Summertime in Jersey City has a hidden charm not many speak of – its proximity to some of the finest beaches the East Coast has to offer.
While the city’s heartbeat syncs with the Hudson’s waves, just a short drive away, a myriad of sandy shores beckon locals and visitors alike.
From the bustling boardwalks of Coney Island to the serene stretches of Bayshore Waterfront Park, there’s a beach for every mood and moment.
Whether you’re a sun-soaker, wave-rider, or boardwalk stroller, these coastal gems promise to make your summer unforgettable.
Discover what Jersey City has to offer!
1. Coney Island Beach
- Distance from Jersey City: 17 miles
- Activities: picnicking, paddle boarding, boardwalk strolls, carnival games, kayaking
- Facilities: boardwalk, amusement park, restrooms, showers, snack stands, picnic areas, lifeguards, rentals
A mere hop across the Hudson from Jersey City, Coney Island beckons with its sun-kissed stretch of nearly three miles of sandy shores.
This iconic New York haven is more than just a beach; it’s an experience.
Bathed in the summer sun, visitors can indulge in a myriad of activities, from beach volleyball, handball, to basketball.
The historic Riegelmann Boardwalk runs parallel, offering both the laid-back and the active a chance to soak in the maritime atmosphere.
As families frolic in the gentle waves, others find solace in “Little Odessa,” an adjacent neighborhood brimming with Eastern European flavors.
Ample benches allow for leisurely views while clean sands beckon footprints.
For those seeking a bite to eat, a variety of food stands line the boardwalk.
Come for the sun, stay for the vibes!
2. Jacob Riis Park
- Distance from Jersey City: 24 miles
- Activities: beach volleyball, frisbee, picnicking, yoga
- Facilities: restrooms, outdoor showers, beach umbrellas, chair rentals, food stands, picnic areas, boardwalk shops
Nestled along the shores of Queens, The People’s Beach at Jacob Riis Park beckons beachgoers with its mesmerizing coastal charm.
Caressed by the Atlantic’s rhythmic waves, this haven offers a medley of relaxation and action.
An inviting stretch of sand invites swimming in designated zones vigilantly overseen by lifeguards, while sunbathers revel in the warm embrace of the sun’s rays.
Beach sports enthusiasts can engage in spirited games, from volleyball to soccer.
Amenities cater to comfort, including convenient restrooms, refreshing outdoor showers, and seamless changing rooms.
The allure extends to umbrella and chair rentals, beachside dining options, and charming boardwalk shops.
This coastal sanctuary fosters a sense of community, warmly embracing diverse visitors seeking panoramic views of the Atlantic’s expanse.
Located within a breezy reach from Jersey City, this coastal sanctuary epitomizes a rejuvenating urban escape.
3. Orchard Beach
- Distance from Jersey City: 22 miles
- Activities: hiking, picnicking, golfing, tennis, horseback riding, kayaking, fishing, baseball/softball, soccer, basketball
- Facilities: playgrounds, picnic areas, trails, gazebos, barbecue areas, boat launch, parking
Just 22 miles from Jersey City, Orchard Beach, fondly known as the “Bronx Riviera,” stretches over a scenic 1.1-mile expanse within the vast Pelham Bay Park.
Nestled in the northeastern corner of the Bronx, this beach is a refreshing urban oasis, perfect for both solitary contemplation and spirited family outings.
Beyond the allure of its sun-soaked shores, visitors can delve into an array of activities.
The beachfront playground promises endless fun for children, while adjacent basketball courts beckon sports enthusiasts.
Those looking for a serene day can relish picnicking amidst the ample tables and grilling spaces, though arriving early during peak summer hours is wise.
With clean restrooms and a dedicated dog park nearby, Orchard Beach ensures a wholesome experience for every beachgoers.
Whether you’re keen on sunbathing, sports, or simply soaking in the atmosphere, this seaside gem is worth the journey.
4. South Beach
- Distance from Jersey City: 15 miles
- Activities: fishing, cycling, beach volleyball, kayaking, paddle boarding
- Facilities: boardwalk, playgrounds, restrooms, parking, showers, eateries, lifeguard, bike rentals, benches
Just a short journey from Jersey City lies Staten Island’s best-kept secret: South Beach.
