Best Day Trips to the Jersey Shore 2026
Perfect one-day escapes to the Jersey Shore from NYC, Philadelphia, and beyond. Hit the beach and be home for dinner.
The Perfect Day Trip
The Perfect Shore Day Trip
From NYC, Philadelphia, or North Jersey, you're just 1-2 hours from sandy beaches. NJ Transit trains serve many shore towns directly, making car-free beach days possible. Leave early to beat traffic, pack a cooler, and time your return after 7pm to avoid the rush. Some beaches are free, others require badges—plan ahead and you'll be home for dinner with sand still in your shoes.
From New York City
Best shore towns accessible from NYC
Sandy Hook
monmouth County
National park beaches just an hour from NYC. Take the ferry for a scenic approach.
Asbury Park
monmouth County
Train from Penn Station gets you to the best food and music scene at the shore.
Long Branch
monmouth County
Train to Pier Village for upscale beach day with great restaurants.
Belmar
monmouth County
Classic beach town with good train connection and local flavor.
From Philadelphia
Best shore towns for Philly residents
Ocean City
cape-may County
Just an hour from Philly, Ocean City offers boardwalk fun and family-friendly beaches.
Wildwood
cape-may County
Free beaches and massive boardwalk make Wildwood great value for Philly day-trippers.
Margate
atlantic County
Quieter alternative with Lucy the Elephant and nice beaches.
Atlantic City
atlantic County
Train from Philly for beach, boardwalk, and entertainment.
From North Jersey
Best shore towns for North Jersey residents
Point Pleasant Beach
ocean County
Quick Parkway drive to classic boardwalk and beach.
Seaside Heights
ocean County
Classic boardwalk scene with rides, games, and beach.
Lavallette
ocean County
Quieter family beach town without the boardwalk crowds.
Quick Escapes
Fastest beach access from major areas
Long Beach Island
ocean County
Central LBI is accessible and offers diverse beach experiences.
Sea Isle City
cape-may County
Good beaches, promenade, and fewer crowds than neighbors.
Day Trip Tips
Day Trip Tips
Leave Early
Hit the road by 7-8am to beat traffic and maximize beach time. Return after 7pm to avoid the rush.
Take the Train
NJ Transit serves many shore towns. Skip parking hassles and relax on the ride.
Pack a Cooler
Bring drinks, snacks, and lunch to save time and money. Get dinner on the way home.
Check Parking Early
Many beaches have limited parking that fills by 10am in summer. Arrive early or use transit.
FAQ
What is the closest beach to NYC?
Sandy Hook is the closest beach to NYC at about 1 hour by car or ferry. Asbury Park and Long Branch are 1-1.5 hours by NJ Transit train from Penn Station.
What is the closest beach to Philadelphia?
Ocean City NJ is about 1 hour from Philadelphia. Wildwood, Sea Isle City, and Margate are also 1-1.5 hours. Cape May is about 1.5 hours.
Can I take a train to the Jersey Shore?
Yes! NJ Transit North Jersey Coast Line runs from NYC Penn Station to Long Branch, Asbury Park, and other Monmouth County beaches. The Atlantic City Rail Line runs from Philadelphia.
What time should I leave for a beach day trip?
Leave early (7-8am) to maximize beach time and beat traffic. Summer weekend traffic can add 1-2 hours to drive times, especially returning.
Do I need a beach badge for a day trip?
Most beaches require badges during summer ($5-15/day). Wildwood, Atlantic City, and Sandy Hook are free. Buy badges at the beach or town offices.
What should I bring for a beach day trip?
Bring sunscreen, towels, umbrella, cooler with drinks/snacks, beach chairs, and cash for parking and badges. Pack light meals to save time.