Beaches in New Jersey
Published on: December 9, 2025
New Jersey has one of the most diverse coastlines on the East Coast. Every town along the shore has its own personality, so your experience can feel completely different depending on where you go. Some areas are lively with boardwalks and summer crowds, while others are quiet with long walking paths, soft waves, and natural dunes.
Families often return to the same spots each year because the beaches are easy to reach, the facilities are reliable, and the towns surrounding them are full of food stands, small shops, and places to relax after a long day in the sun.
From classic family beaches to peaceful coves, from free beaches in New Jersey to upscale shoreline resorts, the state gives travelers a wide range of choices. Whether you want a quick day trip, a weekend getaway, or a calm place to watch the sunset, New Jersey’s shoreline makes it simple to find a beach that fits the kind of day you want.
Classic Shore Experiences
Some beaches just feel like the real Jersey Shore, a mix of simple fun, family memories, boardwalk snacks, and that familiar beach-town vibe people keep coming back for.
The beaches below represent the warm, nostalgic side of the Shore that never goes out of style.
1. Point Pleasant Beach
Location: 300 Ocean Avenue, Point Pleasant Beach, NJ
Point Pleasant Beach is one of the most well-known beaches in New Jersey because it combines clean sand with a boardwalk that keeps families entertained all day. Jenkinson’s Boardwalk sits right behind the beach, so parents never have to go far for snacks, restrooms, or quick breaks from the sun.
It is a reliable pick for families who want a beach day with easy access to food and facilities without having to wander far.
Facilities
- Clean restrooms nearby
- Showers and changing areas
- Food stands, ice cream shops, arcades
- Lifeguards during summer
- Boardwalk attractions for kids and teens
Parking
Mostly paid. There are municipal lots and private lots close to the boardwalk that fill early, especially on weekends.
Best Time to Visit
Mornings or late afternoons in July and August give you warm water without the heaviest crowds. Weekdays in June and September are calm and pleasant.
2. Cape May Beach
Location: Beach Avenue, Cape May, NJ
Cape May Beach has a totally different atmosphere. The beach is broad and peaceful, and the area behind it is filled with Victorian homes, boutique shops, and quiet streets. You can spend the morning on the sand, then walk to cafés or small bakeries without needing to move your car.
Facilities
Seasonal restrooms and changing stations
Chair and umbrella rentals in many areas
Walkable access to restaurants
Lifeguards in designated swimming zones
Parking
Mostly paid during summer. Metered street parking along Beach Avenue and nearby residential streets. Spots closer to the beach go quickly by late morning.
Best Time to Visit
Sunset hours are exceptional here. For calmer mornings and cooler weather, May and late September feel almost perfect.
Why it helps visitors
Cape May is great for couples, older visitors, and anyone who prefers calm waves instead of crowded boardwalk scenes.
3. Sandy Hook Beach
Location: Gateway National Recreation Area, Highlands, NJ
Sandy Hook feels more like a natural coastal park than a typical beach town. There are multiple beach areas within the park, each offering something different. Some areas stay quiet, while others draw families or groups. The long stretch of coastline gives everyone space to settle in without feeling packed.
Facilities
Restrooms at most beach access points
Outdoor showers during summer
Seasonal food trucks
Bike paths, walking trails, picnic spots
Parking
Large paid parking lots managed by the National Park Service. Parking is easier here than at most beach cities in New Jersey, but it is still best to arrive early on weekends.
Best Time to Visit
Early mornings are peaceful and great for long walks. For swimming and warm water, mid summer is the best. Weekdays offer wide open space even in peak season.
Why it helps visitors
Sandy Hook is perfect for nature lovers, cyclists, photographers, and anyone looking for open, quiet beaches without boardwalk noise.
Budget-Friendly Picks: Free Beaches in New Jersey
Not every beach trip in New Jersey has to start with badge fees or ticket booths. A few spots along the shore are completely free, and they’re often just as nice as the paid ones. You will find clean stretches of sand, easy parking or walk-up access, and a laid-back atmosphere that works well for families, students, or anyone who just wants a budget-friendly day by the water.
These beaches are great when you want the classic Jersey Shore experience without spending much.
