Whenever I go to NY and the weather is nice, my sis always takes me here. There's just so much to enjoy. The beach itself is nice, and while the water isn't clear like the Caribbean... we just have to accept that here haha. The lifeguards are attentive -- they even have a drone that I think looks out for sharks. The boardwalk has a bit to see, and there's one hub that's got a bit of everything -- pizza, hot dogs (including vegan ones), smoothies, poke bowls, alfajores, a bar... it's quite nice. There's a bunch of tables right outside and they usually have a dope DJ mix going on. It's just a shame that there's a big sign that tells people not to ride their bikes and scooters through that area, but they do anyway... shame! Parking can be hit or miss based on what time and what day you go. Sometimes we've parked right across the street from the boardwalk. Other times we've parked three blocks away. A lot of the parking is free, by the way. There is some pay-to-park, but we don't like that haha. Definitely go if you have some time! read more

Seven miles of the beach and still accessible by ferry (thank goodness!). My recent trip didn't exactly have me catching any rays or sun bathing, but Rockaway Beach is a really nice getaway. I don't go often, but apparently there are certain sections that have a cluster of bars and restaurants. I headed back to Beach 92 again. Long Island has the superior beaches, but Rockaway is above average and fun. Recommend. read more

Rockaway Beach and Boardwalk - Beaches Near Me - Far Rockaway, New York

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Buses can get you to the Rockaways but we've driven recently. Beautiful views over Cross Bay Bridge. The area has been improved since we last went at least a decade ago. Street parking is available but not that easy to get. I googled and read that the southern parking spots on Shore Front Pkwy are not for public use. Didn't want to take a chance so found one (north side) by Beach 95th St. Beach 95-97 area was pretty lively last Friday. Saw a schedule of events until 8/31. There was the surf music festival with live bands performing; also a stage performance of Romeo and Juliet at the Rockaway Beach ampitheater. Beach 97 has food vendors; lifeguard station. Update: Enjoying Off The Rails live performance on 8/29 right now. Restrooms were dirty and smelly though. I know that a lot of people use them but need better maintenance. Only 1 sink was left on 8/29. Showers were on the boardwalk making the area sandy and wet. The beach/sand was coarser and a lot more broken shells, some sharp, when compared to Long Beach NY which we've gone to recently. Waves were much stronger too. read more

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My go-to boardwalk when I need to clear my mind--feel the breeze, dip my toes in the sand, stroll along the rocks, or catch the light just right for a quick pic. It's my little reset spot. read more

Rockaway Beach and Boardwalk - Beach event - Beaches Near Me - Far Rockaway, New York

I visited this beach on Friday and I must say that I enjoyed it. The beach was quiet and there wasn't a lot of people. It was also clean. The bathroom was not clean. It needed to swept and mopped. Other than that I enjoyed the beach. The water was clear and I could see my feet. The weather was very nice that day and there was a cool breeze. It was a perfect and relaxing day. I would definitely return to this beach in the future. read more

Coney island and Jones beach are much better, Water is rough and dangerous, multiple shark sightings daily.

Nineteen eighty six - Q10 up Woodhaven all the way to where the A train drops off the beachy city folk and you can peer inside between the double doors to watch them come. Two by three, backpacks, umbrellas and hats - they didn't look like us, nobody looked like us - we were Metal tried and true, dressed the part and walked the walk. Not to sound rambunctious but we represented ourselves to one and all, we were young and pent up with highschool schoolboy rage and newly raised hormonal levels and a thirst for beer and deep pulls on the Marlboro reds. Brawls and burgers, blood and ketchup - boom boxes and batteries, brass knuckles and smokable trees. Glad I got out unphased. Today's Rockaway is a far cry from them in beautification and behaviors. I still walk the boardwalk and throw myself in the water no matter what time of year, no matter what I'm wearing, I'm going in - period. It's as if my dogs look at like little children - amazed and concerned as if to say "what the hell is he gonna do for an encore"? But that's just me and that's just how I like my beaches and days by myself and with my occasional comrades if they begin asking in March - I'll take em once by August 31st. read more

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Raised out in the rockaways it's the best water to swim... I live in Staten Island and cannot swim in the filthy water. Come early leave by five and it's all good... what's nice about 116th St. is that you have all the stores you can order food and believe it or not the water is cleaner than most people think. It's great for swimming. Yes, there are riptides. The water has been rough for decades beyond decades. Lol you just have to know your boundaries. Be careful and keep your kids close.. I've been swimming in this water for many years so I do know how that goes. read more

Rockaway Beach and Boardwalk - My setup early morning 7 am - Beaches Near Me - Far Rockaway, New York

