Part of our New Jersey guide.
New Jersey’s beaches range from family-friendly boardwalks to wild, protected ecosystems. This roundup covers 11 places and guides from our New Jersey coverage, gathered into one page.
Coastal Marshes
New Jersey’s coastal marshes are wetlands that provide habitats for countless species of birds, fish, and plants. They act as natural water filters, trapping pollutants, and help protect coastal areas from flooding by absorbing excess water.
Island Beach State Park Ecosystems
Island Beach State Park blends sandy dunes and maritime forests. You can spot rare birds, foxes, and the occasional seal. Its diverse habitats support a wide range of plant and animal life.
Coastal Dune Ecosystems
New Jersey’s coastal dunes protect the coastline from storms and erosion. They provide habitat for hardy beach grass that holds the sand in place and rare birds that nest there.
Thrills Await At Parvin State Park's Thundergust Lake Beach
Thundergust Lake Beach at Parvin State Park offers a sandy beach for swimming, sunbathing, or building sandcastles. The lake’s calm waters suit families with kids. Beyond the beach, the park has hiking trails, picnic areas, and fishing spots.
Fluttering Wonders At Cattus Island Park
Cattus Island Park in Toms River, New Jersey, spans over 500 acres of trails, marshes, and a butterfly garden. Bring your camera and a picnic. For more on the area, check out our coverage of places in Toms River.
Unforgettable Fun At Jenkinson's Boardwalk Beach
Located in Point Pleasant Beach, New Jersey, Jenkinson’s Boardwalk Beach has sandy shores and rides. Kids can enjoy the aquarium, while teens might love the arcade games. Adults can stroll the boardwalk or eat at the many eateries. There is also a mini-golf course and gift shops. Jenkinson’s Beach stretches along the coast and is ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and building sandcastles.
Secret Spots On Long Beach New Jersey
Long Beach, New Jersey, often gets overlooked for more famous shore destinations. This island has quiet beaches, quaint cafés serving coffee and pastries, secluded parks, and lesser-known historical sites.
Coastal Wonders At Wetlands Institute
The Wetlands Institute in Stone Harbor, New Jersey, offers marshlands, rare birds, and interactive exhibits on local ecosystems. Guided tours and hands-on activities are available.
Ellis Island Ruins
The ruins on Ellis Island in New Jersey hold secrets of a bygone era. Once a gateway for immigrants, Ellis Island now stands as a silent witness to history. While most visitors flock to the well-preserved parts of the island, the ruins reveal the raw side of history where nature and time have left their mark. For more on the region’s past, explore our guide to historic sites and local culture in New Jersey.
Secrets Hidden On New Jersey's Bull's Island
Bull’s Island sits along the Delaware River. The island’s trails wind through forests and along riverbanks. It suits a day trip or a weekend getaway. For more adventures, see our guide to hiking and the outdoors in New Jersey.
Floating Bog Islands
Floating bog islands are made of plant material that has built up over time, creating a buoyant mat that floats on the water. They provide habitat for various plants and animals. For more hidden natural features, check out our coverage of hidden Pine Barrens and forests in New Jersey.
