Rockland County's Best Beach Getaways

Going to the beach this summer doesn't have to mean sitting in traffic or packing a day's worth of supplies.

Here are the best places to grab sun, locally:

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Place: Nyack Beach State Park at 698 N. Broadway, Upper Nyack
Why go: There are 61-acres of riverfront along the Hudson River; popular activities include picnicking, hiking, fishing, and bicycling
Parking: $8/car

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Place: Lake Superior State Park in Monticello
Why go: The park has beaches, fishing, boat launches, swimming and picnic areas
Hours: May 23 thru Sept., 9 a.m. to dusk 

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Place: Lake Welch Beach in Harriman State Park; 800 Kanawaukee Road in Stony Point
Why go: At the largest beach in Harriman State Park, you can relax on its half-mile long sandy beach, or swim, while looking at the Ramapo mountains
Hours: Open 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. on weekends and holidays (June 23 thru Sept. 3) Open on weekdays from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. (June 25 thru August 31)
Parking: $8/car

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Place: Lake Tiorati Beach in Harriman State Park in Bear Mountain
Why go: The park offers swimming, fishing, boating and picnicking, all surrounded by wooded hills.
Hours: Open 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. on weekends and holidays (June 23 thru Sept. 3). Open on weekdays from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. (June 25 thru August 31)
Details: For fishing, you'll need a New York State fishing license
Parking:$8/car