A Guide to Enjoying New Jersey Beaches.
Tips and Tricks: 2025 Edition

Monmouth County Beaches
Monmouth County, NJ, has some of the most special and beloved beaches on the Jersey Shore. Here’s why they stand out:
1. Monmouth County beaches offer diverse landscapes, from the wide, soft sands of Sandy Hook to the charming boardwalks of Asbury Park and Belmar. The county's coastline blends natural beauty with small-town charm, offering picturesque dunes, rocky jetties, and stunning sunrise views over the Atlantic.
2. Monmouth County beaches are some of the closest oceanfront destinations for New Yorkers and North Jersey residents. With direct NJ Transit trains, buses, they’re among the most accessible beaches in the state.
3. Iconic Boardwalks & Entertainment - Asbury Park: Home to a historic boardwalk, music venues like The Stone Pony, and an artsy, vibrant scene. Long Branch: Features Pier Village, a modern beachfront shopping and dining district. Belmar & Point Pleasant: Family-friendly boardwalks with arcades, amusements, and great surf.
4. Rich History & Local Charm- From the Victorian architecture in Ocean Grove to the storied music history of Asbury Park, these beaches are steeped in character. Some areas, like Sandy Hook, are part of the Gateway National Recreation Area, with military history dating back to the 18th century.
5. Surfing & Watersports- Spots like Manasquan Inlet and Seven Presidents Park in Long Branch are favorites among surfers. Kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing are also popular, with plenty of rental spots and tour companies.
6. Environmental Beauty & Conservation Areas - Sandy Hook boasts miles of protected shoreline, walking trails, and even a clothing-optional beach. The county also has excellent birdwatching and natural preserves, making it ideal for outdoor lovers.
7. Great Local Food Scene - From classic boardwalk fare (think fresh seafood, funnel cakes, and saltwater taffy) to upscale dining, Monmouth County beaches offer fantastic food options. Try local favorites like seafood shacks in Highlands, Italian restaurants in Long Branch, or farm-to-table spots in Asbury Park.

Overall, Monmouth County beaches combine convenience, history, natural beauty, and a unique cultural vibe, making them some of the best spots on the Jersey Shore.

 Ocean County Beaches
Ocean County, NJ, is home to some of the most beautiful and unique beaches along the Jersey Shore. Here’s what makes them special:
1. Diverse Beach Experiences - Ocean County offers a mix of lively boardwalks, quiet family-friendly beaches, and natural, untouched shorelines. Towns like Seaside Heights and Point Pleasant Beach have bustling attractions, while Island Beach State Park provides a peaceful, pristine coastal escape.
2. Iconic Boardwalks - Seaside Heights and Point Pleasant Beach are famous for their boardwalks, packed with amusement rides, arcades, and classic Jersey Shore food like pizza, boardwalk fries, and saltwater taffy.
3. Excellent Fishing & Surfing - Whether surf fishing at Island Beach State Park, deep-sea fishing off the coast, or catching waves at Lavallette and Mantoloking, Ocean County beaches offer great opportunities for anglers and surfers alike.
4. Family-Friendly Atmosphere - Many of the beaches, like those in Lavallette, Ortley Beach, and Long Beach Island (LBI), are known for their clean sands, gentle surf, and family-oriented communities.

Whether you're looking for excitement, relaxation, or natural beauty, Ocean County’s beaches have something special to offer for every type of beachgoer.

Atlantic County Beaches
Atlantic County is home to several beautiful beaches that offer a variety of attractions and activities, making them special in several ways:
1. Diverse Beach Options - Atlantic County features both lively and quiet beach options, catering to different preferences. For instance, the bustling Atlantic City beach with its famous boardwalk contrasts with more tranquil beaches like those in Brigantine, where visitors can enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere.
2. Outdoor Activities: Atlantic County beaches are perfect for outdoor activities like surfing, kite flying, fishing, paddleboarding, and even biking along the shore. There's something for everyone, whether you're an adventure seeker or prefer lounging by the waves.
3. Family-Friendly Spots: Many of the beaches, especially in areas like Margate, offer family-friendly amenities, including playgrounds, picnic areas, and gentle waves perfect for children.
4. Events and Festivals: The area hosts numerous events throughout the year, such as concerts, art festivals, and beach parties, which give visitors a chance to experience the local culture and lifestyle.

Whether you're looking for a lively atmosphere or a peaceful retreat, Atlantic County’s beaches offer a mix of entertainment, nature, and history.

Cape May County Beaches
Cape May County, NJ, is known for its beautiful beaches with powdery white sand, and several factors make them special:
1. Unique Fine-Grain Sand - The beaches in Cape May County, especially in places like Wildwood, Stone Harbor, and Cape May, have soft, fine-grained sand. This is due to natural sediment deposits and the way ocean currents shape the coastline.
2. Gentle Slopes & Wide Beaches - Many of the beaches, particularly in Wildwood, are exceptionally wide, providing plenty of space for sunbathers, beach games, and family activities. The gradual slope into the ocean also makes them great for wading and swimming.
3. Historic & Scenic Vibes - Cape May, in particular, is known for its charming Victorian architecture, beachfront promenade, and picturesque sunsets, making the beachgoing experience more than just about the sand and surf.
4. Family-Friendly & Free Beaches - Many beaches in Cape May County, like Strathmore and Wildwood's famous iconic boardwalk, stretching over 2 miles, are free to the public (no beach tags required), making them more accessible than other New Jersey shore destinations.