With more than 40 coastal communities connected by more than 130 miles of beaches, the Jersey Shore includes oceanfront parks overseen by local, state, and federal government organizations. Whether you’re planning a short trip or a week-long stay, choosing where to go might feel stressful, especially with so many options.
Here’s a brief guide to New Jersey’s best beaches to make your beach visit easy. Whether you’re looking for family-friendly spots, vibrant boardwalks, or great dining, New Jersey’s Shore has something for everyone. Below, you’ll find the top beaches in New Jersey.
This article covers everything you need for a perfect beach day or getaway at the Jersey Shore!
Top 10 Beaches in New Jersey
- Point Pleasant Beach
- Beach Haven (Long Beach Island)
- Stone Harbor
- Sea Girt
- Strathmere (Upper Township)
- Ocean City
- Asbury Park
- Cape May
- Atlantic City
- Long Branch
1. Point Pleasant Beach: A Seaside Playground
Fun House isn’t just an attraction on the Point Pleasant Beach boardwalk; it’s a perfect metaphor for this lively seaside spot. With its world-class aquarium, live entertainment, amusement park, wide beaches, dining options, and shops, there’s plenty to do. Need a break from the sun? Visit Jenkinson’s Aquarium, where kids can see sharks, penguins, alligators, seals, and even touch sea stars and stingrays. For dinner, try burgers at Frankie’s Bar & Grill on Richmond Avenue. Finish the day with a sweet treat at Hoffman’s, known for its delicious homemade ice cream flavors like strawberry bon-bon and peanut butter nuggets.
2. Beach Haven (Long Beach Island): Exit 63
While most LBI towns offer quiet retreats, Beach Haven is bustling with family fun. Fantasy Island, LBI’s only amusement park, celebrates its 40th anniversary with arcade games and kid-friendly rides. Nearby, Thundering Surf Water Park offers waterslides and mini-golf. Shoppers will enjoy Bay Village’s shops and dining spots. On rainy days, the Museum of New Jersey Maritime History showcases fascinating artifacts and underwater finds. The main draw is Beach Haven’s mile-square guarded ocean beach, but families love the calmer waters and play area at Taylor Avenue beach on the bay side.
3. Stone Harbor: Exit 10
Stone Harbor offers family fun with small-town charm, a relaxed shopping district, and great restaurants—all at a slower pace. The beaches are uncrowded and walkable from anywhere in town. Shoppers flock to 96th Street, and kids will love watching fudge being made at the Original Fudge Kitchen, painting pottery at Island Studio, or catching a movie at the local theater. Rent bikes or paddleboards from Harbor Outfitters for outdoor fun. Visit the Wetlands Institute for bay ecosystem tours. End the day with Springer’s Homemade Ice Cream, a town favorite since the 1920s.
4. Sea Girt: Exit 98
Sea Girt offers a quiet family getaway with one mile of uncrowded beaches and an old-fashioned boardwalk starting at the Sea Girt Lighthouse. For dining, visit Rod’s Tavern, a classic saloon serving pub fare, or head to the Parker House for lunch and some people-watching, though be prepared for long lines.
5. Strathmere (Upper Township): Exit N-13/S-17
Nestled between the bustling Ocean City and Sea Isle City, Strathmere is a cozy 1.5-mile hamlet that requires no beach tags, making it one of the best-hidden beaches in New Jersey. Access the beach from Commonwealth Avenue, where you can always find free street parking, even during peak summer.
Enjoy sunbathing on the sandy shore, stroll to the northern end for beautiful Ocean City views, watch dolphins, or engage in activities like kayaking, surfing, fishing, and kiteboarding—all without the kitschy shops and boardwalk crowds. For a break, grab a cold beer at the charming Twisties or relax on the outdoor deck at the popular Deauville Inn. Just remember, don’t let anyone know you heard about Strathmere from us—it’s a well-kept secret! (Even the town’s oval car decals say “Shhh.”)
6. Ocean City: Exit N-25/S-30
Ocean City offers eight miles of sandy beaches and a 2.5-mile boardwalk full of activities. Rent a bike at Ocean City Bicycle Center and cruise along the beach before indulging in fresh donuts at Brown’s Restaurant (go early to beat the long lines). Enjoy seaside rides at Gillian’s Wonderland Pier or Playland’s Castaway Cove, home to the GaleForce coaster. For lunch, grab a slice at Manco & Manco Pizza, and don’t miss sweets from Shriver’s, where saltwater taffy and creamy fudge tempt all.
7. Asbury Park, Exit S-102/N-100A
Asbury Park is a foodie’s paradise. Asbury Festhalle & Biergarten (temporarily closed) serves German-style fare with over 50 beers on tap. For breakfast, head to Toast for pancakes or crab cakes. Barrio Costero offers modern Mexican cuisine with creative cocktails, while Talula’s specializes in gourmet pizzas and sandwiches on housemade sourdough. Stella Marina provides an upscale Italian dining experience on the boardwalk. For British pub food, visit Black Swan Public House, or enjoy French cuisine at the romantic Pascal & Sabine.
8. Cape May: Exit 0
Cape May, America’s oldest seaside resort, is rich in Victorian charm and offers something for everyone. For breakfast, George’s Place and the Mad Batter are top choices. Hot Dog Tommy’s, a beachside staple, draws crowds for casual bites. For a pint, head to C-View Inn, the town’s oldest tavern. For a more upscale dining experience, Maison Bleue serves exquisite French cuisine.
9. Atlantic City: Exit 38B
Atlantic City isn’t just about gambling—it offers vibrant nightlife and top-notch entertainment. Head to Tropicana or Premier in the Borgata for clubbing with guest DJs. Harrah’s Pool After Dark, enclosed in a 90-foot glass dome, is perfect for night swimming, with Jacuzzis, cabanas, and live performances at Vibe Bistro. Caesars offers the thrilling “The Hook” show, paired with a meal at the wild Superfrico restaurant. Atlantic City also hosts big-name music and comedy acts year-round, along with some of New Jersey’s best dining options.
10. Long Branch: Exit 105
If shopping is as important as sunning for you, Pier Village in Long Branch is the place to be. Located just across from the boardwalk, this shopping plaza features a variety of fun boutiques offering fashion, books, and more. After exploring Long Branch, enjoy a meal at Avenue, a favorite oceanfront restaurant. Don’t forget to indulge in a sweet treat from Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory!
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Conclusion:
New Jersey’s beaches provide many activities with everything from calm getaways and family-friendly beaches to exciting nightlife and excellent food. Whether you’re looking for a fun-filled day with the kids, a calm vacation, or an exhilarating night out, the Jersey Shore has something for everyone. So collect your beach essentials and get ready for a perfect vacation!