Reviews of Sandy Hook (Park)

Catherine Pherson

We have been enjoying the sun and sand here for 35+ years. Between Memorial Day and Labor Day, the beach fee has been $10 per carload for as long as I can remember. For that modest charge you get several parking areas, most featuring public restrooms, showers, water fountains and picnic tables. Lot D ,where we prefer to park, usually has a food truck or two on the lot as well. Designated swimming areas have lifeguard stands spaced along the waterfront and occasional umbrella rentals. The beaches are broad and covered with soft sand. Patrons enjoy fishing, surfing, body-surfing and sunbathing, in addition to the simple joy of floating in the ordinarily calm surf. There are designated dog-friendly beaches on the inland side of the hook and a famous nude beach on the northernmost spot before the naval installation. What you won't find on Sandy Hook are bars, restaurants and boardwalks. This is strictly a beach recreation area. You bring in your own refreshments and you pack out your own trash. When summer ends, there are no beach fees, but also no lifeguards. The restrooms are well maintained year round. Beaches are kept pretty clean, although there is so much garbage in the ocean these days that some of it inevitably washes up.

Brigitte Narcise

Love Sandy Hook but make sure you lock your car! Had my wallet stolen out of a friend’s unlocked car on a “slow” weekday in September :( The park police were awesome and think they already caught the crook on a surveillance camera using my credit card that day

Keith DiPeri

The hidden military facilities for exploring are amazing . Very cool reading the information podiums and exploring the abandoned sections. Always a fun day and makes for amazing photos

Jonathan Griffin

$15 for the car is a great price. We got there a little early and found a nice place to set up our rental umbrella and chairs. Keep in mind, it's national Park and alcohol isn't allowed...don't want anyone to commit any federal offenses!

Johanna Balseca

Good place to have a beach time with your pups, unfortunately not many places you can take them

Chris M

It's a beach. It's a dirty beach and more than a little crowded during most times you would want to go. I get the feeling it's also not the "local" beach so much as it's the spot people go who don't know of a better spot. A few quick notes: 1.) Yes, there is a nude beach here. No I'm not sure where it is. I suspect it's the last parking spot and then through the wooded area but I've never cared enough to go look. 2.) Parking isn't cheap. It isn't expensive but I imagine there are cheaper areas. 3.) There are areas with and WITHOUT lifeguards. Make sure you check signs if it matters to you. 4.) Some areas have showers, food, picnic areas, and ramps. Others have a big middle finger. If it matters to you, read the signs. 5.) I've heard rumors that it is legal to drink on the beach here but I've always been too much of a coward (and now a parent) to try it. Maybe ask? Maybe risk it?

Leticia Sosa

It's wonderful for $75 you can go in and have parking and go to the beach. On the flip side of this the Bay Area in my opinion, for younger children it is better as the waves on the other side can get pretty rough. My grandson was ripped out of my arms and his swimsuit taken off of him due to the strength of the waves. That being said I only wish that the Bay Area was more clean too much to debreeze.

Edward Lu

I love this uncommercialized natural experience of "The Shore". NYC skyline is visible across the harbor on horizon, but at Sandy Hook, it's sun, sand, and waves. Some will find sand "not soft enough" or waves "not big enough", but the trade off is less crowds, no blaring music, and abundant wildlife - ospreys, plovers, etc. Paved bike trail runs from the tip at Ft. Hancock (free parking) all the way to park entrance (and shore towns beyond). Bay side has calmer waters for kayaking, windsurfing, or just wading in tidal pools. Parking areas have bathrooms, showers (but not dedicated changing rooms, although they have family bathrooms), and it's carry-in, carry-out (surprising how little trash compared to more popular beaches!). Lifeguard stations are limited and not at all beach areas, but responsible people will find freedom for surf fishing, sunbathing, and wading. I love this place!

Anthony Skorochod

Love Sandy Hook. Been to most of the Jersey Sore beaches over the years, this is the one I always come back to. Beach E is my favorite. Never had a bad experience.

mochi's mochi

Sandy Hook has been the go-to spot for my family.

Rebecca Wagner

My family has been going to Sandy Hook beach since I can remember. It's a good option if you have a bigger family or group because you only pay per car to park rather than per person to actually get on the beach. Be prepared to leave with all the garbage you make when you go, there are no trash cans here and there are signs that tell you that. The beach itself is nice and there are bathrooms and some food trucks for you if you want, otherwise feel free to pack a cooler or two (we always do). My siblings and I went paddleboarding here as well, which was really fun and simple to rent ahead of time as well as to actually find the place. I recommend this beach to all my friends and I will continue to do so!

Christopher Gutierrez

The beach was awesome. It is very easy to find creatures like crabs, fishes, shells and more. It is a very relaxing and very enjoyable place.

Srinivas Prabhu

Nice beach with many parking areas. Very good bike trail.

