July at the Jersey Shore
Peak season: July 4th fireworks, Night in Venice, warmest water, and the full summer experience. Navigate the busiest month with our complete guide.
July 4th Fireworks
Every shore town celebrates with spectacular fireworks displays over the ocean.
Warmest Water
Ocean temps peak at 68-76F - perfect for swimming, boogie boarding, and all water sports.
Night in Venice
Ocean City's legendary boat parade with decorated, illuminated boats in late July.
Full Summer Mode
All boardwalks, attractions, and restaurants operating at peak capacity.
July Week by Week
| Week | Weather | Water Temp | Crowds | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|---|
July 4th Week July 1-5, 2026 | 82-90°F | 68-72°F | Extreme |
|
Week 2 July 6-12, 2026 | 84-92°F | 70-74°F | Very High |
|
Week 3 July 13-19, 2026 | 85-93°F | 72-75°F | Very High |
|
Week 4 (Night in Venice) July 20-31, 2026 | 84-92°F | 73-76°F | Very High |
|
July Events & Activities
July 4th Fireworks
Every shore town celebrates with fireworks. Ocean City and Atlantic City have the largest displays. Multiple nights in Wildwood.
Night in Venice
Ocean City's legendary boat parade. Decorated, illuminated boats cruise through the bay while thousands watch from shore. One of the shore's most magical traditions.
Sand Sculpting Championship
Professional sand sculptors create incredible beach art during this multi-day competition. Free to watch on the beach.
Thunder Over the Boardwalk
Air show and military demonstrations over the Atlantic City beach and boardwalk. Military aircraft flyovers and aerobatic performances.
Quick Chek Balloon Festival
Massive hot air balloon festival in Readington (about 1 hour from shore). Over 100 balloons, concerts, and family activities. Popular day trip.
Baby Parade Preview
Ocean City's famous Baby Parade has been running since 1901. July is the time to plan costumes and register. The actual parade is in early August.
Best Towns to Visit in July
Ocean City
Night in Venice, spectacular July 4th fireworks, family-friendly dry town, Baby Parade preparations.
Learn more →Atlantic City
Free beach (no badges), Sand Sculpting Championship, Thunder Over the Boardwalk, casino entertainment.
Learn more →Wildwood
Free beaches, multiple nights of July 4th fireworks, Morey's Piers at full capacity, Doo-Wop architecture.
Learn more →Spring Lake
Quieter alternative during peak season, elegant non-commercial boardwalk, less chaotic than larger towns.
Learn more →Avalon
Upscale, less crowded beaches, excellent restaurants, quieter family atmosphere even in peak season.
Learn more →Long Beach Island
18 miles of beaches to spread out, family rentals, July 4th at Bay Village, classic shore experience.
Learn more →Plan Your July Trip
Planning a trip to Jersey Shore? Book your accommodations and activities.
Secure booking • Free cancellation on most reservations
July 4th 2026 Fireworks Guide
Every shore town celebrates with fireworks on July 3rd or 4th. Here are the top displays to catch this Independence Day.
Must-See Displays
- • Ocean City - One of the largest on the East Coast
- • Atlantic City - Free from beach or boardwalk
- • Wildwood - Multiple nights of fireworks
- • Asbury Park - Over the ocean near Convention Hall
Pro Tips
- • Arrive 2-3 hours early for best viewing spots
- • Book accommodations 3-6 months ahead
- • Many towns have July 3rd shows too
- • Traffic will be heavy - plan for delays
Night in Venice 2026
Ocean City's Night in Venice is one of the shore's most beloved traditions. Hundreds of decorated, illuminated boats parade through the back bays while thousands of spectators watch from shore, docks, and bridges. Fireworks follow the boat parade.
Best Viewing Spots
- • 34th Street Bridge (most popular)
- • Bay Avenue from 34th to 59th Streets
- • Bayfront restaurants
- • Private docks (if you know someone)
Tips for Attending
- • Arrive by 7 PM for viewing spots
- • Bring chairs, blankets, and snacks
- • Boats begin at dusk (~8:30 PM)
- • Fireworks follow the parade
Crowd-Beating Strategies
Timing
- • Arrive before 9 AM
- • Visit mid-week (Tue-Thu)
- • Stay late - crowds thin after 5 PM
Locations
- • Choose quieter towns (Spring Lake, Avalon)
- • Try Island Beach State Park
- • Head to the north end of beaches
Planning
- • Book everything in advance
- • Make dinner reservations
- • Use parking apps where available
Beating the Heat in July
July is the hottest month at the shore. Temperatures regularly hit the 90s, and the UV index is at its highest. Here is how to stay safe and comfortable.
Sun Protection
Use SPF 50+ and reapply every 90 minutes. Bring a beach umbrella - it is essential.
Hydration
Bring extra water. Freeze bottles overnight - they stay cold and melt gradually.
Timing
Take mid-day breaks (12-3 PM). Shift activities to mornings and evenings.
July Insider Tips
Survival Tips
- • Book accommodations 3-6 months in advance
- • Arrive at beaches before 9 AM for parking
- • Make restaurant reservations 2+ weeks ahead
- • Consider quieter towns like Spring Lake or Avalon
What to Pack
- • High SPF sunscreen (50+) and beach umbrella
- • Large cooler with lots of water and ice
- • Cash for badges, parking, and boardwalk
- • Boogie boards - the water is finally warm!
Get Your July Planning Checklist
Receive our complete shore planning guide, seasonal tips, and insider recommendations.
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Beach Gear for Families
Peak family season calls for the right gear. Beach toys, sand-free towels, and shade solutions for little ones.
Sand Toy Set
Buckets, shovels, molds - everything for sandcastle building.
Kids Beach Tent
Pop-up shade tent with UPF 50+ protection for little ones.
Swim Arm Floaties
Coast Guard approved arm bands for beginning swimmers.
Kids Boogie Board
Sized right for kids. Soft foam, safe leash.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Prices and availability are subject to change. Full disclosure
July at the Shore FAQs
Helpful Resources
Related Guides
Ready for July at the Shore?
Peak season requires planning. Book accommodations now, make restaurant reservations, and prepare for the best summer of your life.