New Jersey offers an abundance of beautiful beaches. Our neighbors from surrounding states love to take advantage of that (as do we) and the shores in towns like Point Pleasant, Seaside Heights, Asbury Park, Ocean City, and Wildwood can get pretty crowded. One way to avoid throngs of tourists is to visit some of our more serene beaches without big commercial boardwalks. These beaches will provide a wonderful escape and some relaxation. Here are a few of the best hidden NJ beaches where you'll probably be able to find a spot on the sand.
The Route
This trip to some of the best secret beaches in New Jersey would take just 2.5 hours of drive time if shore traffic didn't exist. You'll want to make a weekend out of it so that you can enjoy each beach along the way.
Spring Lake Beach
Spring Lake Beach can be found in Spring Lake. It offers soft clean sand and we want to keep it that way. Daily and season badges must be purchased online. Discounts are available for seniors. From the beach, take a short stroll up to 3rd Avenue for charming shops and restaurants. This is one of the best little-known beaches in New Jersey.
Sea Girt Beach
This beautiful swimming beach can often be found with plenty of room to spread out. It's one of the best hidden beaches in New Jersey. Daily and season badges must be purchased online. The town of Sea Girt is home to a little lighthouse and stand-up paddleboarding lessons if you're looking for something special to do. It's one of the best hidden beaches in New Jersey.
Mantoloking Beach
Mantoloking offers a public beach between Carrigan Place and Herbert Street. There are no shops or lifeguards but there is often peace and quiet. It's one of the best New Jersey beaches to visit. Daily and season badges can be purchased online.
7 Mile Beach
This Stone Harbor beauty has soft, white sand and crisp, cool water. A wonderful place to swim, be sure to check out local attractions like the Stone Harbor Museum and Wetlands Institute while you're here. You must purchase a beach tag for 7 Mile Beach. You can find out more on the Avalon website.
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Pearl Beach
Cape May Point Beach is one of the least crowded secret beaches in New Jersey. You'll have to find street parking but it's so worth it to avoid the crowds. A lifeguard has been on duty here every summer since 2005, so it's open for swimming. While you're in the area, check out the lighthouse and Cape May Point State Park.
The hidden NJ beaches offer oodles of fun in the sun, particularly at these hidden destinations. Which of these scenic spots do you like best? Please let us know your favorite beach in the comments.
If you want to avoid crowds, use our interactive Google Maps link for directions. For other hidden beaches around the state, check out this list of 10 little-known beaches in New Jersey.
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