Great Beach! Beautiful beach with clear water and pet friendly. I wanted to take my dogs to a clean beach for a while and I decided to go to Sandy Hook Beach. It was a wonderful experience. The recreation center is huge, miles and miles of beach, park, lake, and trails. Pets and their owners may visit bayside beaches throughout the year. Pets are only allowed on oceanside beaches from September 15-March 15. Pets are not permitted on oceanside beaches during the spring and summer, but you can still take them to the parks, trails and other areas. We went in October and entrance was free, we parked near the beach, and we spent a wonderful day. read more

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A beach at the middle of NJ with landward beaches on the bay (less good, but less waves and more stagnant water) and outside seaward beaches (better, but more people). Parking is charged between Memorial and Labor days, no dogs on the beach between March 15 to September 15 due to piping plover nesting season. Not a lot of shelling, some smooth stones to be picked up (you can wade in). There's also a clothing-optional beach (Gunnison?) as a part, too. Reasonably good facilities at the main parking lots (A-F). Fees are collected from 8 AM to 6 PM so if you arrive early, no charge. ($20/day and $100 for a season). read more

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Great beach. I recommend going all the way to the end if you want a nice view. $20 parking fee. Dogs are allowed on the bay side. Bathroom rating is a 1/5. Definitely needs a good clean. read more

Went this morning. The beach was very clean and the life guards were very polite Great place to soak up the sun I parked in lot C by the bathrooms read more

Sandy Hook Beach - Beaches Near Me - Highlands, New Jersey

I was on the beach told the lifeguard to tell another person on the beach to stop smoking cigarettes. The person stopped smoking the cigarette, but proceeded to call me and my family a snitch and got increasingly hostile. The person got up and attacked me with his hands. When this was reported to the authorities of the beach, the police asked the person to leave the beach, but didn't not label it as assault. I'm very upset with how I was treated and the lack of retribution read more

I go down to the shore probably once per summer, just because it's a bit of a trek for me from North Jersey. When I do go, I usually look for a beach more north so that I'm not driving for 2 hours each way. I haven't really found a go-to beach, but I think I finally found it this year! I really enjoyed Sandy Hook. It doesn't have a boardwalk, which I don't mind - so if you're looking for boardwalk/bar/restaurant vibes, this is not it. But if you're looking for a quiet, family day at the beach, then this spot is great. You don't need a beach pass per person (which I hate paying) but parking is $20 per day. Better than the anxiety of having to look for street parking somewhere. They have a few lots, but I've read several reviews that they get full if you get there after 8:30 to 9. We got there at around 8 on a Saturday, so we were good. They have bathrooms (pretty clean for a beach) and showers (8 of them!). I love a good rinse after the beach so that I'm not sitting in my car with a bathing suit full of sand. There was one food truck that day but they were selling acai bowls, so definitely bring your own food and lots of snacks. Waves were rough that day and there were a lot of surfers, but there had just been some thunderstorms the night before, so that probably played a factor. Can't wait to go back next year! read more

Sandy Hook Beach - Beaches Near Me - Highlands, New Jersey

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Sandy Hook Beach is one of the northernmost beaches on the Jersey Shore. It is actually one of the best beaches that is close to the NYC area. I found it comparable to Jones Beach or Robert Moses Beach in terms of cleanliness and tranquility. Like those two, it is also fairly secluded which is why even in the middle of summer, it was not crowded at all. In fact, the biggest downside of this place is not easily accessible without a car. There is a ferry from Manhattan that does make daily departures to and from the beach during the warmer months. However, keep in mind that they only make one or two trips a day. There are also not many options at this beach for food or drink. The main beach is Beach D and all you will find there are a couple of food trucks. We saw only three trucks on the day we went (burgers, ice cream and acai bowls). read more