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when you get on the beach, it's very dirty and then you have to deal with rude workers specifically men who just are very disrespectful. It was 8 o'clock. The beach closes at 9 o'clock. This man was trying to rush me out out of the bathroom while I was waiting for my friend who was on her Period to change her clothes and to make sure she's. If you were to show me a picture of this man, I could point him out and I can show you he ended up sweeping water on me and my friends toes. He was disrespectful and rude. then when you get on the beach, it is crowded and that's a good thing. All beaches are crowded but then it's not like you have any free freedom because certain parts are blocked off. And then lastly, the lifeguards are just pointlessly, blowing their whistles, not doing anything not getting off their stand to help a person who is deeply in the water. They're just blowing their whistles. This place is not the place to go if you're trying to have a nice family vacation the workers are rude and the beach is always full. read more

The beach is much more quiet and cleaner than Coney Island and Brighton Beach. Sand is much more cleaner and whiter than other beaches in NYC. There are bathrooms and a boardwalk all around the beach. There are sprinklers next to the bathrooms to rinse off the salt ocean water and sand. It's just that there's no swimming and currents are very strong and big so there are red signs saying, "No Swimming". Only surfers go there with their boards. Close to the A train. read more

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You never know what you may see or encounter. Just a beautiful place to live. Whales, dog parades, concerts, movies and a much more. read more

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Haven't been to this stop (98th) since 2019 so wasn't sure how many restaurants/concessions there would be! Happy to see that now, 5 years later, they're are still plenty of options and they accept card! Before it was cash only. Included pics of the restaurant counter offerings plus menus since there don't seem to be any (all as of July 2024). Most menu items are $14-$30 so be prepared to drop some money. The one "bar" has canned beer starting at $5 and draft $10. Not bad for the beach. read more

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If you are looking for a place that's quiet and enjoy the sound of the waves, Rockaway is the beach for you. I've been going all summer, and it never disappoints. I enjoy walking the boardwalk and seeing the beautiful sunset. The view is spectacular. I would advise you to bring your own toilet paper. The public restrooms tend to run out. They have all the amenities you need, shower heads, and even a sunblock machine. This beach is great to go to the summer. read more

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Long boardwalk. clean beach. Shower & bathroom available but parking is free but a challenge. Come early to score a spot. read more

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It is like I am in the Caribbean whenever I come to this pristine and beautiful beach with only an hour ferry ride from Pier 11/Wall Street. The water is clear and the sand is soft and silky as you walk along the shore, which clears my mind and soul. You could even bike on the boardwalk and may see some seals at certain spot by the water. It is a safe area with security control and the people are super friendly. There are many delicious eateries and bars along the boardwalk and the neighborhood. I particularly love "Tap That" bar where you could pour your own beer, wine and magaritas with delicious food including yummy streak frites! read more

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Recently, I had the chance to interview Matthew S., a Yelper since 2012, and part of the Elite Squad since 2015. I always like to interview yelpers concerning a review they write; this "business" being the one I picked to interview him. Try to follow along, as his answers can be tedious. So, why a beach in the winter? I don't know, I guess I have some melancholy, watching the angry ocean and waves beat up the sand, a sort of dark horizon meeting the open sea into the great unknown. All that while a winter breeze comes over you, forcing you to turn your back against all that anguish. I guess that's what northerners do, I guess. Is anything open nearby? Or what is there to do? Well, somewhat. Some businesses shut down for the winter. But there's always the boardwalk and the beautiful ocean to observe at if you are the romantic type. I've included pictures. Do you have to drive to get there? If you go in the winter months you should have no issues parking. Summer months get tricky. I would definitely take the train unless you intend on getting there real early. After all, the Rockaway Shuttle takes you door to door! Just don't get your A trains mixed up! I hear there's a memorial too. What's that all about? You know, I really wanted to get a picture of the memorial dedicated to the passengers that were killed on American Airlines flight 587 to the Dominican Republic. It was a flight just after 9/11, and sadly all passengers and crew were killed due to pilot error. A very sad day, and I recommend you go and check it out. You will be moved. Easy access from Manhattan? Yes and no. It's a good hour or so on the subway, and unless you like sitting in gridlock, get there early. Otherwise you are in for a long ride. Dog friendly? Not sure. I guess in the winter time you can bring your dog on the boardwalk. Definitely not in high season. What about Coney Island? Coney Island has the rides and attractions, but the Rockaways has the recreational activities. It's all preference. Would you recommend this beach to fellow Yelpers? Yes! Just remember, it isn't Florida, but I think this is a great northeastern beach that doesn't try to be more than what it is. And that's fine with me! read more

