The 9 Best Beaches in New Jersey: Ultimate Jersey Shore Guide
Uncover New Jersey’s top beaches, from wild natural escapes to lively boardwalk classics, perfect for every kind of beachgoer.
The 9 Best Beaches in New Jersey: Your Ultimate Jersey Shore Guide
Summer in New Jersey marks the return of vibrant boardwalks, sprawling sands, and memories made by the Atlantic. Over 90 miles of coastline stretch from Sandy Hook’s gentle wilderness in the north to Cape May’s Victorian charm in the south. Whether your ideal day involves surfing Atlantic waves, strolling historic promenades, or simply lounging with a view, the Jersey Shore offers a diverse collection of destinations for every beachgoer.
- Sandy Hook Beach for pristine nature and iconic lighthouses
- Asbury Park for music, murals, and retro cool
- Belmar Beach for lively festivals and unbeatable cleanliness
- Spring Lake Beach for serene family outings and peaceful strolls
- Point Pleasant Beach for classic amusements and family fun
- Long Beach Island for barrier island bliss and water sports
- Ocean City Beach for wholesome boardwalks and family atmosphere
- Wildwood Crest Beach for free access, wide sands, and adventure
- Cape May Beaches for Victorian history and sophisticated relaxation
Pack your sunscreen, grab a good beach read, and discover the top beaches that define the Garden State’s stunning shoreline.
1. Sandy Hook Beach
Location: Middletown
Best for: Swimming, historic sites, and camping with skyline views
Nestled within the Gateway National Recreation Area, Sandy Hook Beach graces a scenic spit jutting into New York Harbor—offering both oceanside and bayside experiences. Unique among Jersey beaches, Sandy Hook is famed for its wild beauty, wildlife, and opportunities for outdoor recreation. The beach is home to the United States’ oldest working lighthouse, the Sandy Hook Lighthouse (built in 1764). The adjoining keepers quarters and visitor center welcome guests on weekends with tours up the lighthouse available first-come, first-served. Historically, the area features Fort Hancock and the nation’s first mortar battery, echoing its military past.
- Swim in both ocean and bay waters
- Cycle, jog, or take bird-watching walks on miles of nature trails
- Fish, kayak, picnic, or try windsurfing
Where to stay:
- Sandy Hook Beach Campground – Camp beneath the stars just steps from the sand, from spring through late fall
- Beachwalk at Sea Bright – Boutique hotel nearby, fully renovated for modern comfort
2. Asbury Park
Location: Asbury Park
Best for: Eclectic boardwalk, arts, music, and LGBTQ+-friendly vibes
Once a Gilded Age resort, Asbury Park has risen as a cultural mecca blending history, inclusivity, and a creative spirit. Its famed boardwalk—lined with murals, retro arcades, and independent shops—evokes an exciting blend of past and present. Legendary music venues (the Stone Pony and more) pulse with live acts, while drag shows and street art celebrate local pride. The beach itself is clean and lively, attracting everyone from families to festivalgoers.
- Admire street art and grand architecture along the waterfront
- Enjoy major summer events, from music festivals to Pride celebrations
- Dine at oceanfront restaurants or browse quirky shops
Where to stay:
- Asbury Ocean Club Hotel – Modern luxury with ocean views
- The Empress Hotel – A favorite LGBTQ+ hotspot steps from the sand
3. Belmar Beach
Location: Belmar
Best for: Clean beaches, year-round festivals, and lively boardwalks
Belmar is celebrated for its meticulously maintained shoreline and mile-long boardwalk perfect for both walkers and bikers. Belmar hosts a variety of festive events, including the renowned Annual Sandcastle Contest and New Jersey Seafood Festival every May. The Seventh Avenue Beach, noted for exceptional cleanliness by the Natural Resources Defense Council, stands out as a model of environmental care. For a break from the crowds, the Natural Beach Area at the northern tip offers a rare, tranquil getaway.
- Join in summerlong events and lively beach festivals
- Surf at designated spots or play volleyball on wide, sandy stretches
- Stroll the accessible, pedestrian-friendly promenade
Where to stay:
- Saltwater Inn – Cozy B&B with wraparound porch
- Tandem Bike Inn – Plush rooms with Jacuzzis
4. Spring Lake Beach
Location: Spring Lake
Best for: Quiet, family-friendly atmosphere with free parking
Considered the most serene destination on the Shore, Spring Lake Beach skips many commercial trappings—no food vendors, alcohol, or trash bins on the sand, and no shops on the 1.8-mile boardwalk. Instead, visitors find wave-washed tranquility and an old-world seaside charm. Pavilions at both ends offer restrooms, shaded seating, and snack bars. The designated surfing areas are perfect for those who want to ride the Atlantic. Locals recommend daybreak walks and yoga sessions for a true Spring Lake experience.
- No boardwalk shops or noisy distractions; pure relaxation
- Go surfing or paddleboarding in dedicated zones
- Attend regular yoga classes at beach pavilions
Where to stay:
- The Breakers on the Ocean – Grand historic hotel
- Johnson House Inn – Tranquil B&B stays
5. Point Pleasant Beach
Location: Point Pleasant Beach
Best for: Classic amusements and family entertainment
Point Pleasant Beach draws generations with Jenkinson’s Boardwalk, a nostalgic strip loaded with arcades, rides, and carnival games. Aquarium visits, mini-golf, and endless pizza or ice cream stops round out the experience. The shoreline is well-guarded and family-friendly, with clear zones for surfing and fishing. In summer, concerts and fireworks bolster the festive spirit.
