Beach & Entry
Surface, sand, water entry and bottom
Surface Type
Main surface type
sand
Sand Color
Main sand colour
orange
Water Entry
How steep the drop-off is
gentle
Shallow Distance
Metres to waist-deep water
30 m
Bottom Type
Main bottom type
sand
Water Shoes
Whether special footwear is needed
not needed
Beach Length
Beach length in metres
3 218 m
Frequently asked questions
South Beach: what is the water like at this beach?
At this beach, water colour — grey, clarity moderate, average temperature +20.0°C, warms up to +24.0°C in the warmest season. Check the exact temperature by month in the chart section.
South Beach: what are the waves like and is it safe to swim?
Waves at this beach are — calm. Average wave height — 0.3 m. Calm water is great for families with children and those who prefer not to deal with strong swell.
South Beach: what is the water entry and bottom like?
Water entry is — gentle. The shallow area extends for 30 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.
South Beach: what kind of sand and surface does the beach have?
Beach surface — sand. Sand colour — orange. Texture — medium. Beach length — 3 218 metres.
South Beach: when is the swimming season?
The swimming season starts in June, July. 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.
South Beach: is it safe to swim?
Water quality is rated as good. Rip currents are unlikely. Jellyfish risk — low. Always watch for warning signs and follow lifeguards instructions.
South Beach: which dangerous creatures live in the water?
The water contains: E. coli — periodic advisories, Mosquitoes. We recommend wearing protective footwear, not touching marine life and taking care when entering the water.
South Beach: what infrastructure is available on the beach?
The beach offers: showers, toilets, changing rooms, parking, kids playground, sports ground. All amenities are listed in the "Infrastructure" section above.
South 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.
South Beach: where can I eat near the beach?
Popular places nearby: South Beach Cafe, Ocean Breeze Restaurants. Cuisines available: Local. See the "Infrastructure" section for details.
South Beach: what should I bring to the beach?
We recommend bringing: SPF50+ cream, Water, Towel, Swimsuit, Flip-flops, Cash.
South Beach: when is the best time to swim?
Morning has fewer people and calmer water. Evening — beautiful sunsets.
South Beach: what are the rules and restrictions on the beach?
Swim only in lifeguard-supervised areas. Keep the beach clean.
South Beach: what activities are available?
The beach offers: kayaking and SUP. See the "Activities" section above for details.
South Beach: who is this beach best for?
Ideal for families with children and those seeking a quiet beach in New York. Not suitable for lovers of lively resort life.
South Beach: what makes this beach unique?
South Beach on Staten Island is the only beach in New York with orange-coloured sand. It is home to the 835-foot Ocean Breeze Fishing Pier, one of the largest in the city.
South Beach: what are the pros and cons of the beach?
Pros: Only beach in New York with orange sand, 2.5-mile wooden boardwalk, Scenic views of Verrazzano Bridge, Free parking, Calm and family-friendly atmosphere, 835-foot fishing pier. Cons: Water can taste salty, Can get crowded on weekends, Paid parking in some areas, Limited space for seclusion, Noisy due to activity, Limited number of restaurants.
South Beach: what is near the beach?
Nearby you can visit: Fort Wadsworth, Ocean Breeze Fishing Pier, Dolphin Fountain, Midland Beach. Detailed descriptions in the "Nearby" section above.
South 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.