New Jersey is often overlooked when it comes to beach vacations, but with over 130 miles of coastline, the state is home to some beautiful and diverse sandy spots that are perfect for various activities. Whether you’re looking for family-friendly beaches with boardwalk amusements or serene nature reserves for a peaceful retreat, New Jersey has something for everyone.
Many of the best beaches in this coastal paradise are located along the iconic Jersey Shore, providing visitors with a rich variety of seaside experiences. From classic boardwalks with delicious treats and carnival rides to more secluded spots for relaxation and wildlife spotting, you’ll never be bored exploring New Jersey’s magnificent shores.
Key Takeaways
- New Jersey offers a diverse range of beaches to suit various preferences and activities
- The Jersey Shore is home to many of the state’s top beach destinations
- Choosing the right beach will ensure an enjoyable and memorable experience by the sea
Top Beaches in New Jersey
Cape May Beach
Cape May Beach is a pristine and beautiful spot on the southern tip of New Jersey. Known for its Victorian charm and picturesque landscapes, it’s the perfect place to spend a sunny day. The beach boasts wide, sugar-white sands, and a spectacular coastline, providing ample opportunities for relaxation and water activities. In Cape May, you can also find unique shops, delicious local cuisine, and historical attractions worth visiting. Truly, Cape May Beach stands out as one of the best beaches in New Jersey.
Asbury Park Beach
As a popular destination in New Jersey, Asbury Park Beach is a bustling, mile-long stretch of paradise tucked away on the shore. Offering clean waters perfect for beach activities such as surfing, swimming, and fishing, the beach has something for everyone to enjoy. One notable feature of Asbury Park is its vibrant music scene, making it an ideal spot for those looking for a lively beach atmosphere.
Ocean City Beach
Ocean City, NJ, is a beloved family-friendly beach destination that offers endless opportunities for fun and relaxation. With a clean and expansive shoreline, visitors can enjoy swimming, bodyboarding, and building sandcastles. The Ocean City Boardwalk provides an array of dining options, shops, and amusement rides that cater to people of all ages. It’s no wonder why Ocean City Beach is considered one of New Jersey’s favorite beach spots.
Belmar Beach
Belmar Beach, known for its beautiful shoreline and exciting beach scene, is a popular destination among New Jersey residents and tourists alike. The beach features clean, spacious sands suitable for activities like sunbathing, beach volleyball, and surfing. Additionally, Belmar offers great amenities such as restaurants, bars, and shops catering to beachgoers’ varying interests. Its bustling atmosphere makes Belmar Beach an excellent choice for a fun day at the shore.
Long Branch Beach
Long Branch Beach is another fantastic beach destination in New Jersey with stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. Known for its family-friendly nature, Long Branch offers various kid-oriented activities and amenities like playgrounds and picnic areas. The beach is well-maintained and clean, making it an ideal spot for swimming and sunbathing. Furthermore, nearby Pier Village boasts an assortment of dining options and boutique shops for visitors to explore during their beach day. With its scenic beauty and exciting offerings, Long Branch Beach is a must-visit destination in New Jersey.
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Best Family-Friendly Beaches in New Jersey
As a New Jersey native, I have visited quite a few beaches and found that some are better suited for families. Here’s a list of the best family-friendly beaches in New Jersey:
Point Pleasant Beach
I consider Point Pleasant Beach one of the top family-friendly beaches in New Jersey. The boardwalk offers a wide variety of games and attractions for the family to enjoy, including rides and an aquarium. The beach itself is clean and well-maintained with beach patrol and lifeguards present. Beach badges are required, but they are reasonably priced and available for purchase.
Ocean Grove Beach
Ocean Grove Beach is a great option for families. It’s a relaxed, quiet beach known for its well-preserved Victorian architecture. The beach is clean, and beach patrol ensures a safe environment for families. For access, you’ll need a beach badge which is quite affordable.
Spring Lake Beach
Spring Lake Beach is perfect for those looking for a serene beach experience. Its clear waters and clean beach make it an ideal family destination. Beach badges are essential for access, but it ensures a pleasant and less crowded day at the shore. Beach patrol and lifeguards are on duty during the summer months.
Seaside Heights Beach
Seaside Heights Beach is excellent for families seeking a lively atmosphere. The boardwalk features numerous attractions, including amusement rides and carnival-style games. Though the beach tends to be quite busy during peak seasons, the beach patrol maintains a safe environment. Beach badges are required for entry, so make sure to purchase one.
Wildwood Beach
Families love Wildwood Beach for its expansive sandy area and iconic boardwalk, featuring multiple piers with rides and attractions. The best part of Wildwood Beach is that it’s free, so you won’t need to worry about buying beach badges. Beach patrol and lifeguards are consistently present, ensuring a safe experience for all visitors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Best Beaches for Surfing in New Jersey
As a beach enthusiast, I can tell you some of the best beaches for surfing in New Jersey are at Asbury Park Beach. The water is clean and perfect for various beach activities like surfing, swimming, and fishing.
I also know that ocean waves at Long Beach Island make it an ideal spot for surfers. The island has numerous public access points, giving surfers plenty of options to choose from.
Which beaches have the best boardwalks in New Jersey?
In my experience, one of the best boardwalks in New Jersey can be found in Atlantic City. As the oldest and longest boardwalk in the world, it offers plenty of entertainment and dining options to beachgoers.
Personally, I also like Ocean City’s boardwalk, where you’ll find various shops, eateries, and amusement parks, making it a perfect mix of relaxation and excitement for visitors.
What are the most popular beach towns in NJ?
From my perspective, some of the most popular beach towns in NJ include:
- Sea Isle City
- Lavallette
- Long Beach Island
- Brigantine Beach
- Belmar
- Avalon
- Ocean City
These towns boast beautiful beaches, charming downtown areas, and plenty of activities to keep visitors entertained during their stay.
Where can I find the cleanest beach in New Jersey?
In my quest to find the cleanest beach in New Jersey, I discovered that the Avalon Beach is known for its pristine sand and clear waters. The town is also committed to keeping the beach clean, which means visitors can expect a pleasant experience while enjoying their time on the coast.