Quiet beach community at the southernmost tip of New Jersey featuring Cape May Lighthouse, Sunset Beach, and Cape May Bird Observatory. Known for dolphin watching, cape may diamonds, and spectacular sunsets. Beach tags required.
Beaches for Swimming
North Wildwood Beach
Free beach access with wide sandy beaches and designated surfing areas. Features Morey’s Piers amusements nearby, the Anglesea entertainment district, and the historic Hereford Inlet Lighthouse. No beach tags required.
Beach Haven
Vibrant beach community on Long Beach Island featuring Fantasy Island Amusement Park, Thundering Surf Water Park, and the New Jersey Maritime Museum. Known as the “Queen City” of LBI with numerous dining options. Beach badges required.
Strathmere Beach
Uncrowded beach with free access (no beach tags) in an unincorporated community between Ocean City and Sea Isle City. Features limited commercial development, quiet atmosphere, and seasonal lifeguards.
Manasquan Beach
Popular beach at the southern end of the North Jersey Shore featuring a dog-friendly beach area, designated surfing spots, and family atmosphere. Known for fishing jetties and waterfront dining options. Beach badges required.
Sea Girt Beach
Quiet beach with historic Sea Girt Lighthouse (1896) and one-mile non-commercial boardwalk. Features the Sea Girt Pavilion with dining and gathering spaces. Known for its affluent residential character. Beach badges required.
Brigantine Beach
Quiet alternative to nearby Atlantic City with six miles of clean beaches. Features North Brigantine Natural Area with 4×4 beach access for permitted vehicles. Beach badges required with seasonal lifeguards.
Bradley Beach
Family-oriented beach town with a mile-long beachfront featuring a miniature golf course, seasonal concessions, and grassy areas with gazebos and benches. Wider beaches than neighboring towns with seasonal lifeguards. Beach badges required.
Stone Harbor Beach
Upscale family beach town with pristine beaches, upscale shopping, and dining. Features a walkable downtown area with boutiques and the Wetlands Institute for nature education. Beach tags required.
Ocean Grove Beach
Historic beach in a Methodist camp meeting community featuring the Great Auditorium, tent city, and largest collection of Victorian architecture in the United States. Beach activities historically restricted on Sundays. Beach badges required.