Eric Karstensen

Very beautiful park to visit. It's fills up very fast in the summer time. Get there early if you expect to get in before the close for park capacity. There is a park fee to Access the beaches. There is a nude beach all the way down.

Sue A

I love it there. Beaches are nice. Bathrooms are and you can rinse off. Pack drinks and lunch and drinks have a perfect day.

J S

My favorite place forever! Always go there in late afternoon in a good weather and walk on the beach and wait for the sunset. Go to the rocket place at very end to see the sunset, it's breath taking. No charge of entrance fee after 5 PM.

James Herer

One of the most beautiful, unique places in all of New Jersey. The history of this place is rich and full of interesting facts and the natural splendor of the area is unrivaled on the NJ coast. I come here often, just to get away from the hustle and bustle of urban living.

Iurii Novak

I had arrived to Sandy Hook at 5 p.m. on Sunday. Paid $15 for entrance and visited North Beach with perfect view of Manhattan and Staten Island and also nude Gunnison Beach. What can I say, be yourself and have enjoy at summer time here.

Daniel McHugh

Great beach, clean and comfortable. Bring your lunch and enjoy. Leave only your footprints behind. It's a gem.

Magdalena Ramirez

If you're like me and have a 7 passenger truck...this place is for you! They charge by vehicle not per person. Heck, even when my eldest son ditched us and I went with my youngest and we still saved $5 bucks for two people compared to the other beaches. The water is merky (we're not in the Caribbean so what do you expect) but the beach is clean. Also, I've been here twice this summer and everyone respects your personal stuff and space. This place is great for a lazy day at the beach.

Tara Green

I've been going to Sandy Hook Beach for 30 years. I loved the free concerts on Wednesday nights. We take our kids, pack a lunch and stay the day. The only negative is it took 3 hours in traffic to get in...there were 2 of the 3 booths open for payment/access. BUT it's well worth it!

anu chaudhary

Amazing beach..have multiple beach points with and without lifeguards, most of them have restrooms. There is a bus stop so i assume a bus service is also there. 75$ charges for full season pass or 15$ per car per day. Beach is clean. Have seen people doing paragliding(set up of their own) on the left side beach between point a and e. I hope this info is useful. Enjoy summers :)

Mo B

My favorite beach to take my family. I love that there is no pressure of spending unnecessary money on boardwalk rides,games and food. Just sand, water and family time... plus it's never overly crowded. This beach is definitely my #1 pick.

Dylan Tucker

They banned liquor, and you usually have to pay for entry unless you're just dropping off or picking up. If so, tell them so you can avoid the entry fee. The place is nice, though.

Diego Video

My family and I have been going to the Sandy Hook for years. The park offers plenty to do and provides hours of recreation and fun. I just wish visitors didn't leave so much trash behind. This place is a real Jersey gem very precious to us locals.

NaomiM Morton

Great park. Love the bay side beaches - At very calm water, tide pools, water stays shallow a long way out. Be aware that the size of the beach changes a lot with the tide. North Beach is very nice, but there is a very long walk from the parking lot to the water. The lighthouse tour was great - ranger was very knowledgeable and friendly. The climb to the top is long, but the stairs are sturdy.

Brandon Kratz

Great park! Clean with great views in every direction. Lots of things to see and places to explore. Would be great for those with kids as well.

Oscar

Great camping spot. Be aware that you have to make reservations about 6 months in advanced. The park rangers are very nice

Kristi MacDonald

My favorite beach in NJ. Still lots of natural dunes and habitats. Facilities are top notch. Views of NYC and ships entering and leaving the harbor. National Park Service does a great job as always of keeping everything in great shape.

Megan Davey

I had such a great experience at this beach. The beach was clean, they had lifeguards and bathrooms. Spent hours here with some friends and it wasn't too crowded that we were even able to set up some yard games and play. The best part is you only have to pay for parking! You can't beat 4 people going to a Jersey beach for only 15 bucks. I will definitely be going back.

Blake King

Nice historic park and plenty to do. There's beaches, trails, camping, bike trails, fishing, historic buildings and battery. Beautiful place and we always have a good time.

Brian Button

Gorgeous beach within a reasonable distance of New York City and even the lower Hudson Valley. The only big problem that I had here was that there are too few parking fee collection booths resulting in a traffic jam in front of the existing ones on busy weekends. Otherwise a great location.

Tony Queue

Great place for a cheap day trip to the beach! Multiple beach heads offering differing experiences. It's clean, it's quiet, the trails are well kept. Not much more you can ask for.

Hsin-yun H

This park is huge with historical sites and beaches. Great place to spend a day or two in the summer! They have vacation rental too. Will come back and stay longer next time

NYGOLD

Was taking pictures of the surfers. Monster waves that day due to an offshore hurricane. Beautiful beach.

veselina123

The park Rangers at the Lighthouse were very helpful and knowledgeable. We went to the North Beach which is the least crowded because it's a long walk from the parking lot to the beach. We did see the piping plovers. So cute!!

