Day Trip from NYC
Escape the city and hit the beach. The Jersey Shore is closer than you think - trains, ferries, and easy drives put you on the sand in under 2 hours.
Train to Beach
NJ Transit from Penn Station
6+ Hours Beach Time
Leave early, back by dinner
Free Beaches Available
Sandy Hook is a National Park
🚂 Getting There by Train
Line: NJ Transit North Jersey Coast Line
From: Penn Station NYC
Frequency: Hourly (more frequent summer weekends)
Cost: $15-20 one-way (varies by station)
Pro Tips:
- • Buy tickets on the NJ Transit app
- • Weekend fares are cheaper than weekday
- • First train ~6:30am, last return ~10:30pm
- • Sit on right side for ocean views heading south
Best Day Trip Destinations
Sandy Hook
Monmouth County
Car, Ferry (Seastreak)
Natural, uncrowded, nude beach option
Beach badge: Free (National Park)
Best for: Nature lovers, NYC escapists, budget day-trippers
Tip: Take the Seastreak ferry from Manhattan for the most scenic route.
Asbury Park
Monmouth County
NJ Transit train
Artsy, music scene, LGBTQ+ friendly
Beach badge: $7-10/day
Best for: Music fans, foodies, LGBTQ+ travelers, young professionals
Tip: Train station is a 10-min walk to beach. Grab brunch at Toast.
Long Branch
Monmouth County
NJ Transit train
Upscale, Pier Village shopping
Beach badge: $10/day
Best for: Couples, shopping lovers, upscale day trip
Tip: Pier Village has restaurants, shops, and beach access in one spot.
Belmar
Monmouth County
NJ Transit train
Classic Jersey Shore, party scene
Beach badge: $10/day
Best for: Groups, party seekers, classic shore experience
Tip: D'Jais and Bar A are legendary. Beach is a short walk from station.
Spring Lake
Monmouth County
NJ Transit train
Elegant, quiet, Victorian
Beach badge: $10/day
Best for: Couples, families, those seeking quiet elegance
Tip: The most refined beach town. Pack a picnic - limited food options.
Point Pleasant Beach
Ocean County
NJ Transit train
Family boardwalk, classic shore
Beach badge: $10/day
Best for: Families with kids, classic boardwalk seekers
Tip: Jenkinson's Aquarium is great for a break from the beach.
Sample Day Trip Schedules
Asbury Park Day
Tip: For a late night, catch a show at Stone Pony and take the 10:30pm train.
Sandy Hook Day (Car/Ferry)
Tip: Sandy Hook has no boardwalk food - pack a cooler with lunch and snacks.
Belmar Beach Day
Tip: Belmar has the best balance of beach + bars for a lively day trip.
What to Pack (Train Travel Edition)
Pack light - you'll carry everything from train to beach. Wear your swimsuit under clothes.
Essential
- ✓ Sunscreen
- ✓ Towel (lightweight for train)
- ✓ Swimsuit (wear under clothes)
- ✓ Cash for beach badge
- ✓ Water bottle
- ✓ Hat/sunglasses
Nice to Have
- ○ Phone charger
- ○ Change of clothes
- ○ Flip flops + walking shoes
- ○ Snacks
Coming from Philadelphia?
Philly residents have even easier access to the southern shore. Atlantic City, Ocean City, and Cape May are all within 1-1.5 hours by car or bus.
Planning to Stay Longer?
Planning a trip to Asbury Park? Book your accommodations and activities.
Secure booking • Free cancellation on most reservations