If you don’t mind sharing – it’s not huge but is the largest municipal beach in the US – and have warm sand, boardwalk fare, an eclectic mix of friendly faces and cool surf on the brain, the unexpected Long Island refuge of Rockaway Beach is for you! Rockaway Beach is a treasured year-round resource for residents all along the Rockaway peninsula. Better-than-ever after Hurricane Sandy’s hair-bending visit, this unassuming 170 acre strip of clean, sunny sand, consequently NYC’s only surfing beach, attracts over one million locals and tourists a year, all in search of their own unique sun-and-surf experience. Known to some as the “Hipster Hamptons” and historically as the “Irish Riviera,” this family-friendly “sanctuary in the city,” peppered with the ubiquitous amenities and peopled with types looking for a little respite from the hustle and bustle of New York City and perhaps a connection with their inner naturalist, will afford your student group a relaxing escape from the beaten tourist path. Rockaway Beach’s concessions serve up all the classics: hot dogs, burgers, smoothies and fries, and many offer menus of better-than-standard beach fare like breakfast burritos, tortas, tacos, tender, golden arepas, lobster rolls, Korean specialties and colorful Italian ices. Swimming is permitted from Memorial Day to Labor Day weekend and restrooms and spray showers are available on the boardwalk. Like the Ramone’s sang in the 70s, “Rock Rock Rockaway Beach; Rock Rock Rockaway Beach; Rock Rock Rockaway Beach – We can hitch a ride to Rockaway Beach.” Throw on your flipflops, grab your gang and GO!