Best Beaches In NJ – NJ Beaches – New Jersey is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the North East, with nearly 130 miles of pristine coastline. We’re talking about beaches that are ideal for kitesurfing, sandcastle building, and fishing, as well as beaches that are so serene that they will dissolve even the most severe worries.
The Garden State may easily have been dubbed the Beaches State, with 44 beaches stretching the coast from Cape May (south) to Sandy Hook (north). Locals and visitors alike go to New Jersey’s top beaches in the summer, which is unsurprising.
You’ll find a great site to satisfy your beach fancies in New Jersey, whether you want to spend the day lapping up the sun with a side of softly crashing waves at Stone Harbor or hoping to people watch on the more popular Wildwood Beach. Arrive early to get a spot.
Don’t know where to begin? Our list of the best beaches in NJ might help you narrow down your choices.
Best Beaches In NJ
Table of Contents
Cape May Beach
Cape May is undoubtedly the most picturesque of the Jersey Shore beach towns, and its city beaches are often referred to as the greatest in the state. Although Cape May’s huge, sandy beachfront is technically one long (approximately 2.5 miles) and wide beach, it is separated into 16 distinct beaches, the majority of which are named after the closest street intersecting Beach Avenue (like Queen Street, Decatur Street, and Broadway).
Cape May City Beaches are ideal for singles, couples, and families, and lifeguards are on duty to ensure everyone’s safety. Swimming, fishing, kayaking, skiing, beach volleyball, and surfing are all options for visitors (at Poverty Beach, The Cove, Surfing Beach, and South Queen beaches, only).
Traveling between Memorial Day and Labor Day necessitates the use of a beach tag. The Broadway, Gurney Street, Howard Street, Madison Avenue, and beach entrances all have a kiosk where these can be purchased. You’ll still need to pick them up in person if you order them online.
What To Do ?
Cape May is the nation’s oldest seaside town, with charming streets lined with Victorian mansions, unique boutiques, and charming bed-and-breakfasts. If you’re hungry, go to one of the neighbouring eateries and order food to go so you can eat it on the beach.
Visitors who want to avoid the heat or spend a wet day indoors can go to one of Cape May’s main attractions, such as the Cape May County Park and Zoo, the Fireman’s Museum, or the Cape May Lighthouse, or rest in one of the city’s many spas.
Stop in at Uncle Charley’s Ice Cream after a long day at the beach for some homemade, hand-dipped ice cream, a Jersey Shore staple. The Virginia hotel is a short walk from the beach and has a charming front porch that will draw you away from the beach, while Angel of the Sea is a Victorian treat with afternoon tea.
Atlantic City Beach
Atlantic City, known for its high-rises, casinos, premium retail outlets, and exquisite dining, attracts visitors from all over the world. The boardwalk on the beach that surrounds the city is the most well-known feature. The boardwalk, which dates back to 1870, features a variety of stores and boutiques as well as some of the best views of the Atlantic Ocean.
Atlantic City Beach is a large stretch of coastline with ideal conditions for surfing, kayaking, windsurfing, fishing, and other water sports. Absecon Lighthouse, the tallest lighthouse in New Jersey and the third tallest lighthouse in the United States, is also located in Atlantic City.
Atlantic City Beach is not the place to go if you want to relax and take in the scenery. If you prefer a more action-packed, people-watching beach holiday, hallelujah, you’ve come to the right place.
Atlantic City, the most famous and largest city on the Jersey Shore, is surrounded by a lengthy stretch of sand. Atlantic City, the East Coast’s counterpart to Las Vegas, has all the fun you could want from a seaside town. We’re talking thrilling rides, delectable restaurants, a long boardwalk, an iconic lighthouse, casinos, and a plethora of stores and hotels. It’s no surprise that this entertainment zone attracts over 20 million people each year.
