While there's nothing quite like New York City in the summer, we're quickly learning that there's also nothing like New York City in the summer amidst a global pandemic. The scent of garbage infiltrates the air, A/C units are constantly leaking, and face masks are a must for the foreseeable future (regardless of what that means for our tan lines). So, while an Aperol Spritz can alleviate some of those summer bummers, another way to escape the city's hottest season is by planning a little getaway to a beach nearby. And, with Airbnb's
enhanced cleaning protocols in place, finding a rental that feels safe to stay in during these uncertain times is now possible.
If you thought your only seaside escape was a house in the Hamptons, think again. A prime location in NYC gives you access to plenty of alternative beaches — from Fire Island to Ocean City. To make your vacation planning just a little simpler, we went ahead and collected the best beach rentals in and around New York City. Accessible by subway, train, or car in under a few hours, these houses are the perfect spots to plan a quick trip.
Just be sure to book before all the July through September dates are taken — and do your research on travel restrictions that may prohibit you from visiting.
We’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team.
"Leave your cares behind and let beach living set the agenda for your Westbrook retreat! This 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath vacation rental boasts numerous decks just 1 block from the marina and Pilot Point's stunning white-sand beach. After mornings boating, fishing and sunbathing, stop by Bill's Seafood Restaurant for delicious dining, go for a walk in the McKinney Wildlife Refuge, and stop by Gillette Castle for a tour! Set only 2 hours from the Big Apple, making it a stress-free coastal hideaway!"
Location: Westbrook, ConnecticutSleeps: 6Price Per Night: $330Photo: Courtesy of Airbnb.
"A seaside, calming cove awaits those looking for proximity to the ocean, and peace all in one. This bright ALL brand new renovated private apartment will provide you with all of the details you have been waiting for. The Beach is 2 blocks to the left, and the markets and stores are 2 blocks to the right."
Location: Lido Beach, New YorkSleeps: 2Price Per Night: $250
"One block from the beach, gorgeous views, 12 rooms, 6 BR, lots of open living space, 2 porches, and a rooftop deck overlooking the ocean."Location: Ocean Grove, New JerseySleeps: 11Price Per Night: $650Photo: Courtesy of Airbnb.
“Ideally located, Surfside Studio is an open, airy, and comfortable studio just a block from the beach and the 97th St concessions. It is also close to many restaurants like Playland Motel, Whit's End Pizza, Chicks To Go, and right next door to Surfside Bagels. There's a large public parking lot one block away, with public transportation outside the front door. Perfect relaxing place for families or couples to enjoy beach life.”
Location: Rockaway Beach, New YorkSleeps: 4Price Per Night: $186Photo: Courtesy of Airbnb.
"Contemporary interior renovation inside the historic Victorian house. Walking distance to expansive bay and ocean beaches, restaurants, and lively bars makes this a perfect and charming getaway vacation destination."
Location: Hampton Bays, New YorkSleeps: 2Price Per Night: $233Photo: Courtesy of Airbnb.
"Enjoy a comfortable stay in a central location by the Jersey shore, less than one mile from the beach. While working from home on high-speed internet, be in a clean and cozy interior with warm colors and well-appointed decor."
Location: Wall Township, New JerseySleeps: 4Price Per Night: $328Photo: Courtesy of Airbnb.
“This cozy Fire Island apartment is located in the heart of Ocean Bay Park. You'll have a simple, sunny interior and a gated private deck — the perfect place to spend a relaxing evening after a day of swimming and sunbathing on the beach. Best of all, you can even bring your dog along!”
Location: Fire Island, New YorkSleeps: 4Price Per Night: $226Photo: Courtesy of Airbnb.
"A beautifully redesigned houseboat in the Jamaica Bay area of Rockaway Beach overlooking marina 59! A short walk to the surf break! I will happily take you surfing and fishing and we will cook our catch. This boat is a work of art, and a ton of people have put a lot of work into this boat."
Location: Rockaway Beach, Queens, New YorkSleeps: 12Price Per Night: $923Photo: Courtesy of Airbnb.
“Location! Location! Location! Walking distance to the beach and bay, amusement park/rides, mini-golf, markets, restaurants, beach bars, bike rentals, SUP, and more! This newly renovated one bedroom boasts loads of natural light and a city loft-type vibe.”
