Things to Do in Island Beach State Park
Unspoiled Natural Beauty. Discover beaches, attractions, dining, and local experiences.
The top things to do in Island Beach State Park are Sedge Island Kayak Tour, Surf Fishing, Swimming Beaches, plus 4 beaches — details, hours, and local tips for each below.
4
Beaches
2
Restaurants
4
Must-See Spots
4/5
Family Rating
Don't Miss in Island Beach State Park
Sedge Island Kayak Tour
Must Seeattraction
Guided kayak tours through the sedge islands. See ospreys, herons, and marine life up close.
Surf Fishing
Must Seebeach
World-class surf fishing for striped bass and bluefish. Many accessible beach buggy areas.
Swimming Beaches
Must Seebeach
Two guarded swimming areas in the northern recreation zone. Less crowded than commercial beaches.
Explore by Category
All Attractions
🎢Attractions
Sedge Island Kayak Tour
Guided kayak tours through the sedge islands. See ospreys, herons, and marine life up close.
🏖️Beachs
Surf Fishing
World-class surf fishing for striped bass and bluefish. Many accessible beach buggy areas.
Swimming Beaches
Two guarded swimming areas in the northern recreation zone. Less crowded than commercial beaches.
🏛️Museums
Nature Center
Learn about barrier island ecology and the unique plants and animals that call the park home.
Beach Highlights
View all beaches →Swimming Area 1 (A-1)
First guarded swimming beach in the recreation zone. Accessible from the main park road with restrooms and changing facilities.
Swimming Area 2 (A-7)
Second guarded swimming beach with similar facilities. Less crowded than A-1 on busy days.
Surf Fishing Beaches
Miles of pristine beach accessible by beach buggy permit. World-class surf fishing for striped bass and bluefish. No swimming, fishing only.
Southern Natural Area
Pristine protected beach area near Barnegat Inlet. Limited access to protect nesting shorebirds. Walk-in access only during non-nesting season.
Island Beach State Park Vibe
Primary Vibe
Natural Wilderness
Family Friendly
4/5 Stars
Nightlife
1/5 Stars
Quietness
5/5 Stars
Island Beach State Park is Best For
Events & Festivals
Spring Striped Bass Run
April-MayIsland Beach State Park offers world-class surf fishing as striped bass migrate north along the coast. Premier destination for anglers during the spring run with excellent beach access.
Osprey Watch Programs
May-AugustIsland Beach State Park hosts osprey nesting season with 50+ pairs. Guided osprey programs at the nature center showcase these magnificent raptors during peak nesting activity.
Sedge Island Kayak Tours
June-SeptemberIsland Beach State Park offers guided kayak tours through sedge islands on the bay side. Reservations required and often book weeks in advance for this popular eco-tour experience.
Fall Bluefish Blitz
September-OctoberIsland Beach State Park experiences aggressive bluefish feeding along beaches as they migrate south. One of the best surf fishing periods of the year for dedicated anglers.
Monarch Butterfly Migration
September-OctoberIsland Beach State Park witnesses thousands of monarch butterflies passing through on their way to Mexico. The park's dunes provide a natural corridor for this spectacular migration.