Looking for the perfect beach day in New Jersey? You’re in the right place. The Garden State is full of coastline gems, but not all beaches are created equal. Some are perfect for families with kids, others are made for thrill-seekers, and a few are just straight-up cool. Whether you want boardwalk games, wide-open sand, or oceanfront concerts, NJ has a beach for every vibe.
In this guide, we’re highlighting three of
the best: Point Pleasant, Wildwood, and Asbury Park. Each
one brings something special to the shore—from classic boardwalks and
free-entry beaches to creative communities with serious style. So if you're
planning your next summer getaway or just want to explore more of what Jersey
has to offer, keep reading. Your new favorite beach might be just down the
Parkway.
Point Pleasant Beach: Family Fun with a
Classic Boardwalk
Point Pleasant Beach is the kind of place
that feels like summer never left. Tucked along the northern Jersey Shore, it’s
got everything a beach lover dreams of—soft sand, clean water, and that
nostalgic boardwalk energy. Whether you're building sandcastles with the kids
or just laying back under an umbrella, the beach is clean, calm, and
family-friendly. Lifeguards are always on duty, and the water quality is
consistently excellent. There's even a designated surfing area for wave chasers
who want a little action on the side.
But what really gives Point Pleasant its
charm is the boardwalk. Jenkinson’s Boardwalk brings the fun with arcades, mini
golf, and a small but well-kept aquarium—perfect for rainy-day plans. Grab some
fried Oreos or a slice of pizza and stroll along the oceanfront. It’s casual,
it’s classic, and it never feels overwhelming like some of the bigger Jersey
beach scenes. Point Pleasant proves you don’t need to go big to have a great
beach day.
Jenkinson’s Boardwalk:
Where Memories Are Made
Jenkinson’s isn’t just a boardwalk—it’s a
full experience. Right by the beach, this stretch of fun offers rides, games,
and snacks galore. It’s especially great for families with young kids or anyone
looking to relive a bit of childhood joy. There's something magical about
hearing carousel music with the sound of waves in the background.
- Classic arcades with retro and modern games
- Mini golf
with ocean views
- Jenkinson’s
Aquarium for rainy days
- Plenty of snack bars, candy shops,
and pizza joints
Wildwood Beach: Wide Sands, Free Entry, and
Retro Feels
If you're the type who loves elbow room on
the sand, Wildwood Beach is your paradise. This is one of the widest beaches on
the East Coast—seriously, you’ll walk a bit to get to the water, but it’s worth
it. The best part? It’s totally free. No beach badges, no daily fees—just bring
your towel and you're good to go. The ocean here is great for swimming, boogie
boarding, or just cooling off on a hot day. Lifeguards are everywhere, so
safety is top-notch too.
What really sets Wildwood apart, though, is
its one-of-a-kind mix of vintage charm and modern fun. The boardwalk is straight
out of the 1950s with bright neon signs, tram cars that say “Watch the tram
car, please,” and more than 100 rides and attractions across three huge piers.
Add in beach concerts, fireworks, and summer festivals, and you've got a beach
town that never sleeps—but still feels totally chill.
Morey’s Piers: The
Heartbeat of Wildwood
Morey’s Piers isn’t just an amusement
park—it’s the soul of Wildwood’s boardwalk. Spanning three piers over 18 acres,
it's packed with roller coasters, water parks, and thrill rides for every age.
Whether you’re a daredevil or a carousel fan, you’ll find your fun here.
- Over 100 rides including roller coasters and Ferris
wheels
- Two giant
beachfront water parks
- Fireworks
and light shows in peak summer
- Great food options, from funnel cake
to gourmet tacos
Asbury Park Beach: Artsy Vibes and Oceanfront
Cool
Asbury Park Beach hits differently—it’s a
beach town with soul. Known for its creative flair and music legacy, this spot
brings together sun, sand, and serious style. The beach itself is well-kept,
with soft sand and clear water that’s perfect for swimming or just lounging. It
does have a daily beach fee, but most agree it’s worth the price for the clean
facilities, family-friendly vibe, and beautiful views. Whether you're a solo
beach-goer or rolling deep with friends, Asbury welcomes all kinds.
But it's not just the beach that draws people
in—it’s the community. Asbury Park blends surf culture with street art, vintage
shops, and indie cafes, all wrapped around a lively boardwalk. This place has
deep musical roots (hello, Bruce Springsteen), and the vibe is pure creative
energy. You can catch live music at The Stone Pony, shop vinyls and books, or
snap photos of colorful murals—without ever leaving the sand.
The Asbury Boardwalk:
Where Culture Meets Coastline
The Asbury Park Boardwalk feels like an
open-air gallery with a pulse. It’s lined with artisan vendors, quirky
boutiques, and live music spots, all with an ocean view. Whether you're
grabbing a coffee, browsing records, or catching a sunset concert, this
boardwalk is all about local flavor.
- Vintage shops and art galleries with local flair
- Murals and
public art all along the boardwalk
- Outdoor
bars and rooftop lounges
- Iconic venues like The Stone Pony
and Convention Hall
The Final Tide:
New Jersey’s beaches aren’t just places to
swim—they’re experiences that stick with you long after the tan fades. From the
family-friendly charm of Point Pleasant, to the retro buzz of Wildwood,
to the artsy energy of Asbury Park, every shoreline tells a different
story. Whether you’re chasing roller coasters, relaxing with music in the
background, or just grabbing boardwalk fries after a dip, there’s a beach here
that feels like it was made for you.
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