Jersey is known for its stunning 130-mile coastline of beaches, but we all know that most NJ beaches have entrance fees. However, there are 12 beaches that do not require beach badges or charge an entrance fee. Here are those that you can visit for FREE! 

Atlantic City: Sun, sand, towering resort hotels, the bustling Boardwalk, the awe-inspiring Atlantic.  The beach is within walking distance from shops to five-star restaurants to casinos, attractions and great shows. Surfers can ride the perfect wave on Downtown Beach at Raleigh Avenue, Crystal Beach at New Hampshire Avenue or the Delaware Avenue Beach. Kayakers and windsurfers can take to the ocean at the Jackson Avenue Beach, and boogie boarding is permitted on all Atlantic City beaches. Just walk along the boardwalk and you will come across entrances to the beach. 

Bay Front: In Lower Township, enjoy the wide-open spaces and the natural environment along the waterfront stretch from West Miami Avenue to Lincoln Boulevard.

Beesley's Point: Tucked along Great Egg Harbor Bay in Upper Township, this sandy shoreline is an ideal spot for launching a kayak to explore the calm waters. After enjoying a quiet afternoon in the sunshine, stop by the nearby Tuckahoe Inn Restaurant & Tavern, a family-owned restaurant serving up fresh seafood and other popular dishes. 

Highlands: Discover small pockets of beaches nestled between bustling marinas in Highlands, where you can watch sailboats, fishing boats and other seafaring vessels as they venture into the sparkling waters. These beaches are conveniently located near a number of seafood restaurants, shops and fishing rental spots.

Ideal Beach: For sunbathers looking for a quiet beachfront retreat in Middletown Township, Ideal Beach offers less congestion and plenty of peace and quiet without a boardwalk. This 25-acre township park is also equipped with public restrooms and a basketball court.

Jennifer Lane Bay Beach: Located in the Manahawkin Bay in Stafford Township, lifeguards are on duty so swimmers can take a safe dip in the water. Nearby parks offer fun activities such as volleyball, walking, biking, fishing and roller hockey.

Keansburg Beach: This well-known stretch of sand was named one of the nation’s Best Restored Beaches by the American Shore and Beach Preservation Society, and offers guests award-winning waterside relaxation and recreation. There is also the Keansburg Amusement Park & Runaway Rapids Water Park.

Leonardo Beach: This beautiful Middletown Township beach offers a get-away-from-it-all atmosphere while still delivering all the trappings of New Jersey’s more populated oceanfront destinations. There is a marina, miniature golf and eateries to satisfy every craving.

Strathmere: Between Ocean City and Sea Isle City, you’ll find Strathmere in Upper Township, offering a low-key, off-the-beaten-path beach experience. While there’s no boardwalk, visitors can enjoy the natural splendor of this oceanfront escape.

Union Beach: Head to the northeastern coastline of Union Beach, where you’ll find a quiet stretch of sand running along the edge of extensive salt marshes—a great vantage point for birding. In addition to a bay shoreline, beachgoers can also enjoy strolls along waterfront piers and plenty of parks for playtime.

The Wildwoods: For fun in the sun, look no further than the free beaches at The Wildwoods. The 5-mile stretch of powdery sand welcomes sun seekers of all ages to enjoy boogie-boarding, body surfing, playing Frisbee, sandcastle building and just relaxing. These beaches also host a number of events throughout the summer. Learn more about the City of Wildwood, North Wildwood and Wildwood Crest beaches.

William Morrow Beach: This small Somers Point beach features plenty of sandy shoreline to spread out your blanket between Higbee and New Jersey Avenues. With lifeguards, restrooms, free parking, outdoor showers, a children’s playground and fishing pier, it’s the perfect spot to spend a sunny summer day.