Do I need a beach badge for Island Beach State Park?

No, Island Beach State Park is free to access with no badge required.

What are the best activities at Island Beach State Park?

Island Beach State Park is best for nature-lovers, fishing, kayaking, escape-crowds, surfing.

Can you surf at Island Beach State Park?

Yes, Island Beach State Park allows surfing and is known for good waves.

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Island Beach State Park

Berkeley Township · Ocean County

Pristine, undeveloped barrier island. The wildest beach at the Jersey Shore.

One of the last undeveloped barrier islands on the Atlantic Coast. Ten miles of pristine coastline, dunes, and maritime forest. No boardwalk, no buildings—just nature. No beach badge required, but there is a STATE PARK ENTRANCE FEE per vehicle ($6-20 depending on residency and day). Swimming areas have lifeguards in summer.

Badge:Not Required

Lifeguards:Yes

Surfing:Yes

Parking:State Park Entrance Fee: NJ residents $6 weekdays/$10 weekends, Non-residents $12/$20

Highlights

✓Last undeveloped barrier island in NJ
✓10 miles of pristine coastline
✓Excellent fishing and kayaking
✓Wildlife including osprey and foxes
✓No beach badge—just park entrance fee

Best For

nature loversfishingkayakingescape crowdssurfing

Features

state parkundevelopedwildlifefishingkayakingfree beach access

Facilities

restroomsnature centerkayak rentals

Local Tip

CRITICAL: Park fills to capacity and CLOSES most summer weekends by 9-10am. Once closed, you cannot enter until cars leave. Arrive by 8am on summer weekends or visit weekdays. Bring everything you need—no shops inside the park.