How do I get to Manhattan?

Take the A train from Howard Beach station; about 45 minutes to Midtown.

Are there beaches nearby?

Yes, Jamaica Bay beaches and Rockaway Beach are a short drive or bus ride away.

Is Howard Beach walkable?

The residential area is walkable, but a car or transit is needed for attractions.

What local food should I try?

Try Italian specialties like pizza, cannoli, and seafood from local eateries.

Is it safe for solo travelers?

Yes, but stay aware of surroundings at night; stick to well-lit streets.

Can I use credit cards everywhere?

Most places accept cards, but small cash-only shops exist.

What's the best way to explore the bay?

Kayak rentals or walking trails at Spring Creek Park offer great views.

Howard Beach

SuburbQueens, New York

Howard Beach is a SUB AREA in Queens, New York.

Howard Beach is a serene waterfront neighborhood in Queens, New York, offering a unique blend of suburban tranquility and city access. Nestled along Jamaica Bay, it's a haven for nature lovers with its scenic parks, marinas, and the nearby Gateway National Recreation Area. Visitors can enjoy kayaking, birdwatching, and leisurely strolls along the bay. The area boasts a strong Italian-American heritage, reflected in its cozy pizzerias and family-run delis. While not a typical tourist hub, Howard Beach provides an authentic slice of New York life away from the crowds, with easy subway connections to Manhattan. Its quiet streets and waterfront views make it ideal for a relaxed getaway or a base for exploring the city's outer boroughs.

Best time to visit Howard Beach

Late spring (May-June) and early fall (September-October) offer pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and vibrant foliage. Summer is warm but humid, with local festivals. Winter is cold but quiet.

October

Now

Typical for October

Weather: Cool 11-19°C

Travel notes

Crowds: Moderate
Prices: Moderate

Fall foliage, comfortable

Know before you go

Getting there

JFK

John F. Kennedy International Airport

International

5 km away

LGA

LaGuardia Airport

Domestic/International

15 km away

EWR

Newark Liberty International Airport

International

30 km away

Getting around

"The A train subway line connects Howard Beach to Manhattan in about 45 minutes. Local buses serve the area. Taxis and ride-shares are available. Biking is pleasant along the waterfront. Car rental is optional but parking is ample."

Stay connected

WiFi speed

30 Mbps

Mobile data

Excellent

WiFi

Widely available in cafes and libraries

Local SIM

Local SIM available at JFK Airport from $10

Stay safe

Overall

8/10

Scam risk low; typical city precautions suffice.

Night safety

7/10

Scam risk low; typical city precautions suffice.

Transport

9/10

Scam risk

6/10

"Generally safe, especially during the day. Exercise caution at night in less populated areas. Keep valuables secure and avoid isolated spots near the bay after dark. Petty theft can occur; lock car doors."

Police

911

Ambulance

911

Entry and health

Health information

"No specific health risks; standard travel insurance recommended. Pharmacies like CVS and Walgreens are available. For non-emergencies, visit urgent care centers in nearby Ozone Park. Tap water is safe to drink."

Culture

Local customs

"Dress casually but neatly; beachwear is fine near the water. Tipping 15-20% at restaurants is standard. Greet with a friendly 'hello.' Respect quiet hours in residential areas. Smoking is restricted indoors and near parks."

English (official)SpanishChineseTagalogVietnameseFrenchArabicKoreanGermanItalianEnglish

Costs and practicals

Cost level

Mid-range

Meals

$15-25 | a meal at a mid-range restaurant costs $15-25

Hotels

$100-200 | budget hotels range $100-200/night

Local transport

$2.90 | subway ride costs $2.90

Cost notes

Hotels are limited; consider nearby areas like JFK Airport for more options.

Timezone

America/New_York
Local time 14:31

More facts

Population

26,148

Type

Suburb

Frequently Asked Questions

Also known as: Howard Beach, Rambersville, Station A

SuburbWaterfrontNatureFamily-FriendlyQuietItalian-AmericanLocal Vibe

Howard Beach

Best time to visit Howard Beach

October

Know before you go

Getting there

Getting around

Stay connected

Stay safe

Overall

Night safety

Transport

Scam risk

Police

Ambulance

Entry and health

Health information

Culture

Local customs

Costs and practicals

More facts

Nearby areas in Queens

Arverne

Astoria

Bayside

Bellaire

Belle Harbor

Briarwood

Broad Channel

Cambria Heights

College Point

Corona

Douglaston

East Elmhurst

Edgemere

Elmhurst

Far Rockaway

Forest Hills

Fresh Meadows

Glendale

Glen Oaks

Hillside

Hollis

Jackson Heights

Jamaica

Kew Gardens

Kew Gardens Hills

Laurelton

Little Neck

Long Island City

Maspeth

Middle Village

Neponsit

Ozone Park

Queens Village

Rego Park

Richmond Hill

Ridgewood

Rockaway Point

Rosedale

Seaside

South Ozone Park

Springfield Gardens

Steinway

Sunnyside

Terrace Heights

Whitestone

Woodhaven

Woodside

Frequently Asked Questions