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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks

Cool beaches in New Jersey

Made for those who seek out the shorelines that actually have a pulse and a distinct sense of style.

Based on 579 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
The Bentley Inn image 1
The Bentley Inn image 2
The Bentley Inn image 3
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Old inn with classic beach vibes and beautiful renovations offers cozy common spaces including a sunny porch and wrap-around balcony. Atmosphere feels warm and relaxing with a chic, boutique style. Guests enjoy beach amenities and a lively, social setting near the shore.

Less than a 5-minute walk from the inn, the beach offers clean sand and a not crowded atmosphere. The inn provides beach towels, chairs, and passes for easy access and comfort.

A cool beach vibe sets the tone here, blending with a charming aesthetic and a great location near the surf.

People are saying

"The dining area was adorable and the decor was stunning."

"It's a short walk to the beach, perfect for a beach vacation."

"The staff here are so friendly and accommodating."

Good to know

1

The beach is located one block away from the inn.

2

The inn is within walking distance to local restaurants and shops.

3

The hotel is only a 3-minute walk away from the beach.

02
Barnegat Lighthouse State Park image 1

Lighthouse tower offers breathtaking views of the inlet and surrounding areas. Trails wind around the park, providing serene spots for picnics and birdwatching. The atmosphere stays peaceful and relaxing, making it a perfect thinking spot.

Spacious beach areas invite long walks along the shore and pier. Climbing the lighthouse offers bird's eye views of the ocean, bay, and nearby islands. Rocky spots provide places to hop along the beach's edge.

The lighthouse stands out with its unique color scheme and historic charm. The visitor center and museum offer informative exhibits that add to the cool experience at the park.

People are saying

"The panoramic view from the top is breathtaking."

"Climbing the lighthouse's historical site offered a gorgeous, endless ocean view."

"Climbing the lighthouse offered spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean and Barnegat Bay."

Good to know

1

The lighthouse closes at 3:30 PM.

2

Dogs are not allowed on the walkway by the rocks.

3

There is no charge to enter the park.

03
The Sandbox at Seastreak Beach image 1

Beachfront bar offers live music, food trucks, and ample seating with picnic tables and Adirondack chairs. Atmosphere shifts from tranquil and family-friendly during the day to lively and vibrant in the evening. Views include sunset over the bay and city skyline, enhancing the relaxed vibe.

Clear water and a well maintained shore create a pleasant setting. Live music and several food trucks add to the lively atmosphere. A small beach area and beach volleyball offer fun for kids and families.

Dogs can swim here, making it a pet-friendly water spot. The bay area offers a laid-back vibe that feels refreshing and cool.

People are saying

"The food trucks here have yummy food and great live music."

"I found the beach to be small but charming."

"The live music here is great."

Good to know

1

Free parking is available at the venue.

2

There is no food available during the day.

3

You can bring your own food and snacks.

04
Casino Pier & Breakwater Beach image 1

Amusement park combines classic design with modern technology and features a wave pool with manageable waves alongside a colorful boardwalk atmosphere. Energy stays lively with live music, arcade games, and family-friendly water attractions. Views include ocean and bay scenery, creating a vibrant setting for all ages.

Clean sandy beaches offer a refreshing spot with a low $10 access fee. The area combines a boardwalk with live music and festivals alongside kid-friendly activities and food options.

Mini golf with cool decor offers a fun time. The park features a big ship design and a wave pool wall that stand out visually.

People are saying

"It's a fun place with great rides and games for everyone."

"This beach offers a fun mix of games, rides, and water park attractions."

"It's a cool local spot with a fun spread of entertainment."

Good to know

1

Casino Pier & Breakwater Beach is not open before the first week of April.

2

Most attractions are closed out of season, except for the arcade and some food spots.

3

Visitors cannot bring food inside the park.

05
Palmetto Southern Kitchen + Bar image 1

Restaurant offers oceanfront views from every table with outdoor patio seating that welcomes dogs. Atmosphere combines loud live music and DJs with an energetic vibe, making conversation challenging. Stylish design and boardwalk location create a fun, lively setting for dining and entertainment.

