Coney Island Beach and Boardwalk
Free sand, sea air and a century-old boardwalk.
Plan a New York TripConey Island Beach and Boardwalk
The original reason anyone came: Coney Island beach is a wide strip of sand facing the Atlantic, free and reachable by subway. With Brighton Beach and Manhattan Beach next door, the shoreline runs roughly 2.7 miles from Sea Gate to Manhattan Beach.
The Riegelmann Boardwalk
Built in 1922–23 and named for Brooklyn borough president Edward J. Riegelmann, the boardwalk runs alongside the beach past the amusement parks, the aquarium, the ballpark and the old Parachute Jump, all the way to Brighton Beach. Walking or cycling its length is one of the best free Coney Island things to do any time of year.
Swimming and the beach season
The city’s beach season usually runs from Memorial Day weekend into September, with lifeguards on duty daily during set hours. Outside the season and those hours, swimming is not allowed. NYC Parks posts season dates, rules and any advisories.
Along the Boardwalk
New York Aquarium
On the boardwalk since 1957: sharks, sea lions, sea otters and penguins. A good break from the sun.
Maimonides Park
Home of the Brooklyn Cyclones minor-league baseball team, opened in 2001, with the beach behind the outfield.
Steeplechase Pier
Walk out over the water for the best view back at the rides and the skyline. Popular with fishers.
Brighton Beach
Walk east to the neighborhood known for its Russian and Ukrainian shops, bakeries and restaurants.
Beach tips
- Arrive in the morning on hot summer weekends; the beach fills fast.
- Bring water, sunscreen and an umbrella; shade is scarce.
- Glass and alcohol on the beach are not allowed; follow posted NYC Parks rules.
- Off-season, the empty beach and boardwalk are quietly beautiful — and the hot dogs still sell year-round.
The beach off-season
From fall to spring the beach empties, the rides go quiet and the boardwalk belongs to walkers, joggers and anglers on the pier. It is one of the most peaceful places in the city on a clear winter morning, with long views to the ocean and the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge. Swimming is not allowed outside the lifeguard season, but walking the sand is.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you swim at Coney Island beach?
Yes, during the city’s beach season when lifeguards are on duty. Swim only in front of staffed lifeguard stands and obey flags and closures. NYC Parks posts the season dates and any water-quality advisories.
Is Coney Island beach free?
Yes. The beach and the boardwalk are public and free. Restrooms and showers are available along the boardwalk.
Plan a Summer Trip to New York
Beach days, ballgames and a hotel in the city — a travel specialist can plan it.
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