Everyone knows the world-famous Riviera in Italy and France. But did you know New York City has one, too? It’s in Queens.

Rockaway Beach, known as the Queens Riviera in New York, is nothing like the Mediterannean. But it’s the perfect place to escape the heat during the hot New York summer. It’s far from the city, so skip the subway and take the NYC Ferry. You’ll get from the pavement to the sand in 50 breezy minutes.

From the ferry, it’s a five-minute walk to the boardwalk where you’ll find arepas, pizza, and tacos. The promenade stretches along the beach for almost six miles, so there’s plenty of space to relax.

My favorite spot is the People’s Beach at Jacob Riis Park. My family has been going there since the 1930s when the impressive Art Deco bathhouse opened. Today, the complex has concessions selling burgers, cocktails, and ice cream. It’s everything you need for a relaxing day at the beach.