Rangers pull a long seine net through the Atlantic shallows at Rockaway and dump the catch into buckets so you can see what lives just offshore. In late summer the haul can include Gulf Stream orphans, young tropical fish swept hundreds of miles north. If you have curious kids and a beach day in mind, this is a great free hour.
What to expect
Meet the Rangers at Beach 32 by the boardwalk, watch or help as they work the net through the surf, then examine fish and crabs up close before they're released. Rangers explain ocean currents and coastal ecology along the way.
Good to know
- The A train to Beach 36 St is the closest subway stop.
- Wear shoes that can get wet and sandy.
- Free, with no registration required.
- Great for kids who like hands-on nature.
- Bring sunscreen; there's little shade on the beach.
Going? Keep it.
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Common questions
What is seining?
Pulling a long net through shallow water to sample the fish, crabs and other animals living near shore.
Do I need to register?
No, registration isn't required.