Mahesh Ramoju

Nice beach. Life guards available until 6PM only. You are at your own risk after that. Enjoyed ocean waters. Lot of parking spots available. Bath rooms are not so clean

Erika Akire

The area is usually clean, the troopers, park rangers, and workers are nice and helpful. I'd you bring your dog the bay side is open for pets. Although the camp grounds are NOT open for pets, which I did not like. It's a great experience for kids since there is a lot of nature that is preserved throughout the area.

Nicole Accordino

Favorite beach! It's a natural park so when you go here you have to remember that you are sharing the beach with nature, there are bird nesting areas, snails, washed up creatures, ect. But this is a reason I like it instead of human garbage littering the sand nature is everywhere it's what a beach is meant to look like. The bay side is a great dog beach or great for small children because there are no waves is shallow. Some parking lots have food trucks and the bay side has kayak rentals. There is no garbage anywhere yes even in the bathroom. Just bring an old plastic bag and keep all of your garbage in there and take it home. If you have dogie bags to take home I suggest stoping at the nearest garbage can outside of the park, I usually stop at a 7 eleven. The bathrooms are gross, dark, and smell because of a lack of ventilation. Most parking lots have outdoor showers and nice picnic areas. This beach isn't for everyone but I think that everyone should see what a beach is supposed to look like.

Jesyka Rabit

The human footprint on this park is atrocious and also why I can't give it a five star review. Pick up the trash.

Nastasha Adorno

Went to this beach today for the first time and the best part about the whole experience was being able to be naked, the water, and the people are very friendly. However, I’m sorry to say the park rangers are super strict, unfriendly, and when they say no alcohol they mean it! They search your bags getting off the ferry and also at the entrance of the beach. The bathrooms are filthy, there are no trash cans anywhere on the premises so you have no choice but to lug your trash along with your belongings so be prepared especially since it’s a long walk to the beach. If not for those things I would’ve have a great time but unfortunately I won’t be coming back. Riis Beach is much better if your looking for a good time without all the extra.

Shimon Lowen

God's gorgeous waves relaxing brushing our sands, was an amazing healing for our minds and our bodies.

Praveen K.S

Awesome beach with lifeguards and water level was very good till afternoon. We thoroughly enjoyed here.

Tammy Bash

A most of the quarters on officer's row are in need of lots of work. A great place for a walk or bike ride. There's even a place to work on yoir bike near the lighthouse.

Dogu Ozkan

Nice beach although one negative side is flies. Flies won't leave you alone, millions of hungry flies. If you don't mind flies great place to go. Water is as clean as it can get definetly better than most places.

Ricardo Ramirez

Such an amazing place full of camaraderie and open minded people. This was the first nude beach I ever visited. Bring friends! It's more enjoyable with friends! Friendly people, drama free environment. Warning: No tents or liquor allowed!

Alex Cirelli

if you want a relaxing family filled day at the beach, Sandy Hook is the place to go! We park at area C because of the close bathrooms and its near the lifeguards. Plus its also considered a national park so its cheaper than the regular beach fee and they don't allow alcohol. 5 stars!!

Rosemary Kay

My husband and I Get passes to this beach every year. We love gate D as they have bathrooms and a nice Area for food food trucks & the walk to the water is not Far. The beaches are always cleaned and the lifeguards are so sweet. We highly recommend this place it's a great place to chill and relax.

Scott Tritten

A fine beach, my Girlfriend and I enjoyed our visit. We went on a weekday, I'm supposing that parking and space on the beach can get tough to find on summer weekends but we didn't have any trouble with that.

Angela S

Always a wonderful experience. Good beach access without the boardwalk nonsense.

De Martono's

We went here yesterday, unfortunately we forgot our car keys and phone inside the car. Luckily we met the guys who take care the bathroom and we told them that the car keys and the phone were inside the car. They were calling ranger right away . In few minutes later the ranger came and help us to unlock the car.God blessed you all ,you save our family. They are very professional and helpful

Kazmo Groove

I took a ferry from Wall Street to get there. It was a nice ride sipping on white wine. Didn't take to long. There are several beaches and the shuttle bus takes you there from the port. And it also picks you up around 4 or 5pm. The beach was clean and quiet. There are some food trucks and you can rent beach chairs and parasols. I would love to go back there again next summer.

Will See

No other place in NJ where you can find a safe, clean clothing-optional beach. Be respectful of others and enjoy your day being at one with nature. Some things have changed, no tents or no sun shelters other than umbrellas, but make sure you can secure them from the wind.

