Rockaway
Life

Whether you're searching for the perfect coffee on the way to work, looking for an ocean adventure with friends, or craving a romantic, seaside cocktail, Rockaway will suit any lifestyle.

The Local SIGHTS

Rockaway fuses the character of New York City and the natural beauty of the Eastern Seaboard with activities to enjoy year round.

The Boardwalk

Boardwalk life is an indelible part of Rockaway culture. As the main route that connects the Rockaways, the boardwalk comes to life with food vendors and beachgoers in summer and is an ideal environment for beachside strolls or runs in winter.

Cuisine by Claudette

Locals and tourists mingle at this cozy spot known for its delicious coffee and pastries, plus a full menu of salads and Moroccan-inspired dishes.

Tacoway Beach

Beloved by hipsters and surfers alike, this destination taco shop is known for its Mexican fare, but also serves ramen noodles, fresh juices, and breakfast tacos. With laid-back, beachy decor and fresh juices, Tacoway Beach is the perfect place to hang out on a lazy summer afternoon.

Rockaway Beach Surf Club

The serious surf crowd mingles with newcomers at this multipurpose space that includes a restaurant, bar, and art gallery. The Surf Club also serves as a venue for events celebrating the culture of the Rockaways.

Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge

Covering 9,000 acres of open bay, saltmarsh, mudflats, upland field, woods, and two man-made brackish ponds, the Wildlife Refuge is part of the Gateway National Recreation Area. It’s also one of the best places in New York City to observe migrating species. With 332 bird species sighted at the refuge over the last 25 years, it’s a birder’s paradise.

Beach Bistro 96

For a contemporary take on traditional Brazilian cuisine, visit Beach Bistro 96, where husband-and-wife duo Carlos Varella and Andressa Junqueira have perfected the mix of surf culture and international flavor that’s so unique to the Rockaways. A full menu includes vegan options, as well as drinks, desserts, and classic Brazilian dishes.

Rockaway Brewing Company

Founded by two Rockaway locals who started out brewing beer in their backyards, the Brewing Company is a great spot to hang out and meet friends, or fill a growler with a small-batch brew.

Locals Surf School

Locals Surf School provides lessons for every level of learner and hosts a surf camp for kids. Whether you’re an absolute beginner or an experienced surfer, you’ll receive expert training with nationally accredited instructors.

Rockaway Love Yoga Studio

Recharge mind, body, and soul in this cool and welcoming space that offers Vinyasa-based yoga classes to practitioners of all levels. Massage, acupuncture, detox workshops, and other wellness services are also available.

Whit's End

For authentic wood-fire pizza on par with any in the city, visit Whit’s End. Pies feature fresh and unique toppings like purple garlic, charred lemon ricotta, and Brussels sprouts.

Uma's

Enjoy incredible Uzbeki cuisine in this laidback brick-front space unlike any other in the city. Known for such Uzbek staples as noodle soup and kebabs, this intimate spot is a great place for a hearty meal after a day of surfing and boardwalk strolling.

Riis Park Beach Bazaar

Along with shopping, sports (beach volleyball, Ultimate Frisbee), and live music, the Bazaar offers fantastic beach snacks all summer long. Ample Hills Creamery and Fletcher’s BBQ are just two of the critically-acclaimed eateries that call Riis Park home.

Spa Rockaway

This full service spa offers a variety of treatments including facials, body treatments, massages, and more.

Retail in One Sixteen

The ground floor of One Sixteen features 14,000 square feet of retail space, so residents will always be able to find just what they need mere steps from home.

Aviator Sports and Events Center

Aviator’s facilities include a 175,000 square foot indoor sports center, event space, ice skating rink, basketball court, volleyball, and outdoor turf fields. Aviator provides many year-round sports leagues and activities, and its massive facilities can host birthday parties, camps, and field trips.

Sayra’s Wine Bar

Unwind after a day of sunbathing in this trendy wine bar’s spacious backyard. More than a dozen wines are available by the glass, along with tapas-style bar bites including cheeses, olives, and charcuterie.