Atlantic County NJ Beaches 2026 Guide: Badge Fees, Boardwalks, Parking, and Restrooms.
Atlantic County beaches in southern New Jersey offer a relaxed atmosphere without excessive crowds, making them a popular destination for day-trippers and vacationers from the Philadelphia area.
Each beach in Atlantic County is managed by its respective local city or town.
The guide compares Atlantic County beaches with badge fees, parking, restrooms, and boardwalk access by town for 2026.
Beach badge fees, parking, and seasonal facilities can change. Suggest verification with town website links to the official source.
Updated March 30, 2026
Atlantic County Beaches with
Large Commercial Boardwalks
Atlantic City- Stroll the famous Boardwalk, six miles long and 60 feet wide, paralleling the ocean, it is the largest of New Jersey's boardwalks. It's free! Hop on a historic rolling wicker chair and ride in style. The Boardwalk is the place to see and be seen. It's loaded with access to casinos, restaurants, amusement parks, tacky T-shirts, and more. Forget the calories and indulge in a juicy hot dog with all the trimmings, chewy saltwater taffy and filmy cotton candy.
Atlantic County Beaches
with
Small, Less Commercial Boardwalks
Brigantine - Located just to the North of Atlantic City, its a short concrete promenade several blocks long with a wooden deck with seating. There are no concessions.
Ventnor - Just south of Atlantic City, it has a wide boardwalk with a path to Downtown AC. Looking west, there are a large varitey homes coming in all all shapes, sizes and styles.
Atlantic County Beach Badge Fees, Parking, Restrooms, & Official Links by Town
Atlantic City
Atlantic City’s wide, lively beaches stretch along the iconic Boardwalk, offering a mix of classic shore fun, casinos, dining, and nonstop energy. It’s one of the few NJ beaches where access is completely free, making it an easy, spontaneous summer escape.
Beach fees (2026)
Atlantic City Beaches are Free
Parking
Municipal lots, casino garages, metered street parking, and private lots along Pacific Ave and the Boardwalk
Restrooms
Public restrooms available along the Boardwalk; additional facilities inside casinos and nearby attractions
Brigantine
A quiet, spacious stretch of shoreline ideal for families, anglers, and anyone who loves a low key beach day. Brigantine’s natural dunes and wide beaches make it one of the most relaxed spots along the Jersey coast.
Beach fees (2026)
- Daily badges: $10
- Weekly badges: $15
- Seasonal: $ 20, Purchased by May 31 | $10, Seniors (60-64), Purchased by May 31
- Seniors: Free, age 65 and over
- Children: Free, ages 11 and under
- Military: Free. Active military and veterans. (4 free per family).
Where to Purchase
Tags available at the Beach Tag Office, onbeach inspectors, and through the city’s official mobile app.
Parking
Metered parking near beach entrances; additional free and permit parking in designated municipal lots.
Restrooms
Seasonal restrooms located at key beach access points, including 14th Street South and Brigantine Avenue.
Margate
Margate’s wide, well kept beaches offer a relaxed summer escape with gentle surf, family‑friendly space, and easy access to local shops and eateries. It’s a quieter alternative to nearby Atlantic City while still offering plenty of convenience.
Beach fees (2026)
- Daily badges: Not yet posted by the town as of March 30, 2026
- Seasonal badges: Preseason Rates (Prior to May 31, 2026): Regular (12 & Over) - $10.00 |Senior (65 & over) - $3.50 | | Holiday Tags - $12.00 Starting June 1st, 2026 - All seasonal badges will be $20
- Children: Free/ Ages 11 and under
- Military: Free. Available to veterans and active military members (Free for Spouse if Active).
Where to Purchase
On beach tag checkers, select municipal offices, and online through the city’s official Online portal
Parking
Metered street parking near beach entrances; free residential parking farther from the shoreline
Restrooms
Public restrooms available at key beach access points and near the Margate Fishing Pier
Ventnor City
Ventnor Beach offers a relaxed, spacious shoreline just south of Atlantic City, ideal for families seeking a quieter stretch of sand. Its wide beaches, well kept facilities, and easy boardwalk access make summer days feel effortless.
Beach fees (2026)
- Daily badges: Not yet posted by the town as of March 30, 2026
- Seasonal badges: Preseason prior to June 1st, $10.00 for the season, and $3.50 for Seasonal Senior Citizens badges. | After May 31st, badges are available at a rate of $20.00 for the Season
- Children: Free Ages 11 and under
Where to Purchase
Ventnor City Hall, beach badge booths, and online through the city’s My Beach mobile app. Download the app here: Apple | Android
Parking
Metered street parking near the beach; additional residential street parking where permitted
Restrooms
Public restrooms available along the boardwalk at designated access points
Frequently Asked Questions About
the Beaches in Atlantic County New Jersey
What makes the beaches in Atlantic County different from other county beaches in New Jersey?
Atlantic County beaches stand out because they mix classic boardwalk energy with long open stretches of sand, easy access, and a more built-up shore experience than some quieter parts of New Jersey. In many spots, the beach sits close to hotels, entertainment, dining, and nightlife, so a beach day can turn into a full day out without much driving. That blend feels different from county beaches farther north or south that lean more residential, secluded, or nature-focused.
Are Atlantic County beaches good for families?
They can be a great pick for families, especially if you want convenience. Many beach areas in the county are close to restrooms, food stands, shops, and other basics, which helps when you're managing kids, strollers, or a full day in the sun. Still, it's smart to check beach rules, lifeguard hours, and access points before you go because conditions and amenities can vary by town.
Do you need beach tags or pay to get on the beach in Atlantic County?
In many cases, yes, beach fees or tags are part of the shore season in this part of New Jersey. Rules often change by town, time of year, age, and even time of day, so don't assume one beach policy covers the whole county. Before heading out, check the local beach patrol or municipal website so you know the current fee, tag rules, and whether lifeguards are on duty.
What's the best time to visit the beaches in Atlantic County?
Summer gives you the full beach scene, with lifeguards, open businesses, and the most activity. However, late spring and early fall are often better if you want lighter crowds, easier parking, and a calmer feel while still enjoying the shoreline. Morning visits also help, especially on weekends, because sand temperatures stay lower and beach access is usually easier.
What should you know before spending a full day at an Atlantic County beach?
Plan for a more active beach environment than you might find in quieter shore counties. That means parking can fill fast, beach rules may be enforced closely, and crowds often build quickly near popular access points. Bring water, sunscreen, cash or a card for fees, and shoes for hot boards or pavement, and stay near guarded areas when lifeguards are on duty.
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