Beach & Entry
Surface, sand, water entry and bottom
Surface Type
Main surface type
sand
Sand Color
Main sand colour
golden
Water Entry
How steep the drop-off is
gentle
Shallow Distance
Metres to waist-deep water
20 m
Bottom Type
Main bottom type
sand
Water Shoes
Whether special footwear is needed
not needed
Beach Length
Beach length in metres
11 265 m
Frequently asked questions
Rockaway Beach: what is the water like at this beach?
At this beach, water colour — turquoise, clarity moderate, average temperature +18.0°C, warms up to +24.0°C in the warmest season. Check the exact temperature by month in the chart section.
Rockaway Beach: what are the waves like and is it safe to swim?
Waves at this beach are — moderate. Average wave height — 0.8 m.
Rockaway Beach: what is the water entry and bottom like?
Water entry is — gentle. The shallow area extends for 20 metres from the shore. Bottom — sand. Special shoes are not required — the water entry is comfortable. The gentle slope is safe for children and inexperienced swimmers.
Rockaway Beach: what kind of sand and surface does the beach have?
Beach surface — sand. Sand colour — golden. Texture — fine. Beach length — 11 265 metres.
Rockaway Beach: when is the swimming season?
The swimming season starts in June, July. It ends in September. The best month for a holiday is July. This is when the water is warmest and the weather is most comfortable.
Rockaway Beach: is it safe to swim?
Water quality is rated as good. Rip currents are likely — swim only in designated areas. Jellyfish risk — moderate. Shark risk — low. Always watch for warning signs and follow lifeguards instructions.
Rockaway Beach: which dangerous creatures live in the water?
The water contains: jellyfish, Portuguese man o- war. We recommend wearing protective footwear, not touching marine life and taking care when entering the water.
Rockaway Beach: what infrastructure is available on the beach?
The beach offers: umbrellas, showers, toilets, changing rooms, parking, Wi-Fi, kids playground, sports ground. All amenities are listed in the "Infrastructure" section above.
Rockaway Beach: are there lifeguards and a first aid station?
Lifeguards are on duty on the beach — an important safety factor. A first aid station is available.
Rockaway Beach: where can I eat near the beach?
Popular places nearby: Rockaway Beach Boardwalk Concessions, Locals Surf School. Cuisines available: American. See the "Infrastructure" section for details.
Rockaway Beach: what should I bring to the beach?
We recommend bringing: SPF50+ cream, Water, Towel, Swimsuit, Flip-flops, Cash, Hat.
Rockaway Beach: when is the best time to swim?
In the morning before 11:00 the water is calmer and there are fewer people. On hot days arrive early.
Rockaway Beach: what are the rules and restrictions on the beach?
Alcohol consumption on the beach is prohibited. Take your rubbish with you.
Rockaway Beach: what activities are available?
The beach offers: snorkelling, diving, surfing, kayaking and SUP. See the "Activities" section above for details.
Rockaway Beach: who is this beach best for?
Ideal for families and active holidaymakers. Suitable for swimming, surfing and boardwalk walks. Not suitable for those seeking solitude — a very crowded beach.
Rockaway Beach: what makes this beach unique?
The largest urban beach in the US, the only legal surfing beach in New York City, accessible by subway.
Rockaway Beach: what are the pros and cons of the beach?
Pros: Largest urban beach in the US, Golden sand, Only legal surfing beach in NYC, Developed infrastructure: showers, toilets, lifeguards, Boardwalk with cafes and kiosks, Subway access, Free entry. Cons: Very crowded in summer months, Noisy, Cold water, Paid parking, Strong currents possible.
Rockaway Beach: what is near the beach?
Nearby you can visit: Rockaway Boardwalk, Jacob Riis Park, New York City. Detailed descriptions in the "Nearby" section above.
Rockaway 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.