Long Branch on a Budget
Money-saving tips & cheap activities
Planning a Long Branch trip on a budget? While not the cheapest shore town, smart planning can make Long Branch affordable. Here's how to enjoy everything this destination offers while keeping costs down.
Beach Badge: $6/day
Hit the beach before 9 AM or after 5 PM to skip the badge fee.
Money-Saving Tips for Long Branch
Skip the Badge
Hit the beach before 9 AM or after 5 PM when badges aren't checked
Save $8-12/person/dayPark Smart
Arrive before 9 AM for free street parking a few blocks from the beach
Save $15-25/dayPack a Cooler
Bring your own food and drinks instead of buying on the boardwalk
Save $30-50/dayVisit Midweek
Hotels are 30-50% cheaper Monday-Thursday vs weekends
Save $50-150/nightGo in September
Warm water, empty beaches, and lower prices after Labor Day
Save 30-40% overallBudget-Friendly Places to Stay
Average budget rate in Long Branch: $80-150/night
Hampton Inn Long Branch
$150-300/night
Use Hilton Honors points for free nights. Walk to Pier Village for great restaurants and beach access.
Free Things to Do in Long Branch
Beach & Swimming
Enjoy Long Branch's beaches - the main attraction is free (or nearly free)
Boardwalk Walking
Stroll the boardwalk for people watching and ocean views
Sunrise & Sunset
Watch spectacular sunrises over the ocean and sunsets over the bay
Sample Daily Budget
What a budget day in Long Branch really costs:
Cheap Eats Tips
- β’Pack a cooler with sandwiches and drinks
- β’Hit the local Wawa for affordable breakfast
- β’Share boardwalk portions - they're huge
- β’Look for early bird dinner specials
Bringing your own food saves $30-50/day per person vs eating out.
Parking in Long Branch
Typical Cost: $15-25/day
Arrive before 9 AM for free street parking a few blocks back from the beach.
Long Branch Budget Travel FAQ
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