Classes are finally out, which means it’s time for exploration and fun. If you live in the New York area, finding a good beach is sometimes hard to find. The city is known for Manhattan and most of the activities are not beach related. But, have no fear, because I found you the top 8 beaches that are a must visit this summer.

1. Rockaway Beach

If you want to try a new activity, such as surfing, look no further than this gem. It has a great concession stand with multiple options to eat, as well as a beautiful boardwalk to take your significant other for a walk on (as if, you totally didn’t love walks on the beach).

2. Brighton Beach

Walking on to this beach may actually make you completely forget that you are in New York. It is very close to Coney Island, which results in a lot of people not visiting it often. If you are interested in a quiet and serene beach with not a lot of people, look no further.

3. Orchard Beach

If you are not a beach bum and actually want to be active during your visit to the beach, then (first of all, how…?) this is the spot for you. It is located in the Bronx with more than two dozen courts for volleyball, basketball, and handball. You also have a beautiful view of the Long Island Sound to top this trip off.

4. Midland Beach

When looking for beach spots in New York City, one can almost expect the enormous crowds. This specific beach is neighbors with South Beach, but it is a much quieter location. People that have visited this beach had claimed that the waves are not as harsh and it is a good place to bring children, especially with their park and fountain directed for kids.

5. Long Beach

If you’re interested in taking a drive a little further, than this beautiful beach is for you! The boardwalk is to die for and the clean sand is definitely a plus. It can be very crowded, especially on the weekends, but it is a spot that should not be missed. If you are a bike lover, grab your bike and ride along this 2 ½ mile stretch of a boardwalk.

6. Coney Island

If you are from New York, then you have certainly heard of this spot. Warning: If you are not a fan of crowded beaches or loud location, then this is not the place for you. There are two amusement parks located VERY close to this beach and there are plenty of fast food options for the family to eat. The plus with this beach is that it is free, but the other hot spots (like the amusement parks and arcades) certainly are not.

7. Fort Tilden

This spot is located in Queens and it is the definition of serene. For those history lovers, this is the place for you, especially if you are trying to learn more about this spot’s history from World War I. One of the only risks with this beach is that there is no lifeguard on duty and can be dangerous with children or adults that are not comfortable swimming. Make sure to bring lunch with you because this location does not have many food stands. Take a break from your hectic life and stroll on this beach for a day or two.

8. Manhattan Beach

This beach is very close to Brighton Beach and if you like beach-hopping, this could be your second spot of the day. It is filled with activities and tends to get pretty crowded in the summer time. Most families make a day out of it and barbecue for lunch or dinner, which results in them enjoying the sunset at later hours.