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Such a beautiful recreation center, beach, bay, park. I came here on Saturday with some friends. Very price friendly- it was $20 for the car - NOT Per person!! $20 is great !!! You get access to the entire park, beach, Bay Area. I was swimming at the Bay Area. It was such a nice atmosphere there were dogs everywhere. The dogs were even going in the water. This park is very very clean. I didn't see any trash on the beach area. But, the bay water was pretty brown - so next time I'd like to try the beach area!!! There are restrooms and showers. There is a Mr softee ice cream truck (although I got 2 ice cream cones and it was $21 which is absurd). Tons of parking in multiple parking lots. Can't wait to come back!!! There is also kayaking and paddle board rentals. But you need reservations in advance. I was a little upset that I wasn't able to do it. read more

Sandy Hook Beach - Beaches Near Me - Highlands, New Jersey

I used to visit Sandy Hook quite often before I moved to NJ. It was always a great day, fill up the car with a bunch of friends and pay a parking fee to enjoy the day. Sandy hook is clean and has incredible views of Manhattan, Brooklyn etc. Today I live in Sea Bright which is the next town over and I go to explore the military buildings, take walks, enjoy the wildlife. There is a restaurant there operating year round. I don't sunbathe there as I have a beach across the street from my home but I do try and take advantage of the programs Sandy Hook has to offer... read more

Sandy Hook Beach - Seals coming out to play - Beaches Near Me - Highlands, New Jersey

Sandy Hook Beach is so conveniently located along the Jersey Shore. After paying the $20/carload fee, you'll drive into a beach that is very well maintained, has lifeguards, not all lots have lifeguards, and has restrooms. At the entrance, the Ranger informed us, that lots C & D not only have lifeguards, but they also have the larger restrooms, including showers. The actual beach had plenty of space for all visitors to have ample room between each other and there are miles of beach to walk upon. If you're going to step away from your area, you better ensure all of your food, and trash, are safely covered. The seagulls have Master's Degrees in getting into anything you leave behind, as we noticed with many visitor sites. read more

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I grew up going here it's the best place as far as beach or the "river side" where it's the ocean but less waves also the have a park all the way at the back. Love this beach read more

Super clean beach close to North Jersey. Easy to get to by car although it seems like there is a ferry option from NYC as well. We parked in parking lot E which had food trucks, restrooms, and outdoor showers. Facilities were very clean and there was a little plastic walkway that leads to the beach from the bathroom area. There were certain spots with lifeguards on duty. Otherwise non guarded areas were off limits for swimming. Beach was pretty clean, there bits and pieces of trash in the sand and plenty of red lantern flies. Despite arriving a little past noon there was still plenty of beach to find a perfect spot on, on a Saturday in August. Would return to check out the trails and the first in the park as well. read more

Sandy Hook Beach - Beaches Near Me - Highlands, New Jersey

This is a great beach Me my family and friends come here a lot during the summers The water is usually clean sometimes it's not The beach has lifeguards for the safety And it's a nice place to get a Tan it has good landmarks too Really recommend this beach Just a heads up It's probably not the best idea to come during the weekend Since it's packed read more

Sandy Hook Beach - Beaches Near Me - Highlands, New Jersey

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I only come for the bike trail. I love to come here and ride. Some areas of the trail is covered in shade while most is open to rhe sunlight. So you get the beat of both worlds. Then take in account the amazing scenery you get while riding and the pictures you can take. All makes for a fabulous If you park at Fort Hancock parking is free. If you going to the beach it will cost you $20. But you will see many out grilling in Handcock and sitting out by the water. But it is a ways from the beach area. This beach is very nice at sunset. The view. The breeze. A chair and you by the water. Hmmmm good read more

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For the first time in a long time I got the opportunity to go to the bay side beach area and it was pleasant! People were generally socially distant and it was not super crowded. It also helps that dogs are allowed on this side of the beach because they too need to enjoy the summer fun! For $13, it is a relaxing way to get you and your pet out for a few hours (during the summer season). In the off-season, dogs are allowed on the ocean side as well, and it is free. Parking is also easier to find during that time too. Overall, I like this beach for its simplicity and location, but if you want more out of your beach, head south. You will more likely find more of what you are looking for. read more

