Best Spring Beaches in New Jersey 2026
May and June beach getaways with mild weather, empty beaches, spring wildflowers, and off-season savings before summer crowds.
Spring Awakening
Spring Awakening at the Shore
May and June bring the shore back to life. Beaches are open but uncrowded, wildflowers bloom, and migratory birds pass through. The striped bass run makes spring prime fishing season. Water is cold (50-65°F) for swimming, but beach walks and town exploring are perfect. Most badges aren't required until Memorial Day. Enjoy off-season rates while experiencing the shore's natural renewal.
Best for Spring
Year-round destinations
Cape May Beaches
Cape May, Cape May County
Spring wildflowers, Victorian gardens, birding season, and charming town atmosphere.
Asbury Park Beach
Asbury Park, Monmouth County
Year-round destination with restaurants, music venues, and mild spring beach days.
Long Branch Beach
Long Branch, Monmouth County
Pier Village stays active year-round with dining and spring beach walks.
Spring Fishing
Striped bass season
Island Beach State Park
Seaside Park, Ocean County
Premier spring striper fishing with natural beach and uncrowded conditions.
Sandy Hook
Sandy Hook, Monmouth County
Spring striper fishing, bird migration, and uncrowded national park beaches.
Barnegat Light
Barnegat Light, Ocean County
Famous jetty fishing during spring striper run with lighthouse backdrop.
Spring Birding
Migration hotspots
Cape May Point
Cape May, Cape May County
World-class spring birding with shorebird migration and warbler waves.
Brigantine Beach
Brigantine, Atlantic County
Edwin B. Forsythe Wildlife Refuge draws spring migrating shorebirds.
Stone Harbor Point
Stone Harbor, Cape May County
Heron rookery and spring shorebirds at the bird sanctuary.
Memorial Day Weekend
Start of summer season
Wildwood Beach
Wildwood, Cape May County
Free beach with boardwalk opening for Memorial Day. Summer vibes begin.
Ocean City Beach
Ocean City, Cape May County
Boardwalk fully opens Memorial Day weekend for family beach fun.
Point Pleasant Beach
Point Pleasant Beach, Ocean County
Jenkinson's boardwalk opens for Memorial Day weekend fun.
Spring Beach Tips
Spring Beach Tips
Layer Up
Spring days can start cool and warm up. Bring a jacket for breezy beach walks.
Check What's Open
Many seasonal businesses don't open until Memorial Day. Call ahead or stick to year-round towns.
Try Striper Fishing
Spring is prime striped bass season. Charter boats and surf fishing are excellent in May.
Book Memorial Day Early
Memorial Day weekend books up fast and prices rise. Reserve accommodations weeks ahead.
FAQ
Can you swim at Jersey Shore beaches in spring?
Water is cold (50-60°F) in May and warms to 60-68°F by late June. Most people wait until late June for comfortable swimming, but wetsuits extend the season.
Are beaches open in spring?
Yes! Beaches are open year-round. Beach badges typically aren't required until Memorial Day weekend. Lifeguards usually start Memorial Day weekend.
What spring activities are available at the shore?
Beach walks, fishing (striped bass run), birding (spring migration), biking, wine tours, restaurant dining, and exploring towns without summer crowds.
What is the weather like at the Jersey Shore in spring?
May averages 60-70°F with occasional rain. June brings 70-80°F days. Spring can be breezy. Pack layers and a light jacket.
Are hotels cheaper in spring?
Yes! Spring rates (through mid-June) are 30-50% less than summer peak. Memorial Day weekend sees higher rates, but other May weekends are affordable.
When do boardwalk shops and restaurants open?
Most boardwalk shops and seasonal restaurants open Memorial Day weekend. Year-round establishments in towns like Asbury Park and Cape May stay open.