Community engagement and activity turned this 30-acre park, which originally had very few facilities, into the family-friendly recreation area that it is today.

This former US Army installation, now part of the Gateway National Recreation Area, has become a natural area of beach, dunes and maritime forest. It's popular with bird-watchers and anglers.

The Rockaways are a popular summertime spot, but surfers flock to Rockaway Beach year-round for its two surf beaches.

The menu at Cuisine by Claudette is always changing—daily selections reflect various facets of chef Claudette's 35 years of experience with French, Moroccan and Mediterranean home cooking.

Home to a restored art deco bathhouse, a pitch-and-putt golf course, boardwalks and a mile-long stretch of swimmable ocean, Riis Park is one of New York City's most popular beaches.

The Rockaway Hotel, located just one block from the beach, offers relaxed luxury and boutique-style service.

A hip update on the traditional beach concession stand, Rippers—created by the culinary minds behind New Brooklyn stalwarts Roberta's and the Meat Hook—serves up classic summer fare like burgers, hot dogs, fries, burritos and fish, with beer, sangria and a selection of fresh juices to wash them down.

Rockaway Jet Ski offers Jet Ski, kayak and stand-up paddleboard (SUP) rentals and tours.

Arepas, the stuffed flatbread Venezuelan staple, have already conquered New York City via the popular Manhattan- and Williamsburg-based locations of this restaurant, which have become dining destinations.