15 Best Beaches in New Jersey (NJ)

New Jersey, often dubbed the “Garden State,” holds a secret treasure trove for beach lovers that extends far beyond its infamous boardwalks. Imagine miles of pristine coastline, from tranquil, dune-backed havens to vibrant, bustling shores brimming with entertainment. Forget any preconceived notions; the Jersey Shore is a diverse tapestry of experiences waiting to be unravelled, offering something for every kind of traveler.

Whether you dream of building sandcastles with your family, catching waves with friends, or simply unwinding with a good book under the sun, you’ll discover your perfect slice of paradise here. To truly savor the shore, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons—late May to early June or September—when the weather is delightful, crowds are thinner, and prices are often more favorable. This guide will be your ultimate companion, unlocking the best of New Jersey’s beaches, complete with insider tips and detailed cost breakdowns to help you plan an unforgettable coastal escape. Prepare to dip your toes into the diverse beauty of the Garden State’s magnificent shoreline!

Asbury Park Beach

Asbury Park Beach stands out as a unique fusion of historic charm, artistic vibrancy, and a welcoming, inclusive atmosphere. What makes this destination truly special is its palpable energy, stemming from a rich musical heritage and a thriving contemporary arts scene. Beyond the expansive, well-maintained sandy beach, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing, lies the iconic Asbury Park Boardwalk. Here, you’ll discover an eclectic mix of attractions: from the legendary Stone Pony, a launching pad for rock icons like Bruce Springsteen and Jon Bon Jovi, to quirky boutiques, art galleries showcasing local talent, and a diverse array of eateries catering to every palate, from classic boardwalk fare to gourmet dining. You can spend your day exploring the historic Paramount Theatre and Convention Hall, challenging friends at mini-golf, or simply soaking in the vibrant street art and murals that bring the city’s walls to life.

The beach is patrolled by lifeguards during peak season, ensuring a safe swimming experience. Asbury Park’s commitment to inclusivity is evident, making it a truly welcoming spot for all visitors. This beach is best enjoyed from late spring through early autumn when the weather is warm, and the boardwalk is bustling with events, concerts, and markets. It’s an ideal destination for solo adventurers seeking inspiration, couples looking for a lively and romantic getaway, and families who desire a beach experience enriched with cultural activities and entertainment beyond just the sand. Its transformation from a faded resort town to a cultural hotspot is a testament to its enduring appeal and vibrant community spirit.

Point Pleasant

Point Pleasant, specifically Jenkinson’s Beach and Boardwalk, offers a classic, family-friendly Jersey Shore experience. You’ll find a pristine, well-maintained beach perfect for traditional sunbathing, swimming, and building sandcastles. What truly sets Point Pleasant apart is its lively boardwalk, which caters extensively to families with children. Here, you can enjoy a wide array of amusement rides, classic arcade games, and the famous Jenkinson’s Aquarium, home to penguins, seals, and a variety of marine life. The atmosphere is vibrant and cheerful, filled with the sounds of laughter and the aroma of boardwalk treats.

Beyond the entertainment, you can stroll along the boardwalk, play miniature golf, or simply enjoy the ocean breeze. During the evening, the boardwalk lights up, creating a magical ambiance for families to enjoy. The beach and boardwalk are meticulously cared for, ensuring a clean and safe environment. This destination is particularly popular during the summer months, from late June through early September, when all attractions are fully operational and lifeguards are on duty. Point Pleasant is an absolute dream for families with young children and teenagers, offering endless entertainment options that extend far beyond just the beach itself, ensuring everyone finds something to love.

Long Beach Island

Long Beach Island (LBI) offers a more relaxed and upscale beach experience, characterized by its tranquil atmosphere, pristine white sands, and charming coastal towns. This 18-mile barrier island is a collection of distinct communities, each with its own unique flavor, from the bustling Beach Haven to the serene Loveladies. What makes LBI special is its natural beauty and the absence of a traditional boardwalk, fostering a more laid-back, community-focused vibe. You’ll find wide, clean beaches perfect for swimming, sunbathing, surfing, and fishing.

Beyond the beach, visitors can explore the iconic Barnegat Lighthouse State Park at the northern tip, offering panoramic views of the ocean and bay. The island also boasts numerous boutique shops, art galleries, and diverse dining options ranging from casual seafood shacks to fine dining establishments. You can enjoy kayaking or paddleboarding in the bay, or simply cycle along the quiet streets. LBI is ideal for families seeking a peaceful escape, couples looking for a romantic retreat, and anyone who appreciates natural beauty and a slower pace of life. The best time to visit is during the shoulder seasons—late May/early June or September—when the weather is pleasant, and the island is less crowded, allowing for a truly serene experience.