1- WIld Wood NJ
Location: Wildwood, NJ
Wildwood Beach is easily one of the most famous free beaches in New Jersey, mainly because of how huge it is. The shoreline stretches out so far that even on packed summer weekends, you never feel squeezed in. The sand is soft, the waves are gentle, and the whole beach has a lively, upbeat vibe thanks to the massive boardwalk behind it.
The boardwalk has food stalls, arcades, shops, ice cream spots, and theme park rides, making it easy to spend an entire day without ever getting bored. Families especially love that everything is close and walkable.
Facilities
Restrooms and changing areas
Public showers
Lifeguards during summer
Boardwalk food, rides, arcades, and shops
Parking
Mostly paid. Lots near the boardwalk fill up fast, but you can find cheaper metered parking if you are willing to walk a bit.
Atmosphere & Activities
Great for swimming, long sandy walks, and family fun. The wide shoreline is perfect for frisbee, beach games, or just relaxing without people sitting too close.
Crowds & Best Time to Visit
Weekday mornings or evenings give the calmest experience. Midday crowds gather more around the boardwalk than on the beach because the sand area is massive.
2- Atlantic City Beach
Location: Along Pacific Avenue, Atlantic City, NJ
Atlantic City Beach is another walk-right-on, badge-free beach in New Jersey, ideal for anyone who wants a mix of ocean time and city convenience. The beach is clean, the boardwalk is long and active, and you can easily go from swimming to grabbing lunch, shopping, or exploring casinos within minutes.
The vibe here is a little more urban, and you will find a blend of tourists, couples, groups of friends, and people taking a quick beach break between boardwalk activities.
Facilities
Restrooms and showers
Lifeguards
Beach rentals (chairs, umbrellas) in peak season
Food and shopping along the boardwalk
Parking
Parking can be tricky. The casino garages are usually the easiest and often cheaper than the lots closest to the sand. Metered spots exist, but you have to come early if you want one.
Atmosphere & Activities
Perfect for swimming, sunbathing, people-watching, shopping, and grabbing food without leaving the beach area. Great for couples and groups who want more than just sand and water.
Crowds & Best Time to Visit
The quietest time is usually late morning. Once the afternoon hits, the boardwalk and beach both get busier, especially toward sunset when everyone comes out again.
3-Highlands Free Beaches
Location: Highlands, NJ (right near the bridge to Sandy Hook)
The Highlands area offers a few smaller, quiet beach spots that don’t charge any entrance fees. These are local favorites, especially for people who want to avoid heavy crowds and boardwalk noise. You won’t find commercial attractions here. Instead, you get peaceful views, soft waves, and a slower pace that feels far removed from the busier beach cities in New Jersey.
Facilities
Basic restrooms
Benches and small walking paths
Nearby cafés and local restaurants within a short walk or quick drive.
Parking
Generally easier than most Jersey beaches. Some free street parking, plus low-cost municipal lots depending on the specific beach.
Atmosphere & Activities
Ideal for reading, sunbathing, light swimming, photography, or just relaxing with a view. Locals come here for quiet mornings and evening breezes.
Nearby Food
Small seafood spots, cafés, and local diners around the Highlands town area.
Best Time to Visit
Weekdays are extremely calm. Weekends are still manageable, especially in the mornings.
3. Beach Resorts in New Jersey: Where Comfort Meets the Coast
New Jersey isn’t just about boardwalks and day trips, the state also has some of the most charming beach resorts on the East Coast. These places are perfect if you want a full vacation experience with ocean views, private-style beach access, pools, on-site dining, and peaceful surroundings.
Whether you are planning a romantic getaway, a family trip, or a relaxing solo escape, these resorts give you comfort right next to the water.
1-Icona Diamond Beach Resort
Location: 9701 Atlantic Ave, Diamond Beach, NJ (near Wildwood Crest)
Icona Diamond Beach is known for its calm, private-style shoreline and white-sand vibes you don’t often find at other beaches in New Jersey. The resort has a bright, coastal aesthetic that feels like a true vacation spot, and the staff creates a very personalized experience.
Because this stretch of beach is semi-private, it’s noticeably quieter and cleaner. The on-site beach bar and restaurant give guests an easy way to enjoy meals without leaving the sand.
