Hey there! I’m Danielle, a New Jersey Family Photographer. Along with being a photographer, I’m also a mama of 9 year old twins. I know it can be tough keeping our little ones busy especially in the summer when school isn’t in session. That’s why I created this blog post. The beach is one of my favorite places to go in the summer. If you live in New Jersey, then you are lucky enough to experience the beautiful coastline this state has to offer. In the blog, I’m going to highlight 3 of my top choices for a beach day trip. Now, I’m from Middlesex County so the beaches that I will highlight in this post are around a one hour drive from my location. That’s why I’m stressing the word Day Trip!!!

# 1 Bradley Beach

Bradley Beach is a top favorite for myself and for my family. Bradley Beach is a small beach town located after Asbury Park. I like Bradley Beach because in my opinion, it doesn’t get as crowded as some of the other beach towns. Parking is relatively easy to get (if you go early enough.) There are also a few snack shacks located on Brinley Ave and Second Ave. Dailey beach badges are $13 for adults. Overall, Bradley Beach is definitely worth the day trip if you are looking for a more quiet and lowkey beach.

# 2 Seven Presidents Beach

Seven Presidents is a beach located right before Pier Village in Long Branch. The thing I like about Seven Presidents is that there is a parking lot you can park in so you don’t have to drive around looking for street parking. The only disadvantage to that is you have to pay $10 to park. There is also a daily beach badge fee that is also $10 for those 17 years and older. Seven Presidents is also a great choice (if you don’t mind paying for parking) because there is a a neat playground located not far from the parking lot that the kids can play on. Pier Village is also a short distance away if you wanted to take a walk and grab lunch or something to eat or drink. There is also a snack stand near the parking lot if you didn’t want to walk too far.

# 3 Avon-by- the Sea

I saved the best for last. Avon is definitely my go-to beach when I’m looking to get out for the day. Avon is a tiny strip of beach located between Bradley Beach and Belmar. I feel like this beach is a hidden gem on the Jersey Shore. It’s not as quiet as Bradley Beach but it’s definitely worth going to (as long as you get there early.) Avon only has street parking which is free so if you get there early enough, you won’t have any trouble finding a spot. Daily Beach badges are $12 for individuals 11 years or older. One of the best things I love about Avon is that it has a small cove that is located right at the end of the beach (right before the Belmar Bridge.) This cove is a perfect place to bring young kids because the water is a lot more calm and shallow. Just get there early because the cove tends to fill up with families looking for a place to let their young children play. Along the cove, is a jetty where people can fish and watch the boats cut through. The bridge is also fun to watch as it goes up and down every hour or so. Avon does have a large pavilion where you can get food and drinks. However, I would recommend bringing food and snacks as the food at the pavilion can be a bit pricey.

There you have it: my top 3 beaches to take your kids to for the day. I really hope this blog post has helped you with deciding on a fun beach location for your family. If you enjoyed this blog, please comment below or add your own beach if you have another great spot. You can also send me a message on Instagram. I’d love to connect!!!