Sun, sand, and surf, all minutes from the city.
Think you need to head to Montauk or Malibu to live by the beach? Think again. There are plenty of NYC suburbs where surf, sand, and salty air are just part of the day-to-day. Whether you’re looking for sandy stretches, serene Sound views, or full-on boardwalk vibes, the beach life is alive and well in the suburbs—and you don’t have to give up your city job (or your MetroCard) to enjoy it.
Looking to make beach days a permanent part of your week? Here are the top NYC suburbs for coastal living, each one offering something totally unique.
Port Washington, NY
If you’re looking for a town that feels like a full-time vacation, Port Washington delivers. Just 35 minutes from Manhattan on the LIRR, this North Shore gem blends small-town charm with a laid-back, maritime vibe. On any given day, you’ll spot kids fishing off the pier, kayakers cruising Manhasset Bay, and locals grabbing lobster rolls dockside.
The town’s waterfront access is second to none. North Hempstead Beach Park spans 60 acres and features a half-mile beach, boardwalk, picnic areas, a fishing pier, and summer concerts that draw families from all over the North Shore. Down the road, Manorhaven Beach Park adds an Olympic-sized pool, splash park, tennis courts, and playgrounds to the mix. Living here means being just minutes from beachy bliss—and yes, locals kayak before work.
Larchmont & Mamaroneck, NY
These two Westchester towns offer a unique blend of coastal New England charm and modern suburbia. They’re next door to each other and, together, create one of the most sought-after waterfront enclaves in the county.
In Larchmont, the beachy action centers around Larchmont Manor Park and Beach—a residents-only beach with picturesque Sound views, stone gazebos, and a peaceful, manicured feel. Stroll along the seawall at sunrise and it’s easy to forget you’re less than 40 minutes from Grand Central.
Down the road in Mamaroneck, Harbor Island Park is a true waterfront playground. There’s a 700-foot sandy beach (with lifeguards in the summer), a sprayground, marina, boat launch, and plenty of events throughout the season. You’ll also find yacht clubs, casual seafood shacks, and one of Westchester’s most beloved downtowns. Waterfront living meets family-friendly suburb, with just enough edge to keep things interesting.
Rye, NY
Rye is one of Westchester’s original beach towns, and it still lives up to the hype. Set on 14 miles of Long Island Sound shoreline, Rye blends the best of suburbia—top-rated schools, a vibrant downtown, and a 40-minute Metro-North commute—with true coastal living.
Locals love Rye Town Park and Beach, which offers resident permits and day passes from Memorial Day to Labor Day. There’s a wide sandy beach, swimming areas, a snack bar, and seasonal events like concerts and food trucks. Bonus: families in neighborhoods like Greenhaven and Milton Point can walk to the shore, and some have private beach access through neighborhood associations.
Looking for more buzz? Playland Beach—next to the famous amusement park—adds rides, mini golf, boardwalk fun, and fireworks to your summer weekend mix.
Greenwich, CT
Greenwich may be best known for its upscale shops and proximity to NYC, but it’s also home to some of the best public beaches around. The town owns multiple stretches of waterfront on Long Island Sound, and residents can snag seasonal beach and park passes for access from May through October.
The crown jewel is Greenwich Point Park (aka Tod’s Point), a 147-acre coastal paradise with long stretches of beach, walking trails, picnic areas, and panoramic views of Manhattan on clear days. There are designated swim areas, a marina, and even kayak rentals. Residents also hop ferries to Island Beach and Great Captain Island, two tiny offshore gems with lifeguards, picnic areas, and total castaway vibes.
In short: luxury meets barefoot ease, with an easy commute back to NYC.
Westport, CT
Westport might be the most iconic beach town in the NYC ‘burbs—and for good reason. This Fairfield County favorite is a draw for anyone craving that coastal-chic lifestyle: top-rated schools, farmers markets, indie coffee shops, and, of course, waterfront everything.
Compo Beach is the main event here. With a playground that rivals Disney, a boardwalk, beach volleyball, picnic spots, and jaw-dropping sunsets, this beach is the ultimate family hang. It’s open to residents and day guests (with a fee), and parking passes are in high demand for good reason.
Add in Sherwood Island State Park, just a few minutes away with miles of beach and nature trails, and you’ve got no shortage of options when the sun’s shining.
Darien, CT
Darien’s shoreline might be quieter than some of its neighbors—but that’s exactly the point. With just under 8 square miles of coastal space, this town leans into its New England roots with a low-key, high-end beach scene that’s perfect for families looking to unplug.
There are two main public beaches: Weed Beach, with its long stretch of sand, playground, paddle courts, and snack bar; and Pear Tree Point Beach, a smaller but beloved spot with picnic tables, mooring, and panoramic views across the Sound. Darien also offers private yacht clubs and boating clubs that deepen the coastal lifestyle.
With a well-regarded school system and easy train access, Darien’s beach town charm is the secret that’s slowly getting out.
Fairfield, CT
There’s a reason Fairfield makes so many “best towns” lists: strong schools, a bustling downtown, and five miles of pristine beaches don’t hurt. For families who want to balance community life with casual coastal vibes, this is the place.
Jennings Beach, the largest public beach in town, has it all—tons of sand, concessions, volleyball courts, and even a skate park. Penfield Beach is a little quieter but has picnic tables and grills perfect for family barbecues. Then there’s Sasco Beach, tucked into the Southport side of town, which feels like a locals-only hideaway. In summer, residents crowd into Southport Village for lobster rolls, farmers markets, and seaside views that rival any New England vacation town.
Fairfield is also one of the few towns with lake and oceanfront options. Lake Mohegan offers freshwater swimming just a short drive inland.
Rumson, NJ
This Monmouth County town has always been a go-to for NYC families who want true coastal living without the full-on Jersey Shore vibe. And while Rumson’s surrounded by water—literally, it sits between the Navesink and Shrewsbury Rivers—it’s not just about the views.
Here, you’re a quick bike ride (or five-minute drive) from the oceanfront at Sea Bright Beach, a local favorite with wide sand, snack shacks, lifeguards, and waves big enough to surf. Many Rumson residents also join one of the private beach clubs nearby—Chapel Beach Club and Sea Bright Beach Club among them—offering pools, cabanas, kids programming, and members-only events all summer long.
And the commute? Hop on the Seastreak ferry and be in Manhattan in 40 minutes—boardwalk sand still between your toes.
Want to make the beach part of your everyday?
Suburban Jungle can help you find the right town—sand, surf, and all. Schedule your free initial strategy call and start living that saltwater life.
For more insights, visit SJ’s New York City suburbs section and the New York City blog page on our website.