After Labor Day until Memorial Dat admission to Sandy Hook Gateway National Rec. Area is free. During the season after Memorial Day the cost is $20 per vehicle load. I only visit Sandy Hook after Labor Day, not because of the cost but for the solitude and fishing The oldest continuously operated lighthouse in the USA (1764) is still open on weekends for tours starting at 1:30 pm. The decommissioned fort (Fort Hancock) can be explored as well as 1,665 acres of barrier beach and 7 miles of ocean, bay and salt marshes. The clothing optional Gunnison Beach is still accessible as is the North Beach Observation Deck with fantastic views and photo opts of NYC. You can bring your own food and beverages but no alcohol. Trash cans are few and far between.. Guardian Park has picnic tables, a shelter and grilling facilities. Hiking trails start at Spermaceti Cove and Area M near Nine Gun Battery. There is a seven mile long multi-use pathway for walking, bicyclists and in-line skating which is not hampered by auto traffic. They still conduct environmental and nature learning experiences at spermaceti and Cove Beach on subjects like osprey, egret, song birds, horseshoe crabs and the salt marsh ecosystem. Fishing beaches have been opened up since swimming is restricted by the cold water. You still require a fishing license which can be purchased online. Some sections of the beaches are closed to protect bird nesting but that takes place mostly in the Spring. Kite flying, wind surfing especially on the bay side is popular but you need a wet suit to feel comfortable. Check out the WWII army base bunkers and mortar positions, as well as, cannons, missiles and other armaments scattered around the peninsula. Sandy Hook is the northern most beach in New Jersey with access off the parkway at exit 117. There are plenty of restaurants in Atlantic Highlands like Bahr's Seafood House. read more

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I haven't been here in a few years and I decided to come to back to Sandy Hook because I wanted to go to a beach that wasn't too far down the shore like Lbi. Since it was right before Memorial Day there was no charge to get on the beach. In season the fees have increased to $20 a car load. If you decide to come often, it pays to get a season pass, because you'll save money. A season pass increased to $100. If your vehicle is oversized the fees are more. If the vehicle is over 20 feet then the fee is $50 for the day. A season pass would be $200. They collect fees from 7a-5p. There are beach parking discounts. these can be purchased at the gate entrance. America the Beautiful Access Pass and America the Beautiful Senior Passes holders receive a 50% discount.There are also discounts for people that are disabled. I took a ride to the very end where the Army barracks used to be years ago. I found out from some workers that they're redoing all of these homes and the surrounding areas. Eventually they are going to rent them out during the summer and fall months. It will take quite a few years to finish everything, it's like their own little community.There's Beautiful views of the water from this area. At the very end of Sandy Hook is a very private nude beach. There's quite a long walk to the beach from what I'm told. There are beaches along the way starting with the letter A and working your way up the alphabet. I went to Beach D. It has a short walk, and the beach was very clean and large. There are outside showers and foot sprinklers to remove the sand. They have bathrooms right there too. There is absolutely no smoking on the beach or vaping. You can bring coolers and food. This is a great place if you want to bicycle. There are so many areas to ride around and see.The bicycle paths are paved and wide. In the summer months this place gets very busy to the point where they'll stop letting people in. My suggestion is to come early. Once they reach the maximum people will be turned away. Sandy Hook is definitely a fun place to come and bring the family. read more

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Take a beautiful drive thru all the bays, to the very end where you will reach all the renovated houses at officers row at Fort Hancock. Yesterday when we drove thru there was a lovely wedding taking place. There is a new restaurant/bar called "The mule bar" & many people were seen enjoying the outside seating area on this bright sunny day. We enjoyed gorgeous seaside vistas, the sun sparkling off the water, cool breezes & wind surfers. There were many fishermen on the bay side. There is Plenty of open green space available for picnics and dog walking. Will come thru again to visit the mule bar or to relax on one of the many expansive beaches. The entire area is kept very clean, roads are well kept & seemingly freshly tarred. Carry out your own trash & leave no footprint. There is so much empty space here that I wonder why they don't do more with it., A horse stables would be great (like in Jamaica bay). Imagine being able to ride horses along the trails or beach? Heaven... Would be a great entertainment venue for concerts or other events, ...and they should allow RV overnight parking as there really isn't any in this area for families traveling thru our coastal area. They certainly have enough parking lots and space for it. It's too bad RVs are not allowed overnight really because that would bring in much more money into the area & its businesses. Hence the 4 stars. read more

