Midland Beach and the Franklin D. Roosevelt Boardwalk, located on Staten Island, New York City, offer a delightful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Location and History:
- Midland Beach is situated on the eastern shore of Staten Island, facing Lower New York Bay.
- It's part of a continuous stretch of beach and boardwalk that also includes South Beach.
- The Franklin D. Roosevelt Boardwalk, named after the former US President, stretches for 2.5 miles, connecting Fort Wadsworth to Miller Field.
- The boardwalk and beaches were developed in the 1930s, providing public access to the waterfront.
Features and Amenities:
- Sandy Beach: Midland Beach offers a generous expanse of sand, perfect for sunbathing, building sandcastles, and enjoying the ocean breeze.
- Franklin D. Roosevelt Boardwalk: This scenic boardwalk provides a paved pathway for walking, jogging, cycling, and enjoying the coastal views.
- Playgrounds: There are playgrounds located along the boardwalk, offering children a place to play and have fun.
- Sports Facilities: Midland Beach features courts for tennis and shuffleball, providing opportunities for active recreation.
- Ocean Breeze Fishing Pier: This popular pier extends into the bay, offering a spot for fishing and enjoying panoramic views.
- Fountain of Dolphins: A charming fountain featuring dolphin sculptures adds a whimsical touch to the beach area.
- Senior Citizen Park: A dedicated park area with chess tables, benches, and bocce courts caters to senior visitors.
- Accessibility: The boardwalk and beach are designed to be accessible to people with disabilities.
- Lifeguards: During the beach season (Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day), lifeguards are on duty daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Swimming is prohibited when lifeguards are not on duty.
- Concessions: You'll find food and beverage vendors along the boardwalk, offering refreshments and snacks.
Things to Do:
- Beach Activities: Enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and playing beach games on the sandy shore.
- Boardwalk Strolls: Take a leisurely walk or bike ride along the scenic Franklin D. Roosevelt Boardwalk.
- Fishing: Cast your line at the Ocean Breeze Fishing Pier and try your luck at catching fish.
- Playground Fun: Let the kids loose at the playgrounds and watch them enjoy the swings and slides.
- Senior Activities: Seniors can enjoy a game of chess, bocce, or simply relax at the dedicated senior park.
- Picnics: Find a spot along the boardwalk or beach to enjoy a picnic with family and friends.
- Scenic Views: Admire the views of the Verrazano-Narrows Bridge and the surrounding coastline.
How to Get There:
- Staten Island Ferry: Take the Staten Island Ferry from Manhattan to St. George Terminal.
- Bus: From the St. George Terminal, you can take the S51 or S78 bus to reach Midland Beach.
- Car: If driving, there are parking lots available near the beach.
Additional Information:
- Parking fees may apply during the beach season.
- Check the NYC Parks website for water quality advisories or beach closures before your visit.
Midland Beach and the Franklin D. Roosevelt Boardwalk offer a relaxing and enjoyable day out for people of all ages. Whether you're looking to soak up the sun, enjoy a leisurely stroll, or engage in recreational activities, this Staten Island gem has something to offer everyone.