Newport Green is the Hudson River’s Only Urban Beach

Jersey City's Newport Green beach and play area has made itself the new Jersey Shore - but in a good way. The beautiful new space, built by the LeFrak Corporation, is the <a href="http://inhabitat.com/nyc/event/ohny-up-the-hudson-architectural-boat-tour/" target="_blank">Hudson River's</a> only <a href="http://inhabitat.com/the-pop-up-maddox-beach-club-brings-breezy-relaxation-to-the-london-olympics/" target="_blank">urban beach</a>, and boasts 8,000 square feet of soft sand for residents of the area to enjoy. The beachfront joins an eco-friendly park that offers many amenities overlooking the iconic New York skyline.

Newport Green’s <a href="http://inhabitat.com/nyc/brooklyn-bridge-parks-colorful-new-pop-up-pool-and-beach-open-today/" target="_blank">beach</a> is perfect for <a href="http://inhabitat.com/nyc/sand-master-matthew-long-builds-23-ton-sand-castle-at-south-street-seaport/" target="_blank">building sandcastles</a>, sun bathing or reading a book in an Adirondack chair under one of the colorful umbrellas on the beach, while enjoying the breeze off the Hudson River.

The beach is also surrounded by a classic boardwalk, with shaded gazebos and sitting areas of visitors to enjoy.

The kids can keep cool at the miniature <a href="http://inhabitat.com/nyc/pics-mccarren-park-pool-opens-today-to-swimmers-in-brooklyn/" target="_blank">water park</a> that joins a 17,000 square foot playground. Jungle gyms and a rope web climbing dome encourage exercise, while having hours of fun. Adults can play ping pong at one of the outdoor tables, or use the park’s free Wifi connection.

The grounds are landscaped with lush planted gardens in different themes that accentuate native plants. A fragrance garden incorporates carefully chosen blooms, while the <a href="http://inhabitat.com/nyc/patrick-blancs-gorgeous-vertical-gardens-flank-the-10th-annual-orchid-show-at-nybg/" target="_blank">butterfly garden</a> features plants that attract wild butterflies. A traditional rose garden also offers a place to read a book or relax.

Newport Green is also home to a giant 30,000 square foot<a href="http://inhabitat.com/nyc/mayor-bloomberg-announces-plan-for-willets-point-queens-to-be-revamped-into-new-green-neighborhood/" target="_blank"> multi-use field</a>, attracting soccer, football, baseball and volleyball games. The field is made from 100% eco-friendly turf made from recycled plant fibers, which keeps moisture in and temperatures cool.

Newport Green is one of the largest mixed-use <a href="http://inhabitat.com/nyc/beach-30-pavilion-is-an-undulating-new-outdoor-classroom-for-the-far-rockaways/" target="_blank">waterfront parks</a> in the United States, and the only in proximity to New York City, not to mention the views!