The Garden State is one of the top destinations for summer vacations, primarily due to its gorgeous coastline. With more than a hundred miles of oceanside, there are dozens of amazing beach destinations to explore. From city-run stretches of sand in the heart of town to secluded state parks with immaculate beaches, you’ll love your time by the water in New Jersey.
11 Best Beach Towns in New Jersey
Over the years, New Jersey’s sandy beaches have been a significant draw for visitors, stretching 130 miles (1,792 miles, according to NOAA) along the coast. The Garden State is home to a number of the East Coast’s premier beach towns, each with its own particular attraction and ambiance that lures tourists and those looking for …
Top Beaches and Coastal Towns in NJ
Among the most well-known coastal communities in New Jersey is Atlantic City, famous for its towering casinos. However, that’s just one of so many cool beach towns to discover in this East Coast summer hot spot. During the off-season, temperatures cool down considerably and most of the state will see some snow during the winter, but that keeps the beaches even less crowded for a morning stroll.
Guide to Visiting the Beaches in New Jersey
Because New Jersey has 130 miles of coastline (1,792 according to NOAA), visiting the top beaches in the Garden State is a must-do activity. There are so many beautiful shores to choose from that it might take time to narrow down your options.
The Jersey Shore is a popular place to go on vacation because it has many enjoyable coastal towns and miles of clean beaches where you can relax in the sun, walk along boardwalks, or do water sports. There is a destination out there for everyone, whether you’re looking for a family-friendly beach, a romantic hideaway, or some quiet time to yourself.
The Cape May region, with its pristine beachfront and miles of gorgeous, multicolored homes, is one of the most popular destinations for beachgoers. This area is a fantastic combination of beauty and history.
Families or retirees looking to settle down should turn their heads toward quieter ocean towns like Point Pleasant and Ocean City. Shopping enthusiasts will find a little bit of everything in Avalon and Long Beach Island.
New Jersey Coastal Climate
May and June, or late summer and early autumn, September and October, are ideal times to explore a New Jersey beach. Spring is delightful, with more warm days and abundant blue skies. Weather-wise, the summer is the best season to visit the beaches along the coast because of the heat. Winter is characterized by mild temperatures and fewer people.
Even while the winter months may seem the best time to come, the water may be chilly, lifeguards may not be on duty, and many attractions may be closed for the season.
Activities
Typical beach and ocean activities are done on the Jersey Shore. Fishing, swimming in the Atlantic Ocean, boogie boarding, surfing, and sailing are some of the best ways to spend time by the water.
Many New Jersey beach towns have boardwalks with a wide variety of entertainment, shops, snacks, and amusements. Dine on fresh seafood at one of the many coastal towns’ restaurants near the beachfront.
Sharks
Throughout the warm summer months, migrating sharks can pass close to beaches on their route north. In this region of the Atlantic, basking, mako, bull, dusky, and even great whites have been seen in the water. Even though there are signs and lifeguards to assist you in keeping a lookout, you should be mindful of your water surroundings.
Lodging and Camping
There is plenty of lodging on the Jersey Shore, but it can help plan for summer trips. The warm months attract thousands to the famed Jersey Shore beaches. Keep in mind that locals often start looking for summer rentals in the spring, so you’ll want to reserve yours early if you want to avoid disappointment.
Waterfront condos, houses, and lodges are available in most seaside towns. If you want to book a hotel or motel, make sure to do it as soon as possible, and expect accommodations to require a minimum stay of three nights on weekends during the summer. Plenty of campgrounds dot the Jersey Coast, such as Cape May’s Depot Travel Park or the Allaire State Park Group Campsite.
When you’re ready to enjoy a traditional American beach vacation, go to the Jersey coast for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. Take a deep, salty breath, enjoy an ice cream cone, and relax by the Atlantic.
