As the days get longer and the sun seems to get stronger each week, you might find yourself itching to be by the water to help cool down the summertime heat. As you might imagine, being on the beach in New York City is tricky, but there are a few options if travel is limited or if you’re just looking for a quick fix to get your toes in the sand and a few waves to cool yourself down. Plus, if you’re adjusting to the English language, these destinations are great learning tools for you, as these locations are filled with hundreds of people every day, and the beaches have signage everywhere so you can read and hear English all around you. Dig out your swimsuit, pack your sunscreen, and get ready for some fun in the sun!
- Coney Island; West 37th Street to Ocean Parkway, Brooklyn
This spot is probably the most popular summertime destination for New Yorkers, as it’s easy to get to, has almost three miles of beach, and it also has the additional perk of a boardwalk, amusement rides, and courts to play volleyball, handball, or basketball. This would also be the best spot to practice your English, as there are dozens of shops and restaurants, it’s always filled with people, and because the sun generally puts people in social moods, it’s the perfect time and spot to meet some new people! Get ready for a fun day!
- Rockaway Beach; Beach 9th Street, Far Rockaway, to Beach 149th Street, Neponsit, Queens
This is another timeless favorite of New York City locals. This beach also has an impressive boardwalk, but the best part of this destination is that it’s the only beach in the city that allows surfing! Even if you don’t surf yourself, it’s still amazing to see surfers of all skill levels test out the waves. Rockaway also has plenty of concession options should you get hungry or thirsty. Practice your English surfing phrases (“Hang Ten”), and get ready for some great entertainment!
- Cedar Grove Beach; Ebbitts Street and Cedar Grove Avenue, Staten Island
If you have the capacity to travel a bit to get to Staten Island, Cedar Grove Beach will not let you down. While it’s much smaller and quieter than other beaches in the city, this location is the newest, so it’s still a bit of a secret. This means less people, which also means this beach is a bit more intimate and tranquil. If you’re looking for an escape from the hustle and bustle of the New York City grind, this is the best option for a peaceful getaway. Interacting with others is of course allowed, but because this location is much more removed, it’s the perfect spot to appreciate the quiet and practice your English with a book!
- South Beach; Lower New York Bay, from Fort Wadsworth to Miller Field, Midland Beach, Staten Island
Also located in Staten Island, South Beach is a New York City local favorite. This is one of the more activity-friendly beaches in the area—it has a scenic bike trail, offers kayaking, has tennis courts, and even allows fishing. If you’re looking for a bit more physical activity, South Beach is definitely your spot. This another great spot to mingle with locals and practice your English social skills, as you can make teams for tennis, recruit a stranger to go kayaking with you, or simply make small talk with other fishers.
- Orchard Beach and Promenade; Long Island Sound in Pelham Bay Park
This is the only public beach in the Bronx, and it’s quite legendary among the locals because of this and has been dubbed “The Riviera of New York” since the 1930s. Just over a mile long, Orchard Beach has a promenade, plenty of food and drink bars and carts, playgrounds and picnic areas for families, and over two dozen courts for volleyball, handball, and basketball. This beach also allows barbecuing, so be sure to pack all the necessities for hosting a killer outdoor meal—which is also a great way to mingle with other beach-goers. What better way to put your English skills to use?