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Jamaica Bay is near Rockaway Beach, one of the best beaches in the City. That area sustained extensive damage during Hurricane Sandy, and the recovery process has been ongoing. Devoted crews from the Department of Parks & Recreation and the National Park Service have been working tirelessly to restore the area as quickly as possible so that the beaches and related facilities would be open in time for Memorial Day.

The beaches here make the neighborhood a much beloved summer destination. Two surf beaches at Rockaway Beach, from 67th to 69th Street and from 87th to 92nd Street, provide an oasis for surfers who want to ride some waves or athletes looking for a game of pickup volleyball, while the 73rd Street access point and Jacob Riis Park are ideal for families in need of a place to swim and play in the sand where chair and surfboard rentals are available. Plus, with food purveyors, including top-notch boardwalk concessions and the beloved Rockaway Taco, within close reach, you won't have to abandon your spot on the sand when hunger strikes. More adventurous visitors flock to Plumb Beach, a haven for windsurfing and kiteboarding; the area is closed for the 2013 season during a construction project. Rockaway Park spans 27 acres from Beach 9th Street to Beach 32nd Street, yet is currently not accessible because of repair work necessary after Sandy.

Check out these beach events for even more ways to have fun at the shore: 

May 29–September 6
Beach Boot Camp at Beach 86th Street
On Tuesdays and Thursdays, join mixed martial arts fighter and instructor Vincent Sinclair and Bad Ass Academy and physical training instructor Vinetta Anderton for a serious workout on the sand. For more information, visit mybaaevents.com.

June 23–August 25
Yoga on the Beach at Beach 108th Street
Hit the sand on Saturday mornings throughout the summer for a free outdoor yoga class. For more information, visit nyc.gov/parks/rockawaybeach.

July 29
Sand Castle Contest at Beach 117th Street
The 17th edition of this annual contest will welcome competitors with an afternoon in the sand, complete with refreshments as well as prizes for the best builders. For more information, call 718-338-3799.

September 15
New York City Honey Festival at Beach 97th Street
Take a break from the sand and step onto the boardwalk for this sweet waterfront celebration. Check out honey extraction demos, drop in on a mead-making class and taste honey-inspired fare, including beer and pickles. For more information, visit nychoneyfest.com.