10 Best Short Road Trips from Staten Island, New York (Richmond County)

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10 Easy Out-of-County Road Trips From Staten Island, NY

Living on Staten Island and itching to get away for a few hours? You’re in luck. Within about an hour’s drive, you can hit beaches, boardwalks, city neighborhoods, and peaceful parks—all outside Richmond County. These 10 short road trips from Staten Island take you into nearby parts of New Jersey (Hudson, Middlesex, Monmouth, Union Counties) and New York City (Brooklyn in Kings County and Queens). They’re perfect for day trips, date days, or family outings when you want something new without going far.

1. Hoboken Waterfront & Washington Street (Hudson County, NJ)

If you want a change of scenery without a long drive, Hoboken is hard to beat. It feels like a mini city with small-town charm.
  • Walk the Hoboken Waterfront Walkway with picture-perfect views of the Manhattan skyline.
  • Stroll down Washington Street for coffee shops, bakeries, and casual restaurants.
  • Relax in Pier A Park or bring a blanket for a low-key picnic.
From Staten Island, you can usually get there in about 30–40 minutes, depending on traffic. I once went on a random Sunday, grabbed an iced coffee, and spent most of the afternoon just people-watching on a bench by the water. Simple, but honestly, it was exactly what I needed. Why it’s great: Close, walkable, and super scenic. Perfect for couples or a solo reset day.

2. Jersey City: Liberty State Park & Downtown (Hudson County, NJ)

Jersey City gives you that “big city” feel without the hassle of Manhattan.
  • Head to Liberty State Park for open green space, paths along the Hudson, and sweeping views of the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island.
  • Check out the Empty Sky Memorial, a quiet and moving 9/11 memorial.
  • Drive or walk through Downtown Jersey City (Newark Avenue Pedestrian Plaza) for food, drinks, and street life.
If you’ve got kids, the lawns at Liberty State Park are perfect for running around or flying a kite. If you’re with friends, you can grab lunch downtown and then walk it off by the water. Why it’s great: Iconic views, easy walking, and lots of space to spread out.

3. Asbury Park Boardwalk (Monmouth County, NJ)

Craving a classic beach-town vibe? Asbury Park makes a fun day trip from Staten Island, especially in warmer weather.
  • Walk the Asbury Park Boardwalk with its mix of shops, murals, and food stands.
  • Relax on the beach or just sit and listen to the waves.
  • Check out the historic Paramount Theatre and Convention Hall area.
It’s about an hour to an hour and 15 minutes from Staten Island, depending on your route. I like to arrive late morning, grab lunch right off the boardwalk, and then hang around until sunset—those colors over the ocean are worth the drive. Why it’s great: Beach, food, music, and a laid-back, artsy atmosphere.

4. Sandy Hook Gateway National Recreation Area (Monmouth County, NJ)

If you like nature, wide-open beaches, and a bit of history, Sandy Hook is a must.
  • Swim or sunbathe on the oceanfront beaches (multiple beach areas to choose from).
  • Walk or bike along paved paths with views of the water.
  • Explore Fort Hancock and the old military buildings.
Parking lots can fill up on summer weekends, so going early helps. It feels surprisingly wild and open, especially compared to more built-up shore towns. Why it’s great: Natural beauty, plenty of space, and a true “away from it all” feel just a short drive from Staten Island.

5. New Brunswick & Rutgers Area (Middlesex County, NJ)

College-town energy, good food, and a walkable downtown—New Brunswick is an underrated day trip.
  • Explore the Rutgers University area with its historic campus buildings and green spaces.
  • Walk through Downtown New Brunswick for restaurants, cafés, and small shops.
  • Catch a show at the State Theatre New Jersey if you’re planning an evening visit.
It’s roughly 45–60 minutes from Staten Island. On a cool fall afternoon, the campus area is especially nice, with tree-lined paths and a lively but laid-back vibe. Why it’s great: Easygoing city feel, lots of food options, and a different slice of New Jersey life.