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Super nice beach and boardwalk. Very clean and the boardwalk is nice and fun to walk down. On the day I went, it was insanely windy so we were only able to stay for about 30 mins before the whipping sand got to be too much. Looking forward to coming back! It was fun taking the subways over the water on the way there and the ferry back to Manhattan on the way back. read more

Rockaway Beach and Boardwalk - Beaches Near Me - Far Rockaway, New York

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The water is alright. The people are nice, and the sand is not the worst but not as clean as youd find on Long Island beaches. However, the worst part of the Rockaway beaches is the parking. If you don't have a buddy who lives in the area you will be resigned to wake up and arrive here at the crack of down for good parking or pay $30+ for parking in a lot or some random person's driveway. The concession stands are readily accessible and capable of feeding a gang of hungry bellies. And some locations offer the option of ordering online to make the wait bearable. You also have the option of eateries in the area which are more reasonably priced albeit away from the shoreline. Then there are the independent vendors who walk the beach offering their wares. While I often head to Long Island for beach solace, meditation and good vibes, the Rockaways are where I like to hang out with people who want more of a party vibe. I cannot think of one time where I've been and haven't made a new friend or 3. The crowd is definitely livelier but the beach is not as nice. I definitely would recommend water shoes if your feet/skin are sensitive because the shore can have lots of pebbles and shells which may be a bother to some. The boardwalk is standard but no rules on direction and sections like in some other spots. Not perfect but it surely will do when looking for a quick trip to the beach without high expectations. Bathrooms are clean and staffed by an attendant. No fee to access the beach and I always see plenty of attentive lifeguards on standby. read more

Rockaway Beach and Boardwalk - Picturesque views. Sand could be cleaner. - Beaches Near Me - Far Rockaway, New York

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I'm currently sitting in my car and warming my hands back up after running, jogging and walking up and down 1/3rd of Rockaway beach and boardwalk. I was able to watch as the sun set and the sky turned from orange to purple to near black. On a evening like tonight, you practically have the entire beach to yourself, and the only noises you hear are that of the ocean waves crashing, a few birds playing, and the occasional A train in the distance. I'm grateful that I was able to come out here this evening and enjoy just a beautiful night. Cheers to many more! read more

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...so I used to visit Rockaway beach when I was a teenager with my dad and uncles...they would come here to fish..with that said I haven't been back since 2000... Wow!! I'm very impressed with how much changes have transpired here...sadly when hurricane sandy hit in 2012 there were a lot of damages... Good news! The boardwalk is so clean and you will find lots of benches where folks sit and enjoy the view of the Atlantic Ocean...I like how they have cute pictures of the sunsets, surfers and locals through out the boardwalk..definitely check it out.. There are tons of local surfers at the beach as well.., apparently this is the only beach in the nyc area that allows you to surf here. You'll find a few fishermen here...go up and say hi! Overall great beach and stick around to watch the sunsets from the boardwalk! read more

Rockaway Beach and Boardwalk - Beaches Near Me - Far Rockaway, New York

It's nice on days when it's not too crowded. Parking is a challenge on hot summer days. I don't bother on summer wknds, as it is very hard to find parking. They need more outdoor shower/bathroom facilities below beach 90s. read more

Rockaway isn't the best beach in the New York State area; the water isn't clear, there is an insane collection of seashells and rocks to walk on before you can start swimming, there aren't many waves, and the ground keeps becoming deep and shallow as you continue going in, which is a surprise, to say the least, especially if you are vertically challenged like me. But it's free, is easily accessible by subway and ferry, and has a boardwalk with food and drink options. It's worth a day trip if the weather is hot enough! Take the free shuttle all the way to the left side for the People's Beach, which is the area for everyone, but beware that there will be topless women and g-strung men. Also, check out the app "Lido." They're offering on-demand beach butlers at Rockaway for a price. For those who want to feel like they're on vacation, it's a great idea. read more

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Beautiful getaway from the hustle and bustle of the city. You better know how to swim or stay out of this water. Seriously read more

Rockaway Beach and Boardwalk - Monster wave brewing - Beaches Near Me - Far Rockaway, New York

