Midland Beach is the heartwarming retreat many New Yorkers secretly cherish. Soft sand, cool water, and shady trees make it perfect for family outings or quiet solo moments. As the sun dips below the horizon, gather with loved ones on the shore, soaking in the stillness and warmth—the kind of peace money can’t buy. This isn’t just a beach trip; it’s a return to life’s simple joys.








Everything you need to know about Midland Beach
The Beach House at Midland is a top choice for beachfront stays near Midland Beach, offering private beach access, ocean-view rooms, and a tranquil coastal ambiance. Located just a 5-minute walk from the sandy shores, it features an outdoor pool, sunbathing decks, and a locally inspired café. The property is well-connected via NYC Bus 35 or electric bike rentals, with a 20-minute drive to Brooklyn Ferry. Ideal for travelers seeking a relaxed seaside retreat with easy access to New York City’s vibrant culture.
The most convenient option is taking NYC Bus 35 from Brooklyn or Manhattan, which runs directly to Midland Beach Station in about 40 minutes. Alternatively, use ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft, or rent an e-bike to cycle along the scenic coastline, enjoying views of Long Island Sound. If driving, use GPS with the destination "Midland Beach, Staten Island" and be mindful of weekend parking restrictions—some areas allow only short-term parking.
Beyond sunbathing, visitors can join eco-guided tours led by local conservation groups to explore the wetland ecosystem and spot migrating birds. Popular activities include kayaking on calm waters and intertidal fishing, especially during early morning or late afternoon hours when conditions are ideal. Summer events feature beach concerts and bonfire gatherings with local artists and community engagement. Notably, the beach offers free public showers and shaded cabanas, reflecting thoughtful, user-friendly design.
Yes, Midland Beach is perfect for families. The Beach House at Midland offers spacious family suites with separate bedrooms and kitchenettes, ideal for multi-generational travel. On-site amenities include a kids’ play area, sandbox, and shallow, safe swimming zones monitored by lifeguards. The beach has calm waters and regular safety patrols. Nearby attractions like the Staten Island Zoo and coastal walking trails provide additional fun for the whole family.
Yes, The Salty Crab Shack is a must-visit right beside the beach, renowned for fresh catches like lobster, scallops, and sea bass sourced daily from Long Island Sound fisheries. Their signature dish, the Beach-Roasted Crab Pie, combines local herbs and charcoal grilling for a rich flavor. With outdoor seating overlooking the water and live acoustic guitar performances in the evenings, it’s a favorite among locals. Reservations are strongly recommended, especially on weekends and holidays.
Midland Beach enforces strict ecological conservation policies, including a ban on single-use plastics, segregated recycling stations, and regular tidal cleanup initiatives. The annual Coastal Clean-Up Day engages residents in beach restoration efforts. Additionally, mangrove reforestation zones are established to stabilize shorelines and enhance biodiversity. The management collaborates with the New York City Department of Environmental Protection to monitor water quality and air conditions, ensuring sustainable coexistence between visitors and nature.
The Sands Hotel & Spa is a top choice, offering private beach access and ocean-view rooms with breathtaking vistas of the Long Island Sound. The property features a kids' playground, indoor pool, and seaside café, making it perfect for families. Located just a 5-minute walk from Midland Beach, it also provides easy access to activities like kayaking tours and beachside picnics, ensuring a memorable coastal getaway.
The most efficient option is taking the N27 bus via Brooklyn Bridge–Williamsburg, reaching midtown Manhattan in about 45 minutes. Alternatively, transfer at South Ferry Station to the LIRR train bound for Penn Station, a 1-hour journey ideal for travelers with luggage. For those driving, crossing the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge offers scenic views of New York Harbor, though traffic congestion during peak hours should be anticipated.
Try a guided HopeGoo tour across the calm waters of Long Island Sound, led by experienced guides who highlight views of Belle Harbor and Stony Brook Park. The sunset sailboat cruise is another favorite, offering cocktails and panoramic views of the skyline reflected on the water. For nature lovers, join a tidal pool exploration during low tide to discover crabs, starfish, and sea snails—an immersive experience in marine biodiversity. All activities include equipment rental.
Fishing Pier Restaurant is a must-visit, renowned for its char-grilled Long Island lobster, served with herb butter and toasted garlic bread—freshly caught daily. Another highlight is Seaside Fisherman's Shack’s crispy fried cod with fries, made with locally sourced fish, perfectly crispy on the outside and tender within, paired with house-made tartar sauce. Both feature oceanfront patios, where you can enjoy your meal while watching waves crash and the sun dip below the horizon.
Head to the Belle Harbor Breakwater, a prime location for capturing golden hour light. The pier extends into the sea, framing the sun’s slow descent beneath the horizon, with the Long Island Sound skyline and distant ferry trails as backdrops. Ideal conditions for long-exposure shots of waves and light reflections occur during early evening when humidity is moderate. With designated viewing platforms and minimal crowds, it offers a serene setting perfect for photographers seeking creative focus.
Many hotels, including The Sands Hotel & Spa, provide complimentary parking for overnight guests. Some boutique rentals charge $15–$20 per day; advance confirmation is advised. Public beach parking lots often fill up quickly on weekends—arrive early or consider using shared electric shuttle services available near South Ferry Station, which reduce the need to search for parking spaces.
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