Day Trips from New York
← All New York day tripsDay Trips from New York: Beaches & Waterfront
The best beaches and waterfront destinations within driving distance of New York, NY. Lake beaches, river walks, and coastal parks that make for a perfect warm-weather day trip. Real drive times, ratings, and photos included.
12 beaches near New York
Keyport Waterfront Park
Keyport, NJ 07735
Just 53 min from New York, rated 4.7 stars by 1,829 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Corson's Inlet State Park
Ocean City, NJ 08214
Just 2 hrs 16 min from New York, rated 4.7 stars by 1,062 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Raritan Bay Waterfront Park
Sayreville, NJ 08879
Just 49 min from New York, rated 4.7 stars by 2,624 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Island Beach State Park
Seaside Park, NJ 08752
Just 1 hr 34 min from New York, rated 4.7 stars by 933 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Asharoken Beach Park
Northport, NY 11768
Just 1 hr 13 min from New York, rated 4.7 stars by 257 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Lake Welch Beach
Stony Point, NY 10980
Just 60 min from New York, rated 4.6 stars by 498 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Callahans beach
Northport, NY 11768
Just 1 hr 7 min from New York, rated 4.6 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Wolfe's Pond Park
Staten Island, NY 10312
Just 44 min from New York, rated 4.6 stars by 1,962 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Leeds Pond Beach
Port Washington, NY 11050
Just 47 min from New York, rated 4.6 stars, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Hudson Park & Beach
New Rochelle, NY 10801
Just 40 min from New York, rated 4.6 stars by 1,376 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Seaside Park Beach & Lifeguard
1701 N Ocean Ave, Seaside Park
Just 1 hr 31 min from New York, rated 4.6 stars by 503 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Bayshore Waterfront Park
Port Monmouth, NJ 07758
Just 1 hr 2 min from New York, rated 4.6 stars by 1,540 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Frequently Asked Questions About Beaches Day Trips from New York
What are the best beaches near New York, NY?
The best beaches near New York include lake beaches, state park swimming areas, and waterfront parks. Check the cards above for top-rated options with drive times and real visitor ratings.
Are there swimmable beaches within driving distance of New York?
Yes. Several beaches within 1-3 hours of New York have designated swimming areas with lifeguards during summer months. State park beaches are often the cleanest and best-maintained options.
When is the best time to visit beaches near New York?
Late May through September is prime beach season near New York. June and July offer the warmest water temperatures. Shoulder months (May, September) have fewer crowds and are great for walking and photography.
What should I bring for a beach day trip from New York?
Pack sunscreen, towels, a cooler with drinks and snacks, and water shoes for rocky shorelines. Some state park beaches charge a vehicle entry fee ($5-$15), so bring cash. Arrive early on weekends to secure parking.
Don't know where to go?
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