Junior Schneider

Ok. Sometime when you are told “Dog Friendly Beach” , you don’t have high expectations BUT THIS PLACE WAS SO SAD, no beach, I was relegated to a bay cross the street from the beach, no relive areas, not even trash cans!! 80 F walking around with the Dog poos, no fan!!

Chris

Very quiet and relaxed. It was not crowded as other beaches, so if you wanna visit a beach that has more of a serene atmosphere, I'd recommend this one.

vamshi srinivas

My favorite beach around south jersey lot of different parking spots and different variations for the photography and movie making

Viktor Bek

plenty of parking space as well as different guarded beaches, camp site, history, lighthouse, fort, kayak and bicycle rental.... nature birds and deer next to the road.... i could easy spend a week there.

Michael bank

Nice Beaches guarded from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. $15 for car fee if you arrive after 7 a.m. there showers at most of the beaches and changing rooms, they're also food trucks if you need something to eat try to get there early on hot days and weekends as the lots will become full and you will not be allowed in Also most importantly life guards are great kudos to them

Dan Apaza

Just a nice beach. Doesn't usually get too deep as far as I can tell. After initial dip in depth, plateaus flat so you can always stand (atleast in the beaches I usually visit, primarily beach B).

Lois DeCaro

This place is just beautiful.....it has everthing.....bike/walking trails....beaches.....fishing...picnic areas. We had the most wonderful day there.

Katie Quinn

Always loved this beach, but for whatever reason there was a lot of garbage and dead crabs washing up on the shore recently. Still a nice and cheap place to hang out with friends and family, and the chair and umbrella rentals at Lot D are super convenient.

Aniseh Khoury

Nice low key beach. Life guards are very observant and nice to the kids on the beach.

Hari Ganesh

Woww loved this place, didn't feel like a beach. Felt behind middle of an island. Never been to a place surrounded by beaches on both the sides. Definitely a different experience compared to other beaches in New Jersey

Shanthala M

Wonderful experience here. We love the new jersey beach a lot. Clean and quite place for relaxing either family and friends.

E QT

Beach D very family friendly. The umbrella and chair rental is right on the beach. Great experience

Gregor J. Rothfuss

Easy to reach from Manhattan, and not too crowded. Bring a bike & snacks, so you can explore the island at will.

Terry Horney

Beautiful place. Pay for parking during the day. We went after 7pm to watch the sunset and didn't have to pay. Beach is really nice and rest rooms are readily accessible.

Sam Nelson

Lots to see and explore here! Driving along the main stretch there are plenty of beaches to stop off on. Driving farther into the park you get to the lighthouse and old army buildings, which are fun to explore. There's plenty of natural areas for birds and other wildlife, making this a great spot for birdwatching. I've visited a couple times in the off season, so I'm not sure how crowded it gets during the summer.

serdar serbetci

Nature and history at the same location. There is very limited amenities and almost no shops. Also there is no lifeguard. However, if you really want to be on a well preserved beach and nature, this is the place. End of the park, you should see old military buildings. This place is a 'must' see place.

Rights Champ

This is a favorite beach. The park service is very aggressive since alcohol was banned. Find alternatives. The walk down the protected area is peaceful when it is open.

Ismail Gardee

By far the most scenic beach destination in NJ with the most to offer for everyone. Robust with history, Rich with nature scapes, and surrounded by gems like tucked away Highlands, NJ. Don't leave without touring the officers quarters at Fort Hancock. We met some wonderful Rangers stationed inside. Or visiting clothing optional Gunnison Beach (just one of many beaches on the peninsula). There's also an active USCG station on the north end of the peninsula. Not sure how amenable those folks are to visitors but I never excercised the nerve to find out.

sujay kumar

Loved it, very clean beach and entry is $15 per car. One must carry his/her trash, no bins available. Public restrooms and open shower are available. There are two food vans serving hot dogs, burgers, fries and etc., overall, it was a wonderful experience.

Vinayagam Kulandaivel

My favorite beach in New Jersey. Clean and nice. very long beach and nice for walking and jogging by the beach.

josiepie

Beautiful and peaceful. You can rent paddle boards and kayaks for the bay side or swim on the ocean side. There’s lots of trails for biking or long boarding. After a long day out in the water you can hit up the Playa Bowls food truck, too.

Anand Gurudatt Shenoy

Nice quiet beach. Went to LotC where there was less of a crowd. There were washrooms and outdoor showers to wash feet

Jordan Bowles

It's a beach in the summer. Not much to talk about. The staff do a terrific job keeping trash off of the beach.

Sam Romano

Best ramp at the jersey shore. Good at dead low tide. Water to wash down after coming out.

Avishek Nandi

Great beaches, nice walkways, great sight at the north beach and unprotected beach... not giving 5 stars because they are charging $15 during the Memorial weekend and there is a huge queue for the last one mile while that is being collected at the entrance. The queue delayed the entry to the park by one hour!!

