Going to the beach?

[PHXguy]

Hi all, It's a good time to go to the beach now.
I would like to hear about your choice for the best beach in the greater New York area. My friends told me about Jones Beach in Long Island, Sandy Hook beach, Neptune/Asbury Park along the shore and others. Which one do you like the best and why? How is the traffice going to/from the beach? Thanks. :)

[07310]

The closest beach to Newport is Sandy Hook, about a 45 minute drive, they have about 10 beaches appealing to all types of people. The most popular section is "G" Beach or Gunnison a clothing optional section. Other sections are geared for the more modest and families.

[PHXguy]

Wow, clothing optional? That could be fun ... :)
Yes, I tried to go to Sandy Hook beach this past weekend but somehow the notice board on Exit 117 on GSP said the beach is closed. Perhaps it was still out of season?
BTW, I read the news today that a young surfer was probably attacked by a great white shark around Long Beach Island. He was only around 30ft away from the beach. He lost a chunck of his flesh (3" x 1.5") around his ankle ... Hope he is OK.

[ejm]

If you've got air conditioning and don't mind sitting in traffic for a few hours on the LIE, check out the Hamptons.

The Jersey Shore gets a bad rap--but it is possible to find non-crowded beaches. I've heard good things about LBI but it's a ways south.

[Richard L]

I believe when parking is full at Sandy Hook Beaches they close it down. If you go to Exit 98 on the Parkway you have the options of going to Avon, Belmar, Spring Lake, Manasquan and Point Pleasant. Manasquan, Spring Lake and Avon are mainly family-type beaches with few activities on the Boardwalk, whereas Belmar and Pont Pleasant have a very busy boardwalk and beach. Lots of younger beachgoers. Volleyball on the beach, etc. etc.

If you go early enough, i.e. before 10 you can usually find parking on a side street before you get to any of these beaches.

[PHXguy]

I believe when parking is full at Sandy Hook Beaches they close it down.
I believe that is probably why they said it was closed. It was already past noon when I was driving by Exit 117. I knew I was too late, but I just could not pass the delicious pancake from the Brownstone Diner that morning. :) It was a long wait to get a table and to get my order ready.
Thanks for the info.

[Jay3]

Spring Lake NJ...nice and quiet.