I was visiting iconic neighboring bar that was along the shoreline of the Rockaway Beach and Boardwalk. Rockaway Beach & Boardwalk has been a public park since approximately 1930's. During the season, one may find surfers to swimmers, boardwalk strollers, and the bike riders on the boardwalk. Rockaway Beach is a year-round resource for residents all along the Rockaway peninsula, and it surely comes alive during the summer. This scenic seaside boardwalk & beach had an uplift post Hurricane Sandy that has brought out beauty and appearance of the park. Being a surfer myself, this is the only city legal surfing beach which is located between 67-69 Street and 87-92 Street. One would also fine a variety of playgrounds and many other outdoor activities for anyone to enjoy. Unfortunately, it was a cold day in November that we decided to visit the area, but the scenic views of the beach & boardwalk were wonderful without the crowded beach park one would find during the season. . read more

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It's a nicer & cleaner beach than Coney, Brighton & Manhattan beach. But I like Long Beach & Jones Beach slightly better (although Long Beach does not offer any eating options on the beach... ). We hate the parking situation! Absolutely horrendous! Either camp over night or just pray. Seriously tho, I think getting there around 9am 'ish; you might have a good chance of a spot closer to the beach. We found a spot near the B108 entrance... about 2 blocks away. The concessions are only a block walk... not a bad walk. Bring a blanket, some water, snacks and umbrella! Then you are all set! The food is pretty pricey... we spent over $60... on lunch... and we were still hungry. Love that it's so clean; they did a good job rebuilding after Sandy... and hopefully it will continue to rebuild! read more

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The beach is pretty big except the waves are really hard and the beach goes out to the ocean. She had to be careful if you bring the kids and dogs are allowed so you could bring your pets if you want to. There's also bathroom and a boardwalk that has a restaurant that you could go to. read more

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I frequently come to Rockaway Beach with my family. Not a favorite beach of mine but if you come during the right times, you will find it nice. On a scale of Coney Island to (insert any beach in Long Island), Far Rockaway would come somewhere in the middle. From my experience, it was cleaner than Coney Island but it still felt sketchy. I smelled weed the whole time and I'm not referring to seaweed. Like Coney Island, you can come here through public transportation but I haven't tried that as we always come by car. We usually come around the evenings after 6 PM and that's when the crowds start to dwindle and we usually get lucky with parking. read more

Rockaway Beach and Boardwalk - Beaches Near Me - Far Rockaway, New York

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Out of the blue, I asked a friend to join me for a day on the beach. It had been decades since visiting Rockaway beach. My goodness!! We both were pleasantly surprised by the development of the board walk. We parked near the brand new skate park just steps from the beach. The kids were out doing some impressive tricks. The beach is super clean. No debris anywhere. The were friendly patrol ladies ( on foot and 4 wheelers) making sure everyone was following the guidelines of social distancing and swimming. The weather was great and we stayed until the sun began to set. I will definitely go back again. A free clean beach in NY is so rare. Check it out for yourself. read more

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A very accessible and cheap getaway if you want to stay close to the city, though I will say NYC beaches are kind of a downer if you've been anywhere else. Still, for the public access and less murky waters, you can do a whole lot worse than Rockaway. Pros: (+) Unless you get seasick, I highly recommend the ferry that leaves from Wall Street over the A train. You get some beautiful views of lower Manhattan, the Statue of Liberty, and Coney Island with some nice river breezes, all for the same price of a subway ride. We went on a slightly overcast weekend morning and the lines to get on the ferry weren't bad at all, with plentiful seats on the upper deck to drink in the sights. The ride is about an hour, with one stop in Sunset Park. (+) Waters seemed a little clearer than the Manhattan Beach/Brighton beach area, though with any city beach, there's a nice slick of SPF gleaming on top. (+) There's a shuttle from the ferry stop to Jacob Riis but we missed it, didn't know the schedule, and decided to just Uber around. Cons: (-) Spotted some trash (plastic bottles, wrappers) throughout the sand, which was rough and well-traversed with hills and valleys, so if you only bring a towel, be prepared to try to hammer out a smooth spot before lying down or else suffer a sore back. (-) A bunch of things are closed thanks to COVID, including the umbrella/beach chair rentals and some food stalls. The only place open near where we were was the portion of the beach bazaar offering a limited menu and drinks. Probably the best bet for getting a bite right when you get off the ferry stop is a tiny bagel shop near the boardwalk. (-) The sand right near the water is full of sharp pebbles and shells. I had to hop around like I was playing a game of hot coals to get to a smoother part further into the water. read more

Very nicely re-done boardwalk after Hurricane Sandy decimated the area. Great for a jog or stroll along the ocean. But, duuuuude, this a freaking schlep from the Upper East Side to get to. The MTA, as usual, was not fully working on the day I came here last week to run a 5 mile race, as the A train was stopping at JFK/Howard Beach station. Then, they herded us into slow-ass moving shuttles to Rockaway Beach. Just fair warning to check the MTA website before heading out here. Took hours back and forth by subway. Otherwise, the boardwalk offers terrific views along the ocean. The beach was clean and scenic. Bathrooms and concession stands. Bar and dining options close by within walking distance. There is also a ferry service option from lower Manhattan back and forth. Worth a day trip on a nice Spring or Summer weekend. read more

