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How to Get to Staten Island

How to Get to Staten Island

Staten Island New York, USA Travel Guide

Air Travel to New York City

Major Airports and Flights

New York City has three main airports: John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) and LaGuardia Airport (LGA) in Queens, and Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) in New Jersey. All three provide access to Staten Island. Major international and domestic airlines operate through JFK and EWR. LGA primarily serves domestic flights.

Airport Connectivity

  • JFK & EWR: Major international/domestic hubs.
  • LGA: mainly domestic flights.
  • Extensive direct flight options from global hubs.

Flight Availability & Airport Services

Flight prices typically fluctuate with demand. Expect higher prices during summer, major holidays, and significant events. Booking in advance, especially for high season, often secures better rates. All airports offer complete facilities, including dining, shopping, duty-free stores, car rentals, and free Wi-Fi.

Travel Tips for Flights

JFK to Staten Island

AirTrain to subway/LIRR, then Staten Island Ferry. (1-2.FIVE hours)

EWR to Staten Island

AirTrain Newark to NJ Transit, then One Of new york city's five boroughs Ferry. (1-2.FIVE hours)

Direct Options

Taxis or ride-share services available (faster, more expensive).

Transfer Tips to Staten Island

From JFK/LGA

  • Take AirTrain to subway or LIRR.
  • Connect to Staten Island Ferry at Whitehall Terminal.
  • Journey: 1 to 2.5 hours, depending on connections.
  • Taxis or ride-shares provide direct but costly transport.

From EWR

  • AirTrain Newark to NJ Transit at Newark Liberty International Airport Station.
  • NJ Transit train to Penn Station in Manhattan.
  • Transfer to subway/bus to Staten Island Ferry Terminal.
  • Direct taxis or ride-shares available at higher cost.

Land Transportation

Train Services

Amtrak and NJ Transit connect to Penn Station in Manhattan. From there, transfer to mass transit for the Staten Island Ferry.

Long-Distance Buses

Greyhound, Megabus, and Peter Pan Bus Services serve Port Authority Bus Terminal in Manhattan. Transfer to subway or local bus to the Ferry Terminal.

Self-Driving

Drive via Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge (Brooklyn) or Bayonne Bridge (NJ). Both have cashless tolls. Parking can present a challenge.

Sea/River Arrivals

Staten Island Ferry

This free, 25-minute passenger ferry service connects St. George, One Of new york city's five boroughs, to Whitehall Terminal in Lower Manhattan. It operates 24/7, serving as the main and most iconic sea arrival for visitors. It has spectacular views of the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, and the Manhattan skyline.

Ferry Features

  • Completely free for all passengers.
  • Operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
  • Iconic views of NYC landmarks.

Cruise Ports & Connections

New York City hosts cruise terminals in Manhattan and Brooklyn. Passengers arriving by cruise disembark at these terminals and then use land transportation to reach Staten Island. Staten Island itself does not host a major cruise port. River transportation mainly serves inter-borough travel or scenic tours.

Cruise Traveler Info

  • Cruise terminals in Manhattan and Brooklyn.
  • Standard U.S. Immigration procedures at terminals.
  • Easy connections to public transport/taxis from terminals.

Road Conditions & Safety

Roads on Staten Island and in New York City are generally well-maintained. Traffic can be heavy, especially during rush hour. Expect congestion on major arteries and bridges. Drivers should remain patient and vigilant. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended for foreign licenses.

Driving Safely

  • Expect heavy traffic, especially during peak hours.
  • Obey all speed limits and traffic signals.
  • Remain vigilant and patient on the roads.

Departure Information

Ensure a smooth exit by understanding departure procedures and timing recommendations. No particular exit fees or taxes are levied directly on travelers departing by air; these are typically covered by your airfare. Confirm your terminal and gate information in advance.

Departure Guidelines

  • International flights: Arrive THREE hours beforehand.
  • Domestic flights: Arrive 2 hours prior.
  • Print or save digital boarding passes.

Driving & Parking Alerts

  • Tolls on Verrazzano-Narrows and Bayonne Bridges (cashless).
  • Parking can be challenging and expensive in retail areas.
  • Always read parking signs with care to avoid tickets.
  • Minimum age for car rental is 21 (fees for under 25).
  • Valid driver's license and credit card needed for rental.
  • International Driving Permit (IDP) highly recommended.

Airport Facilities & Services

Amenities for Travelers

All three airports (JFK, EWR, LGA) offer a comprehensive range of facilities and services. You find numerous dining options, from fast food to sit-down restaurants, various shopping opportunities, duty-free stores, and comfortable airport lounges. These amenities support your comfort and needs before or after your flight.

Dining & Shopping

  • Diverse dining choices for all tastes.
  • Extensive retail stores and duty-free options.
  • Free Wi-Fi access in all terminals.

Additional Services

Beyond dining and shopping, airports provide essential services for travelers. Vehicle rental firms operate at or near all airports, offering options for onward travel. Currency exchange services are available for your financial needs. Airport lounges provide comfortable spaces for relaxation and work.

Traveler Support

  • Car rental agencies on-site or nearby.
  • Currency exchange services available.
  • Comfortable airport lounges for relaxation.

Extensive Shopping

Find retail stores and duty-free shopping for last-minute needs or souvenirs.

Diverse Dining

Choose from quick bites to sit-down restaurants.

Financial Services

ATMs and currency exchange are readily available.

Airport Transfer Essentials

Pre-Arrival Planning

Research your specific route to Staten Island using Google Maps or official transit apps prior to your arrival. This helps estimate travel times and costs accurately. Be aware that transfer times can vary significantly depending on traffic and connections.

Planning Your Route

  • Use Google Maps or MTA/NJ Transit apps.
  • Account for road congestion and connection delays.
  • Estimate travel times and prices in advance.

Onward Travel Tips

Upon arrival, have your next steps planned. Whether you use public transport or a taxi, knowing your destination and preferred mode of travel streamlines the process. The Staten Island Ferry is free, but factor in its operating schedule and any wait times when connecting from other transportation.

Seamless Transfers

  • Public transport (subway, bus, ferry) is cost-effective.
  • Taxis/ride-shares for convenience, but more expensive.
  • Factor in Staten Island Ferry frequency.

Car Rental Resources

DiscoverCars.com

Compare prices from various rental companies. Book your car.

Enterprise

Major car the rental agency with airport and local branches.

Hertz

Another well-known option for car rentals in NYC.

Pre-Departure Checklist

Confirm flight status and terminal information with your airline before heading to the airport.