The 12 top beaches in New York State, ranging from serene retreats to vibrant party spots

When seeking a beach in New York State, the glitzy Hamptons and the nostalgic charm of Coney Island – both near New York City – often take center stage. However, there are numerous other sandy paradises waiting to be discovered throughout the Empire State.

Regardless of your destination, always check the water quality before taking a dip. New York’s state park system features 67 beaches that regularly conduct water tests at least once a week, with results available online, at park offices, and at beaches with significant visitor traffic.

Here are 12 of our top picks, starting with those closest to Manhattan.

1. Rockaway Beach, Queens

The Ramones may have put Rockaway Beach on the map in the 1970s, but it has since solidified its status as a premier summer destination, known for its fantastic waves, delicious food, and inviting sandy shoreline.

This iconic Queens location features the city’s only authorized surfing beaches, located between Beach 67th and 69th Streets and between 87th and 92nd Streets. Beginners can take lessons at Locals Surf School, while seasoned surfers can rent boards and equipment from various nearby shops.

Local Tip: For snacks and drinks, check out the concession stands at 87th, 96th, and 106th Streets, or stray off the boardwalk to Tacoway Beach, a seasonal spot famous for its fish tacos that are worth the subway trip. Try arepas at Caracas on Beach 105th Street or fresh seafood at La Cevicheria on Beach 97th Street. Party-goers can enjoy live music until late at Rippers, located just east of Beach 90th.

2. Orchard Beach, the Bronx

Known as the 'Riviera of New York' since its debut in the 1930s, Orchard Beach is the sole beach in the Bronx and continues to be a popular destination today.

If you're seeking tranquility, look elsewhere. With playgrounds, snack bars, a bustling promenade featuring restaurants and shops, plus numerous basketball, volleyball, and handball courts, this 1.1-mile beach is a vibrant summer hotspot. The gentle waves, thanks to its location on Long Island Sound, and the beach mats along with two accessible wheelchairs available upon request make the sandy area easy to enjoy.

3. Coney Island and Brighton Beach, Brooklyn

Situated at Brooklyn’s southern edge, Coney Island was established as a resort in the 1800s, and by the early 1900s, its amusement park rides were attracting crowds from all five boroughs. While its expansive beach may not be the tidiest, the boardwalk offers unparalleled opportunities for people-watching.

Just a stone's throw from the beach, Luna Park features thrilling rides and games. Don't miss the Cyclone, a historic wooden roller coaster from 1927 that's a true New York City icon, even if it gives you a bit of a jolt.

If the weather turns or you need a break from the sun, the nearby Coney Island Museum showcases the vibrant history of the area. Also close by is the NY Aquarium for aquatic adventures.

A short walk along the beach or boardwalk leads to Brighton Beach, a more relaxed spot where locals gather to socialize, exercise, and enjoy the fresh air.

Planning Tip: After soaking up the sun, venture off the Brighton Beach boardwalk for a delightful Russian or Ukrainian meal (and perhaps some vodka) in this area often called Little Odessa. We particularly enjoy the Uyghur dumplings at Kashkar Cafe.

4. Jacob Riis Park Beach, Queens

Nestled on the Rockaway peninsula between Jamaica Bay and the Atlantic Ocean, Jacob Riis Park features a beloved stretch of sand known as the 'People’s Beach,' attracting tens of thousands of sunbathers—many opting for a topless tan—during the summer.

As part of the expansive Gateway National Recreation Area, which spans 27,000 acres across parts of New Jersey, Queens, Brooklyn, and Staten Island, this historic LGBTIQ+ landmark showcases a beautifully restored 1930s art deco bathhouse, a pitch-and-putt golf course, and a variety of concessions—think frozen guava margaritas, key-lime piña coladas, lobster rolls, and fried clams—at the bustling Riis Park Beach Bazaar.

5. Long Beach, Long Island

Situated on the South Shore of Long Island, right in the heart of the barrier island that shares its name, Long Beach is less than an hour from Manhattan via the Long Island Railroad. Yet, upon arrival, it feels worlds away. With its pristine sands and perfect surf, Ocean Beach Park feels like a secluded paradise, with only the crowds to remind you of its proximity to the city.

This -mile stretch of beach ranks among the best on the island, perfectly suited for families. It features numerous playgrounds for young children and a wealth of activities for older kids, including surf lessons, bike rentals, and a 2.25-mile boardwalk to wander. Food carts and concession stands offer tasty burgers and ice cream treats.

One drawback is the $15 day-use fee. You can purchase passes (card payments only) at specific beach entrances or opt for digital passes online.

Planning Tip: The Long Island Rail Road offers weekend beach packages during the summer, which typically include discounted beach entry, a trolley voucher for Long Beach, and round-trip train tickets, with trains departing from both New York's Penn Station and Atlantic Terminal in Brooklyn.

