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New Jersey offers beachgoers 130 miles of coastline dotted with beaches, barrier islands, lighthouses, and scenic views. Hundreds of thousands of visitors come to the white sand beaches of the Jersey Shore each year, and it's easy to see why.
An expert panel nominated their picks for the best beaches in the Garden State, then readers voted to decide the winners. Here are the 10 best beaches in New Jersey.
Avon-by-the-Sea enchants visitors with its quaint coastal charm, featuring tree-lined streets, historic Victorian homes, and a low-key stretch of scenic beaches ideal for sunbathing and swimming. Avon-by-the-Sea is known for its low-key vibe, and it’s a must-visit destination for those seeking relaxation without the bustle and crowds of neighboring beaches.
Primarily a residential destination, Brigantine attracts repeat visitors with its natural beauty, offering miles of serene beaches, framed by dunes and stunning wildlife habitats. Whether you're fishing by the shoreline, kayaking through the bays, or splashing in the waves, Brigantine Beach provides a fun destination for all ages. Plus, you can drive on the beach in certain areas — permit required.
Avalon is an upscale seaside retreat with soft sands, shimmering waters, and a laid-back ambience ideal for family vacations. You can simply lounge on the beach and admire the waves, or surf, kayak, and fish along the shore. Most of the island is residential, so you’ll find parking, some amenities, and restaurants near the busier, central beach entrances.
Famous for its vibrant boardwalk and live music scene, Asbury Park offers a dynamic coastal experience for beachgoers of all ages. It’s fun to soak up the sun on the expansive sandy shores, go surfing, and take a dip in the refreshing ocean waves. Everything here is close by — you can easily rent beach chairs and umbrellas, browse shops, and grab a snack at the beachfront eateries. Afterwards, catch some live music steps away from the ocean.
Long Beach Island features idyllic beaches, charming seaside communities, and an abundance of recreational opportunities for beachgoers of all ages. Whether you're surfing the waves, fishing off the shoreline, splashing in the shallow water, or napping on your beach blanket, Long Beach Island provides a quintessential beach experience. The island is primarily residential, although parking and amenities are located at main beach entrance points along the island.
In southern New Jersey, Sea Isle City’s delightful, family-friendly beach scene attracts enthusiastic beachgoers of all ages. From swimming in the ocean waves and sunbathing on its wide, soft, sandy shores, to fishing off the pier, these beaches are delightful for oceanside fun. There are food options and other amenities close to the main beach access points around town.
Family-friendly Cape May exudes historic charm with its picturesque Victorian architecture, leafy streets, and quaint boutiques, all overlooking the sparkling waters of the Atlantic Ocean. Beaches here are truly enchanting and convenient to food (and amenities). In the evening, it’s a tradition for visitors and locals alike to gather and admire the sun setting behind the Cape May Lighthouse. The promenade spans several blocks throughout the busier section of town and has seating with access to the sand.
Atlantic City is home to the longest boardwalk in the world, and features an iconic skyline with bustling casinos, and many entertainment options. The wide beaches here are ideal for body surfing, playing in the waves, or just strolling by the water. With a backdrop of the giant Ferris wheel and amusement park, the city boasts plenty of restaurants and amenities (like beach chairs and umbrella rentals) along the main beach access points.
Ocean City is a beloved, family-friendly coastal hub that attracts multi-generational visitors year after year. Adjacent to its legendary boardwalk with carnival rides and entertainment, the beaches stretch for miles. Visitors adore swimming, wading in the waves, and lying on the sandy shore along the lifeguard-monitored beaches. It’s fun to build sandcastles, play paddle ball, and grab an ice cream or snack on the boardwalk.
Featuring the largest stretches of sand on the Jersey Shore (500 yards wide at points), The Wildwoods provide plenty of space for beachgoers to spread out. In fact, they offer a unique beach taxi service that brings visitors from the boardwalk to a spot closer to the ocean to set up their chairs and umbrellas. On the beach, guests can play volleyball, surf, boogie board, or just play in the waves. Surrounded by iconic retro architecture, the legendary Wildwood Boardwalk is a big entertainment hub, offering an electric vibe day and night.