Summer has officially arrived in New Jersey, and with schools closing for the season, many families are planning their first beach trips along the famous Jersey Shore. Before packing the sunscreen and beach chairs, however, it's worth checking the latest beach access fees, as many coastal towns require visitors to purchase beach badges or tags.

In 2026, the cost of beach access varies significantly by destination. Daily admission can be as low as $5 in some communities, while season passes in certain towns now reach as much as $200. Several municipalities also adjusted their pricing this year, with a number of season badges becoming more expensive compared to previous summers.

One of the largest increases was introduced in Mantoloking, where a seasonal badge now costs $145, up $25. Daily rates have remained relatively stable across most shore towns, although a handful of locations, including Avalon and Sea Bright, raised daily admission fees by a small amount.

Visitors should also keep in mind that many beaches continue to offer reduced rates for seniors, veterans, and individuals with disabilities. Young children are often admitted free of charge, depending on local regulations.

 2026 Jersey Shore Beach Badge Prices

Free Beaches

Several popular destinations do not require beach badges at all:

Atlantic City

Corson’s Inlet State Park

North Wildwood

Strathmere

Wildwood

Wildwood Crest

Highest Season Pass Prices

The most expensive seasonal beach badges in 2026 include:

Deal: $200

Loch Arbour: $150

Mantoloking: $145

Bay Head: $120

Sea Girt: $115

Avon-by-the-Sea: $110

Monmouth Beach: $110

Spring Lake: $110

Budget-Friendly Season Passes

For visitors planning multiple beach days, these locations offer some of the lowest season badge prices:

Margate: $20

Ventnor: $20

Brigantine: $25

Sea Isle City: $30

Ocean City: $35

Cape May: $40

Longport: $40

Avalon: $42

Stone Harbor: $42

Popular Shore Town Rates

Asbury Park

Season pass: $70

Daily pass: $7

Weekend/holiday pass: $10

Belmar

Season pass: $80

Daily pass: $12

Cape May

Season pass: $40

Weekly pass: $25

Daily pass: $10

Ocean City

Season pass: $35

Weekly pass: $20

Daily pass: $10

Sea Isle City

Season pass: $30

Weekly pass: $15

Daily pass: $10

Seaside Heights

Season pass: $75

Weekly pass: $50

Daily pass: $13

Spring Lake

Season pass: $110

Daily pass: $13

Surf City

Season pass: $55

Weekly pass: $25

Daily pass: $11

For travelers looking for alternatives to traditional beach badges, state-managed beaches remain attractive choices.

Island Beach State Park does not require a beach badge. Visitors pay a parking fee of $6 on weekdays and $10 on weekends during the main season.

Sandy Hook also allows beach access without a badge, though parking costs $20 per vehicle. Frequent visitors can purchase a season parking permit for $100.

Whether you're looking for a free beach day, a budget-friendly family destination, or a full-season pass for frequent visits, the Jersey Shore offers options for every type of traveler. Comparing badge prices before heading out can help you save money and choose the beach that best fits your summer plans.

With dozens of coastal communities welcoming visitors throughout the season, now is the perfect time to start planning your next trip to the shore.