Daily Passes Return to Toms River Pool for 2025
Toms River Township has reversed a controversial policy that restricted public access to the municipal Snug Harbor Pool last year, announcing that daily passes will once again be available to all visitors for the 2025 season. The change comes after significant backlash from residents who arrived at the pool facility last summer only to discover they couldn’t purchase day passes without accompanying a season pass holder.
The township recreation department has released its complete schedule of fees and policies for the upcoming pool season, featuring updated pricing tiers for residents and non-residents, according to Patch.
Reversal of Restrictive 2024 Policy
The return to offering daily passes without restrictions represents a significant policy reversal for the township. In 2024, officials implemented a controversial requirement that daily visitors could only access the pool if accompanied by someone with a season pass, a change made with minimal public notice that caught many residents by surprise.
“The restriction created unnecessary hardship for families who only use the pool occasionally,” said Elizabeth Garner, a Toms River resident who had been vocally opposed to the 2024 policy. “Not everyone can justify the cost of a season pass if they only visit a few times each summer.”
When the policy was implemented last year, Mayor Dan Rodrick defended it as a response to complaints from neighborhood residents about disruptive behavior in the parking lot and surrounding streets, but many residents felt the restriction went too far.
Updated Fee Structure for 2025
The township’s announcement includes a comprehensive pricing structure for the upcoming season, with tiered rates for residents and non-residents as well as discounts for early purchases. Season passes are available at reduced rates through June 1, with prices increasing afterward.
For Toms River residents, adult season passes (ages 13-61) are $150 if purchased by June 1, increasing to $200 afterward. Children 12 and younger and seniors 62 and older can purchase season passes for $75 through June 1, or $100 starting June 2. Family passes for residents, which require all members to live at the same address, are $400 through June 1 and $500 thereafter.
Non-resident rates are significantly higher, with adult season passes at $300 through June 1 and $400 after, while children and senior passes are $100 through June 1 and $200 afterward. Family passes for non-residents are $700 through June 1 and $800 thereafter.
Daily Pass Options and Pricing
The return of daily passes without restriction gives occasional visitors more flexibility for enjoying the facility. Daily rates vary by residency status, age, and whether the visit falls on a weekday or weekend/holiday.
Resident daily passes for adults are $15 on weekdays and $20 on weekends and holidays. Children and seniors pay $12 on weekdays and $15 on weekends and holidays. Non-resident daily rates are higher, with adults paying $25 on weekdays and $35 on weekends and holidays, while children and seniors pay $20 on weekdays and $25 on weekends and holidays.
“Having a tiered pricing structure allows us to prioritize access for our residents while still accommodating visitors,” explained Sarah Johnson, Toms River’s recreation director. “The revenue helps maintain the facility and ensure we can provide a safe, enjoyable experience for everyone.”
Guest Pass Options for Season Members
Season pass holders will have the option to purchase guest passes for friends and family members who don’t have their own passes. Guest passes are priced at $10 for children and seniors and $12 for adults aged 13 through 61, regardless of residency status.
“The guest pass option provides flexibility for season pass holders who occasionally want to bring friends or relatives who aren’t members,” Johnson noted. “It’s a more economical option than daily passes for those accompanying season pass holders.”
Season passes can be purchased through the Community Pass system, with the pass and ID card issued at the Recreation Office on Warren Point Road. The township noted that a 50 percent discount is available for active military members and veterans who can provide proof of service.
Facility Amenities for 2025 Season
The Snug Harbor pool facility includes several amenities that make it an attractive option for summer recreation. The main pool features a diving area and slide, while a separate kiddie pool is available for younger children. The facility also includes a playground, lounge chairs, tables with chairs, and a grassy area for relaxation.
“We’re planning some minor upgrades to the facility for the 2025 season,” said Robert Thompson, facilities manager for the township. “Our maintenance team has been working on refreshing the pool deck and improving the shade structures to enhance visitor comfort.”
A concession stand will again operate during pool hours, offering snacks, beverages, and light meals for purchase. The township anticipates announcing the pool’s official opening date in the coming weeks, typically coinciding with the Memorial Day weekend.