Spring Lake Beach

Spring Lake Beach is renowned for its elegant, pristine, and remarkably quiet atmosphere, earning it the nickname “The Jewel of the Jersey Shore.” Unlike many other shore towns, Spring Lake prides itself on its mile-long non-commercial boardwalk, which offers a serene path for strolling, jogging, or simply enjoying unobstructed ocean views. You won’t find arcades or fast food here, but rather a focus on natural beauty and tranquility. The beach itself is meticulously maintained, featuring soft sands and clean waters, ideal for swimming and sunbathing in a refined setting. What makes it unique is its commitment to preserving a peaceful, upscale environment, attracting visitors who value serenity over bustling entertainment.

Beyond the beach, you can explore the charming town with its beautiful Victorian homes, boutique shops, and excellent dining options. The namesake Spring Lake, a picturesque freshwater lake, offers opportunities for paddle boating and scenic walks. This beach is perfect for couples seeking a romantic getaway, solo travelers desiring peace, or families who prefer a quiet, sophisticated beach experience away from the crowds. Visiting during the early summer (June) or early fall (September) allows you to enjoy the best weather with fewer people, enhancing the sense of calm and exclusivity.

Cape May

Cape May, nestled at the southern tip of New Jersey, offers a captivating blend of Victorian charm, pristine beaches, and rich history. What truly distinguishes Cape May is its impeccably preserved Victorian architecture, earning it the designation of a National Historic Landmark City. You’ll find wide, soft sand beaches perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and boogie boarding, complemented by the gentle lapping of the Atlantic waves. Beyond the beautiful shoreline, visitors can immerse themselves in history by taking a trolley tour of the painted ladies, exploring the Cape May Lighthouse for panoramic views, or visiting the Emlen Physick Estate.

The town’s Washington Street Mall provides a delightful pedestrian-only area with unique boutiques, art galleries, and diverse dining options. Whale watching and dolphin cruises depart regularly from the harbor, offering exciting marine encounters. This destination appeals to a wide range of visitors: history buffs, romantic couples, families seeking a refined yet fun vacation, and nature lovers. The best time to visit is during the shoulder seasons—late May to early June or September to early October—when the weather is pleasant, and the crowds are thinner, allowing for a more intimate exploration of its charm.

Belmar Beach

Belmar Beach offers a lively and welcoming atmosphere, making it a popular choice for families and younger crowds alike. What sets Belmar apart is its vibrant energy combined with well-maintained, wide sandy beaches. You’ll find ample space for sunbathing, swimming, and various beach sports, with lifeguards on duty during the summer season ensuring safety. The town features a classic boardwalk, though more modest than some, which is perfect for a leisurely stroll, jogging, or biking. Along the boardwalk, you’ll find casual eateries and ice cream shops.

Belmar is particularly known for its commitment to surfing, with designated surfing areas and a welcoming community for wave riders. The town itself has a bustling main street with diverse dining options, bars, and local shops. Its proximity to other shore towns also makes it a great base for exploring the central Jersey coast. This beach is best experienced during the peak summer months when the weather is warm, and the town is alive with activity. Belmar is ideal for families looking for a classic beach vacation with plenty of space, groups of friends seeking a lively shore experience, and surf enthusiasts.

Ocean Grove Beach

Ocean Grove Beach offers a serene and distinctly Victorian-era charm, standing out as a peaceful haven on the Jersey Shore. Known for its deeply rooted Methodist heritage, Ocean Grove maintains a tranquil, family-oriented atmosphere, free from the commercial bustle of typical boardwalks. What makes it unique is its beautiful, non-commercial boardwalk, perfect for quiet strolls and contemplation, and its impressive collection of Victorian homes and the Great Auditorium. The beach itself is pristine, wide, and meticulously clean, providing an ideal setting for sunbathing, swimming, and gentle relaxation.

You’ll find a respectful and quiet environment, making it perfect for those seeking an escape from noise and crowds. Visitors can explore the charming Tent City, a unique community of tents set up around the Auditorium during the summer, or attend a concert or service in the historic Great Auditorium. The town also features quaint shops and cafes. This beach is perfect for families seeking a quiet, wholesome vacation, couples desiring a peaceful retreat, and anyone who appreciates historical charm and a slower pace of life. The best time to visit is during the shoulder seasons (June or September) to enjoy pleasant weather and the town’s unique ambiance without peak summer crowds.

