16 Best Beaches in New Jersey, US 2022
New Jersey is bordered to the east, southeast, and south by the shimmering Atlantic Ocean, enticing residents from neighboring states to flock to cool off during the summers.
But New Jersey is more than just sand and waves; The state, in particular, is an iconic seaside haven filled with bustling amusement parks, unaltered Victorian homes, and idyllic parks.
If noise and crowds aren’t your tea for beach getaways, New Jersey isn’t short on quiet beaches lined with Victorian homes either, so don’t worry.
Can’t wait to go? Here’s a list of the best beaches in New Jersey to give you a quick look at what the charming state’s coastal districts, towns, and cities have to offer.
Contents
- 1. Cape May
- 2. Avalon
- 3. Ocean Grove
- 4. Wildwood Beach–Wildwood
- 5. Sandy Hook–Highlands
- 6. Brigantine Beach–Brigantine
- 7. Ocean City
- 8. Island Beach State Park – Maritime Park
- 9. Seaside Heights
- 10. Point Pleasant Beach
- 11. Asbury Park Beach–Asbury Park
- 12. Long Beach Island
- 13. Stone Harbor Beach–Stone Harbor
- 14. Long Branch Beach–Long Branch
- 15. Spring Lake Beach–Spring Lake
- 16. Margate
Cape May
Beach Avenue
Cape May, NJ 08204
(609) 884-9525
Stretching for more than two miles, Cape May’s beautiful beaches often top the best things to see in Cape May.
Why do we recommend this beach?
Cape May stands out among all the beaches in New Jersey for being one of the most beautiful in New Jersey and the oldest seaside resort in the entire country.
Some 600 preserved Victorian buildings stand against the backdrop of its pristine beaches; visiting the city feels like a sunny trip back in time.
What is our advice about this beach?
In addition to classic beach activities, Cape May also boasts vintage wineries, an alpaca farm, a mid-19th-century lighthouse, theaters, and plenty of other attractions to explore.
Recommended hotel nearby: Grand Hotel Cape May
Avalon
Avalon, NJ 08202
(609) 967-3936
North of 7 Mile Island, Avalon stretches for a mile to the east, bordered by bustling white-sand beaches.
Why do we recommend this beach?
Avalon is a laid-back coastal community dotted with vibrant boats, yachts, and one-of-a-kind homes. Visitors love its relaxed yet lively atmosphere and its half-mile boardwalk, playgrounds, and parks.
What is our advice about this beach?
Come early to witness the fantastic sunrise and watch the sunbathers slowly arrive.
Recommended hotel nearby: ICONA Avalon
3. Ocean Grove
Ocean Avenue
Ocean Grove, NJ 07756
(732) 988-5533
Founded in 1869, the small town of Ocean Grove has kept its Victorian architecture intact ever since, amid views of New Jersey’s most stunning clear-water beaches.
Why do we recommend this beach?
The dog-friendly Ocean Grove Beach is just two blocks from downtown, giving you plenty of fun beach activities near restaurants and shops. Best of all, the beach has lifeguards and clean services.
What is our advice about this beach?
We highly recommend stopping by the Ocean Grove Grand Auditorium while you’re here. It is a wooden Victorian theater that has been called “the most wonderful wooden structure in the state.”
Recommended hotel nearby: The Asbury
Wildwood Beach–Wildwood
3500 Boardwalk
Wildwood, NJ 08260
(800) 992-9732
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Wildwood Beach, located in a resort town, is an award-winning beach and is one of the most popular in New Jersey.
Why do we recommend this beach?
Wildwood is a lively and colorful resort town known for its seaside amusement and water parks. A favorite of Wildwood families is the Splash Zone, which is home to plenty of thrilling slides and a lazy river. The city also has fascinating indoor attractions.
What is our advice about this beach?
This five-mile beach also hosts many events, including tournaments, festivals, races, and concerts, so check their calendar for a chance to join in the fun.
Recommended hotels nearby: Hotel The Waves, Ascend Hotel Collection
Sandy Hook–Highlands
Sandy Hook Beach
Highlands, NJ 07732
(609) 599-6540
With seven miles of beautiful coastline and endless views of the Atlantic Ocean, Sandy Hook Beach is fun-loving nirvana.
