Fort Tilden has long been regarded as the quieter alternative to boisterous neighboring beaches like Jacob Riis, which is still the case (though word has gotten out about this once well-kept secret, and its shoreline sees more visitors than in the past). It used to be a military site that kept watch on the approach to New York Harbor, but now serves as a peaceful respite for New Yorkers, complete with dunes, freshwater ponds, and even a maritime forest.
How to get there: Take the 2 train to Flatbush/Nostrand Avenue. Transfer to the Q35 bus and take it to Fort Tilden. Alternatively, it’s approximately 1 hour by bike from Prospect Park.
Jones Beach, Long Island
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For a beach that does it all, head to the white sands of Jones Beach. Along its six-and-a-half miles, sun dwellers can take a dip in the Atlantic, grab a snack on the boardwalk, or even drop in to the nature center for an educational talk. Also of note is the fireworks show that Jones Beach hosts every 4th of July (last year’s 25-minute pyrotechnics display was inspired by Barbie, Beyoncé and Taylor Swift).
How to get there: Take the Long Island Rail Road’s Babylon Branch to Freeport station. Transfer to NICE’s N88 bus, which runs nonstop to the beach.
Sandy Hook, New Jersey
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