NYC is no shortage of beautiful beaches to escape the city, but what about the lesser known shores that reside around us? If you don’t want to brave the crowds at popular destinations like Coney Island and Rockaway Beach, why not opt for one of these cute little quainter beaches! We’re about to put you in the “if you know you know” territory, as we spill our secrets on the best hidden beaches around NYC!
1. Pebble Beach
Pebble Beach is not only a cute little waterfront oasis, but it’s also a great place to grab stunning views of the Manhattan skyline and the Brooklyn Bridge! Although you can’t swim at this scenic spot, you can grab a seat on their stone bleachers and admire the view, or stop and take pictures as you explore the rest of the DUMBO neighborhood. You can find Pebble Beach on the waterfront along Main Street and Plymouth Street in Brooklyn!
Where: 65 Plymouth St, Brooklyn
2. Swindler Cove
This beach located along the Harlem River is one of Manhattan’s few beaches, and has quite the history! The site used to be a former illegal dumping grounds, and has since been improved by the New York Restoration Project for over 20 years! What once held tons of shrapnel, debris and garbage now gorgeously boasts a snug little beach and a corresponding park with green space, gardens, and more!
Where: 3703 Harlem River Dr
3. Cedar Grove Beach
Cedar Grove Beach on Staten Island has been open for a while, but because it was a beach bungalow colony, it’s only been open to the public for a few years! This beach is fully swimmable as well, complete with lifeguards, comfort stations, and concession stands! Grab your swimsuits and hit this quiet beach when you need a little escape…and don’t forget to explore the stunning nature of Great Kills Park too!
Where: Cedar Grove Beach Pl, Staten Island
4. Plumb Beach
Plumb Beach is located along the north shore of Rockaway Inlet in Brooklyn. This hidden gem provides a peaceful retreat with its tranquil shoreline along Jamaica Bay! Visitors can enjoy birdwatching, picnicking, windsurfing, kiteboarding, and even a kayaking launch from the beach! Keep an eye out for horseshoe crabs too since it’s heavily populated with these little creatures!
Where: North shore of Rockaway Inlet
5. Grand Ferry Park
Grand Ferry Park was once a ferry landing spot, which carried farm goods and passengers across the East River to Manhattan circa the 19th century. This little beach (which actually has sand) is perfect for hanging out on a bench or grabbing a seat on one of their big boulders and watching the small waves ripple through.
Where: Grand St & River St, Brooklyn
6. Hurricane Point
Hurricane Point resides on the edge of the East River State Park near Williamsburg in Brooklyn, right by Smorgasburg! Even though you may have to climb over a few rocks to get to the actual shore, we suggest exploring the hidden beach after your next market visit…and maybe even wandering down the shore to Transmitter Park or Bushwick Inlet Park.
Where: East River State Park near N 10th St
7. Louis Valentino, Jr. Park and Pier
You can find this hidden spot on the shores of Red Hook, Brooklyn, where the views of the Statue of Liberty, Governor’s Island, New York Harbor, Staten Island and the Manhattan skyline are unmatched! The water it overlooks is the Buttermilk Channel, and it’s home to a lovely pier and beach-like park. We suggest going in the summer when the Red Hook Boaters do free kayaking sessions and Red Hook Flicks does free outdoor movies!
Where: Ferris St &, Coffey St, Brooklyn
8. Gansevoort Peninsula
Manhattan’s first public beachfront is one of our best kept secrets, and its location on the Hudson River makes it perfect for waterfront views! The tiny sand beach on the West Side offers some seating and tables which you can check out at any time. Plus, the real sand makes you want to slip sandals right off and stay a while. While swimming is not permitted, it’s a great spot to sunbathe, people watch, and take in a beautiful view of Lower Manhattan. Learn more about Gansevoort Peninsula here!