Rockaways is the closest consistently surfable spot to New York City, making it a go-to day trip for local surfers. It's easy to reach via the city train system, and you'll find a variety of beach areas to check out. The west-end towns of Breezy Point and Bell Harbor offer nice spots to chill and catch some waves. 92nd Street remains the most popular area for surfers, known for its long jetty that creates solid takeoff conditions.
The surf here usually ranges from waist high (about 1 meter) to well overhead (around 2 meters), making it a good spot for different skill levels—from beginners to experts. The beach break offers good lefts and rights, especially on the east-southeast and southeast swells. It generally handles swells sized between 3 feet (0.9 meters) to 7 feet (2.1 meters), breaking over a sandy bottom. For the best experience, the low to mid tide is usually preferable, and it handles winds from the north and northwest pretty well. Paddling can be mostly mellow, but keep in mind it might get tricky on larger days, so look for rip currents near the jetty to make it easier.
Accessing the beach is straightforward with street parking and subway stations close by, but expect to share the waves, as it can get crowded, especially during good swells. The vibe is generally mellow to moderate, but be prepared for heavier crowds on prime surf days. The best time to surf here is between September and March when the swells can be a lot more consistent.