New York City’s hidden beaches and summer escapes

New York City is a place of lively streets and high buildings that never seems to be at rest. The life of the city never stops for both residents and tourists. Nevertheless, there is still a quiet side of NYC which is perfect for those who are looking for moments to relax. Out of the sight of the usual tourist spots, you can come across calm beaches and isolated summer retreats that are just right for you to relax and rejuvenate. Best Movers NYC, a company that is well-known for its moving services often tells clients that even the New Yorkers who have been living there all their lives are usually amazed by these quiet neighborhoods. This guide is meant to uncover New York City’s hidden beaches, which will be a real relief from the busy summer months.

Fort Tilden Beach is one of the loveliest New York City’s hidden beaches

Fort Tilden Beach is a hidden gem in the Rockaways, perfect for those seeking peace and quiet. Unlike the more popular Rockaway Beach, Fort Tilden remains largely untouched. Since it has no lifeguards, restrooms, or food vendors, it’s important to prepare in advance to go to this beach. The beach is known for its natural beauty, featuring sandy shores lined with wild dunes and patches of green. Visitors often bring their own umbrellas, snacks, and water to enjoy a day of sunbathing or swimming.

People riding bicycles by the beach
Ride your bicycle to Fort Tilden beach and start your day in the best possible way!

The beach is also popular among artists and photographers for its stunning views and the old military installations scattered throughout the area, giving it a unique, almost forgotten feel. However, according to local movers NYC, getting there can be an adventure, too. Therefore, many choose to bike from the nearest subway station or take a long walk through the area’s trails. Trust us when we say that this makes the journey as enjoyable as the destination.

Leave your clothes behind at Gunnison Beach

Gunnison Beach offers a unique beach experience just a short ferry ride from Manhattan. Located within the Gateway National Recreation Area in New Jersey, this beach stands out because it’s clothing-optional. In fact, it’s the only legal nude beach in the New York wider area. However, moving companies Staten Island can confirm it’s not just the nudity that makes Gunnison Beach special. Rather, it’s the stunning views of the New York City skyline that you can enjoy while lounging on the sand!

The beach is neat, with clean sand and clear waters, making it a comfortable spot for sunbathing and swimming. On busy summer weekends, the beach can be lively, with visitors from all over the region coming to enjoy the freedom it offers. Despite its popularity, it retains a relaxed vibe, and many first-timers find it to be a welcoming and judgment-free space. Just remember to pack food and drinks, as there are not many amenities around.

Relax at Pebble Beach in Brooklyn

Pebble Beach in Brooklyn Bridge Park is a small, tranquil spot perfect for a peaceful retreat from city life. Although you can’t swim here, the beach offers a unique perspective of New York City. In fact, it offers panoramic views of the Manhattan skyline, the Brooklyn Bridge, and the East River. Therefore, it’s an ideal location for relaxing on a blanket, enjoying a book, or having a quiet picnic with friends. Pebble Beach is also a popular spot for photographers and Instagrammers, thanks to its stunning backdrop, especially at sunset when the sky lights up behind the skyline. Families often bring their kids here to explore the pebbles and enjoy the river breeze.

View from one of the New York City's hidden beaches
For a chance to enjoy panoramic views of Manhattan like this one, make sure to visit Pebble Beach

Play sports at Orchard Beach

Orchard Beach, known as “The Bronx Riviera,” is a one-mile-long stretch of sandy beach located in Pelham Bay Park in the Bronx. Moving companies Bronx can tell you it’s a popular destination for families, thanks to its calm waters and amenities. The beach is ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking, with plenty of shaded areas and picnic tables available. On the weekends, the beach can get lively with locals playing music, kids building sandcastles, and vendors selling snacks like shaved ice and hot dogs.

For those looking to explore, the nearby park offers hiking trails, playgrounds, and sports courts. Orchard Beach’s promenade is a great spot for a leisurely stroll, offering beautiful views of the Long Island Sound. Although it’s a popular spot, it’s lesser-known among tourists, so it often has a more local, authentic vibe, making it a great place to experience a different side of New York City.

Manhattan Beach should also make the list of New York City’s hidden beaches

Manhattan Beach in Brooklyn is a quieter alternative to the nearby, more famous Coney Island and Brighton Beach. This beach is popular with families and those looking for a more relaxing beach day without the crowds. It has clean sand and calm waters, making it perfect for swimming and sunbathing. Moreover, here you can find plenty of amenities, including restrooms, showers, and picnic areas, as well as playgrounds and sports courts for basketball and tennis. Families often bring picnic lunches and spend the day relaxing under the sun while kids play in the sand or splash in the water. During the summer, you’ll also find ice cream trucks and food vendors nearby, making it easy to grab a snack without leaving the beach.

Baby playing on the beach
Manhattan Beach is one of the most popular New York City’s hidden beaches for young families with kids

Discovering NYC’s serene side

As you explore New York City’s hidden beaches and summer escapes, you’ll find that these serene spots offer a much-needed retreat from the urban rush. Whether it’s a quiet beach on Staten Island or a park in Queens, these places provide perfect settings for relaxation and leisure. Consulting with  can also offer additional insights into less-known gems that are worth exploring. This summer, take the opportunity to discover these tranquil destinations within the city. Besides a break from bustling city life, they also enrich your experience of living in or visiting one of the world’s most dynamic cities.

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