Berkeley Island Beach

Near Berkeley Island Beach, there are several excellent dining options. Berkeley Cut Steakhouse in Seaside Park is highly recommended for its upscale atmosphere and exceptional cuisine, offering a blend of steakhouse classics and Italian favorites. Another notable spot is Chef Mike's ABG, known for its seafood and grill options. For a more casual experience, Bum Rogers Crab House & Tavern is a great choice for seafood lovers. Additionally, Mad Fish Company offers a variety of seafood dishes in a lively setting.

For accommodations near Berkeley Island Beach, Island Beach Motor Lodge is a popular choice. Located in Seaside Park, it offers simple rooms with some having kitchenettes, a private beach, and a pool. The lodge is known for its friendly staff and cleanliness. Another option is the Charlroy Motel, which provides casual lodging with a pool. The Windjammer Motor Inn also offers casual rooms and apartments with a pool, making it suitable for families.

Island Beach State Park offers several amenities to enhance the visitor experience. There are restrooms and bathhouse pavilions with changing areas and first aid stations near the swimming areas. The park also provides beach wheelchairs for both ocean swimming and surf fishing, which can be accessed at the pavilions or park office. Picnicking is allowed on the ocean beach, though grills and fires must be kept away from the dunes. Additionally, the park features a boardwalk that connects the ocean and bay areas, providing access for boaters.

The park's interpretive facilities, including the Nature Interpretive Center, offer educational activities and information about the park's natural history.

Visitors to Island Beach State Park can engage in a variety of activities. Swimming is permitted in designated areas during the summer months when lifeguards are on duty. Surfing and fishing are also popular, with surf fishing allowed in certain areas. Kayaking and canoeing are great ways to explore the tidal marshes and observe wildlife. The park is renowned for its bird watching opportunities, with guided tours available. Additionally, four-wheel drive vehicles are allowed on the beach with a permit, making it accessible for dune buggy enthusiasts.

The park's natural trails and scenic views also make it ideal for nature walks and photography.

Island Beach State Park offers some facilities accessible for people with disabilities. The Fisherman's Walkway is a boardwalk that provides access to both the ocean and bay. Beach wheelchairs are available for use in the ocean swimming area and for surf fishing. These can be obtained at the pavilions during the swimming season or at the park office during other times. The park also provides restrooms and other facilities that are wheelchair accessible.

For further information on disability access, visitors can contact the park office.

Parking at Island Beach State Park is available near the swimming areas and other facilities. The park charges an entrance fee, which varies depending on the day and residency status. During peak season, fees are higher for non-residents. Parking is generally convenient, with spaces located close to the beach and other attractions within the park.

It's advisable to arrive early during peak summer days to secure parking, especially if planning to spend the day at the beach.

Island Beach State Park is one of the last remaining undeveloped barrier beaches in New Jersey, offering a glimpse into the state's natural coastal ecosystem. The park is home to a significant osprey colony and is a nesting site for the piping plover, a federally threatened species. Historically, the park was once part of the estate of Henry Phipps, Jr., which was acquired by the state in 1953 to form the park. The park's unique natural environment makes it a fascinating place for nature studies and wildlife observation.

The park's location between the Atlantic Ocean and Barnegat Bay creates a diverse habitat for various marine and bird species.

One of the main attractions near Berkeley Island Beach is Island Beach State Park itself, with its pristine beaches and natural habitats. The park is also home to the Governor's Ocean Residence, a historic Cape Cod-style house used by New Jersey governors. Nearby, Seaside Park offers a lively boardwalk experience with amusement areas like Casino Pier. For nature enthusiasts, the Sedge Islands Marine Conservation Zone within the park provides a unique opportunity to explore tidal marshes and observe wildlife.

The Barnegat Lighthouse, located on Long Beach Island, is another nearby attraction worth visiting for its historical significance and stunning views.