Facilities
Semi-private beach with chair/umbrella service
Outdoor heated pool
Beachside restaurant and bar
Modern studios and suites
Beach yoga and seasonal activities
Family-friendly amenities
Parking
Free on-site parking for guests, which is a huge plus in this area.
Atmosphere
Calm, clean, and family-friendly with a resort-style feel. Perfect for people who want comfort without crowds.
Best Time to Visit:
July and August for peak beach weather. September is quieter and still warm.
2-Ocean Place Resort & Spa
Location: 1 Ocean Blvd, Long Branch, NJ
Ocean Place Resort is one of the most popular beachfront stays in New Jersey, especially for people who want a mix of luxury and convenience. The resort sits directly on the sand, giving you instant beach access without crossing any roads. The rooms are modern, many with balconies overlooking the ocean.
Guests love the spa, indoor and outdoor pools, and private-style beach area where resort staff handle chairs and umbrellas for you. Long Branch’s Pier Village, known for its shops and restaurants, is just a short walk away.
Facilities
- Beachfront access with chair and umbrella service
- Indoor and outdoor pools
- Full spa and wellness center
- On-site restaurants and bars
- Fitness center
- Beach towels included
Parking
Resort parking available (paid), with valet options.
Atmosphere
Relaxed, upscale, and perfect for couples or families looking for a more polished beach experience.
Best Time to Visit
Late June through early September for full resort amenities. May and September offer lower rates and fewer crowds.
3-The Water Club at Borgata (Resort Alternative Near Beach)
Location: 1 Renaissance Way, Atlantic City, NJ
While not directly on the sand, The Water Club is a top pick for travelers who want luxury amenities just minutes from Atlantic City Beach. Guests often choose it for spa weekends, upscale dining, and modern rooms, then head to the free Atlantic City shoreline during the day.
The combination of a resort environment plus easy access to one of the most popular free beaches in New Jersey makes it a great option for couples and groups.
Facilities
- Indoor and outdoor pools
- High-end spa
- Fine dining and casual restaurants
- Modern suites
- Casino access (shared with Borgata)
Parking
Large parking garages on-site (paid but convenient).
Atmosphere
Upscale, modern, and ideal for travelers who want city and beach in one trip.
Best Time to Visit
Ideal year-round. For beach access, June to September is best.
3- Long Branch – Upscale Dining and Stylish Oceanfront
Location: Long Branch, NJ
Long Branch offers a more polished beach town experience thanks to Pier Village a walkable oceanfront area full of restaurants, boutique stores, dessert spots, and outdoor seating. The beaches are wide and clean, and the area tends to attract couples, groups, and travelers looking for something a little more upscale.
It’s also one of the most convenient coastal towns for people coming from North Jersey or New York due to easy transit access.
What It’s Known For
- Trendy dining and oceanfront cafés
- Wide, clean beaches
- Upscale hotels and resorts nearby
- Very walkable oceanfront area
Parking
Paid garages, metered street parking, and private lots around Pier Village.
Best Time to Visit
Evenings for dining and boardwalk walks; weekends get busy but fun.
4. Coastal Towns Worth Visiting
New Jersey isn’t just known for its beaches; its coastal towns each have their own personality, charm, and reasons people return year after year. Some offer art and nightlife, others focus on families and quiet streets, and a few bring a more upscale waterfront experience.
If you’re planning a trip and want more than just sand, these beach cities in New Jersey are worth exploring.
1-Asbury Park - Art, Music, Boardwalk Culture
Location: Asbury Park, NJ
Asbury Park is one of the most unique shore towns in the state, known for its creative atmosphere and lively boardwalk. This is where you’ll find murals on nearly every block, local coffee shops, surf stores, vintage markets, and the legendary Stone Pony, a music venue famous for Springsteen and live summer shows.
The beach is clean, the boardwalk is walkable, and the town attracts a mix of families, artists, young travelers, and weekend visitors looking for something fun but not overwhelming.
What It’s Known For
Live music and festivals
Colorful murals and artsy shops
Trendy cafés and restaurants
Clean, well-kept shoreline
Parking
Mostly metered; beachfront lots fill early on weekends.
Best Time to Visit
Late afternoons and evenings are ideal if you enjoy live music and boardwalk energy.
