7 Kid-Friendly Beaches Near NYC That Are Perfect For Families
Looking for the perfect little summer escape with your kids? Head to one of NYC’s amazing nearby kid-friendly beaches which are serene and clean oases that are safe for families of all ages and sizes! From the lively boardwalks of Coney Island to the serene sands of Orchard Beach, these family-friendly beaches are a good spot to soak up the sun, splash around in the waves, and build sandcastles for hours on end!
Bookmark these kid-friendly options for your next NYC day trip getaway:
1. Jones Beach
Just outside of New York City you’ll find Jones Beach, a family-friendly spot along the Atlantic Ocean that stretches a little over 6 miles. Its wide sandy beaches and on-duty lifeguards make it a safe spot to bring the kiddos, and its other attractions make it more of a coastal destination than just a regular old beach.
Sure, they’ll be able to build sandcastles and play beach games, but the real fun happens afterward at the Central Mall Area where there’s an awesome boardwalk and playground. Or, stop by the Jones Beach Nature Center to see some interactive and educational exhibits, hit the West Bathhouse Pool to swim, or play mini golf with the family. There’s so much to do around Jones Beach.
2. Coney Island Beach
Coney Island Beach truly has it all, from true sandy beaches to family attractions. Of course its shore is great for toddlers and kids to play and build sandcastles, but the boardwalk and surrounding area is equally attractive. The nearby Luna Park has dozens of amusement park rides and games to partake in (we’re looking at you Cyclone and Wonder Wheel), and it’s only steps away from the world famous Nathan’s Famous Hot Dogs stand. A piece of advice for Coney Island Beach is going early in the day because the shore can become packed with people as the day goes on, especially on weekends!
3. Rockaway Beach
Rockaway Beach is one of our favorite beaches in NYC in general, and it’s one of the best family-friendly ones…starting with the journey over. Hop aboard the NYC Ferry, where you can ride the open-air boat through the water with incredible breeze and splashes on the way, kids will surely love this. When you get there, you’ll be delighted to a massive 170 acre beach area, playgrounds, picnic areas, concession stands, and a whole lot more.
Our tip: bring them to the Beach 30th Street Playground for additional water fun if the beach isn’t really their thing.
4. Orchard Beach
This man-made beach in The Bronx sometimes known as “The Riviera of New York City” is a great spot to bring the little ones, thanks to its crescent-shaped beach and small waves. Hop on the subway to get there (it’s easy) and spend some hours on the cute sand beach, walking the promenade, and frolicking one of the two playgrounds. The views of the Long Island Sound are pretty great, the water is perfect for little ones, and there’s plenty of concession stands, sports courts, snack bars, changing areas and showers, and picnic spots. It’s also close to City Island, where you can take the kids for a tasty Italian meal after.
5. Jacob Riis Beach
Jacob Riis Beach is part of the Gateway National Recreation Area, which means it’s one of the most well kept beaches near NYC. There’s a decent boardwalk, playgrounds, picnics, and even a historic bathhouse to check out. We recommend taking the ferry from Manhattan’s Pier 11 and grabbing a bunch of snacks before you hit the beach, since the shore is a fair walk down from the boardwalk.
6. Sunken Meadows State Park
Sunken Meadows State Park is located on Long Island’s North Shore and is one of the best for families and children. The beach itself has sandy beaches and calm waters, and the 3/4 mile boardwalk and playgrounds provide hours of fun to be had. Plus, it’s also one of the most popular picnic spots in the area, as well as for families with teens, since there’s a nearby golf course too.
7. Midland Beach
Head over to Staten Island to find Midland Beach, which is a quaint little family-friendly beach just beyond the city. It’s home to lifeguard-supervised swimming areas, several well-maintained playgrounds, and interactive spray showers…making it a great place to bring kids. Let them splash around in The Sea Turtle Fountain and walk the Franklin D. Roosevelt Boardwalk, all while taking incredible views of the Verrazano-Narrows Bridge.
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