Looking for the perfect beach to fit your vibe? This guide highlights the best Jersey Shore beaches in categories like family-friendly, secluded, and even pet-friendly spots. No matter what you’re after, there’s a perfect stretch of sand waiting for you. Also, before you head out, make sure to check the latest fly report at Flies On The Beach to ensure a comfortable and relaxing day, free of pesky flies.
Ocean City (Exit 30): Ocean City is a dry town, meaning no alcohol is sold, making it a top choice for families. Its iconic boardwalk is filled with kid-friendly attractions like amusement rides, mini-golf, and ice cream stands. The soft sand and gentle waves also make it perfect for children to swim and play safely.
Cape May (Exit 0): Known for its Victorian architecture and old-world charm, Cape May is a fantastic spot for families. The beach offers plenty of space to set up for the day, with gentle waves ideal for young swimmers. There are also plenty of nearby activities, including the Cape May Zoo and historic trolley tours.
Wildwood (Exit 4B): Wildwood’s nightlife scene is vibrant, with beach bars, nightclubs, and live music venues filling the evenings with excitement. After a day on the beach or the boardwalk, you can catch a drink by the ocean or hit the dance floor at one of the many nightspots.
Asbury Park (Exit 102): Asbury Park is known for its live music scene, including the legendary Stone Pony. The beach town has an eclectic mix of rooftop bars, beach clubs, and late-night restaurants, making it a favorite spot for both visitors and locals looking to enjoy the nightlife after a day in the sun.
Belmar (Exit 98): Belmar is a beach lover’s dream with its soft, clean sand and calm, lifeguard-protected waters. The beach is well-maintained and perfect for families, couples, or solo swimmers looking to enjoy a safe swim. The long beachside promenade also offers plenty of spots to relax after a dip.
Long Beach Island (Exit 63): LBI is known for its picturesque beaches and is a great place for swimmers of all levels. The 18-mile-long stretch of coastline offers multiple beaches, each with lifeguards on duty during the season, and its calm waters make it ideal for families or serious swimmers.
Manasquan (Exit 98): Manasquan’s consistent waves make it a popular destination for surfers. Both beginners and advanced surfers will find a welcoming community here, with waves varying from gentle to more challenging depending on the day. The beach also has surf shops and rentals for those looking to ride the waves.
Atlantic City (Exit 38): Atlantic City may be known for its casinos, but it also offers great surfing conditions. The beaches here attract surfers looking for bigger swells, especially near the jetties. Plus, there’s plenty to do off the water, from casinos to restaurants, making it a great spot for a surf trip.
Stone Harbor (Exit 10B): If you’re looking for a peaceful beach day, Stone Harbor offers a quiet and serene environment. The wide beach is perfect for laying out with a good book or simply enjoying the sound of the waves. The town itself is quaint, with boutique shopping and casual dining, adding to its relaxed vibe.
Seaside Park (Exit 82): A quieter alternative to its bustling neighbor Seaside Heights, Seaside Park offers spacious beaches without the crowds. It’s ideal for those looking to relax with minimal distractions. Enjoy the wide, open sand and calm waters, perfect for a leisurely beach day.
Island Beach State Park (Exit 82): This preserved barrier island is a haven for nature lovers. With miles of dunes, coastal forests, and a rich variety of wildlife, it’s the perfect beach for those who love the outdoors. Visitors can hike, bike, or even kayak while spotting foxes, birds, and marine life.
Sandy Hook (Exit 117): Sandy Hook offers stunning natural beauty with views of the New York City skyline and serene sandy stretches. It’s part of the Gateway National Recreation Area, where you can enjoy wildlife viewing, historic sites, and biking trails, all while soaking up the sun.
Cape May (Exit 0): Cape May is a well-known fishing destination, offering both surf fishing and charter boat options. Anglers can cast their lines from the beach or take a deep-sea fishing trip for larger catches like tuna and marlin.
Point Pleasant Beach (Exit 98): Point Pleasant is home to some of the best fishing piers on the Jersey Shore. Whether you prefer surf fishing or casting off a pier, you can expect to catch a variety of fish, including fluke, bluefish, and striped bass. It’s a top spot for both casual and serious anglers.
Long Beach Island (Exit 63): LBI offers some of the most breathtaking ocean views on the Shore. You can watch the sun rise over the Atlantic, visit Barnegat Lighthouse for panoramic views, or simply take a scenic stroll along the beach to enjoy the unspoiled beauty.
Sandy Hook (Exit 117): Sandy Hook provides some of the best scenic views, from the sparkling ocean to the distant skyline of New York City. Whether you’re exploring the lighthouse or enjoying a sunset over the bay, this beach is ideal for scenic walks and photography.
Avalon (Exit 13): Known for its pristine beaches and luxury homes, Avalon is the perfect spot for a high-end beach experience. Its upscale atmosphere extends to its quiet beaches, gourmet dining, and boutique shopping, attracting visitors looking for a more refined getaway.
