Beaches Near Island Beach State Park
Find the best beach options on the southern Barnegat Peninsula
Island Beach State Park marks the southern tip of the Barnegat Peninsula, offering 10 miles of undeveloped beach. Just north of the park, several beach options exist—though one area is currently undergoing a historic boundary change.
South Seaside Park Boundary Change
After 53 years, South Seaside Park is being annexed by Seaside Park Borough. This affects White Sands Beach (20th-23rd Avenues), where badge requirements may be in flux during the transition. Island Beach State Park remains unaffected.
Read the full story →Beach Options
Island Beach State Park
State Park10 miles of undeveloped barrier island beach. Free beach access with parking fees ($6-10). No badge required.
White Sands Beach
Public BeachPublic beach in South Seaside Park (20th-23rd Avenues). Badge requirements in transition during annexation.
⚠️ South Seaside Park is being annexed by Seaside Park. Check current badge requirements.
Seaside Park Beach
Public BeachMain public beach with lifeguards, restrooms, and family-friendly atmosphere. Classic Jersey Shore experience.
Funtown Beach
Private BeachPrivate beach with cabana rentals and tiki bar. BYOB allowed. Separate admission from regular beach badges.
Midway Beach
PrivatePrivate beach community (3rd Lane to 20th Avenue). Separate badge required, not open to general public.
Quick Tips
- ✓Best free option: Island Beach State Park—pay for parking, beach is free
- ✓Best for families: Seaside Park Beach—lifeguards, restrooms, calm water
- ✓Best for escaping crowds: Drive further into Island Beach State Park for less crowded areas
- ⚠️Badge status unclear: South Seaside Park badges may be changing—check locally
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there free beach access near Island Beach State Park?
Yes! Island Beach State Park itself has free beach access—you only pay for parking ($6 weekdays, $10 weekends/holidays). The 10 miles of undeveloped beach have no badge requirement. This is the best option for free beach access in the area.
What beaches are north of Island Beach State Park?
Heading north from Island Beach State Park, you will find South Seaside Park (White Sands Beach), then Seaside Park beaches, and further north Seaside Heights. South Seaside Park is currently being annexed by Seaside Park after a 53-year legal battle.
Do I need a beach badge at Island Beach State Park?
No beach badge is required at Island Beach State Park. However, you do need to pay for parking ($6 for NJ residents on weekdays, $10 on weekends; $12/$20 for out-of-state). Once parked, beach access is free.
What is happening with South Seaside Park beach badges?
South Seaside Park is being annexed by Seaside Park Borough after a 53-year legal battle that went to the NJ Supreme Court. Beach badge requirements at White Sands Beach (the only public beach in South Seaside Park) may be in transition. Check with local authorities for current requirements.
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