Beachfront Frequently Asked Questions
What time does the beach close?
Beaches are always open, however badges are required in season and lifeguards are only present during the beach season. Beach badges are required between the hours of 9 am to 5 pm on weekdays beginning mid June, and between 9 am to 6pm on Friday, holidays and weekends beginning Memorial Day weekend. Lifeguards are on duty between the hours of 9 am and 5:30 pm on the weekdays, and between the 9 am and 6 pm on the weekends.
Where are the Bathrooms located?
Bathroom Locations: 5th, 8th, 11th, 16th and 19th.
Beach Bathrooms are open from 7:30am to 7:00 pm Monday thru Thursday and 7:30 am to 9:30 pm Friday, Saturday and Sunday.
What are the weather conditions at the beach now?
The best way to check the weather conditions are using the various online weather services available on your computer or mobile device. Our favorites include an Ocean Avenue weather station from Wundeground.com, Accuweather.com, Weather.com, Intellicast.com and the National Weather Service
How can I find out what the Ocean Conditions and tides are now? Is swimming allowed today?
Please check the Tide Information and Ocean Conditions section of our webpage for this information. Please be advised that all decisions regarding swimming and/or bathing are made by the Head Lifeguard on duty and are dependent upon the ocean conditions. These conditions may change frequently and all decisions are based upon what is in the best interest of the patrons safety.
Can you bring food on the beach?
Yes! Food and drinks are permitted on the beach. However, alcohol and / or glass bottles are not allowed.
Can you grill or have bonfires on the beach?
Grilling and bonfires are not permitted on the beach.
Are there places to change my clothes or take a shower at the beach?
Unfortunately, there are no bathhouses or changing rooms located at the beach. There are outdoor showers and foot showers located at each beachfront entrance where you can rinse off.
How much are daily beach badges?
(No Refunds)
Children 13 and younger, Active Military, Veterans, and Gold Star Families are free.
How much are seasonal badges?
Seasonal badges are $80 for the entire season.
Senior seasonal badges are $32 for anyone who is 65 years or older with proper identification.
(No Refunds)
How may I pay for my seasonal badges?
Badges can be purchased online: CLICK HERE
Is there a military discount?
All veterans, with proper identification, and active military, including but not limited to the New Jersey National Guard, Coast Guard and all United States Armed Forces branches and their dependents: No Charge.
Gold Star Family Members: A Parent, legal guardian of a member of the Armed Forces of the United States who died while on active duty for the United States get on to the beach for FREE.
Is there a veteran discount?
ALL United States Veterans get on the beach for FREE by showing an ID that identifies them as a veteran. Veteran only, family not included.
What happens if I lose my season beach badge?
We do not replace lost or stolen badges. If someone finds and returns your badge (it does happen!) we will give you a call so that you may pick it up.
What happens if I forget my season badge at home?
Whoops! Unfortunately, you will have to purchase a daily badge for the day. At the booths, we have no way of checking if you have a season badge. We do believe you but unfortunately everyone 14 years or older needs a badge.
What happens if it starts to rain while I am at the beach?
We do not refund any badges sold for the day if it starts to rain.
Is parking free?
Parking spaces along the boardwalk cost $2 an hour. Download the ParkMobile App.
Can I bring a tent?
No tents permitted on the beach between Friday of Memorial Day and Labor Day
Where are the handicap parking spaces located?
Handicapped accessible parking spaces are located along the boardwalk, closest to each beach entrance.
Handicap parking is free in handicap parking spaces only as long as the handicap placard is visible or if you have a handicapped license plate
Where are the Mobi-Mat® nonslip roll-up Beach Access Mat™ located?
MobiMats are nonslip ADA/ABA Beach Access Surfaces for people with disabilities, walkers and elderly visitors or parents with strollers.
Beach access mats are located at: ALL BEACHES
Where are the boogie board beaches located?
Boogie boards are permitted on 7th, 14th, and 20th avenues.
Where are the surfing beaches located?
Surfboards are permitted on 17th and 18th avenues.
Can I fish on the beach?
Yes, only near the Belmar Fishing Club pier, and non bathing areas.