Atlantic City Beach brings the city’s colourful, fun-filled environment to the beach, with a variety of water sports, volleyball, fishing (from jetties on Maine Avenue or off the boardwalk), and sand picnicking opportunities. Certain activities, however, are only permitted in certain parts. Jackson Avenue Beach, for example, is the only place where you can go kayaking or windsurfing.
Crystal Beach (at New Hampshire Avenue), Downtown Beach (at Raleigh Avenue), and Delaware Avenue Beach all allow surfing. These locations also provide equipment rentals and lessons.
Throughout the summer, lifeguards are on duty from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. They can be found on the beach between Caspian Avenue and Jackson Avenue from July 1st through Labor Day. Some beach sites are also closed from Memorial Day to July 1st, while others extend the lifeguard season from Labor Day to September 30th. There’s more good news: beach entrance is completely free!
Ocean City Beach
Ocean City, a family-friendly barrier island with sugar-white sand, welcomes guests with over eight miles of immaculate beaches. Ocean City’s beaches, which are technically divided into many beaches (similar to Cape May), include Waverly Boulevard, Seventh Street, 16th Street, and St. Charles Place, among others.
The most popular length of glistening beach is bordered by a dramatic, postcard-perfect boardwalk that takes visitors past over two and a half miles of breathtaking landscape. This is where the action is, and it can get fairly crowded on hot summer days.
While most of the beaches are patrolled from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. from Memorial Day to Sunfest Weekend (usually the third weekend after Labor Day), only a few allow surfing: Waverly Boulevard, Seventh Street, 16th Street, and beaches south of 36th Street where “lifeguard stands are three blocks apart.”
Kids will enjoy all of the fun activities Ocean City has to offer, including as water and amusement parks, miniature golf courses, and concerts at the Ocean City Music Pier, when they are not frolicking in the waves or burying each other in the sand. Gillian’s Wonderland Pier, with 25 rides, is a notable crowd-pleaser.
Wildwood Beach
If you’re looking for something more exciting than the Atlantic Ocean, Wildwood is the place to go. This family-friendly resort features a 36-block boardwalk with amusement rides, games, and souvenir stores, as well as five miles of beautiful sand so smooth that your toes will sink right in. This is the epitome of a Jersey Shore vacation.
The beach spans for over five miles, providing plenty of space for tourists to park their sun loungers and set up shop for a day of fun and relaxation on the sand. From Memorial Day to Labor Day, lifeguards are on duty from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., and there are plenty of places to rent water sports equipment like boogie boards and surfboards.
Have you forgotten your beach chair? There is no need to be concerned. On-site rentals are available. Don’t want to drag your entire possessions to the beach? Hire a “beach taxi” to transport your belongings.
Morey’s Piers is a must-see for everyone with children or who is a kid at heart. It has two water parks as well as a variety of entertaining land-based rides for children (and adults) of all ages. The pier is located on the Wildwoods Boardwalk, which is quite large.
Of course, when it’s time to cool off, go for a swim in the water. Then stop by Kohr’s Brothers Frozen Custard for a delightful cold treat (or two).
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Asbury Park Beach
Although Asbury Park wasn’t previously renowned as one of New Jersey’s top beaches, that has changed in the last decade or so. It has recently undergone a makeover that includes a remodelled boardwalk lined with wonderful eateries and unique stores.
Even if you aren’t travelling with children, you will be tempted to build a sandcastle on Asbury Park Beach’s mile-long length of fine, white sand. Brush yourself off and go for a swim, a kayaking trip, or a stand-up paddleboarding adventure.
Do you own a fishing rod? You can also fish here. Both New York and Philadelphia are only a 90-minute drive apart. Are you a fan of the 1980s? For you, this is the beach. Both Bon Jovi and Bruce Springsteen have performed in the area and got their start at venues such as the Stone Pony, where live music can still be heard.
After only one visit to the Silverball Museum Arcade on the boardwalk, pinball fans will be transported back to their childhood. Asbury Park’s diverse range of activities makes it a popular destination for both young and old.