6. Jones Beach, Long Island

Just a short leap across a narrow inlet east of Long Beach, Jones Beach Island is renowned for having one of the finest beaches on Long Island. Its namesake state park is hugely popular, attracting around six million visitors each year. This popularity is partly due to the open-air amphitheater, which offers a stunning view of the bay and hosts top-tier acts throughout the summer.

However, the beach itself is equally deserving of praise. It features over 6 miles of pristine white sand and a 2-mile boardwalk adorned with restaurants, cafes, and concession stands. You can explore the meandering bike paths, indulge in peaceful activities like fishing and birdwatching, or enjoy games like miniature golf and shuffleboard—there’s plenty to keep everyone entertained.

7. Fire Island, Long Island

Accessible solely by ferry, car-free Fire Island—another barrier island located east of Jones Beach—offers a refreshing escape from the traffic congestion typical of the rest of Long Island.

The ferry will take you to several locations across the 32-mile-long island, but for your first trip, disembark at Ocean Beach, a charming village with postcard-perfect shops and eateries, providing a smooth introduction to island living. If you're visiting for Pride or looking for LGBTIQ+ communities throughout the year, Cherry Grove and the Pines are the places to be.

For lively house shares, bars, and a bustling social scene, Kismet is the place to be. If you prefer a more relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere, Saltaire is worth a visit.

Planning Tip: When traveling to Fire Island from NYC for a day trip, allocate at least two hours for the journey each way, factoring in the ferry and train rides. If you plan to stay overnight, it's wise to book your accommodations early due to limited options.

8. Plattsburgh City Beach, Plattsburgh

Situated in the far northeast of New York on Lake Champlain, Plattsburgh City Beach is one of the largest freshwater beaches in the state, directly opposite Vermont and the scenic Green Mountains.

Beyond its breathtaking views, this beach is perfect for an active day—kayaks and stand-up paddleboards are available for rent—and it’s also a great spot for outings with your furry friends. Unlike many other beaches in New York, dogs are allowed here.

9. Montauk

No compilation of New York beaches would be complete without including the Hamptons. Once a tranquil fishing village at the eastern tip of Long Island, it attracted artists, surfers, and creatives. Today, Montauk transforms into a lively party destination during peak summer months while still retaining its laid-back charm during the off-season.

Just under two miles from the Long Island Rail Road terminal, family-friendly Kirk Park Beach offers public restrooms and lifeguards on duty. If you prefer to mingle with the surfing crowd, find your spot on the sands at Ditch Plains, located just east of the village center.

Local Tip: As one of New York's top state parks for biodiversity, Hither Hills offers a quieter alternative to the bustling town beaches, with options to book a campsite for an overnight stay. For a more secluded experience, lace up your hiking boots and explore the Amsterdam Beach Preserve, where a serene, wooded path leads to scenic bluffs overlooking the ocean and a rocky beach free from crowds.

10. Million Dollar Beach, Lake George

While New York's Atlantic beaches get plenty of love, its freshwater lakes deserve recognition too. Nestled about an hour north of Albany in the Adirondacks, you'll find one of the finest beaches in upstate New York along Lake George.

Known as Million Dollar Beach due to its opening cost in 1951, this expansive 51-acre sandy shoreline is managed by the state and features a bathhouse, a volleyball court, and grills and picnic tables for outdoor dining.

11. Green Lakes State Park

Located just outside Syracuse in the eastern Finger Lakes region, Green Lakes State Park features two stunningly clear lakes, one offering a sandy beach for swimming and the other recognized as a National Natural Landmark.

The beach is a major attraction, boasting a sandy expanse that overlooks the blue-green waters, surrounded by lush woods, complete with a lifeguard, modern bathhouse, and concessions. However, the lakes themselves are the true highlights. Reaching depths of nearly 200 feet, these meromictic lakes do not mix their layers of water, a fascinating and rare phenomenon. With fewer than 20 meromictic lakes in the U.S., this duo is particularly unique, displaying their striking aqua color due to mineral content rather than biological sources like algae or phytoplankton.

12. Bennett Beach, Lake Erie

Located about 20 miles south of Buffalo along the Lake Erie coastline, Bennett Beach is a sandy (though somewhat rocky) freshwater beach featuring gentle waves, bordered by grassy fields, wildflowers, and dunes. This popular Angola spot promotes a family-friendly environment—loud music and alcohol are strictly banned, and swimming is permitted only when a lifeguard is present. However, dogs and items such as life jackets, rafts, and kayaks are not allowed on the premises.

Nonetheless, whether you're casting for trout in the nearby creek or observing waterfowl, shorebirds, and the occasional eagle, Bennett Beach offers plenty to enjoy throughout the day, particularly if you linger to witness the sunset over the lake.