Why do we recommend this beach?
With lifeguards on alert throughout the beach, Sandy Hook also has cerulean water that is warm and gentle towards the shore, making it the safest beach for children. Relax, knowing your family is safe.
What is our advice about this beach?
When you visit Sandy Hook Beach anytime between September 16 and March 14, you can bring your furry family member. Of course, keep them tied at all times.
Recommended hotel nearby: Hotel Bungalow
Brigantine Beach–Brigantine
Ocean Avenue
Brigantine, NJ 08203
(609) 266-7600
Brigantine Beach is one of the best beach spots next to Atlantic City, with miles of oceanfront shoreline and lots of fun things.
Why do we recommend this beach?
Brigantine Beach’s serene shoreline offers tons of fun things for you and the crew to enjoy, like surfing, kayaking, jet skiing, sailing, canoeing, and fishing. Brigantine Beach is close to some of New Jersey’s best hotels.
What is our advice about this beach?
If your kids can’t swim yet, you can sign them up for a swim lesson program with the Brigantine Beach Patrol.
Recommended hotel nearby: Ocean Casino Resort
7. Ocean City
Ocean City, New Jersey 08226
(609) 399-6111
Ocean City welcomes hundreds of thousands of vacationers each year due to its eight miles of shoreline lined with amusement parks and beach activities.
Why do we recommend this beach?
With a family-oriented atmosphere and lively kid-approved attractions, Ocean City is one of the best New Jersey beach places.
Dubbed America’s Greatest Family Resort, this seaside hub not only draws crowds to its beaches, its boardwalk, parks, and arcades are equally iconic.
What is our advice about this beach?
Waverly Boulevard and 16th Street are the best places to surf. If you’re not a surfer, brother, you can go biking on the boardwalk, do yoga on the warm sand, and go shopping when you explore downtown.
Recommended hotel nearby: Biscayne Suites
Island Beach State Park – Maritime Park
Island Beach State
Park Seaside Park, NJ 0873
(732) 793-0506
Seaside Park offers two beaches: Seaside Park Beach and Island Beach State Park. The latter boasts 16 kilometers of sugary white shorelines and pristine, clean waters.
Why do we recommend this beach?
Island Beach State Park encompasses more than 3,000 acres of pristine coastal dunes and white-sand beaches, home to various birds and plants.
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What is our advice about this beach?
If you include the elderly in your beach getaway, Island Beach State Park offers elements accessible to anyone in a wheelchair. You can even rent beach wheelchairs during the summer season.
Recommended hotel nearby: Hotel LBI
Seaside Heights
Seaside Heights, NJ 08751
(732) 793-9100
Since 1915, this fun-oriented seaside community has drawn families in droves to its shores during the summers.
Why do we recommend this beach?
Believe it or not, Seaside Heights, one of New Jersey’s most famous beach destinations, offers you the best value for money. To this day, beach bums love all the cheap but high-quality attractions by the sea, most of which are over a hundred years old!
What is our advice about this beach?
The Bay Beach is completely free every day! Save your money for the fairground rides, arcade games, and boardwalk dining options.
Recommended hotel nearby: Days Hotel by Wyndham Toms River Jersey Shore
Point Pleasant Beach
300 Ocean Avenue
Point Pleasant Beach, NJ 08742
(732) 892-1118
Located on the long and narrow Barnegat Peninsula, Point Pleasant Beach truly is the best beach to go to when you’re in the far north of Ocean County, with its striking clean shoreline, sparkling blue waters, and lively boardwalk. Maritime.
Why do we recommend this beach?
Point Pleasant Beach offers powdery white sand perfect for sunbathing, beachcombing, building sandcastles, playing beach games, and flying kites.
But what makes Point Pleasant so famous and iconic is the Jenkinson Boardwalk, a mile-long boardwalk with a miniature golf course, amusement park rides, carnival rides, and several restaurants.
What is our advice about this beach?
For more fun, check out the official calendar on the Jenkinson Boardwalk website for spectacular events.
