As summer approaches, it’s time to start planning your beach trips. Fortunately, tons of coastal cities are easily accessible from NYC either via car or public transportation such as trains, ferries, and buses.
So if you’re looking to ditch the hustle and bustle for a seaside escape, we’ve got you covered.
Here are the best beach towns near NYC 👇
1. Long Beach, Long Island
Beyond going for a stroll on the iconic boardwalk, Long Beach, NY has tons of things to see and do. Brush up on your history at the Long Beach Historical & Preservation Society, or catch some waves at Ocean Beach Park. You can stay up to date on the city’s latest events on their website.
🚘: 29.4 miles from Manhattan
2. City Island, The Bronx
Technically a neighborhood, this island in the Bronx is a quaint fishing village. Its adorable streets will transport you to a charming oasis full of seafood fare and waterfront bars. Find all the best things to do on City Island with our ultimate guide here.
🚘: 14.7 miles from Manhattan
3. Newport, Rhode Island
Newport, Rhode Island is situated just a four hour drive from NYC. Admire the harbor filled with luxurious yachts and be sure to stroll the opulent mansions along Bellevue Avenue. This beach town is also known for hosting America’s Cup, an annual sailing regatta.
🚘: 178.5 miles from Manhattan
4. Cape May, New Jersey
A visit to Cape May is a must-do trip in the summertime! Spend the day on the water jet skiing or parasailing before exploring one of their many museums and galleries, and end the day grabbing drinks at a local winery. From beaches to dining to shopping, this village in New Jersey truly has it all. Find even more activities to do in Cape May on their town website.
🚘: 161.4 miles from Manhattan
5. Mystic, Connecticut
This seaside city is the recognizable backdrop for the 1988 Julia Roberts film, Mystic Pizza. Beyond scouting filming locations, we recommend you check out the Mystic Aquarium, walk the historic downtown and visit the Mystic Seaport Museum.
🚘: 132 miles from Manhattan
6. Montauk, Long Island
Montauk is one of the most visited summer destinations away from the city with its variety of beaches known to have spectacular waves for surfing. Grab your board and hang loose at the most popular beach, Ditch Hills.
While in Montauk, be sure to snap a picture of Montauk Point Lighthouse and even visit the museum if you so please. With additional historical spots like Camp Hero State Park and unique activities like horseback riding at Deep Hollow Ranch, Montauk has something for everyone.
🚘: 121 miles from Manhttan
7. Lake George, New York
The town of Lake George, located in the Adirondacks, is most known for but not limited to it’s beautiful lakes, rivers and streams. Cruise the lake with Lake George Steamboat Company, servicing passengers for more than 200 years, or let out your inner daredevil at Adirondack Extreme Adventure Course, the largest aerial treetop adventure park in the country. Whatever you do in Lake George, it’s sure to be a trip to remember.
🚘: 203.9 miles from Manhattan
8. Far Rockaway, Queens
For one of the quickest beach escape, Far Rockaway, Queens (again, another neighborhood rather) is the perfect solution to a hot summer day in NYC. Simply hop on the ferry and enjoy a fabulous beach day within one of NYC’s very own boroughs. Always wanted to learn how to surf? Visit Locals Surf School for private lessons or group sessions and shred the water in no time.
🚘: 24.3 miles from Manhattan
9. Fire Island, Off the shore of Long Island
This car-free paradise is sure to bring out your inner islander. But rest assured, this spot isn’t just for beach vacations. It also has a fantastic night scene with tons of bars to party at after a day in the sun.
🚘: 63.6 miles from Manhattan
10. Madison, Connecticut
We have a feeling that Madison, CT is going to be an emerging beach town in 2024, and it’s halfway distance between NYC and Boston makes it an easy commute for both cities. It’s home to Hammonasset Beach State Park, which has two miles of pristine beach on Long Island Sound, as well as plenty of award-winning bookstores, art cinemas, tea emporiums, coffee shops, cafes and restaurants, and clothing and gift boutiques!
🚘 99.1 miles from Manhattan
