Island Beach State Park

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Jersey Shore Summer Vacations

Shaped by storm and tides, Island Beach State Park is a narrow barrier island stretching for 10 miles between the restless Atlantic Ocean and the historic Barnegat Bay. Island Beach is one of New Jersey's last significant remnants of a barrier island ecosystem that once existed along much of the coast and is also one of the few remaining undeveloped barrier beaches on the north Atlantic coast. Over 3,000 acres and 10 miles of coastal dunes remain almost untouched since Henry Hudson first described New Jersey's coast from the ship, the Half Moon, in 1609.

Miles of sand dunes and white sandy beaches offer habitat to maritime plants and diverse wildlife that is almost the same as it was thousands of years ago. Island Beach contains outstanding examples of plant communities such as primary dunes, thicket, freshwater wetlands, maritime forest and tidal marshes. The state's largest osprey colony, as well as peregrine falcons, wading birds, shorebirds, waterfowl and migrating songbirds, are found here. Island Beach is nationally known as a unique resource with over 400 plants identified, including the largest expanses of beach heather in New Jersey.

Beach Information

Island Beach State Park has several designated swimming areas designed to give swimmers the opportunity to swim in the ocean under protective watch of trained lifeguards. The beaches are open between 9-5pm 7 days a week. Although you can still swim after hours, it's proven to be a foll-hardy thing to do. There have been several deaths and drownings that occur during after hour swimming.

Summer Programs

TOUR THE BEACH – (11:00 am – 11:45 am)
Search for beach treasures as you walk with a naturalist. Learn about the animals and plants that have adapted to this ever changing environment. All ages welcome!

SEINE THE BAY – (1:00 pm – 1:45 pm)
A seine is a large net that is used to catch fish and other aquatic animals. Walk to Barnegat Bay and join us as we seine. All ages welcome! Water shoes (no flip-flops) are required to pull in the seine.

FISH TANK FEEDING FRENZY (2:00 pm – 2:30 pm)
Fish and other aquatic animals that are caught on our seining tour are used to stock the fish tanks... Learn about the fascinating food web that makes Barnegat Bay an extremely valuable estuary. All ages welcome!

Island Beach also offers several pre-registered tours and programs for visitors. From birding to kayaking and surf fishing - there are many ways to explore this beautiful barrier island. Call the Nature Center to register (732) 793-1698

Recreation Area

Ten miles of pure white sand beach attract swimmers, sunbathers, anglers and surfers. Modern bathhouses, beach access ramps, a mile of beach with lifeguards, historic buildings, trails, interpretive programs, bike paths and facilities for people with disabilities combine to make Island Beach a unique place to explore.

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