Ways to Discover Nature and History in Rockaway
There’s no shortage of natural and historic beauty in and around Rockaway. Here are some spots to check out to connect with the outdoors:
- Far Rockaway Beach Bungalow Historic District: This series of intact, quaint bungalows, located on three blocks in Far Rockaway (Beach 24th, 25th, and 26th Streets), are a throwback to the types of homes that dominated the eastern end of the peninsula in the early 20th century. The bungalows have been subjects of numerous documentaries and articles and were listed on the National Register of Historic Places in July 2013.
- Bayswater Point State Park: Tucked away in an otherwise residential neighborhood, this pristine park offers outstanding panoramic views of Jamaica Bay, bird-watching and fishing opportunities, and a chance for an easy, family-friendly hike. It’s essentially a secret that deserves much more recognition. 1479 Point Breeze Place, Far Rockaway, NY 11691/718-967-1976
- Rockaway Community Park: Another little known, yet beautiful location. Containing 253 acres of unspoiled greenery and wildlife, the park juts out into Jamaica Bay and gives no hint of its more urban surroundings. Like Bayswater Point State Park, it’s a great fishing location. Almeda Ave., Norton Ave. bet. Beach 58 St., Sommerville Basin and Beach 49 St., Conch Basin
- Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge: The crown jewel of Rockaway’s natural beauty. Part of the multi-state Gateway National Recreation Area, the refuge is worldrenowned for its bird-watching (you can see osprey nests from Cross Bay Boulevard). Among the many other animals you can find are diamondback turtles, horseshoe crabs, and an abundance of fish. Check out the East and West trails. Visitors Center located at 304 Cross Bay Boulevard, Broad Channel, NY, 11693/718-318-4340
- Fort Tilden: Established in 1917, Fort Tilden used to be an active military base. Today it’s home to local art and theatre collectives, sporting fields, and more. Don’t be afraid to go exploring all around here—the abandoned battery buildings are now graffiti havens, and Battery Harris East offers stunning 360-degree views of New York City and Rockaway. 169 State Rd, Breezy Point, NY 11697/718-338-3799
- The Beach: Isn’t that why you came here in the first place?
