I've Lived in New York State My Whole Life-This Might Be Its Best Beach Town, Just 50 Minutes From Manhattan

"Just 50 minutes from Penn Station (and 56 minutes from Grand Central Station), Long Beach, New York, is one of the quickest true beach escapes from Manhattan. The Long Island Railroad drops you a few blocks from the sand, where a wide shoreline and a two-mile boardwalk set the tone for a slower, more easygoing day than anything happening back in the city."

"About 10 miles from Long Beach lies the Rockaway Hotel, which made Travel + Leisure's It List shortly after it debuted in 2020. It still remains one of NYC's most stylish coastal escapes. Bright, minimalist interiors, an ocean-view rooftop, and a seasonal pool deck that becomes a cozy winter pool house create an effortless beach-meets-city vibe. Its 53 rooms feel warm and airy, with sleek wood accents and natural light."

Long Beach, New York is about 50 minutes from Penn Station and 56 minutes from Grand Central Station by train, offering a quick beach escape from Manhattan. The Long Island Railroad delivers visitors a few blocks from a wide shoreline and a two-mile boardwalk, creating a slower, easygoing atmosphere. The town has a year-round population near 35,000, with surfers and locals present even in the off-season. Travelers primarily visit for beach access without Hamptons traffic, while dining, nightlife, and neighborhood fixtures give additional reasons to linger. Nearby coastal hotels include the Rockaway Hotel and the Allegria Hotel with ocean views and seasonal pools.

Read at Travel + Leisure