Island Beach State Park

We could not have had a better day to hit the beach with friends who have never been to the beach on this continent! Really cool that you can drive your vehicle directly in the beach (used a parking lot though given the Masda5 we were driving). Being allowed to grill on the beach was super awesome! When we were there dogs were also allowed on the beach too. Made for a great day and the fee is very reasonable!
5 7 years ago (07-01-2018)

Always a delightful place to visit, always changing. The wildlife here is quite interesting to view. All the little paths leading to the beach are so unique and each one has character​. It's like going through little forests only to emerge onto a beautiful beach. It's a far cry from the attitude of Seaside Heights, not that SH is bad, it's just tranquil and very scenic here. The entry fee is definitely worth it!
5 8 years ago (25-11-2017)

NJ's creme de la creme beach. There is much to explore here. Undomesticated beaches, biking (your own), trails, plenty of botany, driving on the beach at its distal end (given you have the proper permit/vehicle), kayaking (your own) in the Sedge Islands, and more. Lots of nature, ecology, and wildlife (falcons, foxes, etc.). I've seen dolphins and stingrays coasting through on the shore while I basked in the sun. If you love the feel of fine, pristine sands below your feet, none of that crunchy sand on the tourist beaches in NJ, this is the place for you. It can get packed on the distal end with many vehicles lined up on the beach on summer weekends. Low to mid activity on weekdays and all other seasons. Small daily fee to get in. It is not blatantly advertised, but there is generally someone at the booth 24 hours to allow night fishers/off-road drivers (you need permit) for shore fishing. If you are addicted to amenities and civilization where you have a 7-11 across the street from the beach, you're better off visiting Belmar beach. Island Beach is a single long stretch of road that creates a feeling of isolation. No stores, vendors, etc.
5 7 years ago (08-04-2018)

One the best beaches on the east coast.They limit the visitors so get there early on a perfect summer day.
4 7 years ago (25-04-2018)

Dog friendly beaches, besides 2 swimming beaches. Only $6 to get into the park. Can go off roading here. A lot of open space for biking. Sand flies are savage though. Can be avoided if you go when the wind is not blowing from marshy bay area.
4 8 years ago (13-08-2017)