Amazing place you know you have to go to this beach. The beach view is so amazing and I think you'll really enjoy your experience with the beautiful waves and tons of fishing. Very nice people and great experience. I think you should definitely enjoy your time while it lasts. read more

What's not to love, especially in the off season! No crowds, clean, well patrolled (in years past some visitors were prone to party), ample parking. Generally the rest rooms are kept clean, and the beaches are too. read more

Sandy Hook Beach - My kinda crowd! - Beaches Near Me - Highlands, New Jersey

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This is definitely a very nice beach. But if you value your time and your sanity, you need to get here as early as you can and on an off day. The last time we came here was a random Tuesday morning at about 10:30am in June. Despite what's going on, you'd think that this would be enough to avoid a crowd. It wasn't. Get here even earlier. The line to pay and enter is total hell. For some reason, no one can just pay. They have to ask 50 questions to the employees. Every single car in front of me in line took like 5 minutes each talking to the employee before paying. I'm not sure how I was the only one who just handed over the $15, took the receipt, and drove off in 20 seconds. But despite this, it's a nice beach and good for families. read more

My family and I has went here multiple times over the summer time. A couple of time we loved it and the other times it was either packed, or someone was being rude and feeding the birds and then the birds came over to us. I was definitely not happy about that. Other then that, it's a really nice beach but next time I'll probably check out other beaches. read more

Cleanest beach I've seen in jersey Rich with wildlife and military history Wonderful spot to catch a wave, kayak, or even catch a glimpse of the nyc skyline The most beautiful sunrises and sunsets read more

The entire Sandy Hook Recreation Area is worth a visit. We love sea kayaking, running, and spending time at the beach. Park at Lot G and walk to the beach for a great view of Manhattan. read more

How did I never visit this beach until recently? I guess you get used to the ones you remember from childhood or early adulthood and neglect discovering new ones. Such a shame because this spot is definitely worth repeated visits, and I will be back. My first impression was that there is much to see and enjoy here. Do you prefer to swim or sunbathe au natural ? No problem, area C is home to a clothing optional spot( high SPF recommended) Do you want warmer gentler water? The bayside has you covered, and you will even be able to find secluded spots. Do you like biking, running or walking? There are several paved paths that wind through the various areas. There is a $15 per car fee, but for some unknown reason it was waived on the Saturday I visited. ( yay, taxpayer subsidized beach trips) But considering other towns where parking is not usually free, this did seem excessive. Each parking area has showers and changing rooms, some appeared to have food vendors though the tamale truck was not in service in area E. The sand is on the coarser side, which I prefer( seems to clean off easier) but as others stated, you may see a bit more debris. There is a drop off where the sea meets the shore, so there's no need to go far out to be submerged. This seemed to keep people closer and lifeguards were not constantly directing folks to come in. With the ample length, it was easy to find spots to park your gear and not feel on top of your neighbors. I did not have enough time to explore the bayside and hope to try that on my next visit. There is not a parking area on that side, but there seems to be a few strategic places that allow quick access. Kayaks are available to rent on the bay too. Overall, a very proletariat park and one that has something for almost anyone. Who knows, maybe I'll chuck the speedos and saunter into area C next time...4.5 life's a beach Yelps read more

Sandy Hook Beach - Beaches Near Me - Highlands, New Jersey

Sandy Hook is my favorite beach in New Jersey. My boyfriend lives in Bergen county so Sandy hook is #1 the closest #2 the cleanest and #3 the least crowded. (We used to go to Point Pleasant but it's such a pain to drive 2 hours there, get stuck in traffic on the way, find parking, pay for parking AND pay to get on the beach). Is the boardwalk and tiki bar at Point Pleasant beach even worth the hassle? Not when you can pack up your own cooler with beer & lunch and go to Sandy hook instead and NOT be stuck in traffic for hours! Plus no one checks your cooler at Sandy Hook. We sat next to a couple who was blasting Spanish music & drinking Hennessy like it was going out of style. The bathrooms are clean and the actual beach is spotless which is shocking because there are NO GARBAGE CANS ON THE BEACH... Which is a little ridiculous. Overall my favorite spot! read more

Sandy Hook Beach - Perfect!! - Beaches Near Me - Highlands, New Jersey

Ah, life is a beach! My family and I comes to Sandy Hook at least once each summer. Why? It's the closest beach to home and right off the parkway. You pay a flat rate of $15 per vehicle to park and no other fee to get onto the beach. There are plenty of beach area to park but the place do fill up quickly so make sure if you're planning to come, you have to be there before 9am to secure a spot. If you can arrive earlier, do so. Parking lot area D is the only area with food truck. It also has more parking space than the other lots area. There are no garbage can on the beach so make sure you bring a bag for your garbage and take it with you off the premises. My only complaint is the horrible bathroom line and it reeks by the mid of the day, yikes! read more

One of the nicer beaches in the tri-state area. Even on a holiday (Labor Day) it wasn't super crowded. Possibly because it is a trek to get there from the city. Pro Tip: take the earliest ferry because it's the cheapest; $30 round trip. Once you're off the ferry, which is about a 30/35 minute ride from the pier near Wall Street, there are shuttle buses that take you to the beach. Possibly the only annoying thing was the walk from the entrance to the actual beach. It seemed like forever...especially on a hott day, like Monday was. Be prepared. Pack your cooler full of goodies, towel, chairs and umbrellas. You can rent the umbrellas but it's better to just have everything there. Part of the beach is clothing optional and many - if not all - take advantage of that but it's actually pretty chill. No one is really judging. Everyone is simply enjoying themselves at a pretty low-key beach. I can't wait to return. read more

Sandy Hook Beach - Beaches Near Me - Highlands, New Jersey

I am here for the winter in North New Jersey so I figured I would check out this beach. I'm glad I did. Although it was cold, it really was not crowded or busy. I am a photographer as well and it was perfect. Also, on a clear day you can see the NYC skyline from the beach! Oh, also there is no fee in the winter. So that was great. If you want a nice Sunday away to relax, this is a great place to go unwind. read more

Sandy Hook Beach - Beaches Near Me - Highlands, New Jersey

The place is excellent with kayaking and other fun activities. Great views and a stress buster. read more

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My go to beach in the summer. During the week it is not crowded at all. Weekends here are more packed so make sure to get here early. Lots fill up quick! I usually park in Lot D where they have food trucks if you want to grab a snack, lunch or a drink. I have parked in a lot by the North Beach which is even quieter, longer walk to the water and water is more rough at that end according to the life guards. They have bikes to rent with bike paths throughout the park. Also a fishing beach if your into that. If you drive down towards the end you can see the sights of Fort Hancock and the lighthouse. My only complaint is the bathrooms. Yuck!!! They smell so bad by the end of the day. I got to talking to one of the workers down here and she to me they are so short staffed they can't keep up. Well here's a thought you are a state park, hire a couple more people to keep up with the bathrooms. $15 a car load so bring the whole family! Clean beach, lots of sights, a great day of fun! read more

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Everything a beach needs to be; simple, clean & peaceful. Like any good thing, get there early. Entrance fee & parking available. Friendly beach goers, smiles & small chatter. Great for solo spot. read more

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Sandy Hook (aka Gateway National Seashore) is an absolutely fabulous place....in the off season. In the summer it's crowded, they close because they get full & they charge to enter. Mid summer, be proactive. As a local I know the best time to go is in the off season. If you are interested in hiking, it's the place to go. In the off season, less ticks, no fee, less people. In the fall & winter you can see seals on the beach, Bald eagles, birds & wildlife galore. Not to mention some stellar sunrises & sunsets! The only down side is there is a lot of trash & old debris. Wish it were different but that isn't the case; much of it is leftovers from wartime or trash from NYC that make its way over. None the less it's an awesome place to visit & reflect on life. read more

