Counting the waves…
Counting the waves…
The sand here runs dark and coarse, flecked with mussel shells and smooth pebbles that clatter underfoot as you walk the narrow band between marsh and water. At low tide, the bay retreats to reveal tidal flats where herons stalk minnows, their reflections doubling in the shallow pools. The skyline you're used to associating with New York never appears—instead, you get the industrial silhouette of New Jersey's Raritan shoreline across the water, container cranes and all. This beach survived Hurricane Sandy, though the surrounding neighborhood didn't. The city bought out most homes here, creating an accidental buffer zone that returned the land to something wilder. Now you walk through grassy lots where driveways still trace rectangles in the earth, leading to beaches that feel quieter than they have in decades. Local anglers cast for striped bass from the rock groins, and the occasional kayaker paddles past, heading toward the mouth of Great Kills Harbor. Come for the sunset, when the western sky ignites and the water turns to hammered copper. The view stretches uninterrupted across Raritan Bay, and if you time it right in autumn, you'll watch the sun drop into the Atlantic while monarchs flutter south through the goldenrod along the shore path.
Places, rentals, tours and events within walking and driving distance of Oakwood Beach.
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Swimming is generally not recommended at Oakwood Beach. While the beach is open for walking and recreation, water quality can vary, and there are no lifeguards on duty. The beach suffered significant damage during Hurricane Sandy in 2012, and much of the surrounding residential area was acquired through a buyout program. Visitors primarily use Oakwood Beach for quiet walks, birdwatching, and enjoying sunsets rather than swimming. For supervised swimming on Staten Island, consider nearby Great Kills Park beach during summer months.
Oakwood Beach is accessible year-round, with each season offering different appeal. Spring and fall provide comfortable temperatures for walking and birdwatching, with fewer crowds. Summer offers warm weather, though the beach lacks traditional swimming facilities. Late afternoon visits are particularly popular for stunning sunset views over Raritan Bay. Weekday visits tend to be quieter than weekends. Winter can be peaceful for contemplative walks, though it's often windy. The beach's quieter nature means you'll rarely encounter crowds regardless of season.
Oakwood Beach is located along the southeastern shore of Staten Island. By car, take Hylan Boulevard to the Oakwood Beach area; limited street parking is available near beach access points. Public transportation options include several MTA buses running along Hylan Boulevard, including the S78 and S79 routes. The beach is about 30-40 minutes from the Staten Island Ferry terminal by bus. Since this is a less developed beach area, parking is informal along surrounding streets. Allow extra time to find parking on pleasant weekend days.
Oakwood Beach has limited on-site facilities—no bathrooms, food vendors, or traditional beach amenities at the beach itself. However, along nearby Hylan Boulevard, you'll find various dining options including pizzerias, delis, and casual restaurants within a short drive. For more substantial amenities, Great Kills Park (about 10 minutes north) offers restrooms and concessions during summer. The residential nature of the area means limited commercial development directly at the beach. Plan accordingly by bringing water and snacks, and using facilities before arriving.
Oakwood Beach remains relatively unknown despite being within New York City limits, offering peaceful solitude that's rare in the five boroughs. Following Hurricane Sandy, much of the neighborhood was transformed into protected coastal buffer zone, creating an unexpectedly wild, natural atmosphere. The beach provides unobstructed sunset views over Raritan Bay without the crowds of more famous NYC beaches. Its somewhat isolated location and minimal amenities deter casual beachgoers, attracting instead nature lovers, photographers, and locals seeking quiet coastal walks—a stark contrast to bustling Coney Island or Rockaway Beach.