Overlooks the boardwalk, beach, and ocean with a patio that offers a perfect view for people watching.

Unique dishes like cheese dip and crab cakes stand out. The place has a consistently cool atmosphere.

People are saying

"The American food, especially the cornbread, is so buttery and good."

"The fried chicken Sammy on Texas toast was so good."

"The food concepts here are so cool and delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially during busy hours.

2

The kitchen closes at 1am, so plan your visit accordingly.

3

Palmetto welcomes dogs, making it a pet-friendly dining option.

06
Madison Resort Wildwood Crest image 1

Oceanfront resort features retro 50s design and spacious, colorful rooms with a large heated pool and jacuzzi. The atmosphere blends tropical vibes with comfortable, thoughtfully planned spaces. Amenities include poolside cabanas, fire pits, daily DJ music, and shuttle service to nearby attractions.

The beach features complimentary chairs and umbrellas provided by the resort, creating a comfortable spot to relax. A Beach Retro vibe with pastel colors adds charm, and helpful beach attendants and shuttle service enhance the experience.

A 1-foot pool section with built-in sunbathing chairs stands out. The 50's retro style shows up in the resort and room appliances. Poolside DJ music adds a cool vibe to the shallow pool lounge area.

People are saying

"The hotel rooms are so clean and cozy, just like home."

"It's a lovely hotel located right on the beach."

"The retro decor and appliances are really cool."

Good to know

1

The hotel has no parking and made us wait for valet service.

2

Guests need to arrive early to secure beach chairs due to limited availability.

3

Pool time may be cut short for private events, affecting guest access.

07
Bungalow Hotel image 1

Rooms offer spacious layouts with modern design and fireplaces, creating a bright, welcoming atmosphere. Lobby exudes cool, West Coast vibes with ample natural light and social spaces. Noise from footsteps above is common, making the hotel better suited for lively stays than quiet retreats.

Great proximity to the beach makes it easy to stroll along the shore and nearby shops. Amenities include beach chairs and umbrellas, plus a pool for relaxing after time on the sand.

Rooms feel clean and relaxing with a fireplace and stocked with drinks and snacks. The lobby and overall vibe come across as cool and spacious.

People are saying

"The hotel staff here is amazing and friendly."

"It's a short walk to the beach and boardwalk."

"It's got a cool, modern vibe with West Coast style."

Good to know

1

Parking is available at an additional cost.

2

Rooms include mini kitchens with a fridge, sink, and coffee maker.

3

There are no amenities at the hotel, but guests can use those at The Wave for a small resort fee.

08
Capt'n Jack's Island Grill image 1

Bar and grill with ocean views from an upstairs deck creates a beach ambiance enhanced by a full bar offering colorful fishbowl drinks. Bright lights and lively energy fill the space, especially when packed. Outdoor areas attract birds, adding a natural element to the atmosphere.

Upstairs seating offers sweeping views of the beach and ocean. The porch creates a great beach ambiance with a clear sightline to the boardwalk.

A cool vibe fills the place with steel drum music adding to the fun atmosphere. Staff and location match the laid-back feel, making it a chill spot for drinks and bites.

People are saying

"You get a great ocean view from the top deck."

"You can see the beach from upstairs."

"It's a cool spot for drinks and a bite to eat."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm daily with discounted drinks.

2

Expect a 20% service charge added to all bills.

3

Credit cards are accepted, but a 3% surcharge applies.

09
Low Dive image 1

Small concrete bar opens to boardwalk and beach with an unbeatable ocean view. Live music and DJs create a lively atmosphere, drawing locals and visitors for beach tunes and local bands. Vibrant wall art and an outside deck add to the cool surf bar vibe.

A surf bar opens directly onto the boardwalk and beach, offering easy access and views from the back entrance.

Chill bartenders create a personable and fun vibe. The bar offers a cool surf atmosphere overlooking the beach, making it a nice spot to grab a drink while walking the boardwalk.