Derek Owen

Miles and miles of open tranquil beaches. You can bring your dogs to the bayside or your family to the the Ocean side. The further you go, the quieter it gets.

Mr. Krabs

Theres so many historical sites you can visit! Not to mention, the tour guides had a plethora of knowledge, and were very pleasant to be around!

Natalie Richardson

Gorgeous place to run cycle or walk. And then relax on the beautiful beach with a distance view of NYC skyline

Sazzie Zer

We took SRASTREAK ferry there for $45 per person as A round trip(kid under 5 years old is free). Ferry ride was only 40 mins very very short and convenient! When we got to the Sandy Hook pier, there were many yellow school buses/shuttle buses awaiting to take you to all beaches. However, only one complaint I have is the school bus has no ADA lift for ADA people or strollers if you don't want to fold your stroller. The island itself is beautiful, well maintained and very clean. It has so many attractions to walk or bike around if you don't just want to sit on the beach. The north beach is like 15 mins walk from ferry if you want to walk. It was a nice walk with nice views. The north beach is very nice and clean. Very impressive! We will definitely go back!

Neha Sidana

Beach is great perfect for summer heat. Place is not very crowded and you will have enough space to setup. We went their on national park day and parking was free. Else on regular day parking is $15. Place is kids friendly. There are small food trucks and restrooms . Over all a neat and clean place.

R Man

One of my favorite places to visit on the off season when all the people go home

Math Guy

You have to sign up for a tour to go inside the lighthouse. The ranger who gave the tour is very knowledgeable and gave interesting facts about the history of the lighthouse. The view from the top is nice. Unfortunately, it was very hazy the day I went, so I was not able to see NYC from the top.

Ruizhe Yang

Great family fun. I loved take a bike down the trail through the trees and beaches. You can also visit some of the old batteries left from war times.

Mark Wrigley

Great clean beaches. This is where we go to avoid the distractions of boardwalks. Super family friendly beach and atmosphere. For lunch we had food from the local food trucks! My two sons enjoyed the beach.

Debbie Esposito

My favorite beach! Its peaceful, never over croweded, and close enough to a boardwalk IF i want that kind of entertainment

Diana Molina-Alfaro

There are different lots to park, we parked in lot D per the guards recommendation. There are public bathrooms, outdoor showers and two food trucks. The beaches are clean and well kept. The only thing we didn't like was that there were a lot of small white crabs. The kids were afraid of going in the water after one of them got pinched by a crab. Also, you kind of need water shoes to go in the water, as there are lots of little rocks and shells in the shallow parts. We prefer beaches with a boardwalk like Point Pleasant or Seaside Heights, but we decided to try Sandy Hook to have a different experience. The beach was quiet, not crowded and you can definitely get in touch with nature. I also saw people riding bikes on bicycle only lanes throughout the hook, some others went kayaking or fishing by the lagoon. I just wish people kept the public bathrooms cleaner.

Charles Lockwood

Nature inland. Not much land separates the bay from the ocean. Much history here. If you camp, you will be contending with the racoons. They run rampant. Very bold. Make good use of the lockers available at each campsite that are racoon proof. Deer herd very tame.

Maxx Adlerman

I'm going to preface this by saying i was born and raised in New Jersey, and to be completely honest- I think Sandy Hook is a tad overrated, though in no way is that to detract in any way from the value of my upcoming words. It's a very scenic area, and it's always easy to have fun and there is a lot to explore, as Sandy Hook is a large portion of land enclosed by the sea. You can swim, fish, jog, etc. and it's a beautiful landscape, especially for photography. The wildlife is frequent and more extensive then one might think. I always enjoy a visit to Sandy Hook, and definitely recommend it if you're new to the area.

Phillip Chen

Great beaches and beautiful trails for both hiking and biking. Plenty of parking space but you still need to come early for a spot - too popular! My wife and I like to bike here for some fresh air and exercise. One of a kind!

Nancy Alvarez

Although it is one hour drive from home, we love to go bike riding on their great bike path. After riding, we enjoy going in the water. Off season, there is no fee.

NJ Riff-Guitarist

This beach is very beautiful, and is very close to NYC. So close, you can see the Manhattan skyline. Even more, Fort Hancock is an interesting place to visit. I definitely recommend visiting here!

Dwayne Brown

Nice place to be. 2 sides you can swim, if you are not experienced I would recommend the inlet side. The waves are calmer. The ocean side can be a little rough. Bathrooms can use a lot of cleaning though.

Deviant Angel

I love Sandy Hook, definitely for the nature lover and the beach lover. There are trails to hike as well as really cool buildings to see. You also have the lighthouse to visit and the old military fort and base. Its definitely at least a days worth of checking things out. One of the parking lots has food trucks, or you can bring your own, just whatever you bring in you take home including trash (there is trash cans off the beaches). Each of the beach areas has showers and restrooms. It definitely is a must go to summer spot!

