Rockaway Surfing Headlong Into New Life: A Wave of Revitalization and Community

Nestled along the southern coast of Queens, New York City, Rockaway Beach has long been a haven for surfers, beachgoers, and nature enthusiasts alike. Once a bustling summer resort town, Rockaway fell into decline in the mid-20th century, but in recent years has experienced a remarkable resurgence, largely thanks to the growing popularity of surfing.

Surfing has transformed Rockaway from a forgotten beach town into a thriving hub of recreation, tourism, and community revitalization. The iconic Boardwalk has been revitalized, new businesses have opened, and the community has come together to support the growth of surfing and all it brings to the neighborhood.

The Rise of Surfing in Rockaway

Surfing first gained popularity in Rockaway in the 1960s and 1970s, when local surfers like Tom Curren and Mike Stewart made a name for themselves on the waves. However, it wasn't until the 21st century that surfing truly took off in Rockaway.

Rockaway: Surfing Headlong into a New Life

by Diane Cardwell

4.4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	2381 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
X-Ray	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	275 pages

FREE

The construction of the Rockaway Jetty in 2001 created a consistent wave break that made Rockaway Beach one of the best surfing spots in the New York City area. The jetty's construction also led to the creation of a protected cove that is ideal for beginner surfers.

With the improved waves and the growing popularity of surfing, Rockaway Beach became a magnet for surfers from all over the city and beyond. Surf schools and surf shops popped up to meet the demand, and the once-sleepy beach town began to buzz with activity.

The Impact of Surfing on Rockaway

The resurgence of surfing in Rockaway has had a profound impact on the community. The beach town has experienced a wave of revitalization, with new businesses opening, the Boardwalk being renovated, and the community coming together to support the growth of surfing.

One of the most visible signs of Rockaway's surfing renaissance is the revitalization of the Boardwalk. The once-dilapidated walkway has been repaired and extended, and now features new seating areas, bike paths, and surf-themed art installations.

The growth of surfing has also led to the opening of new businesses in Rockaway, including surf shops, restaurants, and bars. These businesses have helped to create a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere in the beach town.

Perhaps most importantly, surfing has brought the Rockaway community together. The beach town has a strong surfing culture, and surfers of all ages and backgrounds can be found out on the waves every day. Surfing has helped to create a sense of community pride and has given Rockaway a new identity.

The Future of Surfing in Rockaway

The future of surfing in Rockaway looks bright. The beach town has already experienced a remarkable transformation, and the growth of surfing shows no signs of slowing down.

The City of New York is investing in Rockaway Beach, with plans to continue to revitalize the Boardwalk and improve the infrastructure. The Rockaway Surfing Community is also working to promote surfing and to make the beach town more accessible to surfers of all levels.

With the continued support of the community and the City, Rockaway Beach is poised to become one of the premier surfing destinations in the world. The waves are world-class, the community is welcoming, and the future is bright for Rockaway surfing.

Surfing has had a profound impact on Rockaway Beach, transforming the once-forgotten beach town into a thriving hub of recreation, tourism, and community revitalization. The growth of surfing has led to the revitalization of the Boardwalk, the opening of new businesses, and the coming together of the community. The future of surfing in Rockaway looks bright, with the beach town poised to become one of the premier surfing destinations in the world.

Rockaway: Surfing Headlong into a New Life

by Diane Cardwell

4.4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	2381 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
X-Ray	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	275 pages

FREE