Jamaica Bay Places

Natural areas, defense, recreation and high-flying history

Jamaica Bay Unit consists of several areas surrounding Jamaica Bay in New York Harbor. It includes refuge areas for fish and migrating birds, wetlands protecting residents from damage during storms, former defense installations, beaches and playgrounds designed originally as New York City parks and the first municipal airport in the city.

Jamaica Bay Places

Canarsie Pier

Brooklyn's Canarsie Pier has been a popular fishing spot for more than 300 years
Floyd Bennett Field

Floyd Bennett Field was NYC's first municipal airport. Today this area includes over 1,300 acres of grassland and the Ryan Visitor Center.
Fort Tilden

Fort Tilden is a former military site with hiking trails, athletic fields, and much more.
Frank Charles Park

Frank Charles Park is located in the Howard Beach neighborhood of Queens.
Jacob Riis Park

Jacob Riis Park is one of the three swimming beaches at Gateway National Recreation Area.
Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge

The Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge includes over 12,600 acres. More than 300 different bird species have been spotted here.
Hamilton Beach Park

Hamilton Beach Park provides both open space and outdoor recreation opportunities.
North Channel Bridge

North Channel Bridge is not only a popular fishing spot, but also a spot for educational programs with NPS rangers.
Plumb Beach

Plumb Beach is a popular destination for windsurfing and kiteboarding. There is also a kayak launch here.
Spring Creek

Spring Creek is a 237 acre site of undeveloped upland forest, wetland and marsh in the Howard Beach neighborhood of Queens.