Discover the Best Beaches in New Jersey: Ranked from Best to Worst

New Jersey is renowned for its stunning coastline, offering beachgoers a variety of options for sun, sand, and surf. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly spot, a vibrant nightlife scene, or a peaceful retreat, New Jersey has a beach town for you. Here, we rank the top 44 beach towns in New Jersey from best to worst, highlighting what makes each one unique.

1. Cape May

Cape May tops our list with its historic charm, Victorian architecture, and pristine beaches. Perfect for families and history buffs, Cape May offers a unique blend of relaxation and exploration.

2. Wildwood

Known for its large, free beaches and bustling boardwalk, Wildwood is a favorite among thrill-seekers and families alike. Enjoy amusement parks, vibrant nightlife, and endless entertainment options.

3. Ocean City

Ocean City is a family-oriented beach town with a well-maintained boardwalk, various attractions, and a dry town policy (no alcohol). It's ideal for a wholesome and fun-filled vacation.

4. Avalon

Upscale and serene, Avalon boasts beautiful dunes and less crowded beaches. It's a great spot for water sports enthusiasts and those seeking a quieter escape.

5. Stone Harbor

Stone Harbor offers a peaceful atmosphere with upscale shopping and dining options. It's perfect for families looking for a clean, well-maintained beach experience.

6. Asbury Park

Trendy and artsy, Asbury Park is famous for its lively boardwalk, music venues, and vibrant nightlife. Dog-friendly sections make it a hit with pet owners.

7. Long Beach Island (LBI)

LBI is a family-friendly destination with scenic views, great surfing spots, and a relaxed vibe. It's a perfect getaway for those who love the ocean.

8. Point Pleasant Beach

Popular for its boardwalk and Jenkinson's Aquarium, Point Pleasant Beach is a family-friendly town with clean and accessible beaches.

9. Sea Isle City

Sea Isle City is laid-back and family-oriented, offering excellent opportunities for fishing and water sports along with a variety of dining options.

10. Belmar

A favorite among young adults, Belmar is known for its vibrant nightlife, great surfing spots, and well-maintained boardwalk.

11. Seaside Heights

Famous for its boardwalk and amusement parks, Seaside Heights offers a lively atmosphere with plenty of eateries and shops for family-friendly activities.

12. Spring Lake

Quiet and upscale, Spring Lake features beautiful, well-maintained beaches and historic charm, perfect for those seeking a serene environment.

13. Island Beach State Park

Nature lovers will appreciate Island Beach State Park's natural, undeveloped beach and pristine environment, although amenities are limited.

14. Sandy Hook

This national recreation area offers beautiful views of the NYC skyline, hiking and biking trails, and a nude beach section for the adventurous.

15. Bradley Beach

Bradley Beach is family-friendly with clean, accessible beaches and a variety of dining options, making it a great spot for a day trip.

16. Manasquan

Manasquan offers small-town charm, good surfing spots, and a relaxed vibe, making it a favorite for families and surfers alike.

17. Ventnor City

Quieter than neighboring Atlantic City, Ventnor City is family-friendly with a nice boardwalk and a variety of dining options.

18. Atlantic City

Known for its casinos and nightlife, Atlantic City also offers a famous boardwalk and plenty of concerts and events, although it can be crowded and commercialized.

19. Long Branch

Upscale and trendy, Long Branch features Pier Village with shopping and dining options, clean beaches, and a popular spot for young adults.

20. Sea Girt

Sea Girt is a quiet and serene town with family-friendly beaches and historic charm, although amenities are more limited.

21. Surf City

Part of Long Beach Island, Surf City offers a relaxed beach experience with plenty of local shops and eateries.

22. Lavallette

Lavallette is a small, family-friendly beach town with clean beaches and a peaceful atmosphere, perfect for a quiet getaway.

23. Ship Bottom

Another Long Beach Island gem, Ship Bottom is known for its easy access to the beach and a variety of water sports.

24. Brigantine

Close to Atlantic City, Brigantine offers a quieter beach experience with beautiful views and a laid-back vibe.

25. Beach Haven

Beach Haven, on Long Beach Island, is family-friendly with amusement parks, water sports, and a charming downtown area.

26. Bay Head

Bay Head is a small, upscale town with quiet, clean beaches and a quaint, historic atmosphere.

27. North Wildwood

North Wildwood is known for its wide beaches, family-friendly environment, and vibrant nightlife.

28. South Seaside Park

South Seaside Park offers a quieter alternative to Seaside Heights, with beautiful beaches and a more relaxed atmosphere.

29. Monmouth Beach

Monmouth Beach is a small, upscale community with clean beaches and a peaceful environment, perfect for a relaxing day by the sea.

30. Margate City

Margate City is quieter than neighboring Atlantic City, offering a family-friendly beach experience with a nice boardwalk.

31. Deal

Deal is an upscale, quiet beach town with beautiful homes and a serene atmosphere, although public beach access is limited.

32. Ortley Beach

Ortley Beach is a small, family-friendly town with clean beaches and a laid-back vibe, ideal for a peaceful getaway.

33. Highlands

Highlands offers beautiful views, boating opportunities, and easy access to Sandy Hook, making it a great spot for nature enthusiasts.

34. Allenhurst

Allenhurst is a small, upscale beach town with a quiet, relaxed atmosphere and beautiful, well-maintained beaches.

35. Strathmere

Strathmere is a peaceful, family-friendly town with clean, quiet beaches and a laid-back vibe.

36. Seaside Park

Seaside Park offers a quieter alternative to Seaside Heights with clean beaches and a relaxed atmosphere.

37. Normandy Beach

Normandy Beach is a small, quiet community with clean beaches and a peaceful environment, perfect for a serene beach day.

38. Sea Bright

Sea Bright is known for its beautiful beaches and upscale dining options, although it can be more crowded during peak season.

39. Elberon

Elberon is a quiet, upscale beach town with a peaceful atmosphere and beautiful, clean beaches.

40. Holgate

Holgate, on Long Beach Island, offers a quiet, family-friendly beach experience with clean, serene beaches.

41. Barnegat Light

Barnegat Light is a peaceful, family-friendly town on Long Beach Island, known for its historic lighthouse and beautiful beaches.

42. Harvey Cedars

Harvey Cedars, on Long Beach Island, offers a quiet, upscale beach experience with clean, well-maintained beaches.

43. West Cape May

West Cape May is a small, quiet town near Cape May with beautiful beaches and a peaceful atmosphere.

44. Allenhurst

Allenhurst is a small, historic beach town with a quiet, relaxed atmosphere and beautiful, well-maintained beaches.

Whether you're planning a family vacation, a romantic getaway, or a solo adventure, New Jersey's beach towns offer something for everyone. Explore these destinations and find your perfect beach escape!