Best Beaches Near NYC 2026
Escape the city to pristine Jersey Shore beaches. The best day trip and weekend beaches within 1-2 hours of Manhattan.
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Beaches
5
Train Access
1
Free Beaches
Escape the City
New Yorkers don't need to travel far for world-class beaches. The Jersey Shore offers pristine sand, clean water, and that quintessential beach town atmosphere— all within 1-2 hours of Manhattan.
Skip the car. NJ Transit runs directly to shore towns like Long Branch, Asbury Park, and Belmar. The SeaStreak ferry takes just 40 minutes from Manhattan to Sandy Hook—the closest beach to NYC.
For day trips, focus on Monmouth County beaches. For weekends, venture south to Spring Lake, Point Pleasant, or LBI. Each town has its own personality—from Asbury Park's arts scene to Spring Lake's Victorian elegance.
Under 1 Hour from NYC
The closest beaches for quick day trips
Sandy Hook
Free BeachTop PickThe closest beach to NYC. Part of the National Park system with 7 miles of pristine shoreline, no beach badges, and ferry access from Manhattan.
Sea Bright
Badge: $10Narrow barrier beach with beach clubs and casual dining. Popular with NYC day-trippers for its proximity and laid-back vibe.
Monmouth Beach
Badge: $12Quiet, upscale beach community with pristine sand. Less crowded than neighbors, perfect for a peaceful escape.
Train Accessible Beaches
Take NJ Transit from Penn Station—no car needed
Long Branch
Badge: $10Top PickHistoric beach town with Pier Village offering upscale shopping, dining, and ocean views. Direct NJ Transit train access.
Asbury Park
Badge: $7Top PickThe most vibrant shore town with arts, music, LGBTQ+ friendly scene, and incredible dining. Direct train access makes it NYC's favorite beach.
Ocean Grove
Badge: $8Top PickVictorian seaside town with unique tent city, historic Great Auditorium, and serene beach. Walk from Asbury Park station.
Bradley Beach
Badge: $8Family-friendly beach with mini-golf, ice cream shops, and a classic shore town feel. Short walk from train station.
Belmar
$10Belmar
Surf town with active bar scene and wide beaches. Walk from train station to beach in minutes.
Best for Weekend Getaways
Worth the 1.5-2 hour drive for an overnight stay
Spring Lake
Badge: $12Top PickThe "Irish Riviera" - elegant, quiet beach town with beautiful B&Bs, no boardwalk, and a serene atmosphere.
Point Pleasant Beach
Badge: $10Top PickClassic boardwalk town with Jenkinson's amusements, aquarium, and family fun. Great for weekend getaways.
Manasquan
Badge: $10Top PickPremier surf town with inlet jetty. Upscale feel with excellent restaurants and beach bars.
Bay Head
Badge: $12Top PickExclusive, quiet beach town with beautiful homes and pristine beaches. Perfect for a peaceful weekend.
Worth the Drive (2+ Hours)
Further south but worth it for special trips
Long Beach Island
Badge: $8-12Top Pick18-mile barrier island with diverse beach towns. Worth the 2-hour drive for the laid-back atmosphere and beautiful beaches.
Island Beach State Park
Badge: $15/carTop PickUndeveloped barrier island with pristine dunes, excellent fishing, and wildlife. One of the last natural barrier beaches on the Atlantic.
Getting There Tips
🏄Take the Ferry
SeaStreak ferry from Pier 11 to Sandy Hook takes 40 minutes and avoids all traffic. Runs Memorial Day to Labor Day.
🏄Use NJ Transit
The North Jersey Coast Line runs from Penn Station to shore towns. Buy tickets in advance and take the early train to beat crowds.
🏄Leave Early
Summer weekend traffic on the Garden State Parkway can double travel time. Leave NYC by 7am or after 2pm to avoid the worst.
🏄Buy Beach Badges in Advance
Many towns sell beach badges online or at local shops. Avoid the beach badge line by purchasing ahead.
🏄Try Shoulder Season
September is the best-kept secret. Warm water, smaller crowds, cheaper rates. Many beaches go badge-free after Labor Day.
🏄Download Parking Apps
Many shore towns use ParkMobile or similar apps. Download before you go to avoid scrambling for parking.
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FAQ
What is the closest beach to NYC?
Sandy Hook is the closest ocean beach to Manhattan—just 40 minutes by ferry from Pier 11 or about 1 hour by car. It's part of Gateway National Recreation Area with no beach badges required.
Can you take a train to the beach from NYC?
Yes! NJ Transit's North Jersey Coast Line runs from Penn Station to Long Branch (1h 20min), Asbury Park (1h 30min), Belmar, and other shore towns. Trains run frequently on summer weekends.
How long does it take to drive from NYC to the Jersey Shore?
Sandy Hook is about 1 hour from Manhattan. Monmouth County beaches (Long Branch, Asbury Park, Belmar) are 1-1.5 hours. LBI is about 2 hours. Allow extra time for summer weekend traffic.
Do you need beach badges at Jersey Shore beaches?
Most Jersey Shore towns require beach badges ($8-15/day). Sandy Hook is free (National Park). Some towns offer free beaches before 9am or after 5pm. Always check local rules.
What is the best beach for a day trip from NYC?
For quick trips: Sandy Hook (ferry access, free, closest). For train access: Asbury Park or Long Branch. For families: Belmar or Spring Lake. For surfing: Manasquan or Belmar.
Is there a ferry to the Jersey Shore from NYC?
Yes, SeaStreak ferry runs from Manhattan (Pier 11) and Brooklyn to Sandy Hook. The ride takes about 40 minutes and runs seasonally from Memorial Day to Labor Day.
What beaches have the best nightlife near NYC?
Asbury Park has the best nightlife scene with bars, clubs, and live music venues. Long Branch's Pier Village and Belmar's bar scene are also popular. All are accessible by train.
Are Jersey Shore beaches crowded on weekends?
Yes, especially in July and August. Arrive early (before 10am) for parking. Sandy Hook fills to capacity on hot weekends. Consider weekdays or shoulder season for fewer crowds.
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