Six Free South Jersey Beaches to Visit This Summer

Summer at the Jersey Shore doesn't have to break the bank. While many of our beloved beaches require tags or daily fees, several South Jersey locations offer completely free access, making them perfect destinations for families looking to enjoy the sand and surf without the extra cost.

Here's your guide to six free beaches across Atlantic and Cape May counties where you can soak up the sun without reaching for your wallet.

Atlantic City Beaches

Home to the world's longest boardwalk—stretching more than 5 miles—Atlantic City offers free beach access with lifeguards on duty from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily. The iconic boardwalk remains open around the clock, though families should note that a juvenile curfew runs between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m. It's an ideal spot for those who want the full shore experience with entertainment, dining, and beach time all in one location.

Delaware Bay Destinations

For those seeking calmer waters and a more laid-back atmosphere, Cape May County's Delaware Bay beaches offer excellent alternatives to the ocean side.

Bay Front Beach in Lower Township is a favorite among fishing enthusiasts, with mostly shallow waters that make it particularly family-friendly for younger children. The beach has no formal operating hours, offers free parking, and provides seasonal lifeguard coverage.

Beesley's Point Beach, also along the Delaware Bay in Upper Township, features daily lifeguard protection from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., along with free parking and restroom facilities—amenities that make a day at the beach much more comfortable for families.

Strathmere Beach

Tucked between Ocean City and Sea Isle City in Upper Township, Strathmere offers a quieter beach experience with the convenience of free street parking. Lifeguards are on duty from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mondays through Thursdays, with extended hours until 5:30 p.m. on Fridays through Sundays. This hidden gem provides ocean access without the crowds of its neighboring resort towns.

The Wildwoods Beaches

Perhaps the most famous of South Jersey's free beaches, the Wildwoods offer more than 5 miles of wide, sandy shoreline. Through Labor Day, lifeguards patrol daily from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. The 38-block Wildwood Boardwalk complements the beach experience with amusement parks, games, shops, and restaurants, making it a complete destination for families seeking both beach relaxation and entertainment.

William Morrow Beach

Located in Somers Point, Atlantic County, William Morrow Beach provides seven-day-a-week access through Labor Day weekend. Lifeguards are on duty from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and the beach includes both restrooms and free parking—essential amenities that enhance the overall beach experience.

Whether you're looking for the excitement of a bustling boardwalk or the tranquility of a bay beach, these free options prove that enjoying our beautiful South Jersey coastline doesn't require a beach tag. With lifeguard protection at most locations and amenities like parking and restrooms, these beaches offer both value and peace of mind for a perfect summer day.