Stone Harbor (Exit 10B): Stone Harbor is another upscale destination with clean, serene beaches. Visitors enjoy not only the tranquil shore but also the sophisticated town, which features high-end shopping, restaurants, and an overall exclusive vibe.
Sandy Hook (Exit 117): Sandy Hook offers secluded stretches of beach away from the more popular spots, providing a quiet escape from the crowds. Whether you’re looking to relax or explore the nature trails, it’s the perfect spot for solitude.
Strathmere (Exit 17): Tucked between Sea Isle City and Ocean City, Strathmere offers a secluded, uncrowded beach experience. With no boardwalk or major attractions, it’s perfect for those seeking a quiet, peaceful day by the water.
Belmar (Exit 98): Belmar is a top destination for water sports enthusiasts, offering everything from jet skiing to paddleboarding. The calm waters and wide open space make it a great spot for beginners and pros alike.
Sea Bright (Exit 105): Sea Bright’s wide beaches and proximity to the Shrewsbury River make it perfect for water sports like kayaking, paddleboarding, and boating. The calm surf and easy access to the water make it a favorite for those looking to get active on the water.
Island Beach State Park (Exit 82): With its protected natural environment, Island Beach State Park is home to a variety of wildlife, including foxes, ospreys, and other bird species. Visitors can explore the natural dunes, go birdwatching, or even spot seals in the colder months.
Barnegat Light (Exit 63): Located at the northern tip of Long Beach Island, Barnegat Light is perfect for birdwatching and observing marine life. The Barnegat Lighthouse is a key feature of this beach, offering scenic views and a glimpse into the local ecosystem.
Seaside Heights (Exit 82): Seaside Heights is known for its iconic boardwalk, featuring everything from arcade games to amusement park rides. It’s a bustling beach that offers something for everyone, from families to partygoers looking for some boardwalk fun.
Wildwood (Exit 4B): With one of the longest boardwalks on the Jersey Shore, Wildwood offers endless entertainment. From Morey’s Piers amusement park to the variety of shops and food stands, it’s a great place for families looking for action-packed beach days.
Stone Harbor (Exit 10B): After a day at the beach, Stone Harbor’s charming shopping district offers boutique shops and high-end stores. You’ll find everything from jewelry to beachwear, making it the perfect place to enjoy some retail therapy.
Beach Haven (LBI) (Exit 63): Known for its local charm, Beach Haven offers a mix of quaint, independent shops and well-known retail stores. Visitors can shop for souvenirs, beach gear, or grab a bite after a day of sun and sand.
Wildwood (Exit 4B): Home to Morey’s Piers, Wildwood offers a mix of thrilling amusement rides right on the beach. From roller coasters to water slides, there’s plenty to keep the family entertained, all with the beautiful ocean in the background.
Point Pleasant Beach (Exit 98): Jenkinson’s Boardwalk in Point Pleasant Beach offers classic beachside amusement, including an aquarium, arcades, and mini-golf. It’s a great spot for families looking for a mix of beach and fun.
Wildwood Dog Beach (Exit 4B): Wildwood’s dedicated dog beach is the perfect spot for your furry friends to run and play. Featuring a large fenced-in area, dogs can roam freely while their owners enjoy the ocean breeze. With access to the water, your pets can also splash in the waves, making it a great outing for both humans and dogs alike.
Island Beach State Park (Exit 82): Pets are welcome on the southern tip of Island Beach State Park year-round, provided they’re leashed. This remote area offers a peaceful setting where dogs can explore the beach and dunes alongside their owners, making it a fantastic pet-friendly escape.
Asbury Park (Exit 102): Asbury Park has a long history as an LGBTQ+ destination, with inclusive beach vibes and a thriving LGBTQ+ community. It’s known for its welcoming atmosphere, with plenty of LGBTQ+-friendly bars, clubs, and events. The beach is also home to the popular Paradise nightclub and annual events like Jersey Gay Pride.
Atlantic City (Exit 38): Atlantic City is known for its diversity and inclusiveness, with many LGBTQ+-friendly spots along its beach and boardwalk. From the lively nightlife to the annual Sand Blast Weekend, it’s a fantastic getaway for the LGBTQ+ community seeking both beach time and entertainment.
Gunnison Beach, Sandy Hook (Exit 117): Gunnison Beach is the only legal clothing-optional beach in New Jersey, located within the Sandy Hook National Recreation Area. It’s a secluded, open beach that draws a friendly crowd of naturists. With stunning views and a relaxed atmosphere, it’s the perfect spot for those who prefer to enjoy the sun in a more natural state.
To ensure you have a comfortable and enjoyable beach day, don’t forget to check out the latest fly report at Flies On The Beach. This handy resource lets you know if pesky flies are present, so you can plan your visit accordingly and avoid any unpleasant surprises. With real-time updates, it’s the perfect tool for making the most of your Jersey Shore experience. Whether you’re heading to a family-friendly beach or a secluded spot, a quick check can help you prepare for a perfect day in the sun.
Website by the Prager Microsystems, Inc. Digital Marketing Agency | ADA Compliance | Privacy Policy | Terms of Use