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New York is famous for a number of things, like its parties, shopping and food. Added to this, its islands make it a perfect holiday destination. One can choose to visit these islands based on their preference for relaxation, adventure, or scenic beauty. Most islands provide a combination of all three, and in addition provide the most delicious foods in and around New York. These islands are perfect to rest and let go of the worries of the city. A weekend spent here will help one to energize oneself and join the city with renewed enthusiasm. Keeping in mind this, here is a list of Best Islands of New York.
Best islands of New York for adventure sports and leisure time
1. Rockaway Beach
True to its name, this beach is famous for surfing- one can literally rock away on the rising and falling waves. This island has a terrifying past. It housed the children’s reform home, in which the children were abused and mistreated and the government had to intervene. However now, this place is the best to give you an adrenaline rush and then calm you down with its pleasant environment, and relaxed surroundings. It is easy to reach this island by taking the New York Beach Ferry or the NYC Beach Bus. The sand dunes and the waves give one the perfect opportunity to loosen up, take in the warm sun and relax, before they can again hop on to a surfing board and explore the sea, while rocking on the sea waves. Once done with that, one can enjoy the fish, Margaritas and Tacos, available at the Surf Club. Overall, this place is not wanting of anything, and is the perfect holiday destination.
Image Source: wikimedia.org
2. City Island
This island is famous for its yacht clubs, and open restaurants, in which one can eat while absorbing the view of the vast sea. However, the beach is not easily accessible, unless one goes through someone who owns a beach here. This is the best place to relax and unwind with your loved ones. One can go there, eat and drink and watch time go by. Although it is famous primarily for food, this island also offers opportunity for scuba diving. The best way to reach this island is to drive or take a bus.
3. Governors’ Island
This island is to satiate the history geek in you. Cars are not allowed in this island. One can go there for picnics or to lie down in the sun and soak in the goodness of nature. The vast spread of hills against the backdrop of the sky can calm even the weariest soul. The view of the Statue of Liberty and the New York Harbor that this island offers is truly mesmerizing. The adventure enthusiast in you can indulge in sports like rock climbing and zip lining. Wide ranges of eating options are available. Especially famous is the Popup Dinner, wherein the guests are asked to bring their own cutlery, tableware and decorations and the dinner is arranged at a secret location. This event is mostly held in September. The best way to reach this island is by taking the NY Waterway ferry or the NYC ferry. https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/e/e4/Governors_Island_aerial.jpg
Best islands of New York for Adventure Lovers
4. Coney Island
Famous as the amusem*nt district, this island should not be mistaken for a theme park, even though it houses the well-known Cyclone Roller coaster and the Wonder wheel. It can be seen as a huge playground, in front of the widespread sea, where one can play and enjoy. It is possible to engage in a wide variety of sports or to sit back and enjoy the famous Nathan’s hot dogs. Another place to visit in order to satiate your hunger is Ruby’s bar and Grill. A popular attraction is the Ford Amphitheatre. This one of a kind place has seating for about five thousand guests, and different festivals and shows are organized here throughout the year. An easy way to reach this island is to take the train to Stillwell Avenue.
Image Source: wikimedia
5. Randall’s Island
This island is widely acknowledged as the green Oasis located in between East Harlem and Port Morris. It is the hub of fitness sports, good food and cultural events. This island serves as a popular retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life. Two of the most popular services offered by this island is free yoga every Tuesday, during the summers, and movie nights every Saturday. The yoga is held near the Sunken Meadow Picnic Area, while the movie night is held in Field 42.a popular even is the Vegan food and drink festival held in October which 100 vendors, and all of them offer vegan food and drinks. One can drive here or take a bus.
Image Source: wikimedia.org
6. Roosevelt Island
This island is located on the south of Randall’s island, and has a grim past. It was erstwhile known as the Blackwell’s island and housed a jail, an asylum and a hospital for the economically disadvantaged people. Now it’s green area and the breath-taking view that it offers of Manhattan city, are the major attractions. Another well known place in this island is the sixty foot pool which is in the Manhattan Park apartment complex. Tourists can buy tickets and cool off at this pool’s side. there are a number of events held each year, especially for families and children like the pony riding and flower painting even held on Roosevelt Island Day. The other city attractions include the former New York Asylum lobbies, and the Octagon. One can reach this island by taking a tram East 59th Street and Second Avenue. This island is also connected via trains and buses.
Therefore, to conclude, these islands provide individuals with the opportunity to indulge in multiple activities. Most are not lonely and deserted, and yet they are not overly crowded. The food offered is varied and some restaurants and food joints are quite famous. One must seek to explore these islands and delve in their pleasantness and quite living.
