Tours and Tickets to Experience Rockaway Beach

Yes, Rockaway Beach and the boardwalk are free and open for all to visit. The beach’s accessibility helps make it a popular summertime recreation destination for New Yorkers of all stripes, and a refreshing escape on sweltering days.

There are several ways to reach Rockaway Beach from Manhattan. You can take the A train to a number of stops by the beach, including Beach 90th Street, Beach 98th Street, and many others. Ferries also connect Lower Manhattan with Rockaway Beach, as do seasonal bus services. Rideshare services offer an additional option.

Rockaway Beach is a popular place to swim, sunbathe, and relax on the sand. It’s also New York City’s only legal surfing beach. Playgrounds and bike paths are available, and the boardwalk is a great place to take in the atmosphere and check out the food and bar scene.

Yes, Rockaway Beach is generally considered a family-friendly escape in New York City. A number of kid-focused amenities are available, including beachside playgrounds and adventure courses for older kids, as well as concession stands. Be mindful of the waves, though, which may be too powerful for younger swimmers, and check advisories regarding weather and the risk of rip currents; accompany youngsters at the shore and when exploring the area, and note that the beach and boardwalk can get crowded.

Rockaway Beach is a seasonal destination, and the best time to visit is during the summer months. The beach—as well as other NYC beaches—is open for swimming from Memorial Day weekend in late May until Labor Day in early September. Visit when lifeguards are on duty, from 10am to 6pm.

There’s a wide range of dining and concession options at Rockaway Beach. Some of the most popular choices include boardwalk favorites like Super Burrito, burger and hot dog specialist Rippers, longtime bar Connolly’s (famous for its frozen drinks), and Tacoway Beach, inside local surfer hub the Rockaway Beach Club.