Natural swimming hole
South Beach
Ocean cove · New York
About this swimming hole
South Beach is a Staten Island public ocean beach adjoining Midland Beach on Lower New York Bay, run by NYC Parks with free admission. It follows the city beach season — Memorial Day weekend through the Sunday after Labor Day with lifeguards 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. The boardwalk connects it to the Franklin D. Roosevelt Boardwalk and Beach.
Good to know
| Water type | Ocean cove |
|---|---|
| Best season | June-September |
| Fees | Free |
| Reservations required | No |
| Hours | Memorial Day wknd-Sun after Labor Day; lifeguards 10am-6pm |
| County | Richmond County |
| Nearest town | Staten Island |
| Safety notes | Swim only when lifeguards on duty |
Map
(approximate location)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 South Beach?
Yes — South Beach is listed as a natural swimming spot in New York. Heads-up: Swim only when lifeguards on duty. There are rarely lifeguards at natural swimming holes — verify conditions locally before you go.
Does South Beach require reservations?
No reservations are required at South Beach based on current information — but verify before you go.
Is there a fee to visit South Beach?
Reported fee info: Free. Fees can change — confirm with the official link.
When is the best time to visit South Beach?
The best season is typically June-September.