Belmar Beach
Belmar, NJ
Belmar Beach runs past a fishing pier at 1st Avenue and a dedicated surf zone at 17th and 18th Avenues, where swimming isn't allowed and surfers get the waves to themselves. The town's boardwalk anchors a beach that draws a livelier, younger crowd than the quieter towns just north of it.
A real surf culture and a boardwalk with actual energy set it apart from its quieter neighbors, though the zoned parking system takes some getting used to.
How we score beachesIf you're bringing a dog in season, the off leash rules only apply south of the fishing pier toward the Spring Lake line, and only October through April. Check the exact boundary before you go, it's specific.
Parking is divided into zones with different rates and time limits, so check signage before you park. Rates and hours shift depending on which zone you land in.
The boardwalk is flat and paved with ramp access to the sand at multiple points along its length.
Dogs with a current license tag are allowed on the beach south of the Belmar Fishing Club pier at 1st Avenue down to the Spring Lake border, from October through April during daylight hours.
Water climbs into the low to mid 70s by August, and the surf zone at 17th and 18th stays active well outside of peak summer. Fall brings some of the best surfing conditions of the year here.
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