Do you have a four-legged pal? The 8th Avenue Dog Beach in Asbury Park is one of the best dog-friendly beaches in New Jersey.
Brigantine Beach
The Jersey Shore’s Brigantine Beach is a must-see. The sandy shores lining The Island (as it’s known among residents) tempt vacationers wishing to swim, sail, kayak, SUP, fish, kitesurf, sunbathe, and even Jet Ski.
From June 15th to Labor Day, lifeguards (also known as the Beach Patrol) will be on duty, allowing visitors to play in the waves from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. on 20 different sections of the beach. Surfers can choose from four locations: 12th Street North, 10th Street South, South of the Sandy Lane Bathing Area, and North of the South End Jetty.
Every beachgoer aged 12 and above requires a beach tag, and if you want to drive a 4×4 or use a Jet Ski, you’ll need a special permit. There are five beach parking spots, so finding a spot is simple.
From October 1st to May 29th, dogs are welcome to join in the beach fun as long as they are under six feet long and leashed.
Sandy Hook
This state park, located on the north end of the Jersey shore, is home to one of the finest beaches in the state. You’ll have to pay to get in, but once inside the state park grounds, you’ll find lovely white sand and plenty of parking, which is hard to come by in this part of the state. During peak season, you should arrive early to get the most out of this site and its surroundings.
There’s more to this barrier spit of land than just sunbathing. Bring your bike and explore the park’s seven-mile bike route, book a basic camping place and sleep beneath the stars, windsurf, or kiteboard. It’s also a great place to go bird viewing. One of the greatest ways to see Sandy Hook is on one of the ranger-led canoe trips, which take explorers on a two-mile journey through the park, allowing them to see Sandy Hook from the water.
Seven Mile Beach
Avalon Beach (also known as Seven Mile Beach) connects the villages of Avalon and Stone Harbor. The area is known for its small-town atmosphere and is a great place to visit if you’re looking for a relaxed beach holiday. Seven Mile Beach has something to offer everyone.
Watersports fans will find plenty of possibilities for surfing, windsurfing, kayaking, paddle boarding, and fishing, while landlubbers may relax on the beach and play volleyball or tennis. Families with small children will enjoy one of the beach’s nine parks and playgrounds. With its quiet ambiance and clear shoreline, Seven Mile Beach provides ample space for beachcombers and joggers.
Those travelling with small children can relax a little more this summer knowing that the Avalon Beach Patrol is keeping an eye on them.
Do you want to go surfing? Gnarly! Only the 30th and 63rd Street beaches, as well as both sides of the 12th Street part, are open to the public. At any of the swimming locations, inflatable rafts are permitted. However, those wishing to kayak or bodyboard will be disappointed. From 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., these activities are prohibited.
The area is densely forested, making it simple to burrow down for a day at the beach. We recommend going early in the morning to catch the sunrise, which is quite stunning.
From Memorial Day weekend until early September, you’ll need to purchase a beach tag to access the beach, as is the case with most of New Jersey’s greatest beaches. These are available for purchase from a Beach Patrol Tag Inspector on duty or from Community Hall.
Island Beach State Park, Seaside Park
Island Beach State Park is one of New Jersey’s most tranquil and natural beaches. This protected park, which is located on a narrow barrier island, was created by Mother Nature herself, with several storms and strong tides leaving their mark. This is one of the state’s only remaining islands of its kind.
Between the majestic Atlantic Ocean and the somewhat calmer Barnegat Bay, the park offers tourists a wide range of water-based activities. Swimming is allowed on a mile-long strip of beach in the park’s centre. From Memorial Day to the second Saturday in June, it is guarded from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on weekends, and daily from the second Saturday in June to Labor Day. Tip: Flotation devices, like as inner tubes and rafts, are not permitted on-site.