I made my annual trip to Rockaway Beach today. It was a humid, sunny day, temperature around 86 degrees. I like to visit Beach 98 street because it has a clean bathroom, and a concession stand. The Beach was only slightly crowded, and I parked my self as close to the water as I could. What is there to like about Rockaway Beach? The boardwalk is excellent, the sand is clean, the water is clean, and the lifeguards are on top of their game. The ocean currents were very strong today because of Hurricane Ida. I took a dip to cool off but I was reluctant to go out too far. I'll be back next year. read more

Rockaway Beach and Boardwalk - Beaches Near Me - Far Rockaway, New York

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This was our first time visiting this beach and I am very happy we did. We went to the 90 st one is conveniently located by where the food and bathrooms and shower. The water is amazingly warm. The only downside I will think is that there is a lot of seaweed. But we are definitely coming back here. read more

Rockaway Beach and Boardwalk - I cropped my daughter face - Beaches Near Me - Far Rockaway, New York

My favorite beach in the area. There's a part that is closed off to only surfers, which is pretty cool. The sand is fairly clean and the water is not too rough. There's also plenty of food and drink options along the boardwalk. Overall, a good place to spend the day and lay around soaking in the sun. read more

We got to explore Rockaway beach several times this summer and I will say the experience was different each time, but overall positive for us. The waters had a change of mood and so did the crowd, making each visit unique. For example one day, we came across environmentalist eager to maintain the beach clean (we helped). Another time, several fiestas blessed the beach (we enjoyed the music and dancing from a distance --social distancing). Another time, the police and helicopter patrol took over the beach for hours searching for a swimmer missing in the water (sad). The next time, the beach was filled with surfers and smokers. Another time was family FUN day and the next, quiet chill! If you're a person who doesn't mind change and inconsistency, then I recommend this beach. Warning, finding parking quickly in the area could be challenging. Plenty of public transportation options available to get to rockaway. Also, I think due to the COVID pandemic, the beach wasn't as crowded. The areas we visited, for the most part, were clean, safe and family friendly. Visitors practiced social distancing and were respectful. read more

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Rockaway has become my go to beach simply because it is convenient specially on those crazy hot summer days when all u want to do is cool off in the water. Easy to get to by public transportation I came to find this out during the pandemic u can get here by Train or Bus takes longer but cheaper than an Uber. Parking is awful the headache of getting a spot is too much u really are better off by public transportation or Cabs. The lower beach numbers tend to be less crowded , higher ones more so I think it's because the higher numbers have more amenities bathrooms , places to eat & showers. Helpful that u can also buy drinks, ice cream on the beach from the vendors they come in handy. U can even bring your fur babies , I've seen enough here although that hot ass sun may not be the best for them. Overall Rockaway has remained a decent beach, clean water most of the time can't fault the ocean for the seaweed , shells etc. good way to spend a nice summer day. read more

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Gentrification at it's best and worst. I don't mind it. always a good time at this beach. Sanitation needs improvement read more

Rockaway Beach and Boardwalk - Beaches Near Me - Far Rockaway, New York

I love Rockaway Beach! First of all, it's free. Unlike so many other beaches in the area that you need to pay for. I went here with my sister. It was really crowded, but we still found space on the sand near the water to sit. I loved it. It was exactly what I was looking for: a place near the water, pretty quiet, easily accessible, street parking, etc. We brought food and had a picnic on the beach - it was enjoyable. I was also pretty surprised that it so quiet and peaceful even though it was really crowded. I would definitely come back here. read more

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Rockaway has become our go-to spot for the summer. We go on weekends and it's clean, safe, and people are respectful. If anything, it feels pretty family-friendly compared to other beaches. Our three-year-old loves it. He loves the beach, the skatepark, the playground, and even the burger spot Rippers. It's a full day of fun that - on more than one occasion - has ended with a sandy, sweaty three-year-old dancing to live music while eating or getting ready to eat a burger and fries. Tough to beat that. read more

Rockaway Beach and Boardwalk - Its not just "the beach," our three-year-old actually knows Rockaway by name. - Beaches Near Me - Far Rockaway, New York

Grew up here. No better place in the world. Lots of memories here, especially summer nights. read more

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Super great thing the community has set up. And provided and Greta experience for my son and I for kayaking .