Want to bring your kids to Coney Island but are unsure where to get started? This classic, kitschy summer time destination is a Brooklyn staple. From the beach to the boardwalk, Coney Island offers tons of unique experiences. From the activities to the food to the people, visiting Coney Island with kids can be easier than you think. If you got little ones in tow and are unsure about the best way to plan your visit, we’ve got loads of tips on how best to visit Coney Island with your kids this summer!

What to Bring

Whether you are planning to do both the beach & the boardwalk, or just one, ensure these items are packed in your bag:

• Sunscreen
• Sunglasses
• Water
• Hand Sanitizer
• Snacks
• Baby Wipes
• For the little littles; if you have kiddos in diapers bring extras – there are no small convenience stores near this area to pop in and grab diapers or wipes if you forget them so pack extra.

If you are planning to spend some time on the beach, we highly recommend these items:

• An umbrella – providing shade for your kids helps extend your time on the beach and is essential for a very little one who may need a quick nap.
• Towels – bring a ton, for lounging & drying off
• A cooler with drinks & refreshing snacks – grab the sparkling waters, cut up some cool & refreshing fruits like mango, apples, or pears, and throw in a few hard sparkling waters for the adults 🙂
• Beach toys – sand toys of course but items like jump ropes, footballs, soccer balls, bubbles & jai alai are great activities for your day in the sun.

How to Get There, Parking & More

• • If you are looking to use public transportation, the D, F, N and Q subway lines will take you right to Coney Island. 

• Pro tip: if you are taking the subway and are planning to hit up the beach, exit the subway and head to the right versus straight to the beach. The beach is most crowded directly in front of where subway riders disembark. You’ll find a lot more space where the beach is less crowded closer to the Pat Auletta Steeplechase Pier. If you go beyond the pier, you’ll find ample space on the beach, but there are no lifeguards in this area so no swimming is allowed in this section.

• There are a handful of parking lots near Coney Island, ranging from $20 for the day upward. You can find street parking but spaces are limited and often it comes with a long walk to the beach with gear and kiddos in tow, so paying for parking is worth it.

Pro-tip: Extend your Beach Time

Adding in activities to your beach day agenda, like searching for seashells with holes in them for jewelry making for example, adds easy, extra fun and gives kiddos an engaging activity once running in the waves and building sandcastles has lost its appeal. Another of our favorites is a beach scavenger hunt:

From the Beach to the Boardwalk

Taking a lunch break at one of the classic eateries on the boardwalk is a great way to transition and cool down for a bit. There are a ton of fun food options, from Nathan’s Famous Hot Dogs to Salt and Sizzle. Our favorite is Ruby’s, a classic Coney Island eatery featuring boardwalk staples like hot dogs, fried chicken and piping hot fries. Unlike other spots on the boardwalk, Ruby’s has a large indoor seating area (vs outdoor only) so it provides a much needed break from the sun for the whole family, especially little ones. Bring quarters for the jukebox!

It’s Game Time!

There are a ton of games and rides to visit in Coney Island which can be awesome but often overwhelming. We recommend simply sticking to an area designated for kiddos 10 and under: Deno’s Wonder Wheel Amusement Park. These rides are smaller and manageable for very little ones but still fun for kiddos closer to 10 years of age. There are a variety of attractions you can ride with your very wee ones but note some are not suited for adults so your little one will need to be brave enough to ride solo on some. There’s also vendors selling tasty treats like classic funnel cakes or cotton candy. If you need a little inspiration getting your kiddos to leave the park and get ready to head home, a sweet treat is a great incentive!

Last but not least, what about bathrooms:

There are several large public bathrooms on the boardwalk, right off the beach. You’ll always be close to one if need be. 

You and your kiddos will head home happily exhausted from a day filled with fun, sun and funnel cake!

Pssst: Coney Island is also a classic date night for moms and dads! Tap into your inner child with games & rides while enjoying an adult bevy or two while you stroll along the boardwalk! Easily book a vetted, creative sitter on Curatedcare.com to care for your kiddos while you and your better half enjoy a classic summer night at Coney Island!