Ship Bottom Beach Info
Ship Bottom Beach, located on Long Beach Island in New Jersey, is a popular destination known for its family-friendly atmosphere and scenic ocean views. This charming beach town offers pristine sandy shores, ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and beachcombing. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, including surfing, fishing, and beach volleyball. The beach is also conveniently close to numerous dining options, shops, and accommodations, making it a perfect spot for both day trips and extended stays. With its welcoming vibe and beautiful coastal landscape, Ship Bottom Beach is a beloved spot for both locals and tourists seeking a relaxing seaside getaway.
Forecast updated hourly. Last update: March 27, 2025, 7:07 am
Beach Tags
Beach badges are required for all beachgoers aged 13 yrs and above starting June 15th for all Ship Bottom Beaches (3rd Street – 31st Street). Badges are available for daily, weekly and seasonal needs with discounts available before June 1st and for Seniors aged 65+. Veterans as well as Active Duty Military personnel can receive badges for Free with proper Military ID.
Protected Beaches
Preseason (Memorial Day Weekend – weekend before Father’s Day): Lifeguards are on duty patrolling the beach from 10am to 6pm in the lifeguard truck or All-Terrain Vehicles (ATVs) on weekends only beginning Memorial Day Weekend to the weekend before Father’s Day.
In-Season (Saturday before Father’s Day – Labor Day): Lifeguards are on duty from 10am to 6pm daily starting the Saturday before Father’s Day up to Labor Day at the following locations: 3rd St, 7th St, 15th St, 20th St, 23rd St, 26th St, 30th St, Bay.
Postseason (Day after Labor Day – September 30th): Lifeguards are on duty from 10am to 6pm daily starting the day after Labor Day through September 30th at the following locations: 20th St.
The actual placement of the lifeguard stand can change due to ocean and beach conditions. Because of this, the guarded swim area may be north or south of the listed street.
Access To Boardwalks And Beaches
Beach Wheels for handicapped access to the beach are available at Beach Operations Headquarters. Beach Wheels are available with advance reservation by calling the Ship Bottom Beach Patrol at 609-494-9481 in-season and 609-494-2171 ext. 100 Off-season.
Handicapped accessible dune walkovers are on 15th and 20th Streets. These streets have a blue “MOBY MAT” for easier access to the beach. Additional ramps are available on 4th, 8th, 9th, 14th, 19th, 21st, and 25th Streets.
Comfort Stations
Public restrooms are available at the following locations: Municipal building at 17th St & Long Beach Blvd, 10th Street at the Bay Boat Ramp, and 13th – 16th at the Bay Beach, Outside shower or foot shower available.
Beach Vehicle Permits
In Ship Bottom, NJ, you can register for a beach buggy permit. Specifically, driving on the beach is allowed during the off-season months. No vehicle shall be operated on the strand or beach front during the period starting the Second Saturday in May through the Last Saturday in September.
More Ship Bottom Beach Regulations
Ship Bottom Beach, while welcoming to visitors, enforces several regulations to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all beachgoers. During the summer months, lifeguards are on duty, and swimming is only allowed in designated areas to ensure safety. Beachgoers are also expected to adhere to local ordinances regarding alcohol consumption, littering, and the use of open fires. No dogs are allowed on the beaches between May 1st and October 1st. During the off season, dogs are allowed on the beach, but must be on a leash at all times. It is the law that you must clean up after your dog. These regulations help maintain the cleanliness and safety of Ship Bottom Beach, ensuring a pleasant experience for all visitors.
