So you're thinking about visiting Seven Presidents Beach? Smart choice. I remember my first time there – showed up without checking tide schedules and ended up with barely any sand to lay my towel on. Learned that lesson the hard way. This place isn't just another Jersey Shore spot. Named after seven U.S. presidents who vacationed in nearby Long Branch back in the 1800s, Seven Presidents Oceanfront Park packs history and recreation into one gorgeous stretch of coastline. Let's cut straight to what matters for your trip.
Exactly Where to Find Seven Presidents Beach
Tucked away in Long Branch, New Jersey, the exact address is 239 Ocean Ave N, Long Branch, NJ 07740. Don't confuse it with the general Long Branch beaches – Seven Presidents Beach has its own entrance and parking lot. If you're using GPS, search "Seven Presidents Oceanfront Park" specifically.
Getting There Without the Headache
Driving? Take Garden State Parkway to Exit 105, follow Route 520 east until you hit Ocean Avenue. The park entrance is clearly marked. Now here's the real talk: parking at Seven Presidents Beach can be brutal in July. I once circled for 45 minutes at noon on a Saturday. Save yourself the agony:
| Parking Type | Cost (Peak Season) | Pro Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Main Lot Daily Pass | $12 weekdays $15 weekends |
Arrive before 10 AM or after 3 PM |
| Season Pass | $100 (residents) $200 (non-residents) |
Worth it if visiting 10+ days |
| Street Parking | $2.50/hour (metered) | Limited to 4 hours - watch the clock! |
Public transport users: NJ Transit's North Jersey Coast Line stops at Long Branch Station. From there, it's a 15-minute walk or quick Uber ride to Seven Presidents Beach entrance.
When Should You Visit?
Officially open daily from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM Memorial Day through Labor Day. Off-season? You can still access the beach but no lifeguards or facilities. Best months? June and September – warm enough for swimming but without the crushing crowds. Avoid weekends after 11 AM if you dislike sardine-like conditions.
Insider Tip: Check tide charts before going. Low tide creates massive sand space at Seven Presidents Beach, while high tide leaves surprisingly narrow strips. That "perfect spot" disappears fast when tides roll in!
What Makes This Beach Special
Unlike many Jersey beaches requiring boardwalk passes, Seven Presidents Oceanfront Park operates as a self-contained recreation area. Your entry fee covers:
- Immaculate restrooms with changing areas
- Outdoor showers to rinse off sand
- Well-maintained playground for kids
- Lifeguard protection from 10 AM-6 PM daily
- Picnic areas with charcoal grills (first-come basis)
But here's my gripe: food options inside are limited to a basic concession stand. Pack coolers or prepare to walk to nearby spots.
Things to Do Beyond Sunbathing
Seven Presidents Beach isn't just about lying around. The consistent waves make it a surfing hotspot. Local surf schools like Salt Water Surf Club offer lessons right on this beach. Fishing? Grab a saltwater license and cast from the jetties at dawn – weakfish and bluefish are common catches.
For families, the playground is a lifesaver when kids get bored of sandcastles. And let's talk about the boardwalk – it's not your typical carnival-style walkway. The paved oceanfront path connects Seven Presidents Beach to Pier Village, perfect for biking or strolling.
What to Pack (And What to Leave)
Essential packing list based on my trial-and-error:
- Must bring: Umbrella (rentals cost $25/day!), reef-safe sunscreen, cash for parking, beach wagon (long walk from lot)
- Skip: Fancy coolers (basic ones work fine), alcohol (strictly prohibited), glass containers
- Surprise item: Water shoes – rocky patches near jetties hurt bare feet
Safety and Rules You Shouldn't Ignore
Lifeguards here are vigilant, but rip currents can sneak up. Swim only in guarded areas – I've seen rescue teams pull out overconfident swimmers. Key regulations:
- No alcohol whatsoever (they do check coolers)
- Dogs prohibited May 1 to September 30
- Surfboards allowed only in designated zones
- Fires and fireworks strictly forbidden
- Parking hack: If main lot is full, try the small auxiliary lot on Joline Avenue (shorter walk than street parking)
- Secret spot: Far north end near rocks has fewer crowds even on busy days
- Money saver: Bring exact cash for parking – machines don't give change
- Timing trick: Arrive at 8 AM, leave by 2 PM to avoid worst traffic and crowds
A word on wildlife: jellyfish occasionally wash up. The first aid station near the main entrance keeps vinegar spray for stings. Saw them treat three kids last August – quick response makes a difference.
Nearby Bites Worth the Walk
The onsite concession serves basic burgers and ice cream, but for real food, walk 10 minutes north to Pier Village:
| Spot | Specialty | Price Point | Why Go |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sushi Room | Fresh NJ roll | $$ | Ocean views + creative rolls |
| Turning Point | Breakfast all day | $ | Massive pancakes after sunrise swims |
| McLoone's | Lobster rolls | $$$ | Splurge-worthy waterfront dining |
Budget tip? Pack sandwiches and use the park's picnic tables. Saves time and money.
Seven Presidents Beach for Different Visitors
Not everyone uses beaches the same way. Here's the real scoop:
Families With Kids
The playground and gentle slope into water make Seven Presidents Oceanfront Park ideal for young children. Lifeguards actively patrol the family zones. But bring sand toys – the gift shop charges $15 for basic buckets.
Surfers and Water Sports Fans
North end near the jetty has the best breaks. Dawn patrol is magical here – empty waves with pink skies. Rentals available from Salt Water Surf Club (opens at 7 AM). Just know that summer crowds bring beginner surfers – expect slower sessions mid-day.
Seniors and Accessibility
Good news: Seven Presidents Beach has beach wheelpaths and Mobi-Mats leading to the shoreline. Accessible restrooms available too. Benches along the boardwalk offer resting spots with ocean views. Still, the walk from parking can be long – drop off passengers first if mobility is limited.
Straight Answers to Top Questions
Can I bring my dog to Seven Presidents Beach?
Only October through April, and always leashed. Summer months? Strictly prohibited. Saw a disappointed owner turned away last July with his Golden Retriever.
Are beach bonfires allowed at Seven Presidents?
Absolutely not. Fire regulations are strictly enforced. If you want evening fires, head to nearby Sandy Hook (requires permit).
How's the water quality compared to other NJ beaches?
Historically excellent. Seven Presidents Beach rarely has closures – maybe 2-3 days per summer after heavy rains. Check NJDEP's Beach Guard site before heading out if it rained hard recently.
Can I reserve picnic areas or pavilions?
First-come, first-served for regular tables. The large pavilion? That requires permit through Long Branch Recreation Department (+1 732-571-6550). Book months ahead for summer weekends.
Personal Tips for a Perfect Day
After dozens of visits, here's what I wish someone told me earlier:
One last thing: that famous Jersey Shore sun is no joke. Reapply sunscreen every 90 minutes – I underestimated it once and paid with lobster-red skin for days. Seven Presidents Beach delivers incredible memories if you plan smart. Now go make some waves!