Beaches in New Jersey

Location:

Atlantic City Beach, Atlantic City, New Jersey

Recommended For:

Shoppers, surfers, gamblers, families, and sightseers looking for an iconic boardwalk, action-packed oceanfront, and vibrant entertainment scene.

What we Love:

Classic boardwalk charm, oceanfront casinos, high-rise city views, and the abundance of water sports—plus a record-breaking lighthouse!

• Visit Atlantic City Beach, a wide and dynamic shoreline flanking one of the East Coast’s most famous resort cities—just steps from shops, casinos, and restaurants.
• Stroll the legendary Atlantic City Boardwalk, built in 1870, offering ocean views, entertainment, and a treasure trove of boutiques, eateries, and souvenir stands.
• Surf, kayak, windsurf, or fish—the beach supports nearly every water sport, with rental spots and guided adventures available nearby.
• Climb the Absecon Lighthouse, the tallest in New Jersey and the third-tallest in the country, for panoramic views of the coastline and city skyline.

Cost:

Free public beach access. Boardwalk and beach activities may carry separate fees. Parking available at nearby garages and public lots.

Best time to visit:

Late spring through early fall for beach sports, boardwalk energy, and event-filled weekends. Sunset strolls and oceanfront nightlife add magic year-round.

Local tips:

Try a classic boardwalk treat like saltwater taffy or funnel cake. Visit midweek for lighter crowds. Don’t miss lighthouse tours or free beach concerts during summer.

Distance:

About 130 miles south of New York City and 60 miles southeast of Philadelphia—easily accessible by car, train, or bus.

How to Get to Atlantic City Beach:

Take the Atlantic City Expressway or US-30 into town. Follow signs to the boardwalk and beach access points. Most beaches are accessible directly off the boardwalk or nearby avenues.

Location:

Asbury Park Beach, Asbury Park, New Jersey

Recommended For:

Families, surfers, dog owners, boardwalk lovers, and beachgoers looking for a vibrant coastal escape with entertainment, culture, and ocean access.

What we Love:

Lively boardwalk energy, diverse beach crowd, year-round access, pet-friendly options, and the mix of beach fun and artsy town charm.

• Visit Asbury Park Beach, a beautiful mile-long stretch of sand that draws visitors for its swimmable surf, temperate climate, and lively beach scene.
• Stroll the bustling Asbury Park Boardwalk, home to unique shops, casual eateries, bars, mini-golf, and seasonal amusements along the Atlantic coast.
• Swim, surf, or simply sunbathe in the inviting waters, which are monitored by lifeguards during the summer season.
• Bring your dog between October 1 and May 15—leashed pets are welcome on the beach during the off-season. For summer visits, head to Eighth Avenue Dog Beach nearby.
• Enjoy a year-round beach experience—Asbury Park Beach is open to the public throughout the seasons, excluding select holidays.

Cost:

Beach access requires a seasonal badge or daily fee during peak season (Memorial Day–Labor Day). Boardwalk access is free. Parking available in metered lots and along streets.

Best time to visit:

Late spring through early fall for beach activities and events. Off-season for peaceful beach walks and dog-friendly fun.

Local tips:

Visit the iconic Stone Pony music venue just steps from the boardwalk. Arrive early on summer weekends for parking. Enjoy the sunset from the boardwalk with an ice cream or local brew in hand.

Distance:

About 60 miles south of New York City—approximately a 1.5-hour drive or accessible via NJ Transit train from Penn Station.

How to Get to Asbury Park Beach:

From the Garden State Parkway, take Exit 102 and follow signs to Asbury Park. Parking is available along Ocean Avenue and in public lots near the boardwalk.

Romantic Beaches in New Jersey:

Location:

Avalon and Stone Harbor, Cape May County, New Jersey

Recommended For:

Families, couples, solo travelers, watersports lovers, and anyone seeking a peaceful and scenic East Coast beach experience.

