The Rockaways contain the largest urban beach in the United States.
Rockaway Beach is one of the few places in New York City where surfing is officially permitted.
The boardwalk was rebuilt using sustainable tropical hardwood and concrete to withstand future storm surges.
The beach was a popular resort destination for New Yorkers in the early 20th century before the decline of the LIRR Rockaway Beach Branch.
The peninsula is situated on a barrier island that separates Jamaica Bay from the Atlantic Ocean.
Rockaway Beach is New York City's only legal surfing beach, stretching across the Rockaway Peninsula in Queens. The area features a 5.5-mile long boardwalk reconstructed after Hurricane Sandy, connecting diverse neighborhoods along the Atlantic Ocean. Designated surfing zones are strictly enforced and rotate based on seasonal conditions. The beach is divided into sections by numbered streets, with specific areas designated for swimming, surfing, and fishing. Lifeguards are stationed at designated swimming areas during the official beach season. The beach serves as a natural barrier for the Jamaica Bay ecosystem. Public amenities include comfort stations, concession areas, and public showers located at various street intervals.
The elevated sections of the boardwalk near Beach 90th Street offering views of both the Atlantic surf and the Manhattan skyline.
Check the official NYC Parks website for daily flag warnings regarding rip currents and water quality before entering the ocean.
Stick to the areas marked with green flags, as these denote sections where lifeguards are on duty.
Bring water shoes if visiting the rock jetty areas, as the shoreline can have varying underwater topography.
Ignoring red flags or entering the water outside of the marked swimming zones, which poses a significant rip current risk.
Lifeguards are only on duty during the official summer beach season; swimming at other times is strictly prohibited.
No glass containers allowed on the sand; swimming is prohibited when lifeguards are off-duty or in non-designated areas.
