Sandy Hook Beaches
Everything you need to know about the beaches in Sandy Hook, New Jersey.
Beach Badge Information
Daily
FREE
Weekly
N/A
Season
N/A
Kids Free Under
12
FREE - No beach badge required. Part of Gateway National Recreation Area.
Beach Water Quality
9 monitored locations in Sandy Hook
Area E Visitor Center South
Army Rec. Beach North
C Beach
Gunnison
Horseshoe Cove
Data: NJDEP Cooperative Coastal Monitoring Program (2021-2025)
Beaches in Sandy Hook
North Beach
Wide, natural beach at the tip of the peninsula with views of Manhattan skyline. Family-friendly with calm waters and lifeguards.
Amenities
Best For
Accessibility: Beach wheelchairs available at visitor center.
Gunnison Beach
New Jersey's only legal clothing-optional beach. Welcoming, inclusive atmosphere popular with LGBTQ+ community. Requires half-mile walk from parking.
Amenities
Best For
Beach Area D
Popular beach in the center of the peninsula. Good facilities and close to parking. Often fills first on busy days.
Amenities
Best For
Beach Area E
Quieter beach section with good swimming. Less crowded than Area D but similar facilities.
Amenities
Best For
Fishing Beach
Bay-side beach popular with anglers. Calmer waters and good for crabbing and fishing.
Amenities
Best For
Beach Parking
Parking Type: paid
Daily Rate: $20
Street Parking: Limited
Parking Lots: Yes
Meters: No
Memorial Day-Labor Day: $20/day or $100/season. Free off-season. Lots fill early on summer weekends.