Summer Fun Guide: Our Favorite Beaches Around NYC

Point Pleasant Beach -- photo by Matthew Bietz — Point Pleasant Beach; photo by Matthew Bietz

The Return Of The Hipster…
Months after Superstorm Sandy wrecked havoc in the neighborhood, Rockaway Beach in Queens has reopened with four boardwalk islands at Beach 86th, 97th, 106th, and 116th Streets. Traditionally, we’ve recommended the area in the upper numbers, around 103rd, for quieter fun in the sun. Gourmet fare like lobster rolls and arepas should be returning, not to mention a brand new wine bar for parents.

…And The Return Of The Campy
Another comeback story to celebrate: Most of everyone’s favorite Coney Island attractions have been restored in time for the summer 2013 season—plus a few new Luna Park rides. Hop aboard the historic wooden Cyclone coaster, catch a Brooklyn Cyclones baseball game at MCU Park, and marvel at a magic show that takes you through the ages. This is also a great spot to enjoy dogs and fries as you people watch!

A Blast From The Past
On the Point Pleasant Beach slice of the Jersey Shore, you’ll find a mile-long boardwalk (dubbed Jenkinson’s) with an old-timey but not-too-cheesy vibe. Buff lifeguards cruise the beach on those groovy dune buggies, candy apples practically sell themselves, and mini golfers roam free.

The Swimmer’s Paradise
The world-class swimming hub in Wantagh, Jones Beach, boasts 6.5 miles of ocean beach, a gentler bathing area ideal for little ones, and two swimming pools. This stretch is also great for the avid shell collector or marine pet seeker, ripe with large horseshoe crabs along the shore. When you’re ready to towel off, head to the boardwalk for a round of miniature golf or visit the Theodore Roosevelt Nature Center.

Worth The Trek
While it lacks in proximity, Robert Moses Beach at Fire Island makes up for it in spades by being calmer, cleaner, and less crowded than its more conveniently located counterparts. Offering five miles of beautiful ocean beaches, as well as amenities like chair and umbrella rentals, concessions, and restrooms with showers, this beach is the perfect summer daytrip destination.

Visit Schoharie County

The Schoharie Valley is home to things grown well - trees, crops, produce, people. It is filled with inviting farms and businesses beckoning visitors to experience what locals love about the region. Its enchanting vistas, rich farmland, and strong sense of community are what make Schoharie County such a fascinating place to visit and to live.

Chickenshed NYC

Chickenshed is an inclusive theatre company that began in the UK in 1974. Chickenshed NYC is a young organization bringing that same ethos and unique methodology to the USA. Chickenshed&rsquo;s mission is to create entertaining and outstanding theatre that celebrates diversity and inspires positive change. Chickenshed's model of Inclusive Theatre is based in the belief that everyone can flourish when everyone is included. At Chickenshed everyone is welcome, everyone is valued, and together we produce remarkable theatre. We want to break down barriers between people to create a world without labels and where differences no longer divide. At Chickenshed, support is given to those who need it, and given by those who can . We believe that creative activities, self-expression and performance should be available to anyone who has the desire, no matter their background or circumstances. We know that when everyone has the opportunity to shine, amazing things happen. Chickenshed NYC provides programming for little ones, children and youth through semester-long activities and performances.

Dance Workshop - Long Island

Nestled in the heart of Lynbrook Village, Dance Workshop is a community-focused studio committed to dance education in a loving and safe environment. Dance Workshop offers Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Lyrical, Hip-Hop, Musical Theatre and Acro for ages 2+. They also offer a Pre-Professional Company track for dancers interested in taking their technique to the next level. Trial classes may be scheduled with the studio at the start of the season. Dance with the Dance Workshop! MaryAnn Grasso founded Dance Workshop in 1979. Her daughter Nanci later joined her at the helm and in 2016 established Dance Workshop on the Upper East Side of NYC. MaryAnn and Nanci have devoted their lives to dance education, community and the development of children; raising dancers and sound human beings alike. Dance Workshop has seen thousands of dancers pass through the doors. They believe dance has the power to elevate and change lives!