The Best Family Beaches to Visit in New Jersey

The New Jersey shoreline isn’t only known for its nightlife, but it’s also known for having some of the best family-friendly beaches in the United States.  New Jersey has an entire 130 miles of shoreline, filled with some of the prettiest beaches around. Anywhere from scenic boardwalks to national parks, you can find a variety of beautiful beaches to bring your family.

Maybe it’s your first time in New Jersey, and you’d like to enjoy a nice day on the beach with your family, or maybe you’ve lived in New Jersey (or close by) for a while, and you’re finally ready to explore the beaches with your family. Here’s a list of the best NJ beaches to get you started:

Sandy Hook National Seashore   

This seven-mile beach and national park is known for its view of the Manhattan skyline. If you enjoy seafood, Sandy Hook has plenty of restaurants in the Atlantic Highlands. You can also find food trucks by the parking areas. Sandy Hook is the perfect beach for bird-watching, fishing, swimming, and lying out.

Long Branch  

Long Branch has one of the largest beaches on the Jersey Shore. Bring your family to a beach that is filled with stunning boardwalks, fine restaurants, and shopping. The Pier Village consists of plenty of shops and restaurants, including McLoone’s Pier House, and the Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory. Take your kids to the playground, which is located at Seven Presidents Oceanfront Park.

Asbury Park   

Asbury Park is known for its boardwalk, Bamboozle Festival, as well as the North East Food Trucks Park. Bring your kids along to other family-friendly activities, such as mini-golfing at Asbury Eighteen, and the Asbury Splash Park. Or go to the Silverball Museum Arcade, where there are plenty of pinball machines! Asbury Park is also filled with great restaurants, such as Pop’s Garage, The Crepe Shop, Langosta Lounge, and more.

Island Beach State Park

This preserved barrier island offers beautiful bay and ocean beaches. Island Beach State Park is the perfect beach for camping and grilling. There are plenty of restrooms, located at each of the beach entrances. Parking is also very accessible. However, if you’re coming to Island Beach State Park with young kids, keep in mind that the further down the island you park, the more walking you will have to do. Reserve an entire day filled with kayaking, horseback riding, hiking, biking, and more. Bring your dog along as well. Island Beach State Park welcomes dogs on leashes, only in the park areas.

Long Beach Island

Take your family to a beautiful 18-mile white sandy beach. Long Beach Island includes 17 towns and five boroughs. For stunning panoramic views of Long Beach Island, visit the Barnegat Lighthouse, which is located on the north side. Take your kids to the Fantasy Island Amusement Park, which is a Victorian-themed park in Beach Haven. If you’re visiting Long Beach Island during the summer, check out some family-friendly events, including children’s movies and free concerts.

So pack your swimsuit and bring along your children, because it’s time to go beach exploring! Set aside a Saturday afternoon and enjoy some downtime with your family at one of Jersey Shore’s best family beaches!