When it comes to planning a summer trip down the shore, knowing how to get there is important to think about — especially if you don’t have a car. Lucky for you, when it comes to traveling to either New Jersey or New York beaches, a car isn’t needed. Both New Jersey and New York have various public transportation lines to get travelers to and from the destination of their choice. There is no need to worry about traffic or parking, with public transportation as an option. Read on for our list of 12 Jersey Shore and New York beaches that are accessible via public transportation from the NYC metro area.
Beaches Accessible via New Jersey + New York Trains
New Jersey Beaches
Asbury Park
View this post on Instagram
Enjoy a culture- and a food-filled trip to Asbury Park and its scenic beaches. This little beach town packs a big punch, with beachside tacos from Mogo, must-try cupcakes from Confections of a Rockstar, and the lively Asbury Festhalle and Biergarten. Check out our guide to all things Asbury Park.
Bradley Beach
View this post on Instagram
This quiet beach town is great for a weekend or day trip, with beach sports, sunbathing, and more. Two of our favorite spots are the Bradley Brew Project and the Summertime Surf School, which is also available in Asbury Park.
Belmar
This scenic shore town is one of the shore’s most popular destinations, and it’s accessible right after Bradley Beach. While activities abound in Belmar, some of the local favorites include the Belmar Boardwalk, parasailing, and, of course, beach lounging.
Read More: 14 Free New Jersey Beaches Worth Visiting
Manasquan
The peaceful and relaxing Manasquan Beach is perfect for unwinding after a long week. The beach area farther away from town is a bit more relaxing, but posting up close to town will put you near some Manasquan staples like Tacoholics and Leggett’s Sand Bar.
Point Pleasant
View this post on Instagram
This family-friendly beach is filled with lots of activities to enjoy. Upon arrival, don’t miss Jenkinson’s Boardwalk and South Beach Arcade — not to mention Point Pleasant Beach — to make the most of your trip.
New York Beaches
Fire Island
View this post on Instagram
Take the train from New York Penn Station to Sayville, and the ferry from Sayville Ferry Service, a quick Uber ride away, to enjoy the scenery and serenity of Fire Island, one of the area’s most beautiful stretches of shoreline. From a lighthouse to vast beaches, this is a great location for a family vacation or pals’ trip.
The Hamptons
View this post on Instagram
For many East Coast beachgoers, summer isn’t complete without a trip to the Hamptons. Fortunately, with the Hampton Jitney, accessible at spots throughout Manhattan, and the Long Island Railroad, it’s easy to get to East Hampton, Amagansett, and Montauk – and it’s under three hours.
The North Fork
View this post on Instagram
If wine is on the agenda, take a trip on the LIRR, with a transfer in Ronkonkoma, to the North Fork town of Greenport. Beaches include the natural 67 Steps Beach and Town Beach, as well as a variety of oceanfront dining spots like Claudio’s Waterfront.
Jones Beach
View this post on Instagram
Long Island’s Jones Beach is less than two hours from Hudson County via public transit. The NJ Transit 123 bus makes stops in Union City + Jersey City, taking riders right into NYC’s Port Authority. From there, beach-goers can hop on the LIRR (we recommend buying the package deal) to Freeport. From there, take the n88 bus (Nassau Inter-County Express) to Jones Beach. Although it involves a few transport changes, taking this route to Jones beach is surely less taxing than being stuck in car traffic + is totally worth it once you get to dip your toes into the salty ocean water.
Beaches Accessible via New Jersey Buses
Seaside Heights and Seaside Park
View this post on Instagram
With the NJ Transit bus 137 from Port Authority, a trip to the fun and festive Seaside Heights is within reach. Just catch the 137 to Toms River and take the connecting shuttle to Seaside Park, just one mile from Seaside Heights. That being said, with all of the amazing things to do in Seaside Park, you may never want to leave.
Atlantic City
View this post on Instagram
The NJ Transit bus 319 takes travelers from Port Authority to the casinos and shorelines of Atlantic City for a roundtrip price of $42. This is a daily service, perfect for a summer girls’ or guys’ weekend away.
Beaches Accessible via the NYC Subway
Rockaway Beach
View this post on Instagram
Watch surfers and swim in the waves at one of NYC’s favorite beach getaways, Rockaway Beach. Accessible via subway (take the A train to Beach 67th Street), this destination is a no-frills day trip, perfect for the budget traveler.
See More: 9-Year-Old Asbury Park Resident Discusses Problem of Trash on Jersey Shore Beaches
Coney Island
View this post on Instagram
Nothing beats a classic trip to Coney Island, and this iconic destination is accessible on a variety of subway lines, including the F, D, N, and Q. With everything from boardwalks to breweries and rides to sunbathing, Coney Island will definitely be a jam-packed day. Thankfully, it’s close enough to go twice.