- Visit Jenkinson’s Aquarium for marine encounters
- Ride rollercoasters or win prizes at arcades
- Enjoy fireworks on select summer evenings
Where to stay:
- The White Sands Oceanfront Resort & Spa – Resort comfort on the beach
- Casa del Mar – Cozy mid-range inn
6. Long Beach Island
Location: Long Beach Island (LBI)
Best for: Barrier island escapes and water sports
Long Beach Island, stretching for 18 miles, is a collection of charming towns, each offering something special. Surfers and watersports enthusiasts flock to Ship Bottom and Holgate. The north end’s Barnegat Lighthouse State Park is a beloved destination for history buffs and hikers alike. Tiny Victorian hamlets, seafood shacks, and busy marinas create the classic LBI blend of laid-back adventure and local flavor.
- Climb to the top of the Barnegat Lighthouse for panoramic views
- Kayak, paddleboard, or fish in calm back bays
- Enjoy small-town parades, farmer’s markets, and summer theater
Where to stay:
- The Gables – Gourmet inn in Beach Haven
- Daddy O Hotel – Modern boutique stay
7. Ocean City Beach
Location: Ocean City
Best for: Wholesome fun and classic boardwalk experience
Ocean City is renowned as “America’s Greatest Family Resort.” Its boardwalk stretches for 2.5 miles, overflowing with amusement rides, miniature golf, and classic treats—think saltwater taffy and funnel cakes. Ocean City is “dry,” prohibiting public alcohol sales, ensuring a safe and friendly environment for all ages. The wide, well-kept beach is ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and family games. The cool ocean breeze and wholesome schedule of concerts, parades, and competitions make this a perennial favorite.
- Ride classic ferris wheels and rollercoasters on the boardwalk
- Shop at local boutiques or try iconic Jersey shore eats
- Enjoy family movies and fireworks under the stars
Where to stay:
- Port-O-Call Hotel – Towering over the beach with luxury suites
- Scarborough Inn – Historic hospitality in a classic inn setting
8. Wildwood Crest Beach
Location: Wildwood Crest
Best for: Free beaches, accessibility, and adventurous outings
One of New Jersey’s rare free beaches, Wildwood Crest boasts vast stretches of soft sand with no fees or permits required. The oceanfront is lined with family-friendly hotels and punctuated by boardwalk piers and Doo-Wop–style neon motels. Beach wheelchairs and ramped access at dozens of streets cater to visitors of every ability. Nearby, Sunset Lake offers water skiing, jet skiing, and boating, while Two Mile Beach invites nature lovers on guided wildlife walks on Saturday mornings in summer.
- Enjoy free access and wide, uncrowded beaches
- Explore water sports or guided eco-walks
- Stay steps from the sand in oceanfront hotels
| Feature | Wildwood Crest | Typical NJ Beach |
|---|---|---|
| Beach Access | Free | Paid/feewith tags |
| Accessibility | High (beach wheelchairs, ramps) | Varies |
| Nearby Activities | Boating, wildlife tours, water sports | Mainly beach, boardwalk |
Where to stay:
- Madison Resort Wildwood Crest – Newly renovated with resort amenities right on the water
9. Cape May Beaches
Location: Cape May
Best for: Victorian history, birdwatching, and charming stays
At the southern tip of the state, Cape May mesmerizes with pastel-colored Victorian architecture, romantic B&Bs, and a walkable promenade. The city’s broad beaches are among the cleanest and most photogenic in the Northeast. Birdwatchers flock here, particularly during migrations in spring and fall, making Cape May a destination for both sunbathers and naturalists. Visit the iconic Cape May Lighthouse, stroll through boutique-lined streets, or savor sunset views from the grand promenade.
- Tour historic inns and stately mansions
- Spot rare birds at Cape May Point State Park
- Enjoy local wines and gourmet dining
Where to stay:
- Congress Hall – The oldest seaside resort in the United States
- The Virginia Hotel – Intimate and upscale coastal charm
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Which New Jersey beach is best for families?
A: Ocean City Beach and Spring Lake Beach both offer family-friendly spaces, strict safety standards, and entertainment suitable for all ages.
Q: Do any New Jersey beaches offer free access?
A: Wildwood Crest Beach allows free entry and has no permit or tag requirements, making it the best value among the Jersey Shore’s major beaches.
Q: Where can I find the quietest beach on the Jersey Shore?
A: Spring Lake Beach and some less-visited stretches of Sandy Hook offer tranquility far from the boardwalk crowds and lively amusements.
Q: What’s the best beach town for nightlife and entertainment?
A: Asbury Park is renowned for vibrant nightlife, live music venues, and cultural events throughout the summer.
Q: Are there accessible beaches for wheelchair users?
A: Yes. Wildwood Crest Beach is especially notable for its wheelchair ramps and beach wheelchairs, but many Jersey Shore destinations are upgrading accessibility.
Jersey Shore Travel Tips
- Beach tags and fees: Most New Jersey beaches require daily or seasonal beach tags. Check local sites for the latest prices and sales points.
- Best travel times: Weekdays and early mornings in June or September offer pleasant weather with fewer crowds.
- Parking: Onsite or street parking is available at most beaches but may fill quickly—arrive early for best options.
- Weather: Always check the local forecast. Sudden storms can impact your plans.
- Local etiquette: Keep beaches clean, obey posted rules, and respect lifeguard orders for a safe, relaxing visit.
Ready to Discover the Jersey Shore?
From wild stretches of untouched coast to the buzzing promenades of storied beach towns, New Jersey’s shorelines are rich with surprises and traditions. Whether you’re after adventure, relaxation, or the perfect boardwalk treat, the Garden State’s nine best beaches have the sand, surf, and spirit to keep you coming back summer after summer.