Location: Beach Haven, New YorkSleeps: 2Price Per Night: $200Photo: Courtesy of Airbnb.
“Classic Old Bungalow from Rockaway Beach. Double Height ceilings with lots of windows. Renovated but keeping the old charming feeling. Cozy. Living room and eat-in kitchen integrated to make the most out of the communal space. Great for cooking and sharing.”
Location: Rockaway Beach, Queens, New YorkSleeps: 4Price Per Night: $203Photo: Courtesy of Airbnb.
"This is a newly renovated, large guest suite in our home that offers beautiful waterfront views. You will have a parking space and private entrance. There is a king size bed as well as a queen pullout sofa and privacy screen available. There is a large, shared, outdoor deck and private beach where the kids can play while you lounge and read a book"
Location: Long Beach, New YorkSleeps: 4Price Per Night: $404Photo: Courtesy of Airbnb.
“Welcome to our humble cottage, space perfect for a romantic getaway, honeymoon, business travel, and cozy family weekend. Guests will have the entire house to themselves. We designed the entire house! Water view at the back porch (ducks and occasional swans)."
Location: Howard Beach, Queens, New YorkSleeps: 5Price Per Night: $239Photo: Courtesy of Airbnb.
"Guests will enjoy a unique modern home with stunning 20ft ceilings and tons of light. This immaculate 4,000-square-foot home has everything you will need. Our home is private, quiet with a beautiful spacious fenced in backyard. Also enjoy a private beach with lifeguards steps from the house. Our beaches are ranked as one of the ‘cleanest beaches’ in the USA.”
Location: Lido Beach, New YorkSleeps: 10Price Per Night: $750Photo: Courtesy of Airbnb.
“Ocean Grove: calm, clean, friendly. Ocean Grove is home to an award-winning beach. Refresh in the clean ocean waters and bask in the sun. Stroll along our boardwalk while enjoying the sounds of gulls and waves."
Location: Ocean Grove, New JerseySleeps: 3Price Per Night: $264Photo: Courtesy of Airbnb.
“Take an afternoon siesta in the hammock beneath the pergola before eating a barbecue on the broad mahogany deck. This beach cottage boasts an open concept with high vaulted ceilings and exposed beams with nautical details throughout.”
Location: Sag Harbor, New YorkSleeps: 6Price Per Night: $655Photo: Courtesy of Airbnb.
“Spacious 2-bedroom beach house 3-minute walk to the beach! Sunsets from the boardwalk, great for strolls, bike rides and free evening summer beach concerts. Located on one of the few surf friendly blocks.”
Location: Long Beach, New YorkSleeps: 2Price Per Night: $175Photo: Courtesy of Airbnb.
"Better than Hamptons & closer! Modern Home, pool, balcony, steps to private beach. Brand new, beautifully renovated, modern beach house with in-ground heated pool, located 7 houses from a gorgeous private beach in the exclusive Lido Dunes community. Sleep 10 comfortably, dining for 10 (in & out), fully finished basement, parking for 5 cars, patio, fenced in yard & Lido Dunes beach passes.”
Location: Lido Beach, New YorkSleeps: 10Price Per Night: $457Photo: Courtesy of Airbnb.
Spacious & Modern with Lush Private Gardens & Pool
"Swim amid lush private gardens as birds sing in cypress pines. Fire up a retro BBQ and dine on an expansive entertaining deck. Inside, white walls, breezy blues, greenery, and natural woods lend effortless chic to a welcoming, family-friendly home."
Location: Hampton Bays, New YorkSleeps: 10Price Per Night: $550
“Our home is close to the ocean and historic Victorian town of Ocean Grove and revitalized Asbury Park with its great restaurants, music, art, entertainment and shopping. You’ll love our home because of its amazing location – just steps away from one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Our restored historic house has ocean views from the front porch, living room and two bedrooms.”
Location: Neptune Township, New JerseySleeps: 8Price Per Night: $535Photo: Courtesy of Airbnb.
“Located at 9th and Ocean, this beach cottage is nestled right in the middle of it all. With the beach, boardwalk, and shops of Asbury Ave. located only blocks away, many of the island’s best sights are within walking distance. The property sits back off the main road, offering additional privacy. Comfortable amenities paired with tasteful decor make this place truly charming.”
Location: Ocean City, New JerseySleeps: 6Price Per Night: $212Photo: Courtesy of Airbnb.