With its expansive views of the iconic Verrazano-Narrows Bridge, this coastal haven draws visitors in search of serenity and recreation.
Stretched across the east shore, South Beach boasts the Franklin D. Roosevelt Boardwalk, a 2.5-mile promenade ideal for walkers, runners, and cyclists.
Families frequent the beach’s playgrounds, while sports enthusiasts revel in its handball and bocce courts.
For the angler, the nearby Ocean Breeze Fishing Pier promises a fresh catch.
Adding to the charm, eateries dot the landscape, and lifeguards ensure safe swims.
Top-tier amenities, from showers to free sunscreen dispensers, accentuate the experience.
South Beach is not just a destination—it’s a summertime ritual.
5. Midland Beach
- Distance from Jersey City: 18 miles
- Activities: beachcombing, bicycling, basketball, picnicking, barbecuing, cycling, fishing
- Facilities: boardwalk, playgrounds, picnic areas, courts, restrooms, fountains, sprinklers, parking
Located next-door to South Beach, Midland Beach is a coastal haven that lies 18 miles from Jersey City.
This tranquil enclave boasts a rich history, with its pristine white sands beckoning sun-seekers, families, and solo travelers alike.
The expansive Franklin D. Roosevelt Boardwalk serves as an ideal backdrop for jogging, walking, or simply soaking in panoramic ocean vistas.
Families will appreciate the wealth of amenities: from diverse playgrounds, and barbecue spots, to athletic fields at Midland Field.
Visitors can enjoy cycling, skateboarding, or even renting bikes to explore the area.
The beach remains accessible, featuring facilities catering to wheelchairs and strollers, while clean restrooms and diligent park authorities ensure a seamless experience.
Midland Beach truly embodies a serene escape, harmoniously blending nature’s beauty with modern conveniences.
6. Rockaway Beach
- Distance from Jersey City: 27 miles
- Activities: surfing, biking, picnicking, kayaking, paddleboarding, beach yoga
- Facilities: boardwalk, skatepark, restrooms, showers, concessions, courts, picnic areas, ferry service, lifeguards
Rockaway Beach, a gem tucked away on the Rockaway Peninsula in Queens, stands as one of the grandest urban beaches in the U.S.
Located 27 miles from Jersey City, this expansive stretch of sand offers more than just a serene seaside escape.
The iconic boardwalk, perfect for an evening stroll or morning jog, runs parallel to the sandy shores.
Here, surfing enthusiasts ride waves in NYC’s exclusive surfing zones, while children frolic in playgrounds and sports enthusiasts challenge friends on handball and basketball courts.
Beyond the allure of the sea, Rockaway boasts an eclectic culinary scene, from boardwalk concession stands to trendy cafes.
With lifeguards vigilantly on duty and a plethora of events dotting the summer calendar, Rockaway is the quintessential urban beach experience.
Whether you’re a local or a visitor, this beach promises a taste of oceanside splendor right at the city’s doorstep.
7. Jones Beach State Park
- Distance from Jersey City: 35 miles
- Activities: biking, beach theater, golf, fishing, boating, paddle tennis, shuffleboard, basketball, picnicking, beach volleyball
- Facilities: boardwalk, picnic areas, restrooms, showers, playgrounds, fishing piers, boat launch, golf course, parking, lifeguards, gift shops
Nestled on Long Island’s south shore and 35 miles from Jersey City, Jones Beach State Park spans an impressive 2,400 acres, with 6.5 miles of pristine white sands caressing the Atlantic Ocean’s waves.
Every year, six million sun-seekers converge here, indulging in a vast array of activities.
Visitors can bask in the sun, plunge into the ocean’s embrace, or wander the iconic two-mile boardwalk.
For the sporty, basketball courts, mini-golf, and shuffleboard beckon.
Nature enthusiasts can explore the Jones Beach Energy & Nature Center, while concert lovers are serenaded at the Northwell Health Theatre.
Truly, Jones Beach promises more than just sand – it’s an experience waiting to unfold.
