The Top 10 Beaches for Families to Visit in NYC, Long Island, and Westchester

Since summertime is finally (almost) here, we have no doubt you’ll head to the area’s beaches and lake shores at some point this season. We rounded up the top 10 beaches for families in New York City, Long Island, and Westchester County that are open this summer. That way, all you have to do is fill the tank up with gas, pack chairs and towels, and head on out. Of course, don’t forget sunscreen!

1. The City of Long Beach

Long Beach, Long Island
561-431-1021
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Hours: May 29-June 27: Saturday-Sunday and Memorial Day, 9am-6pm; June 28-Sept. 6: daily, 9am-6pm
Admission: Resident day passes: $12 per person. Nonresident day passes: $15 per person.
Approximate drive from NYC: 25 minutes
Ride (or rent) your bike or stroll along the 2.2-mile boardwalk here that was rebuilt with repurposed wood after Superstorm Sandy. Known for its soft and clean sand, it can get crowded, but you’ll likely find it’s less noisy than other local shore points. Enjoy the boardwalk and various playgrounds nearby including the ocean-themed Magnolia Boulevard playground. Make sure to check the page for information on capacity limits, closures, etc. before heading to the beach.
Why we like it: The town boasts tons of great restaurants. Or hit up one of the food trucks or concession stands along the boardwalk.

2. Harbor Island Park Beach/Stephen E. Johnston Beach at Harbor Island Park

123 Mamaroneck Ave, Mamaroneck, Westchester
914-777-7784
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Hours: Village of Mamaroneck residents only: Friday-Sunday, 9am-12pm. Outside these days and times, the beach is open to residents and nonresidents. Swimming is allowed 9am-5:30pm.
Admission: Adult day pass: $11. Child day pass: $8. Senior day pass: $6.
Approximate drive from NYC: 90 minutes
This spot is ideal for a modest-sized getaway. Relax on the beach that is close to a playground area, baseball field, fishing docks, picnic tables, and spray ground. Kayak and paddle boat rentals are also available, plus the park has even hosted concerts and family fun nights in the past.
Why we like it: Stephen E. Johnston Beach only is 750 feet, but you’ll find plenty of space to enjoy its amenities.

 

 

 

 

 

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3. Rockaway Beach and Boardwalk

Beach 3 Street to Beach 153 Street and Boardwalk to Atlantic Ocean, Queens
718-318-4000
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Hours: May 29-Sept. 12: daily, 10am-6pm
Admission: FREE
Rockaway is the only place in New York City where you can surf. Plenty of local shops rent boards and some even offer surfing lessons. Still, it’s a family crowd here, so it doesn’t get too crazy. And thanks to a long beachfront, you can scope out a spot that’s quiet.
Why we like it: Rockaway Beach is home to eight playgrounds and plenty of restrooms along the boardwalk, which is always a draw when you have kids in tow.

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4. Coney Island Beach & Boardwalk

Corbin Place to West 37 Street, Coney Island, Brooklyn
718-946-1350
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Hours: May 29-Sept. 12: daily, lifeguards are on duty 10am-6pm
Admission: FREE, but you’ll need money for the attractions.
If you’re looking for a relaxing and quiet day at the beach, Coney Island may not be the place for you. It’s a perfect choice, though, if you want more than just a beach. Enjoy the amusement park rides at Luna Park and Deno’s Wonder Wheel, the New York Aquarium, and go for a spin on the B&B Carousell.
Why we like it: It’s the famous Coney Island. Need we say more?

 

 

 

 

 

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5. Jones Beach State Park

2400 Ocean Parkway, Wantagh, Long Island
516-785-1600
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Hours: Memorial Day Weekend to Sept. 29: daily, call for daily updates on timing
Admission: May 28-Sept. 10: $10 per car
Approximate drive from NYC: 2 hours
Jones Beach State Park is home to 6½ miles of beautiful white-sand beach on the Atlantic Ocean on the south shore of Long Island. Designed around the theme of an ocean liner, Jones Beach offers swimming, fishing, dining, and more. Other activities that take place in the park include marine environment education at the new Jones Beach Energy and Nature Center, pool swimming, bicycling, surfing, and playgrounds visits.
Why we like it: Find something to make everyone happy at this world-famous state park.

 

 

 

 

 

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6. Nickerson Park Beach

880 Lido Boulevard, Lido Beach, Long Island
516-571-7700
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Hours: May 28-Sept. 12: daily, 9am-6pm
Admission: $15 for Leisure Pass holders; $37 nonresidents
Approximate drive from NYC: 2 hours
This 155-acre complex along the Atlantic Ocean has something for everyone. The beach is the main attraction, known for its sparkling water and soft sand. You’ll also find a seaside pitch-and-putt amid the dunes where you can play nine holes. The property houses a kiddie pool and two-full sized swimming pools. Get shade at the large picnic pavilion or have kids blow off energy at the playground.
Why we like it: Teens will love the Fun Zone, which houses a skate park with ramps and railings, plus soccer, baseball, and beach volleyball courts.

7. Town of Hempstead Beach 

630 Lido Boulevard, Lido Beach, Long Island
516-489-5000
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Hours: May 29-Sept. 6: daily, 10am-6pm
Admission: $10 per car for residents; $50 per car for nonresidents
Approximate drive from NYC: 1 hour, 40 minutes
Enjoy a low-key beach experience at this Town of Hempstead beach. Heads up: Concession and rentals are unavailable. Bring your own food, chairs, and umbrellas. (They do have bathrooms though). Bonus: Parking is a short walk from the lot to the sand. Due to the pandemic, the beach is limited to Nassau County residents only.
Why we like it: It has a relaxed vibe and doesn’t tend to get crowded.

8. Robert Moses State Park

600 Robert Moses State Parkway, Babylon, Long Island
621-669-0449
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Hours: Ocean swimming begins May 22, daily, 9am-5pm
Admission: $10 per car
Approximate drive from NYC: 2 hours
Robert Moses State Park is an ocean beachfront facility with nearly 5 miles of shoreline. Situated at the most western point of Fire Island, the park is conveniently located at the southern end of the Robert Moses Causeway. Enjoy swimming, boogie boarding, surfing, and surf fishing. You’ll find concession stands, beach shops, first-aid offices, comfort stations, and private outdoor showers.
Why we like it: You can play at an 18-hole pitch-and-putt golf course, or enjoy a game of volleyball on the court.

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9. Sunken Meadow State Park (Governor Alfred E. Smith)

Rte. 25A and Sunken Meadow Parkway, Kings Park, Long Island
631-269-4333
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Hours: Swimming hours begin May 22: daily, 9am-5pm
Admission: $10 per car
Approximate drive from NYC: 1 hour 45 minutes
Get stunning views of the Long Island Sound; on a clear day, you can spot Connecticut in the distance. Three bridges stretch over Sunken Meadow Creek. Enjoy pick-up games on the ball fields and open lawn areas. Or, take a walk along the ¾-mile boardwalk.
Why we like it: The Long Island’s Sound’s waters are generally calm, making the beach a hit with families.