CBS New York Guide To Free Beaches In NYC

Labor Day Weekend is upon us and with that is possibly your last chance to hit the beach this summer. If you're looking to soak up some rays this holiday weekend, here are some free beaches in New York City.

More: 6 Great Places To Sunbathe In NYC

(credit: Spencer Platt/Getty Images)

Coney Island is home to the "world famous" Cyclone roller coaster, circus sideshows, the New York Aquarium and Luna Park. There's three miles of beach and plenty of playgrounds, rides and games. Eat at Nathan's Famous, the Luna Grill or any of the many other boardwalk eateries. Be sure to bring a change of clothes too — with all the fun stuff to do, you might be there for a while.

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Coney Island's neighboring beach town is heavily populated with Russian immigrants;  soak up the colorful culture and savor the pirozhki, kolbasa, perogies and vodka at the boardwalk shops. Russian is the first language in many eateries, so be prepared to point and nod at the food you want. Bring your appetite, your camera and your sense of adventure.

(credit: New York Harbor Parks)

This mile-long beach and popular picnic area also has miniature golf, paddle tennis, baseball, basketball and volleyball. Bring your own ball to take advantage of the courts. Eat at the concession stands, or save money and bring a picnic.

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Rockaway beach has plenty of playgrounds for kids as well as handball courts. Additionally, it's the city's only surfing area and the waves can be mighty. Eat at one of the pizzerias or Rippers, our favorite burger joint on the boardwalk. Bring your wetsuit, board and pack lots of food to BBQ in one of the provided pits. Bottled water is expensive here, so bring a water bottle to refill for free.