This Sandy Beach Called “The Bronx Riviera” Was Just Ranked One of the Best Near NYC

It’s safe to say NYC beaches had their moment this year. For starters, South Beach on Staten Island was recently named one of the best near NYC—and now CN Traveler has given the same honor to another underrated gem: Orchard Beach in The Bronx. Nicknamed “The Bronx Riviera” when it opened in the 1930s, Orchard Beach remains the only public beach in The Bronx and has been a summertime staple for generations. With a 1.1-mile crescent of sand, calm waves, and unbeatable people-watching , CN Traveler praised it as one of the top beaches near the city thanks to its accessibility, lively energy, and retro New York charm . Orchard Beach was the brainchild of Parks Commissioner Robert Moses, who in the 1930s transformed a rocky stretch of shoreline into a grand urban beach getaway . The project used landfill and sand shipped in from Long Island and New Jersey, creating not just a beach but also a sweeping hexagonal promenade, pavilion, and bathhouse—all in striking Art Moderne style. Today, those structures are designated landmarks, reminders of a bold era of city planning. Beyond sunbathing and swimming, the beach has 26 courts for basketball, volleyball, and handball , plus two playgrounds and plenty of picnic areas. Food trucks and snack bars line the promenade, and on summer weekends you’ll often find salsa dancing, family barbecues, and lively games spilling across the sand! The gentle surf of Long Island Sound makes it ideal for all ages, and the surrounding Pelham Bay Park —New York City’s largest—offers trails, biking paths, and wildlife spotting just steps away. And after you’re done soaking up the sun, head just a few minutes away to the beloved [City Island](https://secretnyc.co/things-to-do-city-island-the-bronx/) , a charming fishing village filled with seafood restaurants perfect for a post-beach feast. ### Everything to know about visiting Orchard Beach Keep in mind that NYC beaches close for the summer on September 7th, so there’s only a few more days to get your toes in the sand! But if you’re ready to plan a day at Orchard Beach, here are a few things to know before you go: * Hours: Lifeguards are on duty daily from 10 a.m – 6 pm during beach season. Swimming is prohibited outside of these times, or in closed-off areas marked with red flags. * Parking: Lot parking is available right by the beach. Rates are $10 on weekdays and $12 on weekends/holidays for cars and vans. Seniors (65+) get a weekday discount ($6 with valid ID). There’s also a 10-visit coupon booklet ($90 for weekends/holidays or $75 for weekdays). * Accessibility: Orchard Beach is wheelchair-accessible, with beach mats and beach wheelchairs available by reservation. * Getting There: Take the 6 train to Pelham Bay Park then transfer to a bus. Or take a City Island-bound Bx29 bus, or on weekends during the summer, take the Bx12 to Orchard Beach. Source: https://secretnyc.co/orchard-beach-bronx-top-beach-near-nyc-cn-traveler/