What we Love:

The tranquil atmosphere, unobstructed coastline, and versatile activities that make Seven Mile Beach an inviting destination for every type of beachgoer.

• Visit Seven Mile Beach, a charming seaside stretch connecting Avalon and Stone Harbor, perfect for a relaxing coastal retreat.
• Explore nine scenic parks and playgrounds, ideal for families with young children to unwind and play.
• Enjoy a wide range of watersports including surfing, kayaking, windsurfing, paddle boarding, and fishing—or take it easy with beachcombing or jogging along the shore.
• Stay in one of the cozy beachside rentals or charming inns nearby to soak up the small-town vibe and coastal serenity.

Cost:

Beach tags required during the summer season; affordable day, weekly, and seasonal passes available. Parking varies by location—some free, some metered.

Best time to visit:

Late spring to early fall for warm beach weather and full access to seasonal activities. Mornings are ideal for a quiet stroll or paddle.

Local tips:

Pack or rent gear for watersports in town. Arrive early for playground access and prime shoreline spots. Check local schedules for beach tag requirements.

Distance:

Approximately 2 hours by car from Philadelphia and about 3 hours from New York City.

How to Get to Avalon Beach:

Drive via Garden State Parkway South to Exit 13. Follow Avalon Blvd toward the coast. Clearly marked signs and beach access points guide you to Seven Mile Beach in both Avalon and Stone Harbor.

Location:

Avon by the Sea, Monmouth County, New Jersey

Recommended For:

Families, couples, solo travelers, and anyone looking for a peaceful, well-kept beach near Asbury Park.

What we Love:

The charming boardwalk, friendly community vibe, and well-maintained beach with convenient amenities and easy access.

• Visit Avon by the Sea, a classic New Jersey beach town near Asbury Park, known for its clean shoreline and relaxed atmosphere.
• Explore the scenic boardwalk lined with shops and restaurants, perfect for a casual stroll or seaside bite.
• Enjoy swimming and sunbathing with peace of mind thanks to lifeguard supervision from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
• Stay close to the beach to take advantage of year-round access, whether you're planning a summer day trip or a quiet off-season walk.

Cost:

Seasonal beach badges required during summer; available for purchase at three locations in Avon. Free parking is widely available.

Best time to visit:

Summer for full amenities and lifeguard coverage, or spring and fall for peaceful beach walks without the crowds.

Local tips:

Buy your beach badge in advance during peak season. Arrive early on summer weekends to find the best parking and boardwalk spots.

Distance:

About 1.5 hours by car from New York City and 1 hour from Philadelphia.

How to Get to Avon by the Sea:

Take Garden State Parkway to Exit 100B, then follow Route 33 East toward the coast. Signs direct you easily to the beachfront and public parking areas.

Family Beaches in New Jersey:

Location:

Belmar, Monmouth County, New Jersey

Recommended For:

Families, seniors, people with mobility needs, and anyone seeking an accessible and amenity-rich beach experience.

What we Love:

The calm waters, beachside playgrounds, and excellent accessibility features that make Belmar ideal for stress-free seaside fun.

• Visit Belmar Beach, a central New Jersey destination known for its welcoming, family-friendly vibe and thoughtful beach design.
• Explore the Belmar Boardwalk, a favorite local hub for walking, jogging, and people-watching, with ocean views all along the way.
• Enjoy a variety of on-site features like beach playgrounds, clean restrooms, water fountains, and rentals for chairs and umbrellas.
• Stay close to the beach to make the most of the accessible paths, cell phone charging stations, and smooth entryways for strollers and wheelchairs.

Cost:

Beach badges required during peak summer months; reasonably priced daily and seasonal passes available. Parking includes metered street options and nearby lots.

Best time to visit:

Summer for full amenities and family-friendly energy, or early fall for quieter walks along the boardwalk.

