Queens, New York — One of New York City’s most iconic beach landmarks is finally returning to life after sitting abandoned for more than five decades.
The historic Jacob Riis Park Bathhouse, once known as the heart of the city’s legendary “People’s Beach,” has officially completed a massive $88 million restoration project, bringing new energy to the Rockaways waterfront.
Now rebranded as the “Rockaway Ocean Club,” the restored complex blends historic architecture with modern luxury amenities in what city officials and developers hope will become one of New York’s top summer destinations.
Historic Bathhouse Returns After Decades of Decay
Originally opened in 1932, the Jacob Riis Park Bathhouse was once considered one of New York City’s premier beach attractions.
At its peak, the massive oceanfront destination welcomed tens of thousands of visitors, offering changing rooms, entertainment spaces and beachfront access that turned the Rockaways into a summer hotspot.
For decades, beachgoers packed the property for music, dancing and seaside relaxation.
But by 1972, the once-thriving complex shut down and slowly deteriorated after years of neglect, exposure to harsh ocean weather and repeated storm damage.
The landmark remained largely abandoned for more than half a century, becoming a haunting reminder of New York’s forgotten waterfront history.
$88 Million Restoration Creates New Waterfront Attraction
After years of planning and restoration work led by NYC Parks and private development partners, the property has now been completely revived.
Developers transformed the aging structure into a modern waterfront complex while still preserving many of its historic design features.
The newly redesigned space includes a refreshed boardwalk lined with food and beverage vendors offering everything from coffee and pizza to gelato and beach essentials.
A large central courtyard has also been added to host gatherings and events throughout the summer season.
One of the project’s most anticipated additions is a planned rooftop restaurant featuring panoramic ocean views overlooking the Atlantic coastline.
Luxury Features Spark Debate
While much of the restored property will remain accessible to the public, one aspect of the redevelopment has already sparked controversy.
Part of the project introduces a members-only beach club connected to operators with ties to Soho House & Co.
The exclusive area is expected to feature private lounges, premium amenities and a 162-person pool.
Membership prices reportedly range from around $1,000 for local residents to approximately $3,500 for families living outside the peninsula.
The addition has already triggered debate online, with some New Yorkers celebrating the investment in the historic property while others question the exclusivity tied to a space once nicknamed the “People’s Beach.”
Boutique Hotel Planned for Future Expansion
Developers are also planning to expand the project even further with the addition of a 28-room boutique hotel.
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If completed, the hotel would allow visitors to stay overnight directly along the Rockaways waterfront — something currently limited in the area.
Officials say portions of the project, including select boardwalk vendors and the central courtyard, are expected to open during the Fourth of July weekend, while additional features will launch in phases afterward.
Another NYC Landmark Also Getting Revival
The Jacob Riis restoration is part of a broader trend involving the revival of historic New York landmarks.
The city is also investing heavily in restoring the famous New York State Pavilion in Flushing Meadows-Corona Park, originally built for the 1964 World’s Fair.
Known as the “Tent of Tomorrow,” the futuristic structure is currently undergoing a $56.8 million stabilization project aimed at preserving its iconic towers and observation decks after decades of decay.
City officials hope the restoration work will eventually allow guided tours and reopen parts of the structure to the public once again.
What do you think about the transformation of NYC’s historic “People’s Beach”? Share your thoughts respectfully in the comments below.