2-Ocean City – Family-Friendly, Clean, and Alcohol-Free
Location: Ocean City, NJ
Ocean City is often called one of the best family beach towns in New Jersey — and for good reason. It’s a “dry town,” meaning no alcohol is sold within city limits, which keeps the atmosphere calm and family-focused. The boardwalk is full of rides, mini golf, snack spots, and shops that feel very traditional and wholesome.
The beaches are clean, the water is well monitored, and the entire town is built around simple, stress-free family vacations.
What It’s Known For
- Extremely family-friendly environment
- Great boardwalk attractions for kids
- Clean, organized, well-maintained beachfront
Parking
Municipal lots + metered street parking. Weekends fill early.
Best Time to Visit
Mornings and weekdays if you want quieter beach time.
3- Long Branch – Upscale Dining and Stylish Oceanfront
Location: Long Branch, NJ
Long Branch offers a more polished beach town experience thanks to Pier Village a walkable oceanfront area full of restaurants, boutique stores, dessert spots, and outdoor seating. The beaches are wide and clean, and the area tends to attract couples, groups, and travelers looking for something a little more upscale.
It’s also one of the most convenient coastal towns for people coming from North Jersey or New York due to easy transit access.
What It’s Known For
- Trendy dining and oceanfront cafés
- Wide, clean beaches
- Upscale hotels and resorts nearby
- Very walkable oceanfront area
Parking
Paid garages, metered street parking, and private lots around Pier Village.
Best Time to Visit
Evenings for dining and boardwalk walks; weekends get busy but fun.
4. Coastal Towns Worth Visiting
New Jersey has a few great shoreline areas where dogs can enjoy the sand and water right alongside their owners. Some beaches allow dogs year-round, while others have seasonal rules, but all offer enough space for pets to play, walk, or relax by the ocean.
If you’re specifically searching for dog-friendly beaches in New Jersey, these three locations are the most popular and practical.
1-Longport Dog Beach – Egg Harbor Township, NJ
Longport Dog Beach is often considered the best dog beach in the state because there are no leash restrictions, and dogs can run freely across a wide, open stretch of sand. It’s a popular gathering spot for local dog owners, especially in the mornings and late afternoons.
What It Offers
- Off-leash area
- Wide beach with soft sand
- Very social environment for dogs
- Calm water most days
Parking
Small free parking area near the entrance, but it fills quickly. Street parking is available.
Best Time to Visit
Early mornings or evenings during summer to avoid heat and crowds.
Notes
No restrooms or major facilities, so bring water and supplies for your dog.
2-Asbury Park Dog Beach – Asbury Park, NJ
Seasonal rules apply
Asbury Park has a designated dog section at the north end of the beach. Dogs are welcome before 8:30 AM and after 6 PM during peak season, and they can access the sand freely in the off-season. It’s a clean and friendly spot, right next to a very walkable boardwalk.
What It Offers
- Dog-friendly sand area
- Dog park nearby at Bradley Cove
- Easy access to boardwalk cafés
Parking
Paid metered street parking near the northern end of the boardwalk.
Best Time to Visit
Off-season months for full-day beach time.
Summer mornings and evenings if you want cooler temperatures.
3-Wildwood Dog Park & Beach – Wildwood, NJ
This is the easiest dog beach to spot because of the giant red fire hydrant statue at the entrance. Dogs are welcome on the sand year-round, and the fenced dog park includes ramps, play sections, and shaded seating for owners.
What It Offers
Large fenced dog park
Year-round dog-friendly beach
Big play structures and shaded benches
Parking
Paid lots and some street parking near the boardwalk. Cheaper meters are available if you walk a bit farther.
Best Time to Visit
Spring and fall are great for longer dog walks, but summer mornings are perfect if you want cooler sand and fewer crowds.
6. Exclusive Access: Private Beach Options in New Jersey
Not every stretch of the Jersey Shore is open to the public. Some areas are privately managed, membership-based, or tied to upscale resorts.
These private beaches in New Jersey appeal to people who want quieter sand, cleaner facilities, and a more controlled crowd. While each location has its own rules, many offer a level of calm you won’t find at the bigger public beaches.
1-Sea Bright Private Beach Clubs – Sea Bright, NJ
Sea Bright is known for its long row of private beach clubs, each offering its own blend of amenities and comfort. These clubs typically provide chair service, cabanas, clean restrooms, dining areas, and monitored beach space that feels peaceful even on busy summer weekends.
