From the gentle waves of South Beach to the golden sands of Jones Beach State Park, Newark, is blessed with coastal getaways that are both serene and brimming with activity.
Whether you’re yearning for a sun-soaked siesta, a spirited volleyball match, or a tranquil beachcombing session, there’s a beach nearby tailored to your whims.
Check out our list and discover the unparalleled coastal charm that lies just miles from Newark!
1. South Beach
- Distance from Newark: 18 miles
- Activities: fishing, cycling, beach volleyball, kayaking, paddle boarding
- Facilities: boardwalk, playgrounds, restrooms, parking, showers, eateries, lifeguard, bike rentals, benches
Located 18 miles away, South Beach is the nearest beach to Newark and Staten Island’s best-kept secret.
With its expansive views of the iconic Verrazano-Narrows Bridge, this coastal haven draws visitors in search of serenity and recreation.
Stretched across the east shore, South Beach boasts the Franklin D. Roosevelt Boardwalk, a 2.5-mile promenade ideal for walkers, runners, and cyclists.
Families frequent the beach’s playgrounds, while sports enthusiasts revel in its handball and bocce courts.
For the angler, the nearby Ocean Breeze Fishing Pier promises a fresh catch.
Adding to the charm, eateries dot the landscape, and lifeguards ensure safe swims.
Top-tier amenities, from showers to free sunscreen dispensers, accentuate the experience.
South Beach is not just a destination—it’s a summertime ritual.
2. Midland Beach
- Distance from Newark: 18 miles
- Activities: beachcombing, bicycling, basketball, picnicking, barbecuing, cycling, fishing
- Facilities: boardwalk, playgrounds, picnic areas, courts, restrooms, fountains, sprinklers, parking
An extension to South Beach, Midland Beach is a coastal gem a stone’s throw from Newark.
This tranquil enclave boasts a rich history, with its pristine white sands beckoning sun-seekers, families, and solo travelers alike.
The expansive Franklin D. Roosevelt Boardwalk serves as an ideal backdrop for jogging, walking, or simply soaking in panoramic ocean vistas.
Families will appreciate the wealth of amenities: from diverse playgrounds, and barbecue spots, to athletic fields at Midland Field.
Visitors can enjoy cycling, skateboarding, or even renting bikes to explore the area.
The beach remains accessible, featuring facilities catering to wheelchairs and strollers, while clean restrooms and diligent park authorities ensure a seamless experience.
Midland Beach truly embodies a serene escape, harmoniously blending nature’s beauty with modern conveniences.
3. Wolfe’s Pond Beach
- Distance from Newark: 19 miles
- Activities: beachcombing, hiking, biking, swimming, sunbathing, picnicking, fishing, kayaking
- Facilities: restrooms, showers, trails, picnic tables
While Wolfe’s Pond Park boasts an array of recreational activities, its beach has its own unique allure.
Located on Staten Island, this beach offers a serene backdrop that feels far from the city hustle.
Although it might not compete with more renowned shorelines, the peace it provides to visitors is unparalleled.
The soft sand marred slightly with a dirt-like texture, extends into the shallow waters which, at times, can be clear – perfect for a leisurely swim.
On-site amenities, such as outdoor showers and restrooms, enhance the experience.
A fusion of history, nature, and tranquility, Wolfe’s Pond Park beach might not be the finest, but its off-the-beaten-path vibe makes it a charming escape.
4. Coney Island Beach
- Distance from Newark: 23 miles
- Activities: picnicking, paddleboarding, boardwalk strolls, carnival games, kayaking, swimming, sunbathing
- Facilities: boardwalk, amusement park, restrooms, showers, snack stands, picnic areas, lifeguards, rentals
A mere hop across the Hudson from Newark, Coney Island beckons with its sun-kissed stretch of nearly three miles of sandy shores.
This iconic New York haven is more than just a beach; it’s an experience.
Bathed in the summer sun, visitors can indulge in a myriad of activities, from beach volleyball, handball, to basketball.
The historic Riegelmann Boardwalk runs parallel, offering both the laid-back and the active a chance to soak in the maritime atmosphere.
As families frolic in the gentle waves, others find solace in “Little Odessa,” an adjacent neighborhood brimming with Eastern European flavors.