Local tips:

Belmar is one of New Jersey’s most accessible beaches—bring your beach wheelchair or stroller. Arrive early on weekends for the best parking and boardwalk seating.

Distance:

Approximately 1.5 hours from New York City and 1 hour from Philadelphia by car.

How to Get to Belmar Beach:

Drive via Garden State Parkway to Exit 98, then follow Route 138 East into Belmar. Parking and beach entrances are clearly marked along Ocean Avenue.

Location:

Cape May, Cape May County, New Jersey

Recommended For:

Families, couples, solo travelers, birdwatchers, pet owners, and watersports enthusiasts looking for a scenic coastal escape.

What we Love:

The variety of beaches, year-round access, and balance of on-shore relaxation with vibrant water activities.

• Visit Cape May, one of America’s most picturesque seaside towns, home to popular beaches like Higbee Beach, Steger Beach, and Poverty Beach.
• Explore diverse areas along the shoreline—some perfect for surfing and boating, others ideal for fishing, birdwatching, or strolling with your dog.
• Enjoy a mix of ocean activities including kayaking, windsurfing, and swimming, or unwind with a meal at one of the many beachfront restaurants.
• Stay near the historic downtown district to easily access both the beach and the charming Victorian architecture Cape May is known for.

Cost:

Admission tags required during summer months; seasonal, weekly, and daily tags available for purchase. Ample metered parking and public lots nearby.

Best time to visit:

Late spring through early fall for the full beach experience, though Cape May beaches are open and enjoyable year-round.

Local tips:

Bring binoculars for birdwatching at Higbee Beach. Confirm dog-friendly zones in advance. Tag booths are located at beach entrances during summer.

Distance:

Approximately 2.5 hours from New York City and 1.5 hours from Philadelphia by car.

How to Get to Cape May:

Take the Garden State Parkway to Exit 0 and follow signs into Cape May. Public beach access points are clearly marked along Beach Avenue and surrounding roads.

If you are a photographer, don't miss:

Location:

Manasquan, Monmouth County, New Jersey

Recommended For:

Nature lovers, birdwatchers, walkers, joggers, dog owners, and anyone seeking a peaceful, wildlife-rich shoreline escape.

What we Love:

The blend of beach and forest, year-round accessibility, and abundant wildlife viewing opportunities in a serene, natural setting.

• Visit Fisherman's Cove, a 55-acre stretch of protected shoreline that serves as a resting ground for migratory birds and a refuge for outdoor enthusiasts.
• Explore scenic walking and jogging trails along the beach and through wooded areas, with excellent chances to spot native wildlife.
• Enjoy quiet pastimes like fishing, boating, and birdwatching, or simply relax in nature with your leashed dog by your side.
• Stay nearby in Manasquan or other coastal towns to easily access this unique combination of coastal and forest ecosystems.

Cost:

Free admission and parking. Some amenities and trail areas may be seasonal.

Best time to visit:

Spring and fall for peak bird migrations, or any time of year for tranquil walks and peaceful coastal scenery.

Local tips:

Bring binoculars for birdwatching and wear comfortable shoes for walking mixed terrain. Dogs are welcome in designated areas with a leash.

Distance:

About 1.5 hours by car from New York City and 1 hour from Philadelphia.

How to Get to Fisherman's Cove:

Take Garden State Parkway to Exit 98, then follow Route 34 South to Manasquan. Signs for Fisherman’s Cove Conservation Area lead to the parking and beach entrance.

Location:

Keansburg, Monmouth County, New Jersey

Recommended For:

Budget-conscious travelers, solo visitors, photographers, families, and anyone looking for skyline views and peaceful waterfront access.

What we Love:

The rare combination of free beach access, year-round availability, and stunning views of the New York City skyline.

