
Asbury Park Beach
A vibrant beach town with a legendary boardwalk, iconic music venues, and a thriving arts scene.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peaceful strolls, fewer crowds

Asbury Park Beach
Best Time
Peaceful strolls, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vibrant beach town with a legendary boardwalk, iconic music venues, and a thriving arts scene.
"This place delivers a perfect blend of beach town charm and urban energy."

🌅 Sunrise Boardwalk Walks
Enjoy a peaceful, uplifting walk or jog on the boardwalk before the crowds arrive. It can be slippery early on! :athletic_shoe:
💰 Free Entry After 5 PM
Save on beach badges by visiting after 5 PM during peak season. Perfect for sunset strolls! :moneybag:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Asbury Park Boardwalk
Along the beachfront
A vibrant stretch with shops, eateries, art, and historic landmarks like the Convention Hall.

Asbury Park Beach
Directly accessible from the boardwalk
A clean, inviting shore with clear, calm waters perfect for a refreshing dip.

Convention Hall
On the boardwalk
An iconic 1920s venue, a historic landmark hosting events and housing shops.

Live Music Scene
Various venues, notably The Stone Pony
Experience the legendary music history of Asbury Park with live performances.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beach Badges & Entry Fees
Boardwalk Buzz & Timing
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🌅 Sunrise Boardwalk Walks
Enjoy a peaceful, uplifting walk or jog on the boardwalk before the crowds arrive. It can be slippery early on! :athletic_shoe:
💰 Free Entry After 5 PM
Save on beach badges by visiting after 5 PM during peak season. Perfect for sunset strolls! :moneybag:
🎶 Catch Live Music
Asbury Park is a music mecca! Check out legendary venues like The Stone Pony for an authentic experience. :microphone:
🎨 Explore Street Art
Wander through the town to discover vibrant murals and public art installations. :art:
Tips
from all over the internet
🌅 Sunrise Boardwalk Walks
Enjoy a peaceful, uplifting walk or jog on the boardwalk before the crowds arrive. It can be slippery early on! :athletic_shoe:
💰 Free Entry After 5 PM
Save on beach badges by visiting after 5 PM during peak season. Perfect for sunset strolls! :moneybag:
🎶 Catch Live Music
Asbury Park is a music mecca! Check out legendary venues like The Stone Pony for an authentic experience. :microphone:
🎨 Explore Street Art
Wander through the town to discover vibrant murals and public art installations. :art:
👨👩👧👦 Stroller-Friendly Boardwalk
The boardwalk is great for families with strollers, with easy access to amenities. :stroller:
☂️ Beach Umbrella Safety
Be mindful of beach umbrella safety, especially in windy conditions. :warning:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Asbury Park Beach is celebrated for its clean shores, calm waters, and a lively boardwalk brimming with shops, dining, and historic charm. Visitors appreciate the vibrant, artsy atmosphere and the convenience of free beach entry after 5 PM. While parking can be challenging on busy weekends, the overall experience is highly recommended for its blend of beach relaxation and urban energy.
"Asbury Park Beach is a beautiful place. We walked along the boardwalk, there were restaurants and gift shops. The atmosphere was lively with music and dancing. At the end of the boardwalk was the arcade. There was a club and lot of shops. After eating and shopping we entered the beach. You have to pay a fee to enter the beach but after 5pm entry is free. Shore is clean and the water is clear so it’s a really nice beach to go in for a dip. We really enjoyed our day on the beach with good food and music.
Almost forgot they do have kites in the boardwalk shops. Thats also a fun activity. Asbury park beach, unlike many other beaches around, is very inviting for a dip with clean, calm and clear waters."
Tharindi Dissanayake
"I truly enjoyed the sunrise and morning boardwalk, and I hope to go again before summer ends. The boardwalk can be wet and slippery early in the day, but it's still the most uplifting spot for a morning walk or jog."
Local Guide
"We loved our day here as a family with 2 toddlers. Plenty of parking, toilets close by and a great boardwalk which made it easy with a stroller. The beach itself was clean with bins at several places. We went out of season so it was free but in the summer months there is a fee and I can imagine it would get very busy. Lots of beautiful art to be seen too!"
Jen Middleton
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can take the Seastreak ferry from Pier 11 or East 35th Street in Manhattan for a scenic 1-hour ride to Atlantic Highlands, NJ. From there, you can arrange local transport to Asbury Park. Alternatively, NJ Transit offers train service to Asbury Park Station, which is a short distance from the beach.
Yes, there is parking available, but it can fill up quickly on summer weekends. Arrive early or consider public transport options. Some visitors mention parking lots near the boardwalk and Convention Hall.
Access to the beach after dusk may be restricted. While some visitors enjoy evening walks on the boardwalk, it's best to check local regulations for beach access hours, especially outside of peak season.
The boardwalk is very walkable, and many attractions are within easy reach. For longer distances, consider local ride-sharing services or walking downtown, which is a short distance from the shore.