Sandy Hook Beach - Nature's beauty - Beaches Near Me - Highlands, New Jersey

Beautiful beach. Would recommend everything about it... except the women's bathroom. This is a carry in / carry out beach. There are no trash cans, so what do people do?... they dump their trash in the bathroom. As a result, you have tons of flies in there. Today there was no soap in the dispensers, and women did not clean up after themselves (or the toilet seats) properly. Not a fun time. So as long as you dont have to pee, it's a gorgeous place :) Come on girls, I know you can do better! read more

One of New Jersey's best kept secrets, Sandyhook is one of the most pristine, least crowded, cluster of beaches accessible to New Yorkers. Sandy Hook actually consists of five beaches. Beach D is the beach with food trucks so naturally that's the one we chose. North beach is closest to the ferry. Gunnison beach is the nudist beach, if that is your cup of tea. The transportation is Seastreak, which cost 45 pp round trip and has an infrequent schedule. Seastreak has shuttles that ferry patrons to various beaches and run about every two to three hours. Sandy hook, Beach D has everything you want in a beach: clean sand (some fine sand areas and other sections had coarse sand), clean salty ocean, lifeguards, some food supply and scattering of people. I floated in the ocean and the waves soothe me as screaming children faded to background noise. Then we watched people bury each other in sand and baked in the hot afternoon sun, only to run into the ocean for a cooling dip. read more

I've been going to Sandy Hook forever but this is the first time using the multi-use trail. The trail is great! We bicycled the entire trail and it was so peaceful. It is mostly flat with a few inclines here and there. You can stop at all the beaches and along the bay side as well. There is a lot to explore and it's a great way to spend the morning. read more

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Love this beach! Huge, lots of options because they have so many beaches and seperate entrances once you are in the parking lot. The parking is $20 per car but no additional fees for any of the beaches inside. I dont believe there are lifeguards and there are NO GARBAGE CANS ANYWHERE!!! Yes, that's right! No garbage/tradh cand anywhere!! Not even in bathrooms. They do maintain the premises clean though. You have ample parking and many beach options. The water isn't 1 mile away from the parking lot as many other beaches. The water is clean, close and good for kids. The water does get rough though so arrive early to enjoy parking, calmer waters and a good beach spot. They also have a bay area along the entire property. Kids can swim there, fly kites, canoing is allowed and, water surfing etc. This is one of our favorites. read more

Enjoyed a nice afternoon on D beach with friends! I grew up near rockaway beach so this seemed pretty open and clean all things considered. Also the water was really nice! Not too rough and you could walk for a while without having to tread water. There was a jellyfish or two (not too many, honestly) but that doesn't bother me overly much-just swim away and I promise they won't follow you : ) It's officially in my beach rotation. read more

Sandy Hook Beach - Nice escape from the city : ) - Beaches Near Me - Highlands, New Jersey

Love this beach. Always a great place. Must get here early or you will not get it. Parking is limited. But beach is huge. Garbage is a carry out so take your bags with you. Nice and calm beach no trashy people here just fun and quiet. It's 5 dollars to enter for the whole day. Bathrooms are clean and work. Some food trucks but you can never be sure so pack something to eat. read more

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Nice, unique geographical spot with some nice beaches. Some people have complained about the quality of the water, but it's the North Atlantic and it seemed pretty typical to me. Massive sandy beaches and from my experience they were quite clean. There is a main building right around the middle of the peninsula; however it's largely closed apart from the washrooms. It looks like it used to house spots for food vendors and possibly a restaurant. It seems barely older than 20 years old, and it's pretty surprising that business wasn't good enough to keep it going. However, there are a couple pretty good food trucks there (pizza and empanadas). There's also an outdoor shower. It may sound obvious, but there is virtually nowhere for cover from the sun. I'd recommend buying and bringing in an umbrella. Don't expect a Hawaiian beach, but I found it clean and had no complaints. read more