Natural swimming hole
Jacob Riis Park
Ocean cove · New York
About this swimming hole
Jacob Riis Park in the Rockaways is a National Park Service ocean beach with guarded swimming at limited bays, generally 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Note that Bays 1 and 4 are closed to swimming because of erosion. The park is open 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. with a $20 cashless daily parking fee in the summer charging period.
Good to know
| Water type | Ocean cove |
|---|---|
| Best season | June-September |
| Fees | Free entry; $20/day parking (cashless, summer) |
| Reservations required | No |
| Hours | Park 6am-10pm; guarded swim ~10am-6pm Memorial Day-Labor Day |
| Parking | Park lot |
| Amenities | restrooms, lifeguards, concession |
| County | Queens County |
| Nearest town | Queens |
| Safety notes | Swim only in open guarded bays; Bays 1 & 4 closed (erosion) |
Map
Official information
Official park / agency page ↗ — check current conditions, fees, and reservations here before you go.
Nearby swimming holes
Frequently asked questions
Can you swim in Jacob Riis Park?
Yes — Jacob Riis Park is listed as a natural swimming spot in New York. Heads-up: Swim only in open guarded bays; Bays 1 & 4 closed (erosion). There are rarely lifeguards at natural swimming holes — verify conditions locally before you go.
Does Jacob Riis Park require reservations?
No reservations are required at Jacob Riis Park based on current information — but verify before you go.
Is there a fee to visit Jacob Riis Park?
Reported fee info: Free entry; $20/day parking (cashless, summer). Fees can change — confirm with the official link.
When is the best time to visit Jacob Riis Park?
The best season is typically June-September.