenix Roller Coaster, NY Aquarium, and minor league baseball at MCU Park. Check out eight bathrooms, but remember they aren't the cleanest, and changing kids within isn't encouraged.
Munch Time: Expect the classics on the boardwalk - Nathan's Famous hot dogs, as well as Tom's Brooklyn burgers and shakes. For a local-approved guide to dining in the area, examine our recommendations.
Cost: Beach is free, but budget for special attractions.
Hours: Boardwalk closes from 1am-5am.
Getting There: Skip the parking chaos and opt for subway (D, F, N, or Q trains to Coney Island-Stillwell Avenue station), with the beach and attractions across the street from the train.
Check out our Coney Island & Brighton Beach Kids Neighborhood Guide for more info!
Jacob Riis Beach, Queens
The Vibe: With a mix of 20-somethings and families, this place is enjoying a resurgence. In some areas, there's restricted access due to erosion.
Stuff to Do: Art Deco bathhouse with food vendors and retail, summer programming, and sandy beach. Bathrooms are clean and spacious.
Munch Time: Organic, artisanal eats available at Riis Beach Co. Think homemade barbecue, fresh seafood, poke bowls, and smashburgers (plus adult drinks).
Cost: Beach is free, but parking fee is $20 if you drive.
Hours: Daily, 6am-10pm.
Getting There: Take the subway (2 train to Q35 bus), or head to [downtown Manhattan's Pier 11] for the ferry with a free shuttle bus or Q35 connection.
Rockaway Beach, Queens
The Vibe: This is the only place to surf in NYC, so waves can be powerful. Safety first for novice swimmers! The food options have improved, and it has a family-friendly feel.
Stuff to Do: Eight playgrounds along the beach, surf lessons, and rentals, along with several beachfront bathrooms.
Munch Time: Concessions on the beach, or try Jerk chicken, Venezuelan arepas, lobster rolls, Korean food, and barbecue nearby.
Cost: Free to enjoy the beach.
Hours: Boardwalk closed 10pm-6am.
Getting There: Take the A train to the last stop (Broad Channel), then the S shuttle to various stops along Rockaway Beach.
Simply, head to our Rockaway Kids Neighborhood Guide for additional details!
FUN FACT: Rockaway Bazaar's food options have come a LONG way since serving traditional concession fare! 🍔☀️🌬️
In this vibrant city, the water parks at Coney Island and Rockaway Beach offer a thrilling addition to the lifestyle, perfect for families seeking home-and-garden fun by the seaside. Furthermore, for those seeking travel adventures beyond the beach, a trip to the resurging Jacob Riis Beach in Queens offers a blend of artisanal eats and summer programs.
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