People are saying

"The beer selection here is great and cold."

"It's a cool spot to pop into for a drink."

"The bar opens right onto the boardwalk and beach."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm on weekdays with discounted drinks.

2

The bar hosts a DJ party every Sunday night starting at 8pm.

3

Credit cards are accepted, but cash is recommended to avoid extra charges.

10
AVA Beach Bar image 1

Beach bar features cozy vibe with lounge chairs, volleyball court, and live music starting early afternoon. Atmosphere stays relaxed and inviting, with seating around the bar and standing tables. Crowd varies from quiet to busy, offering a full experience beyond just drinks.

Beach access requires a tag since the bar sits right on the sand. The beach itself is nice and inviting, but service at the bar can be slow, which might cut into your beach time.

Buckets offer a very cool vibe and taste great. The atmosphere feels cool and relaxed.

People are saying

"The bar staff here are outstanding and make you feel welcome."

"The service here is amazing and attentive."

"The bucket drinks at the Beach Bar were very good."

Good to know

1

The bar is only accessible from the beach, requiring a beach tag for entry.

2

You need to buy food before being served again at the bar.

3

They did not provide a food menu, so ask about food options upon arrival.

11
Wave Resort image 1
Resort hotel

Oceanfront rooms offer stunning views with walls of windows that bring in natural light. The atmosphere stays calm and relaxing, with a boutique feel and luxurious amenities including a spa and excellent pool. Valet parking adds convenience, and live music enhances dining experiences.

Situated right on the shore, the resort offers easy beach access and stunning views. The setting suits both romantic ceremonies and chic receptions overlooking the water.

Cool vibes come from the lobby with great coffee table books and the bar area. The pool area stands out but tends to get crowded.

People are saying

"The hotel rooms have beautiful ocean views and comfortable beds."

"The rooms are beautiful with an open porch overlooking the beach."

"It's cool how close it is to everything and the ocean view."

Good to know

1

Valet parking is mandatory and costs $55 per night, not disclosed until arrival.

2

A $200 security deposit is required at check-in, which is not mentioned beforehand.

3

The hotel charges additional resort fees that are not disclosed during booking.

12
The Asbury Hotel image 1

Hotel offers spacious, trendy design with live music venues and a heated outdoor pool. Lobby buzzes with energy from local talent performances and lively crowds. Rooftop bar provides ocean views and a vibrant setting for socializing.

A beautiful beach sits just a short walk from the hotel, with a lively boardwalk nearby. A rooftop bar offers views overlooking the beach and a park, adding to the beachside vibe.

A laidback atmosphere blends with a classy vibe throughout the space. The rooftop bar and lobby offer cool spots to hang out, while the staff stays personable and welcoming.

People are saying

"It's the perfect spot for date spots, with the beach and boardwalk just steps away."

"The rooftop bar has amazing wrap-around ocean views."

"It's a close walk to the beach and boardwalk."

Good to know

1

Parking costs $50 per day for valet service; street parking is limited.

2

Rooftop movie nights occur regularly; check the schedule for upcoming films.

3

The Hi-Tide summer pool parties are popular and attract many guests.

13
Playground Pier image 1
Shopping mall

Building offers panoramic beach views and a relaxing atmosphere with beach chairs and sand accents. Spaces feel peaceful and quiet, often with few open stores and a subdued energy. Features include modern water attractions and a game room that appeal to families.

Upstairs lounge features beach chairs and beach sand with windows showing the beach view. The beach itself is okay for relaxing and playing games.

A Ferris wheel stands out as a very cool feature. A candy shop on the first floor adds a fun, cool vibe to the spot.

People are saying

"The third floor offers a sublime beach view."

"I thought this place was pretty cool."

"You get a nice beach view from the third floor."

Good to know

1

Only three stores are currently open at Playground Pier.

2

The candy store is fully stocked and a highlight of the mall.

3

Most restaurants at Playground Pier are closed.

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