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As the Ramones once sang, it’s not hard, not far to reach, we can hitch a ride to Rockaway Beach. While it isn’t as iconic as Coney Island, I would have to say that the Rockaways are far and away the better beach. It’s actually the only place in New York City with decent surfing! With the summer winding down, it’s time to get there and soak in those last rays before you have to go back to school, the weather warms up, or both. Here are some of the great things you can do here:
Shopping:
- Breezy Point Surf Shop: Even if you don’t surf, this store is packed to the gills with all sorts of merchandise such as flip flops, t-shirts, and of course shark-tooth necklaces.
- Off Season: If you’re into a more hip surf experience, then trendy minimalist Off Season, founded by fashion executive Abra Boero, is the place to go, offering designer apparel and large pours of Sangria.
- Rockaway Beach Surf Shop: This family-run business is a Rockaway institution, and open since 1969, it’s one of the oldest surf shops on the East Coast. The specialties here are surfboards, skimboards, and boogie boards, and they also offer surf lessons.
Beaches:
- Jacob Riis Park: At the end of the Rockaway peninsula, Jacob Riis Park Beach is a great haven away from the hustle and bustle of the rest of New York City. Yet it’s also home to a great beach bazaar that offers everything from shopping to volleyball to food to live music.
- Fort Tilden: Located near an old military fort, this ocean-front park features plenty of nature walks. It’s part of the massive Gateway National Recreation Area that runs through Brooklyn into New Jersey.
- Rockaway Beach & Boardwalk: In addition to great sand and waves, Rockaway Beach offers seven playgrounds for children. It’s also a great place to test your surfing skills.
Food & Drink:
- Rippers: Open since 2011, Rippers is one of the spots in Rockaway Beach revitalizing the area. Offering everything from hot dogs to smoothies to beer funnels to a fun 80s soundtrack, it attracts a large crowd.
- Ship to Shore: Everybody loves to bring alcohol to the beach, and if you do, the Ship to Shore wine shop offers rare and low-cost wines, some of which can’t be found anywhere else.
- Tacoway Beach: Located inside the Rockaway Beach Surf Club, the kitschy Tacoway Beach serves both alcohol and tacos crafted by chef Andrew Field.
Maria Haymandou 