Rockaway Beach: Sun, Surf, and Food

Enjoying the Coastal Charm of Rockaway Beach

Author

Adriano Blog
May 14, 2024

Rockaway Beach, located in the borough of Queens, is a perfect destination for sun, surf, and delicious food.

Known for its laid-back vibe and beautiful coastline, Rockaway Beach offers a great escape from the hustle and bustle of New York City.

My wife Fernanda and I recently spent a sunny day at Rockaway Beach, and here's our guide to making the most of your visit.

Getting to Rockaway Beach

Location: Queens, NY
Best Time to Visit: Late spring to early fall for the best beach weather.

Rockaway Beach is easily accessible by public transportation. The A train to Broad Channel and then the Shuttle to Rockaway Park-Beach 116th Street will get you close to the beach. There's also the NYC Ferry from Wall Street/Pier 11, which offers a scenic ride to the Rockaways.

Beach Activities

Sunbathing and Swimming

Location: Rockaway Beach and Boardwalk
Hours: 6:00 AM - 9:00 PM (Daily)

Rockaway Beach boasts miles of sandy shores perfect for sunbathing and swimming 🏖️. We set up our beach towels and enjoyed the sun, taking occasional dips in the refreshing Atlantic Ocean. Lifeguards are on duty during the summer, making it a safe spot for families.

Surfing

Location: Beach 67th Street to Beach 92nd Street
Best Time: Early morning for the best waves

Rockaway Beach is one of the few places in NYC where you can surf 🌊. The designated surfing areas are popular with both beginners and experienced surfers. We watched surfers catching waves and even tried a beginner's lesson at a local surf school.

Dining Options

Rockaway Beach Surf Club

Location: 302 Beach 87th St, Queens, NY 11693
Hours: 12:00 PM - 10:00 PM (Daily)
Phone: +1 347-619-9455
Website: rockawaybeachsurfclub.com

The Rockaway Beach Surf Club is a must-visit spot for great food and a cool atmosphere 🍔. We enjoyed their famous fish tacos and refreshing cocktails. The Surf Club also features live music and art installations, making it a vibrant community hub.

Rippers

Location: 8601 Shore Front Pkwy, Queens, NY 11693
Hours: 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM (Daily)
Phone: +1 718-945-8435
Website: rippersusa.com

Rippers is a beachfront eatery known for its delicious burgers and relaxed vibe 🍔. We grabbed lunch here and loved the casual, picnic-style seating right by the ocean. Their fries and milkshakes are also top-notch, perfect for a classic beach meal.

Scenic Spots

Rockaway Beach Boardwalk

Location: Runs parallel to the beach
Hours: Open 24 hours

The Rockaway Beach Boardwalk is a scenic promenade perfect for a leisurely stroll or bike ride 🚲. We walked along the boardwalk, enjoying the ocean views and the vibrant murals that decorate the path. There are plenty of benches and rest areas to sit and take in the scenery.

Jacob Riis Park

Location: 157 Rockaway Beach Blvd, Queens, NY 11694
Hours: 6:00 AM - 9:00 PM (Daily)
Website: nyharborparks.org

Jacob Riis Park, located at the western end of the Rockaways, offers a quieter beach experience with historic charm 🌅. We spent some time exploring the park, which features an art deco bathhouse and wide sandy beaches. It's a great spot for those looking to escape the more crowded areas of Rockaway Beach.

Practical Tips

Getting There: The A train to Broad Channel and then the Shuttle to Rockaway Park-Beach 116th Street or the NYC Ferry from Wall Street/Pier 11 are convenient options.

What to Bring: Beach essentials like sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and a reusable water bottle. A beach chair or blanket and snacks are also good to have.

Best Time to Visit: Late spring to early fall for the best weather and open attractions. Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends.

Safety Tips for Visiting Rockaway Beach

Rockaway Beach is a popular destination, so it's important to stay aware of your surroundings. Always swim near lifeguard stations and heed their warnings about ocean conditions. Protect yourself from the sun with sunscreen and stay hydrated, especially on hot days. If you're surfing or engaging in water sports, follow all safety guidelines and wear appropriate gear. Keep an eye on your belongings, as beaches can be busy places.

Overall Impression

Rockaway Beach offers a perfect blend of sun, surf, and delicious food, making it an ideal destination for a fun and relaxing day out. Whether you're sunbathing on the sandy shores, enjoying the vibrant boardwalk, or savoring a meal at a beachfront eatery, there's something for everyone. Our day at Rockaway Beach was filled with sunshine, good food, and great memories. This beach gem in Queens truly captures the laid-back, coastal charm of New York City.

Tips for Exploring New York City

While you’re in New York City, consider visiting these other top attractions:

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