Lonely PlanetJul 22, 2026The best beaches in New Jersey"Down the shore" is as much a feeling as it is a place: Bike rides to the bay and pizza and custard on the boardwalk.These are the best beaches on the Jersey Shore.12 things in this storySteel PierSightOffers rides and amusements.ElsewhereCape May Bird ObservatorySightCape May, United StatesCheck in for migratory bird information.Sandy Hook Gateway National Recreation AreaSightSandy Hook, United StatesSee NYC skyline from beach; includes nude and gay beaches.Fort HancockSightSandy Hook, United StatesGlimpse of prior importance as military and navigational site.Stone PonyRestaurantAsbury Park, United StatesNightclub where Bruce Springsteen got his start.Barnegat PeninsulaNeighborhoodSeaside Heights, United StatesLocals call it 'the barrier island'.Island Beach State ParkSightSeaside Park, United StatesOffers fishing, wildlife, and untouched sand dunes.Barnegat LighthouseSightBarnegat Light, United StatesKiller view from Island Beach State Park.Farias Surf ShopPlaceShip Bottom, United StatesRent bikes here to explore the island.All Saints’ Anglican ChurchSightGalle Fort, Sri LankaMaritime Archaeology MuseumMuseumGalle Fort, Sri LankaDutch GateSightGalle Fort, Sri LankaRead the full piece at Lonely Planet →