• Visit Keansburg, an off-the-radar beach near Middletown offering quiet surroundings and breathtaking skyline vistas without the crowds.
• Explore the public fishing pier, perfect for casual anglers and ocean gazers alike, with no permit or fee required.
• Enjoy a stroll along the sand, relax with a book by the water, or take photographs of the New York skyline as it rises across the bay.
• Stay close to Bay Walks for access to metered parking, public restrooms, and showers conveniently located near the beach entrance.

Cost:

Free beach access year-round. Metered parking available near Bay Walks. No admission tags required.

Best time to visit:

Clear afternoons and early evenings for prime skyline views. Off-season visits offer extra peace and quiet.

Local tips:

Bring a camera for skyline shots. Mornings and weekdays offer the most solitude. The fishing pier is best around sunrise or sunset.

Distance:

Roughly 1 hour from New York City by car and 1.5 hours from Philadelphia.

How to Get to Keansburg:

Take Garden State Parkway to Exit 117 and follow Route 36 East to Main Street in Keansburg. Public access points and parking near Bay Walks are clearly marked.

Unique Beaches in New Jersey:

Location:

Lavallette, Ocean County, New Jersey

Recommended For:

Families, couples, beachgoers, and anyone seeking a clean, scenic beach experience with a classic boardwalk vibe.

What we Love:

The mile-long boardwalk, soft white sand, and lifeguard-patrolled swimming areas make Lavallette ideal for a safe and relaxing beach day.

• Visit Lavallette Beach, a charming coastal destination with two main beaches and a traditional shore town atmosphere.
• Explore the boardwalk, perfect for early morning walks or seaside breezes, with views stretching along the Jersey Shore.
• Enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing on clean white sand under the watchful eye of professional lifeguards.
• Stay in nearby vacation homes or local inns for easy access to the beach and convenient parking on surrounding streets.

Cost:

Beach badges required for visitors 12 and older during summer; available as daily, weekly, or seasonal passes. Street parking is widely available.

Best time to visit:

Summer for full beach access and lifeguard coverage; early mornings for peaceful boardwalk walks.

Local tips:

Purchase your badge online or in advance during peak season. Dogs are not permitted on the beach but are welcome on the boardwalk in the off-season with a leash.

Distance:

About 1.5 hours by car from both New York City and Philadelphia.

How to Get to Lavallette Beach:

Take Garden State Parkway to Exit 82, then follow Route 37 East to Lavallette. Public beach access points and parking are well marked throughout the area.

Location:

Long Beach Island, Ocean County, New Jersey

Recommended For:

Families, couples, adventure seekers, beach lovers, and anyone looking to explore a blend of vibrant and tranquil seaside towns.

What we Love:

The charming mix of lively beach towns and quiet coastal villages, all set along an 18-mile barrier island with stunning Atlantic views.

• Visit Long Beach Island, or LBI, a beloved Jersey Shore destination featuring scenic beaches, iconic lighthouses, and a rich maritime heritage.
• Explore popular hotspots like Ship Bottom and Beach Haven for boardwalk fun, or unwind in quieter areas like Surf City and North Beach.
• Enjoy attractions such as Barnegat Lighthouse State Park, Fantasy Island Amusement Park, and Thundering Surf Water Park & Adventure Golf.
• Stay in one of LBI’s cozy inns or beach houses, and visit the historic Viking Village fishing port for fresh seafood and local shopping.

Cost:

Beach badges required during peak season; daily and seasonal options available. Parking availability varies by town with a mix of free and metered spots.

Best time to visit:

Summer for full access to amusement parks, events, and lifeguard-patrolled beaches. Early fall is great for fewer crowds and peaceful beach walks.

Local tips:

Bike rentals are a popular and easy way to explore the island. Each town has different beach access rules, so check local websites before your visit.

Distance:

Approximately 2 hours from New York City and 1.5 hours from Philadelphia by car.

How to Get to Long Beach Island:

Take Garden State Parkway to Exit 63, then follow Route 72 East onto the island. Town entrances and beach access points are clearly marked along Long Beach Boulevard.