Rockaway Beach

## The spot Rockaway Beach is New York City's only surf beach, a stretch of sand on the Rockaway Peninsula in Queens. It faces south into the Atlantic and produces rideable waves from hurricane swells, nor'easters, and tropical systems. The NYC skyline behind and the urban grit make it a unique surf experience. The local community is passionate and growing. ## When it works Best during hurricane season (August-November) and winter nor'easters. South and south-east swells from tropical systems produce the best waves. A north-westerly wind is offshore. Works on all tides. The 2-5ft range is most common. Clean overhead days are exceptional events. ## Where to sit The main surf zones are between 67th and 90th Streets. Beach breaks with shifting peaks along the jetties. The jetties create some structure in the sand. Each section works slightly differently depending on swell direction. ## Hazards Cold water (wetsuits needed October-May). Rip currents near the jetties. Swimmers in the designated swimming areas. Water quality after heavy rain. The jetty structures themselves are a hazard in strong currents. ## Parking and access Subway (A train) to Rockaway stations. Street parking (limited). The beach is accessible by public transport, which is unusual for a surf spot. Full urban facilities. ## The crowd Busy when it works. NYC's large surfing community converges on rare good days. 30-50 people on solid swells. The limited swell windows mean competition is real. Dawn patrol is essential on good days. ## Local tips Rockaway rewards the patient NYC surfer. Good days are rare but when they arrive, the stoke is immense. The taco trucks on the boardwalk are excellent. The A-train commute makes it accessible from Manhattan (60 minutes). Join the local forecast groups to catch short-lived swells. Winter nor'easters can produce surprisingly good waves.