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Belle Harbor - Queens - NYC

I’ve only just begun my explorations of Belle Harbor. I will be returning in the near future for a dedicated tour of the neighborhood, so please keep checking the Updates page and my YouTube channel!

Belle Harbor Neighborhood Map - Queens - NYC

Belle Harbor is a neighborhood along the south shore of Queens, in the Rockaways. To its immediate west is Neponsit while Rockaway Park is to the east.


Belle Harbor slideshow (Coming Soon):

The Neighborhood

Located in the Rockaways is the small neighborhood of Belle Harbor.

Belle Harbor is a beautiful neighborhood situated on a peninsula in the Rockaway Beach area of Queens. Known for its stunning ocean views, friendly community, and proximity to nature, Belle Harbor is a highly sought-after area for those who enjoy a peaceful beach lifestyle while still being close to the city. With its wide, tree-lined avenues and picturesque waterfront properties, Belle Harbor feels like a small, coastal town tucked away in the heart of New York City. The nearby beaches and parks provide ample opportunity for outdoor activities such as hiking, jogging, and swimming. A mix of quaint shops, upscale restaurants, and welcoming cafes can be found throughout the neighborhood, making it a place that truly has something for everyone.

Belle Harbor, located in Queens, New York, received its name from a prominent businessman and real estate developer named John W. McCarthy. In 1900, McCarthy founded the Belle Harbor Land Company, which sold land in the neighborhood to those seeking to build summer homes. To promote the area, McCarthy named it Belle Harbor, inspired by the beautifully serene bay and harbor that surrounds the community. Today, Belle Harbor is an attractive seaside neighborhood with a strong sense of community and a mix of residential and commercial properties. It remains a popular destination for beachgoers, fishermen, and those seeking a peaceful retreat from the bustle of city life.

Belle Harbor, a coastal neighborhood located in the Rockaway Peninsula in Queens, has a rich history that dates back to the early 20th century. Originally inhabited by the Canarsie and Lenape Native American tribes, Belle Harbor was later colonized by Dutch and British settlers in the mid-17th century. Over the years, the neighborhood grew and expanded as a popular beach resort throughout the late 19th century. However, a devastating fire in 1910 destroyed much of the area, causing a mass exodus of residents. Despite the setback, Belle Harbor managed to bounce back and became a thriving community with its own identity. During the 1960s and 70s, the area experienced a significant demographic shift as more middle-class families moved in. Today, residents of Belle Harbor continue to cherish the neighborhood's rich history and strong sense of community.

Belle Harbor, a neighborhood located in the Rockaways in Queens, is home to many notable landmarks and attractions. One of the community's most iconic landmarks is the Belle Harbor Yacht Club, a picturesque waterfront structure that offers sailing lessons and water-based activities. Additionally, the neighborhood is known for its miles of beautiful beaches, including Rockaway Beach and Beach 129th Street, which attract locals and tourists alike with their clear waters and soft sand. Another popular attraction is the Rockaway Beach Surf Club, which offers surf lessons and has a beachfront bar and grill. Lastly, visitors can stroll down the lively Beach Channel Drive for a variety of restaurants, bars, and boutique shops that feature local products and designs..

Belle Harbor, a beachfront neighborhood in Queens, has been home to many famous individuals over the years. Perhaps the most famous resident of Belle Harbor was Jackie Gleason, an iconic comedian and actor who had a storied career in television and film. Another notable figure from Belle Harbor was Mary Higgins Clark, a bestselling author known for her mystery novels. Other famous individuals who have called Belle Harbor home include composer and lyricist Alan Jay Lerner, journalist and author Pete Hamill, and baseball player Richie Hebner. With such a varied and impressive list of residents, Belle Harbor has certainly made its mark on the world of arts and entertainment.


Highlight Gallery (Coming Soon)


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All photography provided by Samuel Walters