Ample benches allow for leisurely views while clean sands beckon footprints.
For those seeking a bite to eat, a variety of food stands line the boardwalk.
Come for the sun, stay for the vibes!
5. Orchard Beach
- Distance from Newark: 31 miles
- Activities: hiking, picnicking, golfing, tennis, horseback riding, kayaking, fishing, baseball/softball, soccer, basketball
- Facilities: playgrounds, picnic areas, trails, gazebos, barbecue areas, boat launch, parking
Situated 31 miles from Newark, Orchard Beach, fondly known as the “Bronx Riviera,” stretches over a scenic 1.1-mile expanse within the vast Pelham Bay Park.
Nestled in the northeastern corner of the Bronx, this beach is a refreshing urban oasis, perfect for both solitary contemplation and spirited family outings.
Beyond the allure of its sun-soaked shores, visitors can delve into an array of activities.
The beachfront playground promises endless fun for children, while adjacent basketball courts beckon sports enthusiasts.
Those looking for a serene day can relish picnicking amidst the ample tables and grilling spaces, though arriving early during peak summer hours is wise.
With clean restrooms and a dedicated dog park nearby, Orchard Beach ensures a wholesome experience for every beachgoers.
Whether you’re keen on sunbathing, sports, or simply soaking in the atmosphere, this seaside gem is worth the journey.
6. Jacob Riis Park
- Distance from Newark: 30 miles
- Activities: beach volleyball, frisbee, picnicking, yoga, swimming, sunbathing
- Facilities: restrooms, outdoor showers, beach umbrellas, chair rentals, food stands, picnic areas, boardwalk shops
Nestled along the shores of Queens, The People’s Beach at Jacob Riis Park beckons beachgoers with its mesmerizing coastal charm.
Caressed by the Atlantic’s rhythmic waves, this haven offers a medley of relaxation and action.
An inviting stretch of sand invites swimming in designated zones vigilantly overseen by lifeguards, while sunbathers revel in the warm embrace of the sun’s rays.
Beach sports enthusiasts can engage in spirited games, from volleyball to soccer.
Amenities cater to comfort, including convenient restrooms, refreshing outdoor showers, and seamless changing rooms.
The allure extends to umbrella and chair rentals, beachside dining options, and charming boardwalk shops.
This coastal sanctuary fosters a sense of community, warmly embracing diverse visitors seeking panoramic views of the Atlantic’s expanse.
Located within a breezy reach from Newark, this coastal sanctuary epitomizes a rejuvenating urban escape.
7. Rockaway Beach
- Distance from Newark: 33 miles
- Activities: surfing, biking, picnicking, kayaking, paddleboarding, beach yoga
- Facilities: boardwalk, skatepark, restrooms, showers, concessions, courts, picnic areas, ferry service, lifeguards
Rockaway Beach, a gem tucked away on the Rockaway Peninsula in Queens, stands as one of the grandest urban beaches in the U.S.
Located 33 miles from Newark, this expansive stretch of sand offers more than just a serene seaside escape.
The iconic boardwalk, perfect for an evening stroll or morning jog, runs parallel to the sandy shores.
Here, surfing enthusiasts ride waves in NYC’s exclusive surfing zones, while children frolic in playgrounds and sports enthusiasts challenge friends on handball and basketball courts.
Beyond the allure of the sea, Rockaway boasts an eclectic culinary scene, from boardwalk concession stands to trendy cafes.
With lifeguards vigilantly on duty and a plethora of events dotting the summer calendar, Rockaway is the quintessential urban beach experience.
Whether you’re a local or a visitor, this beach promises a taste of oceanside splendor right at the city’s doorstep.
8. Keansburg Beach
- Distance from Newark: 35 miles
- Activities: swimming, sunbathing, picnics, beachcombing, walking, kayaking
- Facilities: boardwalk, restrooms, showers, amusement park, free entrance
Nestled in the bayside community of Keansburg, this award-winning beach offers a picturesque blend of leisure and excitement.
Visitors can indulge in a breathtaking skyline view of New York City while strolling along the Bay Walk or casting their line at the favored fishing pier.
Adjacent amenities, such as wheelchair-accessible restrooms and showers, enhance the convenience for all beachgoers.
For thrill-seekers, Keansburg Amusement Park, boasting over 40 rides, is just a stone’s throw away.
