Do you love Montauk but hate sitting in 3 hours of traffic on the LIE? Stay local and explore the beautiful beaches of New York City. Hop on the ferry to Rockaway for the best spent $2.75. If you’re looking for a fun yet laid back beachtown like Montauk without the travel headache, Rockaway is a hidden gem with an eclectic surf culture.
Follow along for our locals guide to a perfect beach weekend in Rockaway.
Where to Stay
Photos courtesy of The Rockaway Hotel
If you’re looking for a place to stay, our favorite hotel is the Rockaway Hotel. This trendy spot recently opened in 2020. If you want to feel like you’re in Montauk, this is the place to stay. Be sure to check out their daily wellness classes and live music on the rooftop and pool deck.
Coffee
Sovereign Surf
Greenhouse Cafe
Once you get to Rockaway, it’s time to fuel up on coffee. Sovereign Surf just opened this month conveniently next to the ferry. This funky coffee-surf-vintage shop operating out of an airstream is something you’d find in Montauk. Another favorite coffee shop of ours is Greenhouse Cafe– try their lavender oat latte, made with fresh lavender from a local Rockaway farm.
Beach
Of course, the reason you’re here: the beach. Rockaway has miles of beautiful beaches so pack up your beach bag for a day of sun and surf. Our preferred mode of transportation here is a beach cruiser.
Check out our beach bags, towels and chairs for your next beach day in Rockaway.
Surf
If you’re looking to surf, we recommend Locals Surf School. They rent boards if you’re experienced and offer lessons if you’re just starting out. They also run a coffee shop out of their surf school.
Where to Eat
Rockaway Beach Surf Club
For a quick bite after the beach, head to Rockaway Beach Surf Club for the best fish tacos served up by Tacoway. Other spots we love: Bungalow Bar for a sunset drink, Whit’s End for their rotating seafood menu, and Kennedy’s for a martini.