Coney Island, Brooklyn, New York

First things first – you have got to listen to this song before taking a trip to Coney Island!

We took the subway to Coney Island (D, F, N, Q lines all go here) which probably took about an hour from Manhattan. A little bit of a trip I suppose but definitely worth it. The first thing we did was head to the famous boardwalk to have a little wander around. It was exceptionally windy but therefore quiet – it actually felt quite special visiting a deserted Coney Island. I’m sure that changes in June…

Private subway carriage!

Subway art

We’ve arrived!

Coney Island’s famous boardwalk

Now that’s a beach!

Just a hop, skip or jump on to the sand

We stopped off in Nathan’s Famous for a bite to eat after a windswept trip along the boardwalk. There are a couple of Nathan’s franchises around the area but the original, opened in 1916, is just across from the subway station. John had the mother of all hot dogs and I went with a lobster roll – typical New York fare! Next, decided a visit to William’s Candy Shop was an absolute necessity – the selection of candy apples here is amazing and they’re absolutely delicious…do not pass on this place!! The staff could probably use a lesson in customer service mind…

An original for an original 😊

So tasty

Yes please!

The Brooklyn Beach Shop on the boardwalk is a pretty nice spot to pick up some cool (albeit overpriced) souvenirs or even cute workout gear. They sell homewares from Fishs Eddy, the most awesome store for home-goods on the planet. I think a nice Brooklyn dish-towel is a nicer souvenir than a fridge magnet – it has an actual use!

The New York Aquarium is on the boardwalk too, although currently undergoing what looks like significant construction. The entrance fee is $10.75 (if you buy online) which honestly seems like a pretty good deal – the cheapest you can get in to Sydney’s Aquarium (which is not amazing by any stretch of the imagination) is $28. Robbery.

Unfortunately Luna Park was closed so we didn’t get to go on any of the rides but we’ll definitely pop out on our next visit to New York. Tea-cup time!! All in all I’d definitely recommend a little side trip to Coney Island if you’re taking a break in New York. The vibe on a warm and sunny weekend would be awesome.