Counting the waves…
Counting the waves…
You'll find Long Beach Township Beach strung along the spine of Long Beach Island, where sixty-seven numbered streets each lead to their own slice of shoreline. The beach here runs wide and flat, interrupted every few blocks by weathered groins that collect shells and create natural pools at low tide. Families stake out the same spots year after year, close enough to the lifeguard stands that parents can read while children dig moats around sandcastles that will be gone by evening. The dunes rise gently behind the strand, anchored by sea grass that bends in the perpetual onshore breeze. Municipal beach badges—required Memorial Day through Labor Day—keep the crowds manageable, and the sand stays relatively uncrowded even on August weekends when the Garden State Parkway clogs with southbound traffic. The ocean temperature climbs into the low seventies by July, warm enough that you can stay in the water until your fingertips wrinkle. Between Beach Haven to the south and Barnegat Light to the north, Long Beach Township occupies the quieter middle stretch of the island. The commercial strips along Long Beach Boulevard feel deliberately modest—pizza by the slice, putt-putt golf, tackle shops that open before dawn. After the beach, you'll walk back across hot asphalt in bare feet, sand still clinging to your calves, past cottages with outdoor showers and American flags snapping in the salt air.
Places, rentals, tours and events within walking and driving distance of Long Beach Township Beach.
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Long Beach Township beaches are generally safe for families and have lifeguards on duty during summer months, typically from late June through early September. Lifeguarded beaches are marked with flags, and guards patrol from approximately 10am to 5:30pm. Ocean conditions vary, so always check daily beach reports and swim only in guarded areas. The beaches have gentle slopes in many spots, making them suitable for children, but always supervise young swimmers. Rip currents can occur, so heed lifeguard warnings and ask guards about current conditions before entering the water.
Summer (June through August) offers warm weather, full beach amenities, and lifeguards, making it ideal for families despite larger crowds. Shoulder seasons of late May and September provide pleasant temperatures with fewer visitors and lower accommodation rates. Fall and spring are perfect for beach walks and bird watching, though swimming may be chilly. Winter attracts those seeking solitude and dramatic ocean views. Beach badge requirements typically apply from mid-June through early September. For the warmest ocean temperatures and complete beach services, visit between late June and mid-August.
Long Beach Township has multiple metered parking areas along Long Beach Boulevard and various side streets leading to beach access points. Parking rates vary by location and season, with higher fees during summer. Many areas use pay-and-display meters accepting credit cards and coins. Some streets offer free parking but fill quickly in summer. Daily rates typically range from $2-3 per hour in peak season. Residential areas have parking restrictions, so look for signs carefully. Arriving early morning increases your chances of finding spots near popular access points, especially on weekends.
Long Beach Boulevard offers numerous restaurants, from casual beachside cafes to seafood restaurants and pizza shops. Popular areas include Brant Beach, Beach Haven, and Surf City sections with ice cream parlors, markets, and beach supply stores. Several beach access points have outdoor showers and restrooms during summer. The township doesn't allow food vendors on beaches, so bring supplies or visit nearby establishments. Accommodations range from oceanfront hotels to vacation rentals and family-owned motels. Many businesses are seasonal, operating primarily May through September, with limited options during off-season months.
Yes, Long Beach Township requires beach badges from approximately mid-June through early September for visitors ages 12 and older. Badges can be purchased daily, weekly, or seasonally at beach entrances, township offices, and select local businesses. Daily badges cost around $10-12, weekly badges approximately $25-30, and seasonal passes roughly $35-45, though prices may vary yearly. Children under 12 enter free. Beach badge checkers patrol regularly during summer. Before and after the badge season, beach access is free. Keep your badge visible while on the beach to avoid repurchasing.