Lavallette Beach

Lavallette Beach offers a classic, laid-back Jersey Shore experience, perfect for families and those seeking a quieter, more residential beach town vibe. What makes Lavallette special is its emphasis on simplicity and natural beauty, providing wide, clean beaches without the overwhelming commercialism of larger boardwalk towns. You’ll find ample space for sunbathing, swimming, and building sandcastles, with lifeguards present during the summer season. The town features a well-maintained boardwalk ideal for walking, jogging, or biking, offering beautiful ocean views without the distractions of rides or arcades.

Lavallette is particularly popular for its bay-side activities, including crabbing, fishing, and boating, providing a dual appeal for water enthusiasts. The town itself is charming, with local shops and eateries that cater to a relaxed vacation pace. It’s a place where families return year after year, appreciating the safe and friendly atmosphere. This beach is best enjoyed during the peak summer months when the weather is warm and all facilities are open, though the shoulder seasons offer a more peaceful visit. Lavallette is ideal for families with young children, couples seeking a quiet escape, and anyone who prefers a traditional beach vacation focused on relaxation and simple pleasures.

Sandy Hook Beach

Sandy Hook Beach, part of the Gateway National Recreation Area, offers a unique blend of pristine natural beauty, historic landmarks, and diverse recreational opportunities. What makes Sandy Hook truly special is its undeveloped, wild coastline, a stark contrast to the bustling boardwalks found elsewhere on the Jersey Shore. You’ll find miles of clean, expansive beaches, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, surfing, and birdwatching. This barrier island is a significant stopover for migratory birds, making it a paradise for nature enthusiasts. Beyond the beaches, visitors can explore Fort Hancock, a historic former army post with fascinating old buildings and a lighthouse.

The Sandy Hook Lighthouse, the oldest operating lighthouse in the United States, offers tours and panoramic views. There’s also a clothing-optional section, Gunnison Beach, for those seeking a different experience. Sandy Hook’s untouched dunes and maritime forests provide excellent opportunities for hiking and biking on paved trails. This beach is ideal for nature lovers, history buffs, birdwatchers, and anyone seeking a more natural, less commercialized beach experience. The best time to visit is during the spring or fall for bird migration, or early summer for pleasant beach weather before peak crowds.

Wildwoods

The Wildwoods, encompassing Wildwood, North Wildwood, and Wildwood Crest, offer an iconic and exhilarating Jersey Shore experience, famous for its expansive, free beaches and vibrant boardwalk. What makes the Wildwoods truly unique are their incredibly wide, soft sand beaches, which are absolutely free to access, a rarity on the Jersey Shore. You’ll find ample space for sunbathing, swimming, and even playing games like frisbee without feeling crowded. The real heart of the Wildwoods, however, is the 2.5-mile long “Doo Wop” themed boardwalk, home to three amusement piers featuring over 100 rides and attractions, including roller coasters and water parks.

The atmosphere here is electric, filled with the sounds of carnival games, the aroma of classic boardwalk food, and the thrill of amusement rides. From thrilling rides to live entertainment, arcades, and delicious treats, the boardwalk offers endless fun. The Wildwoods are best visited during the peak summer months when all attractions are fully operational and the town is bustling with energy. This destination is an absolute paradise for families with children of all ages, teenagers, and groups of friends seeking a high-energy, fun-filled beach vacation with endless entertainment options.

Seven Mile Beach

Seven Mile Beach, encompassing the towns of Stone Harbor and Avalon, epitomizes upscale coastal charm and natural beauty. What makes this stretch of shoreline particularly unique is its pristine, wide beaches, carefully maintained dunes, and a sophisticated, yet relaxed, atmosphere. You won’t find a bustling boardwalk here; instead, the focus is on tranquil beach experiences, high-end boutiques, and gourmet dining. The beaches are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and long walks, offering plenty of space even during peak season.

Both Stone Harbor and Avalon boast charming downtowns with art galleries, unique shops, and excellent restaurants. Stone Harbor is home to the Wetlands Institute, a fantastic educational center for nature lovers, while Avalon offers a vibrant nightlife scene in its downtown. This destination is ideal for families seeking a peaceful and refined beach vacation, couples looking for a romantic escape, and anyone who appreciates natural beauty and upscale amenities. The best time to visit is during the shoulder seasons—late May/early June or September—when the weather is pleasant, and the towns are less crowded, allowing for a more serene and intimate experience.

Avon by the Sea

Avon-by-the-Sea offers a classic, tranquil Jersey Shore experience, known for its pristine beaches and charming, residential atmosphere. What makes Avon special is its commitment to maintaining a clean, family-friendly environment without the commercial hustle of larger boardwalk towns. You’ll find wide, soft sand beaches perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and gentle ocean activities, all supervised by attentive lifeguards during the summer. The town boasts a beautiful, non-commercial boardwalk that stretches for just over a mile, providing a serene path for walking, jogging, or simply enjoying the ocean breeze.

