Planning a fun day at the beach, boardwalk, or famous amusement parks? Here’s your ultimate guide on how to get to Coney Island from New York City — covering subway, bus, car, ferry, and walking options. Whether you’re a tourist or a local looking for a summer escape, getting to Coney Island is easy, budget-friendly, and scenic.
🚇 Take the Subway to Coney Island – The Easiest and Most Popular Way
The subway is the fastest and most convenient way to get to Coney Island from anywhere in New York City. Coney Island–Stillwell Avenue Station is the southernmost stop on four major subway lines.
Subway Lines to Coney Island:
- D Train – via Manhattan’s West Side and Brooklyn
- F Train – via Queens, Midtown, and Brooklyn
- N Train – via Union Square, Canal St, and Brooklyn
- Q Train – via Central Park, Atlantic Ave, and Brighton Beach
Travel Time:
- From Times Square: ~1 hour
- From Downtown Brooklyn: ~30 minutes
- From Queens or Upper Manhattan: 60–80 minutes
Simply swipe your OMNY card or MetroCard, and enjoy a direct ride to Coney Island–Stillwell Avenue, just steps from the beach and boardwalk.
🚌 Bus to Coney Island – Alternative Public Transit Option
While slower than the subway, you can also take the NYC bus to Coney Island. This is a great option if you’re coming from neighborhoods without direct train access.
Useful Bus Lines:
- B36: From Sheepshead Bay and East Flatbush
- B68: From Prospect Park
- B82-SBS: From Starrett City or Gravesend
- B74: Direct route to Mermaid Avenue & Stillwell Avenue
Bus Travel Time:
- Varies by route and traffic (45–90 minutes)
Make sure to check the MTA Bus Time App for real-time arrivals when planning your journey to Coney Island by bus.
🚗 Driving to Coney Island – Best for Groups or Families
If you’re traveling with kids, beach gear, or simply prefer flexibility, driving to Coney Island from NYC is a solid choice.
Directions:
- From Manhattan: Take the BQE (I-278) to Belt Parkway West, exit at Cropsey Ave
- Use GPS destination: Coney Island Beach & Boardwalk, Brooklyn, NY 11224
Parking Info:
- Metered street parking (expect high demand in summer)
- Paid lots available at Surf Ave, MCU Park, and Stillwell Ave ($10–$25/day)
Avoid peak weekend hours and arrive early to secure parking near the boardwalk or Luna Park.
🛥️ Can You Take a Ferry to Coney Island?
While there’s no direct NYC Ferry route to Coney Island as of 2025, you can take the South Brooklyn Ferry to Bay Ridge, then transfer to the B64 or B82 bus, or rideshare to reach the beach.
Though scenic, this route is best for travelers wanting a ferry experience plus a local transit adventure — not for speed.
🚶♂️ Walking or Biking to Coney Island – For Locals and Adventurers
If you’re already in South Brooklyn, you can bike or walk to Coney Island via the Ocean Parkway Greenway or along Surf Avenue. The NYC Citi Bike program currently does not extend to Coney Island, but personal bikes are allowed on boardwalk paths.
Pro tip: Rent a bike near Prospect Park and enjoy a scenic ride through Midwood and Gravesend to the beach.
🧭 How to Get to Coney Island from JFK or LaGuardia
From JFK Airport:
- Take the AirTrain to Howard Beach, then A train to Broadway Junction, transfer to the D, N, or Q train to Coney Island
- Estimated time: ~1.5 hours
From LaGuardia Airport:
- Take the Q70 bus to Jackson Heights, then F train to Coney Island–Stillwell Ave
- Estimated time: ~1.5–2 hours
📍 Top Attractions Near Coney Island Station
Once you arrive, you’re steps away from:
- Coney Island Beach & Boardwalk
- Luna Park – iconic amusement park with the Cyclone roller coaster
- Deno’s Wonder Wheel
- New York Aquarium
- Nathan’s Famous Hot Dogs – original 1916 location
- MCU Park – home of the Brooklyn Cyclones baseball team
All of these attractions are within walking distance from Coney Island–Stillwell Ave Subway Station.
✅ FAQs
What is the easiest way to get to Coney Island from New York City?
The easiest way to get to Coney Island from New York City is by subway. Take the D, F, N, or Q trains to Coney Island–Stillwell Avenue, located right next to the beach and Luna Park.
How long does it take to get to Coney Island from Manhattan?
The subway ride from Manhattan to Coney Island takes around 1 hour, depending on where you board. It’s a direct ride with no need for transfers on most lines.
Can you drive to Coney Island from NYC?
Yes, you can drive to Coney Island from Manhattan or other boroughs via the BQE and Belt Parkway, exiting at Cropsey Avenue. Parking is available but limited during peak hours.
Is there a ferry to Coney Island from Manhattan?
As of 2025, there’s no direct ferry to Coney Island. The nearest stop is Bay Ridge, Brooklyn. From there, you’ll need a bus or rideshare to reach the beach.
What subway stop is closest to Coney Island?
The nearest stop is Coney Island–Stillwell Avenue Station, served by the D, F, N, and Q trains — just steps from the beach and boardwalk.
🎯 Final Tips for Visiting Coney Island in 2025
- Visit early in the morning on weekends to avoid crowds
- Bring cash or card for food stands and amusement tickets
- Don’t miss the Friday night fireworks during summer
- Stay safe and watch your belongings on the beach and boardwalk
Whether you’re planning a day trip to Coney Island from NYC or a weekend stay in Brooklyn, getting there is quick and easy thanks to New York’s extensive transit options. From thrilling rides to sun-soaked boardwalk strolls, Coney Island is a must-visit destination for anyone in the five boroughs.
🔗 Useful Travel Resources
- MTA Subway Map
- Luna Park Coney Island
- NYC Ferry Routes
- Coney Island Events Calendar
- New York Aquarium