10 Underrated Beaches Near NYC (as in, Within 2 Hours of the City)

OK, we’ll get this out of the way: The price of admission is steep for non-residents ($7 for a beach pass and $35 to park). But if you’re feeling spendy—and hey, the money goes to maintaining the beauty—you’ll be rewarded with warm, shallow water, grilling stations, winding walking paths and NYC skyline views.

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Why sit in traffic on the way to the beach when you could be relaxing with the wind in your hair on the deck of a boat? This popular (but still reasonably uncrowded) beach is just a quick ferry ride from Manhattan (available between Memorial Day weekend and Labor Day) and boasts such a serene atmosphere that you’ll wonder how you can still see the city in the distance.

Already know Long Beach and Jones Beach like the back of your hand? Head just a smidge farther to the western edge of Fire Island, and you’ll find five miles of shoreline, picnic areas, private outdoor showers, a golf course and a scenic stroll that leads to the adorable Fire Island Lighthouse.

Had to cancel that Caribbean resort trip last year due to COVID-19? No problem: This serene stretch of the Jersey shore has pristine sand, umbrellas and lounge chairs to rent, tons of dining options and some gorgeous oceanfront condos to ogle. (If you want to quell your jealousy for a night, check into the stylish Wave Resort.)

Just south of Long Branch is another gem, featuring a wide boardwalk that passes through the beautiful skeletons of two old Beaux-Arts buildings, hip boutiques and restaurants (that would impress even the most discerning Williamsburg resident) and in non-COVID times, a serious live-music scene. Oh, and a happy hour for dogs—this place is basically heaven.

The North Shore of Long Island is dotted with “town” (read: expensive to get into) beaches, but there are a few spots that are more welcoming to those fleeing the city. This tranquil stretch features three miles of sand, a wide boardwalk and miles of hiking trails along the bluffs.

OK, this one’s not exactly unknown—it definitely gets busy on weekends—but if you feel like burning through a vacation day midweek, it’s one of the cleanest and all-around nicest beaches just outside the city, complete with sparkling white sand, food trucks and even a beach concert series. (Heads-up, though: You’ll pay a $15 entrance fee per person.)

New Jersey’s only clothing-optional beach, this two-mile stretch of white sand offers expansive views of the city and the opportunity to shed your inhibitions. Located on the east shore of Sandy Hook, the vibe here is relaxed-but-fun and the beach is also accessible by ferry ride from Manhattan between Memorial Day weekend and Labor Day or you can drive and pay the $15 parking fee.

Shh...don’t tell anyone about this pristine three-mile stretch of white sand and grassy dunes that’s likely to be crowd-free even on the hottest day of the year. While you can get close via the subway and then a bus or in a car, you’ll need to walk or bike at least half a mile in order to get to the actual beach (hence the relative peace and quiet). Just keep in mind that there are no lifeguards on Fort Tilden beach (and swimming is technically prohibited).

The water at this Norwalk beach is so calm, it almost feels like a lake. There’s also kayak rentals, beach-volleyball and bocce courts, a mini-golf course, a pier and a beachfront café (lobster rolls, anyone?). You’ll also have a hefty parking fee here, but split between your squad it still makes for a reasonable day trip.

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