Cedar Grove Beach

Nestled on the eastern shore of Staten Island, Cedar Grove Beach offers a refreshing escape from the urban hustle, providing a serene and picturesque coastal experience right here in New York City. Opened to the public in 2011, this relatively new addition to NYC's public beaches has quickly become a beloved spot for locals and those in the know. Unlike some of the city's more bustling shorelines, Cedar Grove Beach is renowned for its tranquil atmosphere, making it an ideal destination for individuals and families seeking a quieter day by the water. With its soft, tan sand stretching approximately 5,500 feet, the beach invites visitors to relax, sunbathe, and enjoy the gentle rhythm of the waves. It also boasts stunning views of the iconic Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge, adding to its charm and photo-worthiness. Previously a private bungalow colony, Cedar Grove Beach has retained a sense of peaceful seclusion, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and urban accessibility. Whether you're looking for a peaceful spot to unwind, a clean beach for a family outing, or a scenic walk, Cedar Grove Beach presents a compelling option for New Yorkers.

Cedar Grove Beach is conveniently located at Cedar Grove Beach Pl, Staten Island, NY 10306, USA. Its position on Staten Island makes it a readily accessible beach for many New Yorkers, particularly those residing in the borough and surrounding areas. For those traveling by car, one of Cedar Grove Beach's significant advantages is the availability of parking. As noted by visitors, "Parking available," which is a considerable convenience in a city where beach parking can often be a challenge. The beach also offers wheelchair accessibility, ensuring that it is inclusive for all visitors. Facilities include wheelchair-accessible bathrooms and showers, and a beach mat is available off of Cedar Grove Avenue and Cedar Grove Beach Place, making it easier for individuals with mobility issues to access the sand. While public transportation options to this specific spot might require a bit more planning compared to some other city attractions, the availability of free parking certainly makes it a practical destination for many. Its relatively secluded nature contributes to its peaceful ambiance, making the journey worthwhile for those seeking a less crowded beach experience.

Cedar Grove Beach provides a range of essential services and amenities designed to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable visit for all beachgoers.

• Lifeguard Services: During beach season, lifeguards are on duty daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., ensuring a safe environment for swimming. It's important to note that swimming is prohibited when lifeguards are not on duty and in closed sections, which are clearly marked with signs and/or red flags.

• Restroom Facilities: "Ladies washroom available" and general bathrooms are provided, offering necessary conveniences for visitors.

• Outdoor Showers: After a refreshing swim or a day in the sand, outdoor showers are available for rinsing off.

• Comfort Areas and Benches: Throughout the beach area, visitors will find comfort areas equipped with benches, providing spots to rest and enjoy the views.

• Wheelchair Accessibility: The beach is designed to be accessible for visitors with disabilities, featuring wheelchair-accessible facilities and beach mats for easier sand access.

• Canoe and Kayak Launch Site: For those interested in water sports, Cedar Grove Beach offers a designated launch site for canoes and kayaks, providing a serene way to explore the surrounding waters.

• Free Sunscreen Program: NYC Parks offers a free sunscreen program at all eight beaches, including Cedar Grove Beach, allowing New Yorkers to protect themselves from the sun's rays.

Cedar Grove Beach stands out with several distinct features and highlights that contribute to its appeal as a premier beach destination in New York City.

• Clean Beach Conditions: A recurring theme in visitor feedback highlights the cleanliness of the beach, with one review stating, "Beach is clean." This dedication to cleanliness ensures a pleasant environment for all.

• Peaceful and Secluded Atmosphere: Many visitors appreciate the beach's tranquil nature, with one user noting, "It's the perfect beach to go to as an adult to lay out. Last time I was there, no one was there except for a few people. I love that. No kids in sight! I didn't get in the water. I just wanted peace and quiet." This makes it an ideal spot for those seeking relaxation away from crowds.

• Ample Parking: The availability of "Parking available" is a significant highlight, offering hassle-free access for those driving to the beach.

• Scenic Views: The beach offers stunning panoramic views, particularly of the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge, creating a picturesque backdrop for a day out.

• Opportunities for Walking and Exploration: Beyond the immediate beach area, there are "Lots of places to walk nearby as well," allowing visitors to extend their leisurely activities.

• Proximity to Dining Options: While there are no concession stands directly on the beach, nearby areas offer various dining choices, including "some nice restaurants," providing convenience for grabbing a meal or snack.

