New Jersey has dozens of incredible beaches, but sadly most cost money. A simple trip to the beach can end up costing you a whopping $15 per person! You can save big bucks by purchasing seasonal passes, but free is always better. Our state has some secret (and not so secret) spots where you can score access to the shore without spending a cent. Many of these beaches are more laid back and have fewer amenities, but they’re still just as beautiful. Do you really need boardwalk access when you’ve got the sun, sand and sea to soak in?

1. Somers Point Beach
Flickr/Sinead Friel
This small beach still has a sizable amount of shoreline, and it offers free concerts every Friday throughout the summer. Open 7 days a week, you'll find restrooms, free parking and lifeguards on patrol.
2. Union Beach
Flickr/Peter Massas
The northeastern section of this bay beach is a birding hot spot.
3. Wildwood
Flickr/hjhipster
This popular beach is home to a beautiful boardwalk with shops, sweets and even a vintage arcade. It hosts numerous fairs and festivals, and it's always free!
4. Keansburg Beach
Flickr/Tom Simpson
The northernmost beach on this list, Keansburg is a great spot for family fun. It is ideally located near Keansburg Amusement Park and Runaway Rapids Water Park with views of New York City. Free and secluded, be aware there are no lifeguards.

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5. Strathmere
Flickr/TritiumOxideHTO
This beach provides a very basic back to nature experience. Enjoy trails in the area and the surrounding wildlife.
6. Higbee Beach, Cape May
Flickr/Kathryn Yengel
Cape May County's beaches offer some of the cleanest water in the nation. Enjoy this free bay beach, taking comfort in the pristine water quality. This is a wildlife management area with no lifeguards, but it's a peaceful place famous for bird watching. Be wary, as it's also infamous for occasional nudity as it is more secluded.
7. Atlantic City
Flickr/drpavloff
This top tourist destination is home to world class entertainment, fine dining and free beaches.
8. Highlands
Flickr/Dan Century
A perfect picnic spot, enjoy hidden beaches nestled near seafood spots and marinas.
9. Barnegat Beach
Flickr/Norman Z
This bay beach offers boating, crabbing, fishing and a boardwalk.

Have you ever been to any of these beaches? Which is your favorite? Are there any other free beaches you can add to the list?

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