Beach & Entry
Surface, sand, water entry and bottom
Surface Type
Main surface type
sand
Sand Color
Main sand colour
white
Water Entry
How steep the drop-off is
moderate
Shallow Distance
Metres to waist-deep water
15 m
Bottom Type
Main bottom type
sand
Water Shoes
Whether special footwear is needed
not needed
Beach Length
Beach length in metres
4 828 m
Frequently asked questions
Fort Tilden Beach: what is the water like at this beach?
At this beach, water colour — turquoise, clarity moderate, average temperature +12.0°C, warms up to +21.5°C in the warmest season. Check the exact temperature by month in the chart section.
Fort Tilden Beach: what are the waves like and is it safe to swim?
Waves at this beach are — strong. Average wave height — 1.0 m. Strong waves will please surfers but require caution when swimming with children.
Fort Tilden Beach: what is the water entry and bottom like?
Water entry is — moderate. The shallow area extends for 15 metres from the shore. Bottom — sand. Special shoes are not required — the water entry is comfortable.
Fort Tilden Beach: what kind of sand and surface does the beach have?
Beach surface — sand. Sand colour — white. Texture — medium. Beach length — 4 828 metres.
Fort Tilden Beach: when is the swimming season?
The swimming season starts in July, August. It ends in August, September. The best month for a holiday is July. This is when the water is warmest and the weather is most comfortable.
Fort Tilden Beach: is it safe to swim?
Water quality is rated as good. Rip currents are likely — swim only in designated areas. Jellyfish risk — low. Shark risk — low. Always watch for warning signs and follow lifeguards instructions.
Fort Tilden Beach: which dangerous creatures live in the water?
The water contains: . We recommend wearing protective footwear, not touching marine life and taking care when entering the water.
Fort Tilden Beach: what infrastructure is available on the beach?
The beach offers: parking. All amenities are listed in the "Infrastructure" section above.
Fort Tilden Beach: are there lifeguards and a first aid station?
There are no lifeguards on the beach — be especially careful when swimming.
Fort Tilden Beach: where can I eat near the beach?
Popular places nearby: Fort Tilden Beach Picnic Area, Riis Park Beach Bazaar. Cuisines available: American, Seafood. See the "Infrastructure" section for details.
Fort Tilden Beach: what should I bring to the beach?
We recommend bringing: SPF50+ cream, Water, Towel, Swimsuit, Flip-flops, Cash.
Fort Tilden Beach: when is the best time to swim?
In the morning the water is calmer and there are fewer people. In the evening — beautiful sunsets.
Fort Tilden Beach: what are the rules and restrictions on the beach?
Swimming is prohibited. Keep the beach clean.
Fort Tilden Beach: what activities are available?
The beach offers: surfing. See the "Activities" section above for details.
Fort Tilden Beach: who is this beach best for?
Ideal for lovers of secluded nature holidays, fishing and walks. Not suitable for swimming or families with small children.
Fort Tilden Beach: what makes this beach unique?
Fort Tilden is the only beach in New York located on the territory of a former military base with abandoned forts and batteries. The beach offers a wild, untouched experience.
Fort Tilden Beach: what are the pros and cons of the beach?
Pros: Wild and untouched beach, Abandoned military forts, Free entry, Peace and seclusion, Fishing opportunities, Historic attractions. Cons: Swimming prohibited due to currents, No lifeguards, No toilets or showers, Limited parking, Litter in some areas, Far from the city.
Fort Tilden Beach: what is near the beach?
Nearby you can visit: Abandoned Fort Tilden, Jacob Riis Park, Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge. Detailed descriptions in the "Nearby" section above.
Fort Tilden Beach: how do I get to the city of New York?
The beach is located near the city of New York. Full information about the city — hotels, restaurants, attractions, transport — is available on the
city page for New York.