There is a cost to enter the island, but once there, you can enjoy the natural beauty of the shore with clean beaches, abundant bathrooms, showers, and picnic spaces. Visitors can explore the self-guided trails, have a picnic lunch, swim, surf, and paddle in the water.
For those searching for a day trip away from the noise and bustle of the other seaside towns, this is the ideal location. Bring your binoculars and bird guide because it is also home to the state’s largest osprey colony.
Ocean Grove Beach
Ocean Grove Beach’s wide, shallow waters are great for families, even if the sea might be stormy. Another kid-friendly feature is the long boardwalk, which offers spectacular views, a stroller-friendly base, and a charming pier.
Swimming, paddleboarding, surfing, boogie boarding, and floating are all popular activities at this silky soft, sandy beach, but visitors can also enjoy unique sports like beach tennis, which is played on a sand court between Main and Middle beach with paddles available at the beach office.
During the summer, lifeguards are on duty, and food and supplies may be purchased just a few blocks away in Ocean Grove’s downtown. Throughout the year, fun activities such as family movie nights and a sandcastle contest are scheduled.
From Memorial Day weekend through June 19th, the beach is open on weekends. After that, until September 7th, visitors can enjoy the beach from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and from noon to 5:30 p.m. on Sundays.
During the summer, beach badges are required to enter Ocean Grove Beach. The night before, at 5 p.m., the daily passes go on sale.
Long Beach Island
Another popular destination for families visiting the Jersey Shore is Long Beach Island. Small settlements dot the terrain along an 18-mile length of sandy shores. This summer colony is home to a large number of residents who relocate to the coast once the school year concludes.
Watersports, shopping, restaurants, fairs, festivals, and a spectacular Fourth of July fireworks extravaganza can all be found among the many beaches. Don’t miss the infamous Barnegat, a charming village on the island’s northern tip that has managed to keep its original charm. A highlight is the historic lighthouse.
Surf training or rides at the amusement park are available for those seeking adventure. Take the kids to the Long Beach Island Historical Association Museum for enjoyable activities on a rainy day or to get out of the scorching heat.
Belmar Beach
Belmar is a popular destination for Jersey Shore vacationers. It’s simple to see why visitors come here year after year, with so many attractions, fairs, festivals, and a lovely beach.
The town has a bustling downtown, a well-kept, splinter-free boardwalk, and a marina for people interested in fishing or sailing. Belmar is also noted for its pristine beaches and family-friendly beach parks, which are placed every few blocks. It was one of the first communities in New Jersey to make its beaches accessible to wheelchair users.
Check out the town’s website before you go, because the summer months are jam-packed with family-friendly festivals and activities for both visitors and locals. Visit one of the many seafood eateries, such as Mr. Shrimps, while you’re there.
Sea Girt Beach
Sea Girt is the place to go if you want to live like a local during your New Jersey beach vacation. This modest local landmark, which is around one square mile in size, is best visited during the week, when it is very peaceful. This is a year-round family favourite since you won’t have to deal with crowds or have your children distracted from the sand by loud amusement park rides and other attractions seen at larger beaches.
A palatable-sized boardwalk, located south of Belmar Beach, is great for a leisurely and scenic stroll, as well as a pavilion serving easy-to-eat fare best enjoyed from a beach chair. From the picturesque Sea Girt Lighthouse to the south end of town, the boardwalk spans.
Beginning Memorial Day Weekend, lifeguards will be on duty on weekends. They will be on duty full-time beginning June 19th and continuing until September 6th. When coming on a weekend from May 29 to June 13th, or during the week from June 19 to September 6th, a beach badge is necessary.
For those looking for something other than a day at the beach, this town was founded at the turn of the century, so there are lots of historical monuments and museums to visit.
Ask one of the locals where their favourite places to eat are. They might recommend The Parker House, which is always a safe bet. The Sea Girt Lodge has a great reputation and is in a great position. The Beacon House, a porch-wrapped and pet-friendly bed-and-breakfast, offers a memorable experience packed with pampering.
