Coney Island

One of the most iconic parts of Brooklyn, Coney Island is a lively peninsular town best known for its amusement parks and as a local summer destination for New Yorkers. Some of its most recognizable landmarks include its famed boardwalk, stretching nearly three miles into Lower New York Bay. Of roughly the same length is Coney Island's main beach, which attracts thousands of day trippers during the peak season.

Coney Island, however, is more than just a tourist attraction. This so-called "Playground of the World" is home to a year-round population of over 115,000 people, as well as an up-and-coming housing market worth looking into.

WELCOME TO CONEY ISLAND!

The neighborhood of Coney Island is nestled on the landmass that shares its name, tucked between Seagate to the west and Brighton Beach to the east. It's separated from the mainland by Coney Island Creek, while Lower New York Bay bounds the neighborhood to the south and southwest. Coney Island covers nearly .70 square miles.

Coney Island had its start as a Dutch settlement called Gravesend, which was founded in the 17th century. It would take approximately two centuries for its development as a seaside resort to begin, designed for the working class while its neighbors catered to wealthier vacationers. Eventually, then-West Brighton Beach (now Coney Island) eclipsed the others in popularity when Luna Park opened in the early 20th century. And so the amusement park era started.

Today, many of Coney Island's vintage amusement parks and older buildings remain, including its wooden roller coaster and post-war homes. Coney Island has a new face, too, defined by sleek high-rises and new construction.

HOMES FOR SALE IN CONEY ISLAND, NY

Homes for sale in Coney Island are mostly apartments and co-ops. Co-ops, short for cooperative housing, are a bit different from regular apartments — instead of owning your apartment outright, you own shares in a corporation that owns the whole building. These shares give you the right to live in a specific unit and have a say in how the building is run.

Another unique thing about living in Coney Island is the predominance of smaller living spaces. A significant majority of the real estate here consists of one-bedroom apartments and studio units, catering to those who prefer a compact and efficient living environment.

Coney Island also has a renter-dominant market — 99.5% of residents rent their homes according to data from NeighborhoodScout. This makes the area particularly dynamic and diverse, as many people are drawn to the flexibility and lifestyle that renting offers.

LIVING IN CONEY ISLAND, NY

Living in Coney Island puts you at the heart of a neighborhood steeped in history and filled with unique local businesses and cultural landmarks.

Getting in and around Coney Island

Coney Island's connectivity to the rest of New York City is seamless. Hop on the D, F, N, or Q trains, and in under an hour, you can be in the heart of Manhattan. The area is also well-served by buses like the B36, B68, B74, and B82, ensuring smooth transit to various Brooklyn locales. For those preferring to drive, the Belt Parkway offers a swift route to other boroughs and beyond.

Historic rides and theme park attractions

Coney Island's amusement parks are home to several historic rides that have become symbols of the area. Deno's Wonder Wheel, a towering Ferris wheel that has been delighting visitors since 1920, offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and the New York City skyline. The wooden Cyclone roller coaster, built in 1927 and now operated by Luna Park, is another beloved landmark, known for its thrilling drops and U-turns.

Bring the whole family to the Coney Island Circus Sideshow at Seashore Theater. Here, visitors can witness traditional sideshow acts like sword swallowing and fire eating, harking back to the golden age of Coney Island entertainment.

Landmarks and attractions

When you're a Coney Island resident, some of the top attractions in Brooklyn are just a few minutes away.

• New York Aquarium – Just a stone's throw from the boardwalk, the New York Aquarium is a captivating destination for marine life enthusiasts, boasting a wide array of exhibits featuring whales, sharks, fish, and more. The aquarium's conservation efforts and educational programs also highlight the importance of preserving marine ecosystems, making it both an entertaining and enlightening experience.

• Coney Island Art Walls – Art lovers will find inspiration at the Coney Island Art Walls, an outdoor museum that showcases vibrant murals by both local and international artists. Located near the entrance to the historic amusement district, these dynamic artworks add a splash of color and creativity to the neighborhood.

• Childs Building – The Childs Building, a beautiful example of early 20th-century architecture, originally served as an upscale restaurant and is now a designated New York City landmark. The building's ornate facade and seaside location make it a picturesque spot to visit.

Shopping and dining

From souvenir shops selling nostalgic memorabilia to vendors offering beach necessities and quirky knick-knacks, shopping in Coney Island is an experience in itself. The Brooklyn Beach Shop along the boardwalk is a go-to for beach essentials and souvenirs. At Surf & Stillwell, you might find new additions to your wardrobe.

As for food, the boardwalk alone is lined with iconic eateries and food stands serving up classic treats that can refuel you after exploring the area. For starters, check out Nathan's Famous Hot Dog, a Coney Island staple since 1916. This long-time establishment caters to both visitors looking for a quick bite and anyone who wants to lounge at the nearby picnic tables with a cold drink in hand. Its original location also offers a Clam Bar, where you can have your fill of fried seafood, clams, and oysters — all fresh, of course.

There's more to explore if you're a seafood enthusiast. Paul's Daughter offers fresh seafood and drinks right on the boardwalk, with must-tries like lobster rolls and jumbo shrimps. If you're in the mood for something sweet, the original Coney's Cones serves up delectable Italian gelato in more than 20 flavors.

Located right on the boardwalk, Ruby's Bar & Grill is quintessential Coney Island. This counter-service spot is perfect for big groups, day drinking, and casual lunches.

INVEST IN CONEY ISLAND

Bellmarc Realty can help you explore the full range of your real estate options in Coney Island. Call us at 718.768.4500 or 718.788.5121, or send us an email here to explore homes for sale in Coney Island or learn more about the local market.

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