Asbury Park hosts various events throughout the year, including Pride celebrations and summer carnivals. Check local listings for upcoming events during your visit.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, during the peak summer season, a daily or seasonal beach badge is required for entry to Asbury Park Beach. These can be purchased at the beach entrance or in advance. Entry is often free after 5 PM.
Beach badge prices vary for daily, weekly, and seasonal passes. While specific prices can change, it's advisable to check the official Asbury Park website or inquire at the beach entrance for the most current rates. Some visitors note that entry is free after 5 PM.
The beach is typically open from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Lifeguards are usually on duty during these months. While the beach itself may have specific hours, the boardwalk is generally accessible for walks at most times, though shops and attractions have their own operating hours.
Yes, many visitors report that Asbury Park Beach offers free entry after 5 PM during the summer season. This is a great way to enjoy the beach and boardwalk without the daily fee.
Beach badges can typically be purchased at the beach entrance booths on the boardwalk. It's recommended to have cash or check for accepted payment methods, though some locations may offer online purchasing options.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The boardwalk is packed with shops, restaurants, arcades, and historic landmarks like the Convention Hall. It's a lively place for strolling, people-watching, and enjoying the seaside atmosphere.
Absolutely! Families with toddlers have found the beach clean, with nearby restrooms and a stroller-friendly boardwalk. The calm, clear waters are also inviting for young swimmers.
Yes, restrooms are generally available near the beach and boardwalk. It's advisable to check for specific locations upon arrival, especially if you have young children or need changing facilities.
You'll find a variety of shops, from souvenir and gift shops selling kites and beachwear to boutiques and art galleries. There are also many dining options available.
Typically, dogs are not allowed on the beach during the summer season. However, they are often permitted on the boardwalk during specific hours or off-season. Always check the local rules and regulations regarding pets.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The boardwalk offers a diverse range of dining, from casual eateries and ice cream shops to restaurants with ocean views. You can find everything from seafood to pizza and more.
Yes, the downtown area, just a short walk from the beach, boasts fantastic restaurants, coffee shops, and boutiques, offering a wide culinary selection.
Generally, outside food and non-alcoholic beverages are permitted on the beach. However, it's always a good idea to check for any specific restrictions on glass containers or alcohol.
Asbury Park is known for its diverse and creative food scene, so you'll likely find vegetarian and vegan options at many of its restaurants, especially in the downtown area.
The dining scene in Asbury Park is eclectic, ranging from casual beachside cafes to more upscale establishments. Many places embrace the town's artsy and inclusive spirit.
📸 📸 Photography
The boardwalk, especially near the Convention Hall, offers iconic backdrops. Sunsets over the ocean are spectacular, and the vibrant street art throughout the town provides unique photo opportunities.
Definitely! Sunrises over the ocean are beautiful, and sunsets casting a golden glow on the boardwalk and beach are a photographer's dream. Early mornings are particularly peaceful for capturing these moments.
Beyond the beach and boardwalk, explore the colorful murals and street art scattered throughout the town. The historic architecture of the Convention Hall also makes for striking photos.
The 'golden hours' – shortly after sunrise and before sunset – offer the most flattering light for photography. Midday can be harsh, but it's great for capturing the lively atmosphere of the boardwalk.
Drone usage is typically regulated and may be prohibited in public areas like beaches and boardwalks. It's essential to check with local authorities or the FAA for current drone regulations before flying.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🎶 Music Lovers
🎨 Art & Culture Aficionados
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Iconic Asbury Park Boardwalk
This historic boardwalk is also a cultural hub, home to the Asbury Park Convention Hall, a stunning 1920s architectural gem that continues to host events. The atmosphere is often described as artsy, inclusive, and full of life, making it a captivating place to explore. Whether you're seeking a lively evening out with live music or a peaceful morning stroll, the boardwalk offers a dynamic experience for every visitor.
Asbury Park Beach: More Than Just Sand
While a beach badge is typically required for entry during peak hours, many visitors highlight the benefit of free entry after 5 PM, allowing for enjoyable evening visits to catch the sunset or simply relax by the shore. The beach is easily accessible from the boardwalk, and families with young children appreciate the convenience and nearby amenities, including restrooms.
The Soul of Asbury Park: Music and Art
This artistic energy is palpable, creating an atmosphere that is both inspiring and welcoming. From the historic Convention Hall to the independent shops and galleries, Asbury Park offers a rich cultural experience that complements its beautiful beach and lively boardwalk. It's a place where you can immerse yourself in creativity, whether you're catching a show, admiring public art, or simply soaking in the unique vibe.


Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit