You don't have to leave New York City to cool off from the summer heat, thanks to the local waterfront beaches. NY1's Valarie D'Elia filed the following report.

When city sidewalks are hotter than a match head, you can still beat the heat this summer without heading to the Hamptons.

For the fifth year running, Water Taxi Beach in Long Island City will be open on the weekends to New Yorkers and visitors who want a sand substitute without the swimming.

Located just south of the Queensboro Bridge, this original Water Taxi Beach is now being joined by two other makeshift beaches, one that is open daily at South Street Seaport and another at Governors Island that makes its debut on July 4 and will be open solely on weekends.

The new venue at South Street Seaport caters to families with an eye toward reasonably priced outdoor entertainment and snacks. Kids can play nine-hole miniature golf course, skeeball and ping pong.

After 8 p.m. on the weekends, the beaches cater to the over-21 crowd and security is very tight.

Both South Street Seaport and Long Island City beaches are accessible by foot, subway, bus, car and New York Water Taxi. The Governors Island beach is accessible by water only. For more information, visit www.harborexperience.com

To rise above it all this summer, choose a "Renewal Day Package" at the Hotel Gansevoort's rooftop pool, which is open to guests between 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. from Monday to Thursday.

Guests who are not staying at the hotel can buy their way into a poolside lounge chair for $250, and will receive a cocktail and a 60-minute spa treatment. For reservations, call 1-212-660-6733.

NY1 VIDEO:
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For more travel information, visit www.travelwithval.com.