6 Top Picks for Monmouth County Beaches

 

Perfect for a weekend getaway or a permanent home, there’s a reason people keep coming to the Jersey Shore. Some of its best beaches are right here in Monmouth County. Here are my picks for Monmouth’s best beaches.

Asbury Park

Asbury Park is a popular mile-long beach with music, nightlife, and a bustling boardwalk. In the summer, it’s a hive of activity. Not only are the sands perfect for sunbathing and sandcastles, but a surfing-only beach is between Deal Lake Drive and Eighth Avenue. Summertime Surf provides surfing lessons and surf camps.

Asbury Park beach has many amenities. Find restrooms, showers, and water fountains near the boardwalk. Beach umbrellas, chairs, and locker rentals are available.

When you’re ready for a sun and surf break, the boardwalk has fabulous waterfront restaurants, local retail, mini-golf, two playgrounds, and a water park.

Beach passes are a must for access from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Buy passes through the Viply app or in person at the Beach Office and 7th Avenue Beach Booth.

Ocean Grove

Fodor’s once voted Ocean Grove one of the best beaches in New Jersey. This quiet, historic town known as “God’s square mile” has a half-mile of oceanfront beach. Known for its quaint Victorian houses and the Great Auditorium. The pristine white sands are wide, and the gentle surf is perfect for families looking to swim, build sandcastles, or play volleyball. Enjoy concerts and other events at the Boardwalk Pavilion during the summer months.

Ocean Grove’s boardwalk has a more classic look and feel, complete with spectacular Atlantic Ocean views. Take a two-block stroll into the charming downtown.

Ocean Grove Beach tags are required for beach access from Memorial Day through Labor Day. See the Ocean Grove Beach website for pricing information and beach hours.

Belmar Beach

Voted New Jersey’s no. 1 beach in 2014, this Monmouth County 1.3-mile beach prides itself on providing a clean and accessible beach environment for all. The sand is groomed each morning, and restrictions are enforced to provide a safe beachfront.

 

Belmar Beach is known for becoming lively in the summer, as people of all ages come for seaside fun. The beachfront features five beachfront parks with colorful playgrounds. Volleyball courts are available in various locations. The gazebo and Taylor Pavilion can be rented for events like weddings.

Several beachfront blocks are reserved for boogie boarding, surfing, and kayaking. A surf camp launches from Third Avenue Beach. Restrooms are available every few blocks, and beach chairs and umbrellas can be rented.

Beach badges are required from Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day. Refer to the beach website for fee information.

Long Branch

Long Branch is a thriving resort beach town with two miles of oceanfront. The broad, clean beaches are perfect for swimming, surfing, and fishing. People love coming here for the events, like Oceanfest, the town’s exciting Independence Day celebration.

Bathhouses are located at select access locations, and lockers are available for rental. Several entrances are mobility friendly.

On the boardwalk, enjoy family fun activities like a carousel, an arcade, several playgrounds, and mini golf. Kids will love the sea-themed carousel. Dining includes upscale fine dining, fresh seafood, and fast cafes serving beach day classics.

Shopping and dining options are plentiful in Long Branch. On the boardwalk is Pier Village, where you can browse upscale boutiques and surf shops.

See the Long Branch website for beach badges, rates, parking, and more information.

 

Manasquan

Manasquan often makes independent top-beaches in Jersey lists for a good reason. The well-maintained mile-long stretch has some of Jersey Shore’s best surfing waves.

The main beach has ample room for swimming, sunbathing, fishing, and volleyball. The north end has a fishing pier and two playgrounds. Find several surf schools offering lessons and equipment rental on the south end.

All the beach town amenities like ice cream shops, seafood eateries, and souvenir stores are steps from the sandy beaches. Manasquan also hosts movies and concerts on the beach during the summer.

 

Beach badges are required from Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day. See the borough website for the latest information about Manasquan Beach.

Spring Lake

Nicknamed the “Irish Riviera,” the acclaimed two-mile-long beach features wide stretches of sand perfect for a day at the ocean. The former summer getaway prides itself on preserving a peaceful but fun beach atmosphere. You won’t find a built-up and commercialized boardwalk in Spring Lake. Enjoy a peaceful stroll or jog along its entire length.

The beach has two pools, one on the North and South end, respectively. In keeping with its rustic charm, you won’t find equipment rentals or playgrounds here.

Beach badges are required from Memorial Day through Labor Day and must be purchased online.

Live at Monmouth County’s Beaches

Monmouth County’s beaches offer something for everyone, whether you’re looking to relax in the sun, catch some waves, or enjoy some fun activities. You’re sure to find your perfect spot with so many outstanding options. And, if you’re looking for a place to call home, Monmouth County’s beaches offer excellent opportunities for oceanfront living, too. Come explore everything that Monmouth County’s beaches have to offer.