What They Offer
- Private beach access for members
- Cabanas, lockers, and chair service
- Dedicated lifeguards
- On-site restaurants or snack bars
- Clean, well-kept facilities
Parking
Most clubs have dedicated private lots for members, which removes the usual parking stress that public beachgoers face in this area.
Best For
Families and couples who want a quiet shore experience with full amenities.
Access
Membership required, and some clubs have waiting lists.
1-Avon-by-the-Sea Beach Club Sections – Avon-by-the-Sea, NJ
Avon is known for its calm, postcard-like shoreline. While the main beach is public with badge requirements, the beach club sections offer a quieter, more exclusive feel. These club areas are popular with locals and seasonal visitors who prefer a shore day without crowds.
What They Offer
Reserved cabanas
Clean restrooms and private changing areas
Private seating and shaded sections
Lifeguarded swimming zones
Parking
Street parking around Avon can be tight in peak season, but club members often get better access due to proximity or designated loading zones.
Best For
Anyone looking for a polished, clean beach experience without noise or congestion.
Access
Seasonal badges or membership required.
3-Diamond Beach – Lower Township (near Wildwood Crest), NJ
Diamond Beach sits between Wildwood Crest and Cape May, and much of the shoreline here is privately managed by nearby resorts and condo communities.
The beach is known for its clean sand, gentle waves, and relaxed, upscale feel. Guests staying at participating resorts often get beach tags included.
What It Offers
- Soft, clean sand with a quiet atmosphere
- Chair and umbrella rentals
- Resort-based food service in some areas
- Lifeguards during the summer
Parking
Varies by resort or condo. Guests usually have access to private lots or permit parking, which makes beach access simple.
Best For
Couples, vacationers, and families staying at local resorts who want a calm, crowd-free shoreline.
Access
Typically limited to resort guests or residents with beach tags.
Why Choose Sable Ride for Your Beach Visit Trip?
Choosing Sable Ride makes the trip easier from the moment the car arrives. Parking near most beaches is either limited, expensive, or gone by midday, and public transport can turn a simple beach day into a long, crowded mission. With Sable Ride, the driver drops you right where locals actually enter, so you avoid traffic pockets, packed lots, and confusing routes. All the usual delays, like figuring out timing and parking, are taken care of before you even step out of the car.
Final Thoughts
After seeing what each beach offers, it becomes clear that there is no single best spot. The right one depends on what kind of day you want. Some beaches are perfect for long quiet afternoons, others are great if you like food stands, boardwalks, or a bit more activity.
The good thing is that you don’t have to travel far to find the one that fits you. Take your pick, bring what you need, and enjoy a part of New York that always feels a little less rushed.
Ready to Ride?
Select pickup & drop-off anywhere in New Jersey, choose your vehicle, and ride in style.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are the best beaches to visit in New Jersey for families?
Popular family-friendly options include Point Pleasant Beach, Ocean City, Wildwood, and Long Branch, offering calm waters, clean sand, boardwalks, and kid-focused activities.
2. Do New Jersey beaches require beach badges or entry fees?
Many NJ beaches—such as Belmar, Asbury Park, Sea Isle City, and Ocean Grove require beach badges during summer. Some like Wildwood remain free. Fees vary by town.
3. Which New Jersey beaches are best for swimming and water activities?
Sandy Hook, Long Beach Island, Cape May, and Avalon are strong picks for swimming, surfing, paddleboarding, and kayaking, with well-maintained lifeguard coverage in peak season.
4. Are New Jersey beaches good for couples or quiet getaways?
Yes Cape May, Stone Harbor, and Spring Lake offer peaceful atmospheres, scenic views, boutique dining, and less crowded shorelines ideal for romantic visits.
5. When is the best time to visit New Jersey beaches?
The prime season is June–September, with warm weather, fully staffed amenities, and active boardwalks. Late May and early October offer lighter crowds and cooler temperatures.
6. Are there pet-friendly beaches in New Jersey?
Some beaches allow dogs seasonally. Island Beach State Park, Asbury Park Dog Beach, and Longport Dog Beach are among the most popular, though rules may change by date and town.