Though swimming is an option from daybreak to dusk, guests should note the absence of lifeguards.
Parking, adjacent to the Bay Walks, is accessible yet requires a traditional coin-fed meter.
Free, fun, and versatile, Keansburg Beach rarely disappoints, it’s a must-visit spot!
9. Bayshore Waterfront Park
- Distance from Newark: 35 miles
- Activities: fishing, picnicking, hiking, boating
- Facilities: picnic areas, boat launch, playground, trails, parking, benches
Located in Port Monmouth, a 35-mile drive from Newark, lies the pristine Bayshore Waterfront Park, a coastal jewel that promises an escape from the urban hustle.
Overlooking Sandy Hook Bay, the park boasts a sweeping mile of sandy beach, offering serene vistas of the NY skyline.
Visitors can indulge in a plethora of activities; from seining along the bay, discovering intriguing marine life, to absorbing the local history at the Bayshore Waterfront Park Activity Center.
Anglers can cast off from the fishing pier, while history buffs can explore the Seabrook-Wilson House, one of the region’s oldest homes.
With a captivating blend of natural beauty and amenities, Bayshore stands as an enticing retreat for both locals and tourists alike.
10. Sandy Hook Beach
- Distance from Newark: 43 miles
- Activities: biking, fishing, kayaking, paddle boarding, hiking, picnicking, kite flying, surfing
- Facilities: lifeguard, restrooms, shower, picnic areas, parking, visitor center, concession stands, trails, boat launch
A 43-mile ride from Newark, Sandy Hook Beach beckons with its pristine golden sands stretching along Monmouth County’s coastline.
Nestled within the expansive Gateway National Recreation Area, it boasts miles of serene shoreline, making it a perfect escape from the urban hustle.
Sunbathers, swimmers, and families find solace in its crystal clear waters and panoramic views of the Atlantic.
Apart from its natural allure, the beach offers a myriad of activities.
Lifeguard-protected swimming areas ensure safety, while biking trails invite explorers.
Modern amenities, including showers, restrooms, and convenient concessions, complement the experience.
With its blend of recreational options and breathtaking beauty, Sandy Hook Beach is a must-visit for anyone looking to savor New Jersey’s coastal charm.
11. Seven Presidents Oceanfront Park
- Distance from Newark: 46 miles
- Activities: surfing, fishing, picnicking, volleyball
- Facilities: playground, picnic areas, volleyball courts, lockers, outdoor showers, snack bar, pavilions, parking, restrooms, changing areas
Nestled in the heart of Long Branch, New Jersey, the Seven Presidents Oceanfront Park beckons with its stunning 38-acre expanse of pristine Atlantic coastline.
Situated 46 miles from Newark, this gem offers beachgoers a serene escape in summer, brimming with opportunities to ride the waves, bask under the sun, or engage in a spirited game of beach volleyball.
For those looking to surf, dedicated areas ensure the perfect wave-catching experience.
Tony’s Place, a universally accessible playground, provides a haven for kids, while Skateplex tempts skateboard aficionados.
With a rich tapestry of history interwoven, this beach park is more than just sand and sea; it’s a testament to leisure, ecology, and the legacies of presidents who once graced its shores.
12. Jones Beach State Park
- Distance from Newark: 49 miles
- Activities: biking, beach theater, golf, fishing, boating, paddle tennis, shuffleboard, basketball, picnicking, beach volleyball
- Facilities: boardwalk, picnic areas, restrooms, showers, playgrounds, fishing piers, boat launch, golf course, parking, lifeguards, gift shops
Nestled on Long Island’s south shore and 49 miles from Newark, Jones Beach State Park spans an impressive 2,400 acres, with 6.5 miles of pristine golden sands caressing the Atlantic Ocean’s waves.
Every year, six million sun-seekers converge here, indulging in a vast array of activities.
Visitors can bask in the sun, plunge into the ocean’s embrace, or wander the iconic two-mile boardwalk.
For the sporty, basketball courts, mini-golf, and shuffleboard beckon.
Nature enthusiasts can explore the Jones Beach Energy & Nature Center, while concert lovers are serenaded at the Northwell Health Theatre.
Truly, Jones Beach promises more than just sand – it’s an experience waiting to unfold.