Recommended hotel nearby: Hotel Inn on Main
Asbury Park Beach–Asbury Park
First Avenue
Asbury Park, NJ 07712
(732) 502-8863
Nestled on the shores of the Atlantic Ocean, Asbury Park Beach is a kid-friendly beach destination with many amenities that make travel convenient and comfortable.
Why do we recommend this beach?
Asbury Park Beach offers extensive services, lifeguards, playgrounds, water fountains, a boardwalk lined with shops and restaurants, and a vast beach area, clean water, and warm sea breezes, making it the best beach to swim in new jersey.
What is our advice about this beach?
If you’ve worked up an appetite to enjoy the beach, there are food trucks nearby with really healthy and tasty food. If you want to enjoy a party on the beach, head to the restaurants on the seafront.
Recommended hotel nearby: Mayfair Hotel
Long Beach Island
Long Beach Township, NJ 08008
(609) 361-3395
With its fresh air and laid-back vibe, 18-mile Long Beach Island is a perfect romantic stopover for couples.
Why do we recommend this beach?
Long Beach Island hosts adventures for outdoor daredevils, beach bums, and bums. Exciting water sports, shopping, dining, festivals, and historical sites await.
What is our advice about this beach?
Visit the eye-catching Barnegat Museum of Light for incredible views, or check out the South Pier walkway for fresh ocean groceries.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Holiday Inn Manahawkin/Long Beach Island, an IHG Hotel
Stone Harbor Beach–Stone Harbor
2 94th Street
Stone Harbor, NJ 08247
(609) 368-6101
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With 30 miles of pristine beach, Stone Harbor refers to itself as The Coast at its best.
Why do we recommend this beach? 16 Best Beaches in New Jersey, US 2022
Stone Harbor Beach is a tranquil shoreline of milky white sand and sparkling cerulean waters, a haven away from the crowds and noise of the city.
What is our advice about this beach?
There are also several nearby attractions at Stone Harbor Beach, including historical sites and a zoo.
Recommended hotel nearby: ICONA Avalon
Long Branch Beach–Long Branch
4 Ocean Avenue
Long Branch, NJ 07740
(732) 222-7000
Are you looking for a seemingly endless coastline of beautiful beaches in New Jersey? Since the late 18th century, Long Branch Beach has been recognized as a beach destination.
Why do we recommend this beach?
Located in a resort town, Long Branch Beach is easily accessible and close to many of the town’s attractions. Summers see crowds and colorful umbrellas dotting the sand when temperatures rise.
What is our advice about this beach?
Long Branch Beach is just a stone’s throw from Pier Village, a waterfront playground filled with restaurants, shops, and a giant carousel. You might want to check it out before you leave town.
Recommended hotel nearby: Wave Resort
Spring Lake Beach–Spring Lake
410 Ocean Avenue
Spring Lake, NJ 07762
(732) 449-0800
Sometimes nicknamed the Irish Riviera, Spring Lake is a small seaside town that brings together serene beach views, Victorian mansions, and flower-filled parks.
Why do we recommend this beach?
Spring Lake’s picturesque beauty and old-fashioned charm are underrated, but it’s Cape May’s quieter counterpart, perfect for history buffs who love the sea.
What is our advice about this beach?
We highly recommend staying in one of the Historic Inns’ Victorian homes. It’s a great way to experience a bit of the sophistication of Victorian life.
Recommended hotel nearby: Mayfair Hotel
16. Margate
Atlantic Avenue
Margate, New Jersey 08402
(609) 822-2370
Although Margate is only a mile and a half long and a mile wide, it is one of the best beaches in New Jersey for vacationers seeking silence and gentle, shallow waves.
Why do we recommend this beach?
What Margate lacks in visitors, it makes up for in scenery, facilities, attractions, and tranquility. Restaurants and street vendors selling refreshments abound in the area to cater to hungry beachgoers.
What is our advice about this beach?
While you’re here, don’t miss a visit to Margate’s iconic Lucy the Elephant, built-in 1881. It has a gift shop inside and a covered balcony on top.
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