Jill Krawcheck

We usually go on beach E but it was closed for some reason so we went on beach D. We were pleasantly surprised with the amount of food trucks, the clean bathrooms, and the close proximity to the ocean. This was our last hoo-rah of the summer and we went out with a bang! Beach D, we will see you next summer!

Brian Bordieri

We went down here to ride the paths on bikes. The scenery is perfect, parking is easy, lots of bird watching and overall very clean. It's a nice casual trail that's shared by walkers, runners and cyclists. There is some history along the way you can stop and see from the old Army base. We didn't get all the way out to the USCG but did see the old lighthouse....had no idea it is the oldest in the country! Worth a visit... You have to pay for parking Memorial Day to Labor Day.

Jeanine Piselli

Great bicycle ride. Excellent place to spend the day for a picnic, lawn games, bicycling, and the beach! Dont forget take out what you bring in....that means take a giant garbage bag to take it all home with you ...just sayin'

Joe C

Cant comment on all of Sandy Hook as we only visit one of their beaches, Gunnison. The walk from the parking lot to the shore is work but if you want to make the nude beach private, you deal with it. It is best to have a beach cart with large inflatable tires.

Paula Formagio

Amazing place! Good for cyclists, this place is full of trails with beautiful surprises. If you don't have a bike it is possible to rent one on the spot. O loved the beaches!

Jenna June

Beautiful place along the Jersey Shore. Stopped on the way home from Atlantic City to look for treasures. Found so much sea glass! What an awesome day. Would love to go back again.

Fabian Rosas

Great beaches with historical sites to visit. Can't wait to go back in the off season with the bicycles to ride around and explore.

Bob Loneker

This is a notional park and beach. There are no trash cans so carry out your trash! There is a bicycle rental area, A light house to climb with an awesome view and some old officer quarters that are open on the weekends.

Betsy Reddington

Great cycling after Labor Day! No entrance fee; paved well maintained paths with virtually no sand; few people; nice views. Sandy Hook bike path connects to Sea Girt Bike path.

Cheryl Bacigalupi

The sun both rises and sets over the water here. It’s a great place for biking!! The trail has a mix of beautiful views of the ocean, the bay, historical buildings and wildlife. There are bike tools and an air pump along the trail as well. Of course this place is also known for its beaches during the summer season. As a local I prefer the off season or evening hours when it’s less crowded. Oh and did I mention the NYC skyline views ....?

Charly M

It was amazing! I needed a little r&r and some much needed fishing! Came here with my friend we had a blast! Will revisit someday.

Ajay Ranjith Vempati

It’s beautiful especially if you visit early in the morning before the crowds.. we visited to see the sunrise and had a added bonus of seeing 100’s of birds leaving the nests. One of the most mesmerizing experiences

Raymond Helfrich

National recreation area. Not private town beach. Cost effective. Close to NYC. Clean and basic, no frills. Carry out the trash that you make that you've carried in.

Hank Chang

If you are at lot i, make ready for a very long walk to the North Beach.... other than that, reasonable showers outside and bathrooms that weren't too dirty. A larger changing area would be nice towards the end of the day. And more shade areas. And a longer blue mat to the beach. Limited shelling during the summer, too many tourists.

Bill Perrella

One of the most beautiful beaches in NJ.Amazing scenery. Great place to hike also.

Smart Dog

Historic site and still in use by military. Fort Hancock is interesting. Beaches are fun to use and waves are great for surfing, at your own risk. Lighthouse is fun to climb if you’re up for it. Scary climb for some people. Swim at Beach Area E to be close to the beach visitor center and food trucks.

Hardik Patel

One of the nicest and cleanest beaches I have been to. Been there twice with friends & family. They have public restrooms which is great with kids. Made some good memories....

L. Klinge

Multiple beaches available, but you better get there early because there are only 4500 or so parking spots before it's full. $15 fee to park. Bring an umbrella (less than 8ft diameter) & chairs or rent one when you get there, there is minimal shade. Some food trucks are usually available at the entrances to the beaches. The water is clean, the people are down to earth, and you can see the NYC skyline from most beaches. I love this place!

Jennifer Liddle

We love Sandy Hook! Many beaches, great history, places to walk, hike, bike, camp. The lighthouse is fantastic, as is Fort Hancock, and the Nike Missle site. Excellent views (from North Beach) of New York on a clear day. Highly recommend.

Andrea Gouviea

Love it. Had a great time on bay side with dog. They should enforce the dog on leash rule. I left early because people came with their dog not on leash.