Stone Harbor Beach
Stone Harbor is ideal for people searching for a relaxing beach holiday. This lovely village boasts gorgeous beaches as well as a cobblestone strip lined with one-of-a-kind boutiques and restaurants. You won’t find a crowded boardwalk here; instead, you’ll find families eager to spend some quality time at the beach (be sure to grab the required beach tag).
After a day at the beach, visit the Wetlands Institute to learn more about the Jersey shore’s ecosystem, see live marsh species, and climb the Observation Tower for a panoramic view of the coastline.
Seabright Beach
The sophisticated Jersey Shore traveller or a couple wishing to relax will enjoy Sea Bright. The town is famed for its private beach clubs and five-star dining experiences, and also has seven free public beach access spots.
Sea Bright Municipal Beach is the most popular beach in the vicinity. It has a spacious parking lot, excellent views, lifeguards, and other amenities. Lifeguards are also on duty at Anchorage Beach, which is close by. Both of these activities necessitate the use of a beach badge.
While you’re enjoying the peace and quiet, stop by Anjelica’s Restaurant for an Italian lunch, which is hands-down the best Italian food on the Jersey Shore, or visit the yoga studio or adjacent spas.
Bring your four-legged companions with you to Sea Bright, as it is one of the most dog-friendly shore spots.
Keansburg
The amazing view of the New York City skyline from Keansburg, a remote beach near Middletown, is legendary. Unlike most New Jersey beaches, visitors to Keansburg are not required to purchase a tag.
Throughout the year, the beach is open daily from sunrise to sunset. At the shore, there is also a fishing pier that is open to all tourists. Guests can park at the metered parking lot near Bay Walks, which also has public restrooms and showers.
Point Pleasant Beach
There are both private and public beaches at Point Pleasant. For a modest price, visitors can enjoy a pristine and calm public beach along Ocean Avenue on the town’s southern edge. Sunbathing, beach combing, and swimming are all popular activities here. Surfers frequent Point Pleasant Beach, and they like to congregate at an area known as “The Pocket.”
Bradshaw Beach, which is close by, is likewise open to the public, however the beach boardwalk is private property. At each access station at Point Pleasant, visitors must present daily, weekly, or seasonal credentials. A certified lifeguard patrols the entire area.
Sea Isle City
Sea Isle City, a popular beach location for families, offers a variety of entertainment and relaxation options. Visitors come to this community in historic Cape May County for a variety of reasons, including restaurants, nightlife, and outdoor recreation.
Sea Isle City attracts a large number of surfers, sunbathers, beachcombers, fishermen, and birdwatchers due to its miles of pristine beaches. Sea Isle City is noted for its abundance of family-friendly activities, such as movie nights under the stars, weekly concerts, and local talent competitions. Guests also enjoy visiting the city’s 1.5-mile seaside promenade, which is lined with unique boutiques and cafes.
Spring Lake
Spring Lake, known for its small-town vibe, was formerly a popular beach destination for upper-class socialites and business leaders in the 1800s. The sophisticated and lovely ambience of the little resort town has been preserved. The major attraction of Spring Lake is a two-mile stretch of peaceful sandy beach.
This basic beach lacks the glamour and glam of neighbouring New Jersey beach towns, yet the dazzling lights of the Asbury Park boardwalk are only a five-minute drive away. Spring Lake is noted for its outstanding seafood restaurants and small, romantic inns, in addition to its lovely beach.
Strathmere
Strathmere, located between Ocean City and Sea Isle City, is known for its sand dunes and charming beach cottages. Throughout the summer, lifeguards patrol the tiny but picturesque stretch of beach. Because Strathmere does not use a badge system, guests are free to enter the beach at any time between sunrise and sunset. During the night, the beach is closed.
Some parts of Strathmere Beach are appropriate for surfing and fishing, while others have been considered unsuitable for these activities. There is plenty of free public parking near the beach for visitors.
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