6. Long Branch: Pier Village & Beach (Monmouth County, NJ)

For a polished, resort-style beach day, Long Branch is a solid pick.
  • Hang out at Pier Village, a beachfront complex with restaurants, cafés, and shops.
  • Spend a few hours on the Long Branch beach—clean, wide, and family-friendly.
  • Take a long walk along the promenade and soak in the ocean air.
The drive from Staten Island usually takes around an hour. It’s a nice choice if you want something a little more upscale than your typical boardwalk town. Why it’s great: Beach + good dining + a relaxed, modern vibe in one spot.

7. Westfield: Small-Town Main Street Charm (Union County, NJ)

If you’re not in the mood for beaches or big city crowds, try a simple small-town day in Westfield.
  • Walk along Downtown Westfield for a classic Main Street feel.
  • Browse local boutiques and grab a treat from a bakery or ice cream shop.
  • Sit in a nearby park and just slow down for a bit.
This is one of those easy road trips where you don’t need an agenda. Just drive out, park, and wander. It’s about 35–45 minutes from Staten Island, depending on traffic. Why it’s great: Low-key, relaxing, and ideal when you want to unplug for a few hours.

8. Brooklyn’s Coney Island & Brighton Beach (Kings County, NY)

You don’t have to leave New York City to feel like you’re on a mini-vacation. From Staten Island, Coney Island is a nostalgic, no-fuss road trip.
  • Walk the Coney Island Boardwalk and check out the rides at Luna Park (even if you don’t go on them, it’s fun to watch).
  • Grab a classic hot dog and sit on the beach for a while.
  • Stroll over to Brighton Beach for a different vibe and authentic Eastern European spots.
On summer nights, Coney can feel like one big street party. Off-season, it’s quieter but still interesting—almost like you’re walking through a movie set. Why it’s great: Iconic NYC experience, fast to reach, and full of people-watching.

9. Brooklyn Bridge Park & DUMBO (Kings County, NY)

For picture-perfect views and great photo spots, head over to Brooklyn’s waterfront in DUMBO.
  • Explore Brooklyn Bridge Park, with lawns, playgrounds, and walking paths along the East River.
  • Walk under the Manhattan Bridge and snap that famous “DUMBO” street shot.
  • Grab coffee or pizza and find a spot to enjoy the views of the Manhattan skyline.
Driving from Staten Island usually takes around 30–45 minutes. Parking can be tricky at peak times, so be patient or budget for a garage. Why it’s great: Incredible views, lots of energy, and a fun mix of tourists and locals.

10. Rockaway Beach & Rockaway Park (Queens County, NY)

Yes, Queens has a real beach—and from Staten Island, it makes a fun, slightly longer road trip.
  • Relax on Rockaway Beach, one of NYC’s favorite surf spots.
  • Walk or bike along the wide boardwalk.
  • Sample food from the beachfront concessions (tacos, burgers, and more in season).
It can take around an hour or a bit more to drive there, but it feels like a true beach escape with a distinctly local New York flavor. Why it’s great: A laid-back, surfy side of NYC you might not expect—great for a full beach day.

Tips for Planning Your Staten Island Road Trips

To make these out-of-county getaways smoother, keep a few simple tips in mind:
  • Check traffic and tolls: Bridges and tunnels can add time and cost. Apps can help you pick the best route.
  • Pack a small “day trip” bag: Water, snacks, phone charger, sunscreen, and maybe a light jacket.
  • Time your visit: Early mornings or weekdays are usually quieter for beaches and waterfronts.
  • Know your parking: Some spots, especially in Brooklyn and Jersey shore towns, may have paid or limited parking.
Even a 30–60 minute drive can feel like a complete reset when you explore a new place with fresh eyes.

Ready to Hit the Road from Staten Island?

From Hudson County’s waterfronts to Monmouth County’s beaches, from Union County’s small towns to Brooklyn and Queens neighborhoods, there’s a lot you can reach in just a short drive from Staten Island. Which of these road trips sounds best to you:
  • A relaxed beach day in Asbury Park or Long Branch?
  • A city-style walk in Hoboken, Jersey City, or DUMBO?
  • A slower-paced afternoon in Westfield or New Brunswick?
Have you tried any of these spots already? Share your favorite day trip story—or your go-to route from Staten Island—in the comments. And if you found this guide helpful, please share it with friends and family who are looking for easy things to do near Staten Island. Your share might be the nudge they need to plan their next mini adventure.
Location: Georgetown, IN, USA

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