Kim Mack

Perfect beach with small crowds. If you're looking for a quiet beach that is family friendly, try Sandy Hook. It's a really nice beach that charges $15 per car to access. I've been atleast 7 times in the last year and it's kept clean. Overall just a peaceful place to go, where families sit out enjoying the day together with music, sun, food, and beach games. There is no boardwalk but the bonus is free parking. Extra bonuses 1. Occasionally, you will see whales playing in the far distance. 2. At the really end of the road that takes you to the beach, miles away from the family sections, there is the nude beach for the more adventurous crowds.

Robert Cruz

Clean and quite beaches. Great for families and friends trying to quietly enjoy the weather. Parking is available but be prepared to search.

Xavier Tirado

Nice place to relax be alone away from crowds if you like very windy so is hard to keep the umbrellas steady they have showers and sum food trucks is best to bring your own food .

Jessica Dressler

Love Sandy Hook. There is so much to do. In the summer you have the beach and on the bayside you can rent kayaks or Stand up paddle boards. All year you can bird watch, check out the barracks, lighthouse, bike ride or hike the trails. So much history. See the museum.

Joan Hertzog

Clean bathrooms. Clean beach. Food trucks. Close parking - we went on a Tuesday. Great waves. Only $15 to get in for a car load of us. We can't wait to go back!

Arik Matzliah

Great place for families. In the lagoon part the water is warm and shallow. Overall clean and nice

Mike Smith

Nice city, big state beach park, former military base, but beach sand after lots a,b,c are not convenient, sand is dark yellow, long walk to ocean water, no trash cans on the beach. $15/regular car entrance fee. Water entrance is really rough.

MoonSoonRain

Awesome! Unbelievable! Sandy Hook Beach is perfect to enjoy a day out with your friends & family. Beautiful bay & ocean and flavoured with fishing, surfing, biking trails, camping, and numerous parking facilities. Ideal place for any nature lover.

Capt. Ken Tutalo

A really nice place to spend the day. Lots of beaches with access to ocean and bay. Beaches have restrooms and food vendors. Also some great hiking trails and boardwalks for viewing wildlife. Good opportunities at the tip of the hook for surf fishermen. Easy access by car and ferry.

Nikki Cupcake

I've been taking my kids to Sandy Hook for years. Its a good beach for a quick trip when I don't want to spend my whole day down the shore. The beach is clean and depending on what part of the beach you go you can get a spot pretty close to the ocean so you can relax a little easier while your kids play.

Karen Grust

I love the drive out to the end of the hook! The beaches are clean but it's a very long walk from your car to the water's edge. On really hot days, not so much fun. They also charge a fee per car between Memorial Day to Labor Day so I go after Labor Day. The weather is still nice & the water is still warm.

Samuel Chiang

I love Sandy Hook because it's so unique for NJ. It's federally managed, there is absolutely no trash, there is so much beach that it's never crowded, on the northern tip of the beach is an old military base, and on the Western shore of the park faces the bay which means the waves are generally calmer for people with kids. The only thing is that on busy weekends, expect to wait in line at the entrance gate. Also, on really clear days you can see the NYC skyline which is totally cool.

Jose Euvin

Depends on which part you drive too. There either no life guards, or there are areas where the rocks are right behind you. It's a bit dangerous. Other then that the beach is clean, no garbage can everyone's or seagulls flying everywhere. They have a nice bike trail and a fishing beach. Overall a good experience.

Marques Eley

I haven't been to Sandy Hook in about 30 years evens though I live only an hour away. I forgot how nice the beaches are and the easy of access. The beaches are clean and at least today, Beach D had plenty of room. There's also lots of activities for adults and kids, such as seining (sp) and visiting the lighthouse.

Ed Adams

The park system has invested in Sandy Hook! It was nice to be back in my home town area and see how great the area continues to be!

Tatyana Demyanovskaya

Nice beach, the best spot is D as it’s close to parking and all facilities. You need to pay $15 per vehicle to enter the park and that’s it. No extra charges except you buy some food/drinks in your spot.

Andrea Bobby

Although I've lived in NJ all my life, this was my first visit. Loved it. It felt like I was in another country. Really cool. Great view of NY in one direction and dunes in the other direction. Many choices on what type of beach you want. No crowds just chill.

Christine Nemier

All I can say is WOW!!! Absolutely a must go to. Yes it does cost $15 to enter but the views and length of scenery is worth it. If you have a pet, you can not bring them onto the beach side (ocean side); however, if you walk across the road to the other side (Bay Side) you are able to bring you animals into the water and play in the sand. The water is calmer and warmer. Beautiful view no matter what side you choose. Like I have stated before, words cannot explain how free and great it was to be there. Definitely one place I am planning on returning to.

