Have you ever wanted to feel a shoreline come alive with music, neighbors, and salt air? This August, Rockaway Beach hosts the 5th Annual Surf Music Festival, a free celebration of sound and coastal life. Queens injury lawyers are proud to spotlight this open, family-friendly gathering that welcomes everyone.
Over three days, you can catch surf bands from across the Northeast, grab tasty food and drinks, and soak up the easygoing rhythm that defines the peninsula. Getting there is simple, with subway, ferry, and shuttle options that put you steps from the stage. Think of it as a summer sendoff with guitars, good company, and unmistakable Rockaway vibe.
Event overview
Rockaway Beach Surf Music Festival is a free, three-day gathering with nine bands from five states. The setting is Rockaway Bazaar at Beach 97th Street and Shore Front Parkway in Far Rockaway, a boardwalk hub with plenty of room to roam. The dates are August 22 through 24, 2025, with music each evening.
Admission costs nothing and no tickets are required, so you can drop by for a set or stay for the whole night. The schedule is designed for easy evenings by the water, with start times that let you catch sunset and the last trains home. Bring friends, bring kids, bring an appetite, and let the music carry you from Friday to Sunday.
Festival highlights
Live music lineup
- Friday, Aug 22: Cupid’s Nemesis from New York at 5:00 PM, The Hydronauts from Massachusetts at 6:30 PM, The Sci Flies from New York at 8:00 PM.
- Saturday, Aug 23: The Vista Cruisers from Maine at 5:00 PM, TarantinosNYC from New York at 6:30 PM, Blue Wave Theory from New Jersey at 8:00 PM.
- Sunday, Aug 24: The Jagaloons from New York at 5:00 PM, 9th Wave from Connecticut at 6:30 PM, Time Surfers from New York at 8:00 PM.
Food and drinks
Rockaway Bazaar vendors serve a wide range of plates and pours, from fresh tacos and lobster rolls to veggie bowls, soft serve, and cold beer. You can snack between sets or sit for a meal with a view of the ocean. Menus lean local, and there are options for different diets.
Family-friendly atmosphere
All ages are welcome, and the boardwalk layout makes it easy to navigate with strollers and groups. The crowd tends to be relaxed and upbeat, with room to dance, listen, or just watch the waves. It is an easy pick for families, date nights, and music lovers who want a low-stress night out.
Transportation options
Getting there
- Subway: Take the A train to Broad Channel, then transfer to the Rockaway Park Shuttle. Ride to Beach 98th Street and walk one block to Beach 97th Street.
- Ferry: The NYC Ferry Rockaway route runs from Wall Street to Rockaway Park. Disembark at Beach 108th Street and enjoy a short boardwalk stroll toward Beach 97th Street.
- Shuttle bus: From the ferry landing, a local shuttle connects riders to Beach 97th Street and nearby stops. It is quick, affordable, and timed to meet boats during peak hours.
If you plan to drive, street parking fills fast near the boardwalk. Give yourself extra time and consider transit, which keeps the trip simple and avoids traffic.
Community impact
The festival does more than book great bands. It brings neighbors, visitors, and small businesses together in a shared space that feels welcoming. Vendors see steady foot traffic, which helps keep money in the local economy and supports seasonal jobs. The event also invites people to notice the shoreline, the dunes, and the water, and to treat them with care. Reusable bottles, trash sorting, and respect for the beach set a good example for kids and adults. When music meets the ocean, the result is culture, connection, and a reminder that public spaces matter.
Conclusion
Across three evenings, the 5th Annual Rockaway Beach Surf Music Festival blends live surf sounds, easy boardwalk dining, and a setting that feels open to all. You can come for a single set or make a weekend of it, and still spend most of your time outdoors by the water.
With simple transit choices and no ticket lines, the focus stays on music and community. Queens Injury Lawyers, P.C. invites you to join the crowd, support local vendors, and share the experience with friends and family. Mark your calendar for August 22 to 24 and meet us at Beach 97th Street. Bring sunscreen, comfortable shoes, and curiosity for new bands.