Island Beach State Park: New Jersey's Pristine 10-Mile Barrier Beach Haven
Just a 10-mile drive south from the vibrant Seaside Heights boardwalk—iconic from MTV's Jersey Shore—discovers a serene Jersey Shore gem. Island Beach State Park spans 10 miles across 3,000 acres, ranking among New Jersey's largest preserved barrier beach islands.
Much of the park remains untouched reserves safeguarding native flora and fauna, including the New Jersey Governor's private vacation home. Yet, it's designed for public enjoyment, offering diverse beach, nature, and wildlife experiences.
Top Activities at Island Beach State Park
Most visitors head to the designated recreational beach—the only swimming-allowed area—complete with restrooms and concessions, making it an ideal day trip for locals.
Beyond lounging and swimming, thrill-seekers enjoy surfing and windsurfing in marked zones. (View a detailed park map here.)
Explore the water via kayak tours (book here), canoeing, or stand-up paddleboarding (SUP). On land, hike easy-to-moderate trails, bike, or horseback ride.
At the park's southern tip, glimpse Barnegat Lighthouse across the inlet (access requires a drive or boat). Anglers and hunters can fish or hunt with required registration.
For relaxed pursuits, spot diverse wildlife like osprey and snowy owls, or study plants at the Emily DeCamp Herbarium in the Forked River Interpretive Center. Experience dunes, maritime forests, wetlands, thickets, tidal marshes, and beaches.
Entrance Fees and Essential Info
Open year-round, 7 days a week, with per-vehicle fees at the gate (summer: Memorial Day to Labor Day weekends).
New Jersey Residents
Weekdays: $6
Weekends/Holidays: $10
Motorcycles: $5
Walk-ins (Fisherman’s Walkway only): $3
Out-of-State Visitors
Weekdays: $6
Weekends/Holidays: $20
Motorcycles: $7
Walk-ins (Fisherman’s Walkway only): $3
Off-season (Labor Day to pre-Memorial Day Friday): NJ residents $5, others $10. Arrive early in summer weekends—parking fills fast to protect the environment, unlike crowded Seaside Heights.
Seasonal rules apply: Swimming (Memorial Day–Labor Day) with lifeguards; horseback riding (Oct 1–Apr 30, reservations needed). Check nj.gov for updates.
Dining Options
The Red Fox Beach Bar & Grill is the park's sole eatery, open daily in summer (weather permitting).
Grab provisions en route from Wawa or Route 35 sub shops for beach picnics. Stay parked—avoid leaving. For dinner, try Seaside Park spots like Mad Fish Company or Surf Taco.
How to Get There
From Garden State Parkway Exit 82, head to Seaside Heights, then south on Route 35 (Central Ave.). In ~25 minutes, reach 2401 Central Ave., Seaside Park, NJ 08752.
