If you’re planning a beach day in Asbury Park this summer, you’re in the right place. As someone who lives at the Jersey Shore, walks this boardwalk constantly, and has perfected the art of the beach day (with and without a corgi in tow), this is the guide I always wish people had.

Here’s everything you need to know from where to park, to how to buy badges without waiting in line, to what time the beach gets crowded, to where the best breakfast sandwiches are. This is your complete 2025 Asbury Park Beach Guide.

asbury park nj beach guide, convention hall, asbury park boardwalk

Beach Passes & Badge Prices

Beach passes are required from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day for anyone 13+.

When Passes Are Required

5/24/25 – 6/15/25: Weekends & holidays only
6/16/25 – 9/1/25: Daily (weekdays + weekends)
Starting 9/2/25: No passes required; no lifeguards and swimming is prohibited

Daily Rates

Mon – Fri: $7
Weekends & holidays: $10
Ages 12 & under: Free

Seasonal Pass Rates

Adults: $70
Teens (13-17): $20
Seniors (62+): $20
Active military + dependents: Free
Veterans (retired, disabled, or non-active): Free

Where to Buy Badges

Ticket booths at Asbury, 2nd, 3rd, 5th, 6th, and 7th Avenues
Online (scan your receipt at any entrance for your wristband)
Beach Office at 1st Ave
Kiosks along the boardwalk
Cash accepted at Beach Office & 7th Ave booth; credit card is preferred everywhere else
On the official Asbury Park app (easiest, fastest)

If you’re heading out on a busy weekend, buy your badge before you walk to the beach. The kiosks closest to the beach get lines mid-morning so save time and order ahead.

Parking in Asbury Park

Parking in Asbury is doable; you just need the right strategy.

Best Time to Arrive

Before 10 a.m. on weekends
Before 11 a.m. on weekdays

Street Parking

Metered, but easiest if you use the Asbury PARK app (locals swear by it).

Garages & Lots

If you don’t want the stress of street parking:

The Bang’s Avenue Garage (a few blocks inland) is your best bet if you hate circling
There are a few day-rate lots near Kingsley & Grand ($20–$30 on peak days)

Beach Entrances & Layout

While Asbury Park technically has one main beach, each section has its own vibe.

North Beach (Deal lake area)

Quieter, more spacious, local. Great for reading, families, and relaxed mornings.

Middle Beach (Convention Hall area)

Closest to bathrooms, coffee, snacks, playgrounds, and the classic boardwalk scene.

South Beach (near Asbury Ave)

Perfect if you’re looking to be closer to bars, restaurants, and live music at the Summer Stage.

If you want a quieter morning or a spot to read, choose North Beach. For easiest access to coffee + bathrooms, Middle Beach is where you want to be.

Bathrooms, Showers & Rinse-Off Stations

Asbury Park has multiple bathrooms along the boardwalk. They’re cleanest earlier in the day and are serviced regularly during peak season.

Restrooms (All public & free)

1st Ave
4th Ave
Convention Hall (open year-round, 6 a.m.–midnight)
7th Ave
Deal Lake Dr

Showers:

Available at most entrances.

Water bottle filling stations:

Located at 1st–3rd, 5th–6th Avenues + at 7th and Deal Lake restrooms.

The bathrooms near Convention Hall tend to be the cleanest early in the morning.

Surfing, Swimming Zones & Safety

Lifeguard Hours

Mon–Fri: 9 a.m.–5 p.m.
Weekends & holidays: 9 a.m.–6 p.m.

Surfing Beach

Surf-only zone between the jetties at Deal Lake Drive ? 8th Avenue

Weekends/holidays only (5/24–6/15)
Daily (6/16–9/1)
No swimming in this zone

Flag System

Green = calm
Yellow = moderate
Red = swimming prohibited

Beach Rules (What’s Allowed + What’s Not)

No smoking/vaping
No alcohol on the beach or boardwalk
Coolers allowed (no glass)
Umbrellas ? 6 ft diameter are welcome
No tents, canopies, or camping tents (fines can be around $250)
Music allowed if kept respectful
Badges required on the sand at all times

Chair & Umbrella Rentals

Run by Style Rocket

Available at entrances:
1st, 2nd, 3rd, 5th, 6th, 7th Avenues

Accessibility

Asbury Park is one of the most accessible beaches at the Jersey Shore.

What’s available:

Accessible parking + curb cuts on every block
Boardwalk fully accessible
Ramps to sand at every entrance
Mobile beach mats
Handicap beach chairs & WaterWheels adaptive chairs (request at any ticket booth)

Dog Rules (Beach & Boardwalk)

Dogs are welcome but with seasonal limits.

Alcohol & Cooler Rules

Alcohol:

Not permitted anywhere on the beach or boardwalk.

Coolers:

Small personal coolers ?16 quarts allowed
No alcohol
No glass
Large coolers are prohibited

Best Time to Visit Asbury Park

June: Warm, quieter, easier parking
July & August: Lively, fun, very popular
September: The real locals’ summer kicks in with warm water, empty parking, and the best sunsets

Events in Asbury Park

November
- The Asbury Park Bazaar is back again this year at the iconic Convention Hall. Opening day is on November 28th at 12 PM. For more details visit Asbury Park Bazaar’s website.

FAQs

Is Asbury Park Beach free?

No. Badges are required for ages 13+ in-season.

Can you bring alcohol?

Are dogs allowed?

Yes during off-season; restricted in-season

Is parking free?

Yes if you’re willing to walk a few blocks inland

Are coolers allowed?

Yes. just no glass

Are bathrooms and showers available?

Yes, along the boardwalk

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