Wave hello to summer at these citywide hotspots
After two lackluster summers filled with COVID-related cancellations, New Yorkers are ready to make a bigger splash than ever this year.
The good news is that waterways are just about as easy to find in the city as $1 pizza slices. From the East River to the Hudson, the Atlantic Ocean to Jamaica Bay, all five boroughs are blessed with a plethora of aquatic playgrounds.
Here are some of the best ways to enjoy them.
“Sea the City” on NYC’s first hot tub boat
For those who haven’t seen the iconic city skyline from the water, this could be the summer to make that happen— from the comfort of a private, seafaring Jacuzzi.
“If you find yourself in front of the Statue of Liberty in a hot tub, you’ve probably made a few right decisions in your life,” said lifelong Brooklynite Adam Schwartz, who came up with the venture.
Schwartz’s 40-foot power catamaran, based out of Liberty Landing Marina in Jersey City, has two large hot tubs that can accommodate 10 people each rain or shine. The setup is so comfortable, he says, that he operates almost year-round, hosting everything from sweet sixteens and bachelorette parties to date nights.
“People are looking to reconnect with friends and family, and we’re seeing a lot of that on the boat,” Schwartz said.
Prices start at $449 for two people during the week. On weekends, the minimum for booking is six people, at $999. Hot tubs are not shared between groups.
The QC NY Spa on Governors Island
Love the combination of Jacuzzi and skyline, but prefer to stay on land? Governors Island has the answer.
The snazzy, sleek QC NY Spa opened last March in repurposed Army barracks on the north side of the island, where vistas of lower Manhattan are completely unobstructed.
Relaxation rooms, infrared beds, steam rooms, saunas and plush robes are a few of the offerings awaiting weary city slickers, who can look out at the tumultuous world they left behind from the tranquility of an outdoor infinity pool.
A daily entrance package that includes the price of ferry tickets from lower Manhattan, Brooklyn
Bridge Park or Red Hook/Atlantic Basin costs around $100. The day spa package starts near $200 and includes a massage. Visitors must be 21 and over.
Surf lessons in the Rockaways Learning to surf isn’t something that can only happen on a vacation to the tropics. Epic waves can be found in the city, too — right at the end of the A train.
Famous for its miles of sandy beaches, the Rockaways is home to Locals Surf School, where beginners and experts alike are welcome. Surfboards and wet suits are included in the price of lessons, which cost about $95 a person and can accommodate groups both large and small.
Locals also offers a weekday surf camp for kids, with morning, afternoon or all-day options. Prices range from $545 per child for the half-day plan, and $885 per child for the full-day plan.
Kayaking and paddle boarding on the Hudson River
Though the Hudson River used to be the last place anyone would want to swim, yearslong efforts by activists and conservation groups mean that the water is now clean enough for recreational paddling.
At Resilience Paddle Sports based out of Pier 13 in Hoboken, N.J., the goal is to show busy urbanites that the Hudson is more than a just an obstacle in their commute — it’s also a playground and a place for peaceful respite that should be protected.
“Our mission is to connect urban people to their beautiful waterway, particularly the Hudson River. We try to provide opportunities for people who wouldn’t ordinarily come to the water,” said director Noelle Thurlow, who also guides paddle groups.
The company offers myriad paddle-friendly activities, ranging from tours and fitness classes to excursions out to Manhattan’s Little Island and the Intrepid museum.
Single adult lessons cost around $50, and the price decreases depending on the size of each group. Some of the money goes toward sponsoring free youth programs in the spring and fall months, including hands-on science projects and research.
Sail back in time with Classic Harbor Line
Before underground transit systems crisscrossed the five boroughs, many New Yorkers traveled to work with the help of speciallydesigned commuter yachts.
Classic Harbor Line gives historically inclined folks the chance to experience the city’s waterways aboard those vintage vessels from the 1920s, on replicas built in Albany by the renowned Scarano brothers. The motor yachts have enclosed cabins and open decks, meaning they’re a good bet for any kind of weather.
Anyone who really wants to go back in time can go for a sail on elegant 1800s-style schooners America 2.0 and Adironack, with a captain, a crew and a glass of champagne to round out the experience.
Regular sightseeing tours cost about $58, while kids’ tickets are less. Sails on the Schooners run closer to $100, while day trips can cost up to $300. All boats leave from Pier 62 in Chelsea Piers.