• Part of Great Kills Park: Cedar Grove Beach is situated within the larger Great Kills Park, which offers additional recreational opportunities such as hiking trails and bird-watching, making it a great destination for nature lovers.

• Historic Significance: The beach is part of the Cedar Grove Beach Club Historic District, featuring early 20th-century bungalows and cottages, adding a unique historical layer to the serene environment.

While Cedar Grove Beach itself does not typically run direct "promotions" in the commercial sense, its status as a New York City public beach means that certain benefits and offerings are inherently available to all visitors. The primary "special offer" is the free access to a well-maintained beach with essential amenities, a significant advantage in a metropolitan area.

• Free Entry: There is no admission fee to enter Cedar Grove Beach, making it an accessible recreational option for everyone.

• Free Parking: As highlighted by visitors, parking at Cedar Grove Beach is free, eliminating an often-significant cost associated with beach trips.

• Free Sunscreen Program: As mentioned, NYC Parks provides free SPF 30 sunscreen at all public beaches, including Cedar Grove, encouraging sun safety for all visitors. This is a practical and valuable offering, especially during peak summer months.

• Water Safety Information: The NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene provides current water quality advisories and closures, ensuring visitors have up-to-date information for safe swimming. This commitment to public safety is a crucial "service" that enhances the beach experience.

Potential "promotions" for locals might come from nearby businesses or community events rather than the beach itself. It's always a good idea to check local Staten Island community boards or tourism websites for any events, festivals, or local business discounts that might be happening in conjunction with a visit to Cedar Grove Beach. For example, some nearby restaurants might offer special deals for beachgoers, or local organizations might host free yoga sessions or clean-up events at the beach.

For more information or inquiries regarding Cedar Grove Beach, you can use the following contact details:

Address: Cedar Grove Beach Pl, Staten Island, NY 10306, USA

Phone: (718) 987-2060

Mobile Phone: +1 718-987-2060

Additionally, for general information about NYC Parks beaches and current conditions, the NYC Parks website (

nycgovparks.org

Cedar Grove Beach stands out as an exceptionally suitable destination for New York locals, particularly those in the Staten Island and wider NYC metropolitan area, for numerous compelling reasons. First and foremost, its distinctive atmosphere offers a much-needed reprieve from the city's relentless pace. Unlike the more crowded and tourist-heavy beaches, Cedar Grove provides a tranquil and relatively secluded environment, perfect for unwinding, reading a book, or simply enjoying the peaceful sounds of the ocean. This quietude is a significant draw for locals seeking genuine relaxation and a chance to decompress without venturing far from home.

The practical conveniences it offers further cement its appeal. The availability of free parking is a major advantage, alleviating the common urban stressor of finding and paying for parking. This accessibility makes spontaneous beach trips a feasible and enjoyable option for families and individuals alike. The clean facilities, including well-maintained restrooms and outdoor showers, enhance the overall comfort and convenience of a day at the beach. Furthermore, its "clean beach" status, as echoed by visitor reviews, ensures a pleasant and hygienic experience, a crucial factor for families with children or anyone looking for a pristine natural setting.

For adults, the beach offers a serene setting for laying out and soaking up the sun, with one review highlighting the absence of crowds and children as a distinct benefit for those seeking quietude. However, it's equally suitable for families, offering a safe environment with lifeguards on duty during operating hours, ensuring a secure place for swimming and splashing (when conditions permit). The presence of diverse features like wheelchair accessibility means it caters to a broad community, ensuring everyone can enjoy its beauty.

Beyond the beach itself, its integration within the larger Great Kills Park opens up opportunities for extending a day trip with additional activities like hiking and bird-watching, catering to a variety of interests. The proximity to local dining options means that visitors don't need to pack an entire picnic if they prefer to grab a bite nearby.

In essence, Cedar Grove Beach embodies the ideal local escape: accessible, clean, peaceful, and equipped with essential amenities. It's a testament to the fact that you don't need to travel far to find a slice of coastal tranquility. For New Yorkers looking for a genuine, no-frills beach experience that prioritizes calm over commotion, Cedar Grove Beach is an unparalleled local gem. It's a place where you can truly feel like you've left the city behind, if only for a few hours, without actually leaving it.

Cedar Grove Beach

Cedar Grove Beach Pl, Staten Island, NY 10306, USA