5 Beach Getaways in NY, NJ, and CT

Summer calls for some R&R, and what better place to get some than the beach? We found some beach getaways in NY, NJ and CT that are a little less known, but still full of the natural beauty and serenity you crave outside of the city. Slap on some sunscreen, update the book selections on your Kindle and bring your appetite, because these beaches come with charming town centers and restaurants that are great to explore once the sun sets.

Greenwich Point Park – Greenwich, CT

Greenwich is a town of quintessential luxury and is known as the “Rodeo Drive of the East Coast.”  You’ll find world-class restaurants and shopping such as Tiffany & Co., Saks Fifth Avenue, Tory Burch, J. Crew and Richards.

Greenwich Point Beach is about 35 miles from Manhattan. The amenities include walking and hiking trails along the waterfront, fishing, concession stands, BBQ pits and more. There’s plenty of room to lounge on the beach and spread out on the 145-acre peninsula. In some areas you can even see the Manhattan skyline in the distance. Before heading to the beach, stop at the Civic Center (90 Harding Road) in Old Greenwich to pick up a beach and parking pass. Furnished Quarters offers extended stays in Stamford, CT, which is just a short distance from Greenwich.

Compo Beach – Westport, CT

Westport is a quaint town about 50 miles outside of Manhattan. It has a small town feel, with high-end restaurants and shopping located right in the center on Main Street.

Compo Beach is on Long Island Sound and borders the Saugatuck River.  This beach is perfect for a family outing. Compo Beach has concession stands, volleyball courts, bathroom facilities with lockers, a scenic boardwalk, and a playground. You can drive there and park for a fee or take the Metro-North to Westport and take a 10-minute cab or rideshare to the beach.

Cape May Beach – Cape May, NJ

Cape May is an elegant seaside retreat with ornate Victorians and mansions. Although it’s farther away than the typical Jersey Shore, it’s worth the scenic drive. Founded in 1620, this town is the nation’s oldest seashore resort, and one of the few places where the sun both rises and sets over the water.

Cape May is about 2.5 hours outside of Manhattan and has a few beaches to explore, including City of Cape Cod (The Cove). The Cove is the more well-known area that’s close to shops and restaurants. Another beach in the area is Cape May Point, which has fewer amenities but is a beautiful remote residential area where you can truly relax. The daily cost for a beach pass is $6. Parking is free or metered along the beach front. If you’re staying at one of our furnished apartments in Jersey City, Cape May Beach is a great idea for a day trip!

Ponquogue Beach – Hampton Bays, NY (Long Island)

Hampton Bays is a more understated area of the Hamptons. It doesn’t take itself too seriously and the residents don’t either. The area is a great introduction to the Hamptons without the heavy traffic that often happens throughout the rest of the area.

Ponquogue Beach is well beloved by locals, and is known for its clean water, white sand and stunning views of the ocean and bay. The cost for a day pass is $25 per vehicle. Head to one of the best beach getaways in NY by the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) or with a cab/rideshare at a fixed rate.

Ditch Plains Beach – Montauk, NY (Long Island)

Known as “The End of the World,” Montauk is more than just a surfer’s haven. This small town is located on the tip of the South Fork peninsula of Long Island, and offers a relaxing and scenic getaway weekend. Along with the beach, there are six state parks so there is plenty to explore.

Although Ditch Plains Beach is a more well-known area, it’s not as built up as many of the neighboring Hamptons communities. The beach also offers restrooms, outdoor showers and concessions, including the famous Ditch Witch food truck.