Riis Park Beach is New York's historic gay beach. It's been a social & cruising spot for queer New Yorkers since the 1940s and is still going strong. When the weather is good, you can the vibrant gay scene.  It's like a gay nightclub, only it's a beach in New York. What's not to like?

Located in the Rockaways, it's a bit more of a journey compared to other city beaches, but the reward is one of New York's historic gay meccas. The gay section is concentrated around Bay 1, at the far eastern end of the beach.

Gay Cruising at Riis Park Beach

Riis Park Beach has a reputation as a cruising hotspot, particularly in the dunes and wooded areas behind the beach near Bay 1. As the sun starts to set, these hidden spaces become more active, with guys looking to connect away from the main crowds. Though the scene is fairly relaxed compared to more traditional cruising spots, the remoteness of the area allows for a discreet encounter or two.

Since this is a public park, discretion is key, and occasional police patrols do pass through, especially in peak season. That said, Riis has long been a historic cruising destination, and many know exactly where to wander when looking for action. If you’re after a more social vibe before things heat up, the stretch between Bay 1 and the dunes is the best place to strike up a conversation before taking to the bushes and comparing your assets.