Ale Janeth Valentin

Awesome place to chill on a weekend or week day bring cash is a most. They are adding food trucks which is great for the visitors. Great place

Neeteesh Baghel

Beautiful and peaceful beach with bay beach on the other side. You can choose either of the sides as both are equally amazing. We saw some water sports as well in the bay beach like jet ski and rental boats. People were also fishing there seemed like a nice spot for that. Just an hour from Jersey City .. probably the closest and nice beach from NYC. Not crowded at all like NYC beaches

Ryan Booth

The beach is easy to access, especially with a young family. Beach are pretty clean. Make sure you bring a bag with you for garbage. There are no garbage cans! Sort of annoying when you try to be good and pick up random trash while you are walking. The bathrooms are on the clean side early part of the day.

shyam vedam

Best place for a beach. It has parking close by which is one of the important things. Entrance is free after 5pm. This beach has other attractions like yoga, camping, kayak etc.. details to be explored.

Pranav Bhatt

Beautiful beach. It is pretty clean and well maintained beach. We have been there before but this time tried to go to the other sections that we have not before. I liked the area where you can swim. It is life guarded area. Will surely visit again.

Meredith Lyons

I went with my friends today expecting to be there the whole day and see a new beach. However they have state troopers at the entrance of each beach and they check bags for all alcohol. You are not allowed to bring in any alcohol and they will take it if you decide to go in we asked if we could leave it back in the car and go in and he said no they have to take it if we want to go on the beach. It looked beautiful but it was upsetting to drive all that way

MsCherrydollface

Beautiful, clean, historical, relaxing... an amazing place to just get away from the daily grind. I just went for a day trip and I could not have been happier. I left there with a "high on life" feeling and making plans to go back

Ishan Saha

Maybe the best beaches in NJ. You can bathe and fish. Very clean and ample parking space.

Annette Ferrari

We LOVE Sandy Hook all year round! Great beaches and facilities. Dog friendly on the bay side which is a big plus for us. Fall, winter and spring we love to walk around the old barracks and the Lighthouse. Bring a picnic lunch and take advantage of one of New Jersey's great National Parks!

Ms Drasby

I like riding the bicycle paths at the Sandy Hook beach area. The path offers both natural beauty and historical treasures.

Batina Drew

I love this beach it's clean and not too many people. And the people are very nice. My kids love it the most

Richard Bing

Beaches are very large. Sand has been trucked in to restore them. Facilities are well maintained. Great view of NY. And the Twin Lights. It does get crowded but there is plenty of room for all. It is only 90 minutes from our house so it's a great day trip.

Jamie Hall-Richardson

This beach is infested with biting horse flies. it was absolutely terrible I have never experienced anything like it. Go to a different beach!!! I'm from what I understand the horse flies aren't always there but just a chance of those flies is enough to make me swear off this beach for life!

Dave Rucinski

Gorgeous beaches wonderful quiet off-season. Saw a humpback whale today and some monarchs migrating.

Nubian King

3 stars is more than it deserves. I love going to this beach for the nude experience and the good times I have with friends. however I compare it to my experience at the nude beach in Miami and non-nude beaches. the walk to get on the beach is long and unnecessarily arduous. they could extend the walkway further on to the beach. they also have no trash cans on the beach, which means you have to carry all your trash off with you. but what ends up happening is that there tends to be more trash left on the beach and in the water than it should. the rest rooms and showers are not on the beach, so you have to take the long walk through the sand, back to the main road just to use them. the NJ water isn't the best, so there's that

Kiyon Spencer

The water was sub-par the day I visited, but otherwise a true nudist's delight. Men, women, young, old, gay, straight...all enjoying the sun with zero awkwardness or attitude. Be advised it is a bit of a walk from the parking lot and very little in the way of food/drink, but don't overpack. I look forward to more visits.

Ethan

Love going to Gunnison beach! Only clothing optional beach around.

Paul Hendricks

Want to get out and relax while enjoying the beach, Sandy Hook is a great place to go. They also have a section where pets are allowed.

Diana Ramos

We had a great time and the best part our trip is that we were able to bring our 2 young dogs.

David Moore

Love the beauty of Sandy Hook. People just need to clean up after themselves, so it stays nice for everyone.

Audrey Piatti

Love, love, love it here. One if my favorite places to explore!! Well worth an entire Sunday afternoon of exploring and wading in the ocean.

Tony Brandao

Great park when it's not crowded, avoid during peek summer weekends , otherwise lots to do if you like the beach.

Evonne Browning

The Beach was great, but there was some kind of gel like substance in the water... People were still swimming in the ocean, but I didn't know what this was so I only got my feet wet! The unpredictable Ocean... All in all it was a good day. I'd definitely go again. $15.00 per car to get into the Hook! Not bad at all... If it wasn't for the gel, I would give it five stars

Cecilia Barrocas

Just look at the pictures. But during the summer gets too crowded. I prefer off seasons. Love the trails. The sand. The dunes. Inlets. Wonderful to watch sea animals too.