Jersey Shore Beach Badge Prices Soar to Unprecedented Heights

BySophia Johannson

Beachgoers heading to the Jersey Shore this summer will face dramatically higher prices at some coastal destinations, with Deal township commanding an eye-popping $200 for a season pass—making it the most expensive beach access in the state. The steep increase comes as shore towns adjust their badge pricing structures across the 44 coastal communities that govern New Jersey’s famous beaches.

For families planning their summer vacations, these price adjustments could significantly impact budgets, especially for those who regularly visit premium destinations. While some beaches remain free, most require daily or seasonal badges, with costs ranging dramatically depending on location, according to WRAT.

The price variations create a tiered system of beach access along the Jersey coastline, with some municipalities positioning themselves as premium destinations while others maintain more accessible pricing to attract visitors and support local businesses.

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Coastal Gold: The Premium Beach Experience

Deal’s unprecedented $200 season badge represents a significant premium over other coastal towns and continues the municipality’s trend of positioning itself as an exclusive destination. Following closely behind, Loch Arbour has set its seasonal rate at $150, while Spring Lake and Sea Girt command $110 and $115 respectively for their season passes.

These premium destinations justify their higher prices through enhanced services, less crowding, and pristine beach conditions. Weekend visitors to Deal will also notice a price differential, with daily rates jumping from $12 on weekdays to $15 during weekends and holidays—a pricing strategy designed to manage peak demand periods.

“The higher badge prices in certain towns create an economic barrier that effectively limits crowding,” explained Dr. Michael Cohen, coastal economy researcher at Monmouth University. “Whether intentional or not, tiered pricing creates a socioeconomic segregation of New Jersey’s coastline.”

Budget-Friendly Shores: Where Access Remains Affordable

Despite the premium prices at some beaches, many Jersey Shore communities continue to offer relatively affordable options. Stone Harbor maintains one of the lowest daily rates at just $8, while Ocean City and Beach Haven charge $10 for daily access, according to New Jersey 101.5.

For the most budget-conscious beachgoers, eight coastal communities still offer completely free beach access: Atlantic City, Wildwood, Wildwood Crest, North Wildwood, Upper Township, Berkeley Township, and parts of Sandy Hook and Island Beach State Park. However, visitors should note that while these beaches don’t require badges, some locations collect parking fees instead.

“Sandy Hook doesn’t require passes, but visitors pay $20 to park. Island Beach State Park skips badges but collects $6 for weekday parking, $10 on weekends,” noted WRAT in their coverage of this year’s pricing.

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Strategic Savings: Early Birds Catch Discounts

Savvy shore visitors can significantly reduce costs by planning ahead. Many municipalities offer substantial early-bird discounts for purchasing season badges before peak season begins.

“Sea Isle City offers $25 passes before mid-May, then increases to $30. Ocean City keeps prices at $30 until June starts, when they rise to $35,” reported WRAT. Similarly, Brigantine incentivizes early purchases by pricing season badges at $30 if purchased before May 15, after which the price jumps to $45.

For regular visitors, these pre-season discounts can represent savings of 20-30% compared to in-season rates. Beach towns typically begin selling these discounted passes in April and May, with price increases taking effect around Memorial Day weekend, according to NJ.com.

Demographic Discounts: Seniors, Veterans, and Children

Most shore communities offer significant discounts for specific demographics, creating affordable access options for seniors, veterans, and families with young children. Harvey Cedars offers one of the most generous senior discounts, selling season badges to older adults for just $12, while Long Beach Township and Holgate reduce senior prices to just $5 for the entire season.

“Older adults get special deals throughout the shore,” WRAT reported. “Early birds in Lavallette grab $25 passes if they’re over 65.”

Veterans and military personnel often receive the most substantial discounts, with more than a dozen beaches offering completely free access. Children typically enter beaches for free, though the age cutoff varies by location—ranging from under 12 to under 16 years old depending on the municipality.

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The Economic Impact: $52 Million Industry

Beach badge sales represent a substantial revenue source for coastal communities, with 2024 sales reaching a record $52 million across the Jersey Shore. These funds typically support beach maintenance, lifeguard services, cleaning, and other amenities that maintain the shore’s status as a premier vacation destination.

As 2025 prices increase at many locations, this revenue figure is likely to grow further, raising questions about accessibility and the public’s right to shoreline access. Some critics argue that higher prices effectively privatize public beaches, while municipalities counter that the maintenance costs for these natural resources require substantial funding.

For visitors planning their summer excursions, the message is clear: research prices in advance, purchase early for discounts, and consider the less expensive or free beach options if budget is a primary concern. Whatever your price point, the Jersey Shore’s 130 miles of coastline offers options ranging from exclusive to accessible for the summer of 2025.

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