During your New York visit, you may get a hankering for some surf and sand. Cue the Rockaways in Queens, a laid-back, beachy neighborhood, less than an hour’s subway ride from Manhattan. In addition, the NYC Beach Bus offers direct runs from Union Square, Williamsburg and Downtown Brooklyn to Far Rockaway and nearby Jacob Riis Park for $15 round-trip. They’ll even give you a complimentary beer to enjoy during the trip and rent out beach chairs and umbrellas for a small fee.

Play

There are two separate areas that draw beachgoers to the Rockaways, and they are about five miles apart, so you’ll want to pick one to set up camp for the day. On the southwestern end of Rockaway Peninsula sits Jacob Riis Park, an isolated horseshoe-shaped strip of shoreline that boasts the Riis Park Beach Bazaar, a pavilion that hosts food vendors imported from Brooklyn and Manhattan, a pop-up flea market and music on summer weekends. A little ways away, you’ll find Fort Tilden, a former US Army base that is now a National Recreation Area. Farther east, off the boardwalk that runs between Beach 86th and 105th Sts., you’ll find a long stretch of beach, which boasts surf shops, notable foodie destinations and lots of spots to escape the heat and nurse a cold drink.

Drink

Check out Connolly’s Bar, an old-school dive bar that excels in piña coladas. For a good beer and surfer-watching, it’s the Low Tide Bar on the boardwalk. If you’re looking for a full evening, Bungalow Bar serves up raw seafood specials, waterfront views, live music, and a full bar to keep the party going.

Eat

If you’re looking for fantastic dining options in The Rockaways, then you’re in luck! From delicious seafood fare to vibrant breweries, The Rockaways is a foodie’s paradise. At The Bayhouse of Breezy Point, you can indulge in the freshest seafood delicacies while enjoying stunning views of the bay. Harbor Light Pub is another great spot to check out, offering classic pub fare with a Rockaway twist. Rockaway Brewing Company is perfect for beer enthusiasts, offering seasonal brews made with locally sourced ingredients. And for those in search of a unique dining experience, The Wharf combines a stunning waterfront location with a diverse menu featuring dishes made with locally grown ingredients. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, The Rockaways will definitely satisfy your hunger and leave you wanting more!

Shop

For the wine lovers out there, the Ship to Shore Wine Shop located in Rockaway Beach will transport you to a cozy and intimate tasting room with its selective collection of American and imported wine. Shop owners Andrew and Elisa chose this fantastic destination to share their passion for wine and give you a fun and relaxed experience. If you’re a surfer enthusiast, the Rockaway Beach Surf Shop offers everything you need for your next surfing trip. From expert advice to equipment and surf lessons, this shop is your one-stop-shop for everything surfing.