Orchard Beach

Orchard Beach, the park’s most popular feature, is the only public beach in the borough. The 115-acre, 1.1-mile-long engineering marvel was created on Long Island Sound by Parks Commissioner Robert Moses during the 1930s. “The Riviera of New York” consists of a 13-section sandy beach, a hexagonal-block promenade, a central pavilion with food stores and specialty shops, two playgrounds, two picnic areas, a large parking lot, and 26 courts for basketball, volleyball, and handball.

On hot summer days, this refuge is used by tens of thousands of sunbathers. Admission is free, but there is a fee for parking. Changing areas and showers are available. Off-season, Orchard Beach is a favorite spot for a peaceful stroll.