Beyond the beach, visitors can explore the quaint downtown area with its local shops and casual eateries. Avon is particularly popular for its fishing pier, a great spot for anglers or those who simply enjoy watching the waves. The town’s quiet streets and well-kept homes contribute to its peaceful, welcoming vibe. This beach is ideal for families seeking a relaxed and safe vacation, couples desiring a quiet getaway, and anyone who appreciates a traditional, understated beach experience. The best time to visit is during the shoulder seasons (June or September) for pleasant weather and fewer crowds, though July and August offer the warmest water for swimming.

Atlantic City Beach

Atlantic City Beach is synonymous with vibrant entertainment, bustling casinos, and a wide, expansive beachfront. What makes Atlantic City unique is its dynamic blend of beach relaxation and non-stop entertainment, offering something for every taste. You’ll find broad, sandy beaches perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying the ocean breeze, with lifeguards on duty during the summer. The iconic Atlantic City Boardwalk, stretching for miles, is a world unto itself, featuring famous casinos, high-end shops, diverse restaurants, and classic arcade games.

Beyond the sand, visitors can try their luck at a casino, catch a live show, indulge in gourmet dining, or explore the various attractions along the boardwalk, including the Steel Pier amusement park. The city’s history as a premier resort destination adds a layer of grandeur. This beach is ideal for adults seeking nightlife and entertainment, couples looking for a lively getaway, and groups of friends ready for a high-energy vacation. While the summer months offer the warmest beach weather and full entertainment, Atlantic City is a year-round destination thanks to its indoor attractions.

Fisherman’s Cove

Fisherman’s Cove Conservation Area, located in Manasquan, offers a unique and tranquil experience for nature lovers and dog owners. What makes this “beach” special is that it’s one of the few designated off-leash dog beaches in New Jersey, making it a paradise for canine companions and their human friends. It’s not a traditional swimming beach but rather a serene stretch of shoreline along the Manasquan Inlet, perfect for walking, birdwatching, and enjoying the natural coastal environment. You’ll find a peaceful, undeveloped area where your dog can roam freely and safely, playing in the sand and splashing in the shallow waters.

The focus here is on conservation and providing a natural habitat for wildlife, so while it’s a beach, it offers a different kind of recreational experience. Visitors can enjoy the scenic views of the inlet, observe various bird species, and simply relax in a calm, natural setting. This area is ideal for dog owners, nature photographers, birdwatchers, and anyone seeking a quiet escape from the typical crowded beach scene. It’s best visited during the spring or fall for pleasant walking weather, though it’s open year-round.

Keansburg Beach

Keansburg Beach offers a charmingly nostalgic and budget-friendly beach experience, distinct from the grander resorts of the south. What makes Keansburg unique is its classic amusement park, Keansburg Amusement Park, located right on the bay, providing a fun-filled atmosphere for families. You’ll find a clean, sandy beach along Raritan Bay, which typically has calmer, warmer waters than the ocean, making it ideal for young children and less experienced swimmers. The beach often offers beautiful views of the New York City skyline across the bay.

Beyond the beach, the main attraction is the adjacent amusement park with its array of rides, arcade games, and classic boardwalk food. There’s also Runaway Rapids Waterpark for extra splashy fun. Keansburg represents a piece of old-school Jersey Shore charm, less about luxury and more about simple, accessible fun. This beach is perfect for families with young children, budget-conscious travelers, and anyone looking for a relaxed beach day combined with classic amusement park entertainment. The best time to visit is during the summer months when the amusement park and waterpark are fully operational and the bay waters are warmest.

Plan Your Visit

New Jersey’s coastline is a vibrant mosaic of experiences, proving that the Garden State truly has a beach for every preference and budget. From the lively, artistic shores of Asbury Park to the serene, Victorian elegance of Cape May, and the family-friendly excitement of the Wildwoods, you have an unparalleled variety of coastal escapes awaiting your discovery. You’ll find natural preserves perfect for quiet contemplation, historic towns steeped in charm, and bustling boardwalks offering endless entertainment.

Each beach, with its unique character, promises unforgettable memories, whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion. So, pack your bags, consult our detailed cost guide to plan your perfect budget, and prepare to dip your toes into the diverse beauty of New Jersey’s magnificent shoreline. The perfect wave, the softest sand, and your next favorite memory are all just a short drive away. Get ready to explore the best of the Jersey Shore—your ultimate coastal adventure begins now!