Point Pleasant Beach sits at the northern end of Ocean County, where the Manasquan River meets the Atlantic Ocean, approximately 100 km south of New York City. The beach runs along Ocean Avenue and is a moderately wide, east-facing Atlantic shore with fine-to-medium pale sand and consistent moderate surf that suits both swimmers and casual wave riders. Jenkinson's Boardwalk anchors the beach experience: a privately operated family entertainment complex incorporating an aquarium, miniature golf, an amusement park with rides, an arcade, and multiple restaurants and bars ranging from casual fish-and-chips to sit-down seafood. Live music stages operate on the boardwalk on most summer weekends. The beach badge (approximately $10 per day) is required for adults from Memorial Day through Labor Day, with lifeguards posted throughout that period. A fishing pier extends from the boardwalk into the ocean and is accessible to non-badge holders who want to fish without accessing the main beach. The Manasquan Inlet at the southern end of town is a well-known surf break for intermediate and experienced surfers who seek more power than the beach break provides. NJ Transit's North Jersey Coast Line runs directly to Point Pleasant Beach station in approximately 1 hour 45 minutes from New York Penn Station, making it one of the more transit-accessible shore resorts. By car, the Garden State Parkway exit 98 leads to the town. Point Pleasant Beach combines a classic shore boardwalk with transit accessibility, positioned as a family-friendly resort that is more commercially active than Spring Lake but less party-oriented than Seaside Heights.
Amenities
- lifeguards
- beach badge required (~$10/day)
- restrooms
- Jenkinson's Boardwalk (amusements, mini golf, aquarium)
- restaurants
- live music
- fishing pier
Good to know
- Best for
- families, couples, swimmers, surfers, fishing
Location
Ocean Ave, Point Pleasant Beach, NJ 08742
40.0942, -74.0462 View on map
Highlights
- Jenkinson's Boardwalk offers a complete family entertainment package: aquarium, mini golf, amusement rides, and live music steps from the sand
- Manasquan Inlet surf break at the south end of town draws intermediate and experienced surfers for more powerful wave action
- NJ Transit North Jersey Coast Line direct service from NYC Penn Station with no transfers required
- Fishing pier accessible from the boardwalk without a beach badge for rod-and-line visitors
- Wide, clean beach with lifeguard coverage and moderate surf accessible to all swimming abilities
Tips for visiting
- Jenkinson's Aquarium on the boardwalk is a practical wet-day alternative, housing sharks, seals, and local marine species
- Arrive by 09:00 on summer weekends; the municipal lot on Broadway fills by mid-morning and overflow lots require a 10-minute walk
- The inlet end of the beach (south, near Arnold Ave) is favoured by surfers and tends to be less congested for regular swimmers
- The NJ Transit train is reliable on weekdays; on summer Saturdays consider booking ahead or departing early from Penn Station
- Board rentals and surf lessons are available from local surf shops near the Manasquan Inlet
When to visit
Late June through August for the full boardwalk experience and warm swimming conditions (68–74°F). September offers comfortable water temperatures, significantly lighter boardwalk crowds, and easier parking. Weekday visits throughout the summer are noticeably less crowded than weekends.
Accessibility
The boardwalk is paved and wheelchair accessible along its full length. Beach access ramps connect the boardwalk to the sand at multiple points. Jenkinson's facilities include accessible restrooms. The NJ Transit station has accessible platforms. The sandy beach surface benefits from a beach wheelchair for easy mobility — contact the Point Pleasant Beach Recreation Department to inquire about availability.
Frequently asked questions
What is Jenkinson's Boardwalk?
Jenkinson's Boardwalk is a privately-operated family entertainment complex on the Point Pleasant Beach boardwalk. It includes an aquarium, miniature golf, an amusement park, an arcade, and multiple food and beverage outlets. Individual attractions are separately ticketed; the boardwalk promenade itself is free to walk.
Is the beach accessible by public transit from New York City?
Yes. NJ Transit's North Jersey Coast Line runs directly to Point Pleasant Beach station from Penn Station in New York, taking approximately 1 hour 45 minutes at a cost of about $19 each way. The station is roughly a 10-minute walk from the beach.
What is the surf like at Point Pleasant Beach?
The main beach has moderate, beginner-friendly surf. The Manasquan Inlet break at the south end of town is more powerful and suited to experienced surfers. Local surf shops near the inlet offer board rentals and lessons.
Are dogs allowed at Point Pleasant Beach?
Dogs are restricted from the main beach area from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Outside the summer season, dogs on leashes are generally permitted on the beach. Confirm current rules at the beach office before visiting.
Is there a fee for the beach?
A beach badge is required for adults and costs approximately $10 per day. Jenkinson's Boardwalk amenities are separately ticketed. The fishing pier is accessible without a beach badge.