Taking the D Train to the end of the line takes 45 minutes from Midtown Manhattan. Bobbing up above ground and then heading back underground makes the trip feel a little like a roller coaster, which is appropriate as you head to the Coney Island Boardwalk.
Brooklyn is a massive borough with regional differences in each neighborhood. It’s fascinating to watch the demographics of those who get on and off the subway in the differing neighborhoods and streets.
Since the beaches are still legally closed, we were two of the five who actually rode to the “end of the line.” Instead of the bustling playground of New York City, Coney Island is actually quiet and peaceful, at least for now.
Are the theme parks actually open and functional? Yes and yes! As of April 9th, amusement parks are open again in New York City! I’m guessing many New Yorkers didn’t get the memo, as there were hardly any lines for the Thunderbolt, Cyclone and Soarin’ Eagle.








But, we weren’t there for the thrill rides. We were there for the beach!
Yes… I know… The beach is closed. But, to be honest, I don’t go to the beach to swim.
(I mean look at me… I went to the beach in my Dr. Martens and black skinny jeans. But, in Brooklyn, somehow it works.)
I, instead, went to gaze and relax and find my chill. And, there is plenty of that along the Coney Island Boardwalk and pier.
Street vendors lined the pier, fisherman lazily gazed over their poles in the blue waters, and families took a mid-afternoon stroll down the boardwalk. It was as though none of us had ever left the Coney Island of 1876.








Rain was brewing for the next day, and as the sun set, the fog layer sent us into deep vibes of our days in San Francisco. “Karl, is that you?”
Along with all of the amusement rides for kids and thrill seekers, there’s also a ton of “fair food” like funnel cakes, Nathan’s world-famous hot dogs, iced beverages, and burgers. We opted for Coney Island Brewery, which was AMAZING, and some Coney Island gelato – YUMMM!









I’m not sure what the summer crowds will hold when the beaches open on Memorial Day Weekend. But, as for me this past weekend, I definitely came back into Manhattan with sun-kissed skin, chill vibes, a happier look at life, and a longing to go back.
Split a condo share with me, anyone? Anyone? 😉
See you at the beach!
More Posts About NYC
- Toasting Gardens and Green Spaces in New York City
- Toasting Spring 2021
- Pizzas, Parties and Poetry in Greenwich Village
- The American Museum of Natural History
- Christmas in Midtown, Manhattan
- Holiday Spirit in NYC
- The NYC Zoos
- Tea Tasting in Soho and the Lower East Side
- The New York Botanical Gardens
- Halloween in New York City
- Exploring Queens: Long Island City
- Exploring Downtown Manhattan: FiDi
- Exploring Brooklyn: Red Hook
- The Best Observation Decks in NYC
- Exploring Queens: Rockaway Beach
- Exploring Our Neighborhood: Midtown East
- Exploring Central Park
- New York Awakening from COVID Slumber
- Wandering and Wondering in NYC
- Midwest Manners, California Idealism, New York Passion
- On the Move During COVID-19
Should I Come to New York in 2021?
YESSSS!!!! If you live in the U.S.A., then go get your vaccine and come visit! As of April 1, quarantine and testing will no longer be mandated. Quarantining for a few days is still recommended, but we are reaching the end of the formal testing, paperwork, and quarantines for domestic travelers! Huzzah!
***UPDATE*** On April 1, 2021 New York will no longer be requiring quarantines for domestic travel. International travelers will still be required to quarantine. All travelers will need to fill out a NYS traveler form upon arrival.
You’ve waited patiently, and New York is still here! Start planning your trips!
As always, don’t forget to Toast The Moon to all of your international travels by visiting our store, and make sure to follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and the ‘gram to catch all of our latest posts and adventures!
Stay in your region this year, stay safe, stay distant, and be like the NYC statues – wear your masks! We’ll see you on the other side.
Cheers,
Noah and Majhon