Orchard Beach, sometimes called the Bronx Riviera or Hood Beach, is the only beach in the Bronx. It is located in the eastern part of Pelham Park, the city’s largest public park, which attracts a large number of visitors during the summer months.
Presentation of Orchard Beach
The park offers a wide range of programs: hiking trails, bike paths, horseback riding, golf courses, canoeing and kayaking, sports fields (basketball, volleyball and handball), tennis courts and picnic areas. It doesn’t get much better than this!
You can also take the opportunity to browse through the large Orchard Beach shopping centre and its many food and specialty shops.
Children will soon tire of the beach when they visit the Hunter Island Zoology and Geology Sanctuary and its marine ecosystem. Another family-friendly site is the Bartow-Pell Mansion, a historic house museum.
If you prefer a quiet day away from mass tourism, avoid Orchard Beach on weekends and go on weekdays instead.
City Island
The walk along the beautiful Orchard Beach waterfront is very pleasant… You can enjoy the scenery of City Island, that other Bronx neighborhood located at the western end south of Pelham Bay.
The island is known for its seafood restaurants, including a variety of lobster dishes that tantalize the taste buds. There are over 30 eateries, ranging from fast food (Johnny’s Reef) to the Lobster Box, the French bistro SK and the Black Whale, famous for its desserts. The Snug is an Irish pub connected to the City Island Diner. Although some restaurants close during the winter months, most are open all year round.
The City Island Nautical Museum displays maritime artefacts and antiques. It is located at 190 Fordham Street and is only open on Saturday and Sunday afternoons. The City Island Theater Group is the local community theatre that produces shows year-round.
How to get there?
MTA Regional Bus Operations’ Bx12 and Bx12 SBS buses serve Orchard Beach on summer weekends.
Informations and facilities
Wi-Fi access points
Surfing beach
