Overlooking Lower Bay and the Atlantic Ocean along the Coney Island peninsula, Brighton Beach is a popular summer destination thanks to its laid-back atmosphere, sandy coastline and calm, family-friendly waters. Life centres around the beach and Brighton Beach Avenue, where you’ll find a range of dining and shopping outlets.

Stroll along the Brighton Beach Boardwalk to soak up the coastal ambience and let the kids run wild at Brighton Beach Playground. You can duck into ocean-facing restaurants, such as the Russian-inspired Tatiana or old-school Russian eatery Volna. Need some retail therapy? Check out the boutiques along Brighton Beach Avenue, including One Half Fashion, Nargis Plaza and Almaz Jewelry.

Brighton Beach is near the New York Aquarium, where you can watch daily sea lion shows and admire a variety of local and exotic marine life, including sharks, dolphins and turtles. Don’t forget to check out the nearby Luna Park, an iconic Coney Island amusement park with roller coasters and carnival games.

Getting there

Brighton Beach is located in the southern part of Brooklyn, about 25 minutes’ drive from New York City. The beach is serviced by the New York City metro system, with the yellow Q Line stopping at Brighton Beach Station.