8. Bayshore Waterfront Park
- Distance from Jersey City: 41 miles
- Activities: fishing, picnicking, hiking, boating
- Facilities: picnic areas, boat launch, playground, trails, parking, benches, sitting areas
Nestled in Port Monmouth, a 41-mile drive from Jersey City, lies the pristine Bayshore Waterfront Park, a coastal jewel that promises an escape from the urban hustle.
Overlooking the Sandy Hook Bay, the park boasts a sweeping mile of sandy beach, offering serene vistas of the NY skyline.
Visitors can indulge in a plethora of activities; from seining along the bay, discovering intriguing marine life, to absorbing the local history at the Bayshore Waterfront Park Activity Center.
Anglers can cast off from the fishing pier, while history buffs can explore the Seabrook-Wilson House, one of the region’s oldest homes.
With a captivating blend of natural beauty and amenities, Bayshore stands as an enticing retreat for both locals and tourists alike.
9. Sandy Hook Beach
- Distance from Jersey City: 50 miles
- Activities: biking, fishing, kayaking, paddle boarding, hiking, picnicking, kite flying, surfing
- Facilities: lifeguard, restrooms, shower, picnic areas, parking, visitor center, concession stands, trails, boat launch
A 50-mile ride from Jersey City, Sandy Hook Beach beckons with its pristine golden sands stretching along Monmouth County’s coastline.
Nestled within the expansive Gateway National Recreation Area, it boasts miles of serene shoreline, making it a perfect escape from the urban hustle.
Sunbathers, swimmers, and families find solace in its crystal clear waters and panoramic views of the Atlantic.
Apart from its natural allure, the beach offers a myriad of activities.
Lifeguard-protected swimming areas ensure safety, while biking trails invite explorers.
Modern amenities, including showers, restrooms, and convenient concessions, complement the experience.
With its blend of recreational options and breathtaking beauty, Sandy Hook Beach is a must-visit for anyone looking to savor New Jersey’s coastal charm.
10. Seven Presidents Oceanfront Park
- Distance from Jersey City: 53 miles
- Activities: surfing, fishing, picnicking, volleyball
- Facilities: playground, picnic areas, volleyball courts, lockers, outdoor showers, snack bar, pavilions, parking, restrooms, changing areas
Nestled in the heart of Long Branch, New Jersey, the Seven Presidents Oceanfront Park beckons with its stunning 38-acre expanse of pristine Atlantic coastline.
Situated 53 miles from Jersey City, this gem offers beachgoers a serene escape in summer, brimming with opportunities to ride the waves, bask under the sun, or engage in a spirited game of beach volleyball.
For those looking to surf, dedicated areas ensure the perfect wave-catching experience.
Tony’s Place, a universally accessible playground, provides a haven for kids, while Skateplex tempts skateboard aficionados.
With a rich tapestry of history interwoven, this beach park is more than just sand and sea; it’s a testament to leisure, ecology, and the legacies of presidents who once graced its shores.
11. Asbury Park Beach
- Distance from Jersey City: 55 miles
- Activities: surfing, fishing, live music, kayaking, paddleboarding, beach yoga, golf
- Facilities: playground, boardwalk, restrooms, changing areas, lifeguards, beach chair and umbrella, Wi-Fi, first-aid stations, bike racks
An hour’s drive from Jersey City, Asbury Park Beach stands as a coastal gem, drawing myriad beachgoers each year.
Steeped in history, this mile-long stretch is not just about sunbathing and surf.
The iconic boardwalk bursts with activities – from challenging pals at oceanfront mini-golf at Asbury Eighteen, indulging in a variety of cuisines, to revisiting arcade nostalgia at the Silver Ball Museum.
The Asbury Splash Park is a hit among children, ensuring endless fun under the renowned tipping teacup.
For seafood aficionados, Stella Marina and The Bonney Read offer scrumptious delights.
Summertime sees the sky light up with fireworks, while the beach itself is meticulously lifeguarded, ensuring safety for swimmers.
Ample parking, clean restrooms, and diverse food options – including vegan delights – amplify the beach’s allure.
Asbury Park isn’t just a beach; it’s an experience.
