Howard Beach is a unique neighborhood in the sense that there is one way in, one way out (via Cross Bay Blvd) which lends itself to having a very exclusive vibe, which is probably why you'd never think how amazing Howard Beach is. The benefit of this hidden gem is that you are away from the chaos of the city but still close enough to have easy access to it. One way to describe it is, "It's like living in Long Island WITHOUT being in Long Island!"