Beach Water Quality at the Jersey Shore

Yes, the vast majority of New Jersey beaches have excellent or good water quality. 97% of monitored stations meet or exceed quality standards. The NJDEP actively monitors conditions and issues advisories when needed.

Advisories are typically issued when Enterococcus bacteria levels exceed EPA standards. Common causes include stormwater runoff after heavy rain, wildlife, and in rare cases, sewage overflows. Most advisories are precautionary and lifted within 24-48 hours.

Rainfall closures are precautionary measures. Stormwater runoff can wash bacteria from land into the ocean. Rather than wait for test results (which take 24 hours), beaches may close temporarily as a safety measure. These are preventive, not reactive closures.

During beach season (typically Memorial Day through Labor Day), water samples are collected at least weekly at each monitoring station. High-traffic beaches may be tested more frequently. Results are reported within 24 hours of sampling.

Enterococcus is a type of bacteria found in the intestines of humans and animals. While not typically harmful itself, its presence in water indicates possible contamination with fecal matter, which could contain pathogens. The EPA recommends Enterococcus as the best indicator for marine water quality.