Island Beach State Park

Near Island Beach State Park, there are several excellent dining options. Berkeley Cut Steakhouse in Seaside Park offers upscale dining with a focus on steak and seafood, featuring a cozy atmosphere and great wine selection. B2 Bistro + Bar in Bayville provides a lively waterfront experience with live music and a variety of American and sushi dishes. For seafood lovers, Bum Rogers Crab House & Tavern is a popular choice, known for its casual vibe and live music. 3 Flags Grill & Restaurant in Forked River offers Spanish cuisine with a cozy atmosphere. Lastly, Chef Mike's ABG in Seaside Park is a bustling spot for upscale seafood with ocean views.

For accommodations near Island Beach State Park, several options are available. The Holiday Inn Manahawkin/Long Beach Island offers a relaxed stay with an indoor pool and dining options. Blue Creek Inn in Waretown provides casual rooms with an outdoor pool. Hotel LBI in Ship Bottom features rooftop dining and a spa. For a more budget-friendly option, Boardwalk Hotel Charlee Beach Hotel & Beach House rentals in Seaside Heights offers beachfront lodging. Lastly, The Sand Castle Bed and Breakfast in Barnegat Light provides elegant bayfront accommodations with a pool.

Island Beach State Park offers a range of amenities to enhance visitor experiences. The park includes restrooms and showers at the recreational beach area, which is the only place where swimming is permitted. Concession stands are available during the summer season when lifeguards are on duty. For outdoor enthusiasts, kayak and paddleboard rentals are available through guided tours. The park also features picnic areas and nature centers like the Forked River Interpretive Center, which provides educational exhibits and guided tours. Additionally, the park allows four-wheel drive vehicles onto the beach with a permit, offering unique access to the shoreline.

Island Beach State Park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a variety of activities. Swimming and surfing are popular at the designated recreational beach area, while kayaking and standup paddleboarding provide opportunities to explore the waters. The park also allows fishing, with specific areas designated for this activity. For land-based activities, visitors can enjoy hiking and biking on the park's trails, which range from easy to moderate difficulty. Horseback riding is permitted from October to April with advance reservations. Birdwatching is another favorite pastime, with the park being home to numerous bird species, including osprey and snowy owls.

Island Beach State Park offers some accessibility options for visitors with disabilities. The park has wheelchair-accessible restrooms and parking areas. However, the park's natural terrain, including sandy dunes and trails, may pose challenges for mobility. Visitors are encouraged to contact park officials for specific accessibility information and assistance. While the park does not provide wheelchair rentals, it strives to ensure that all visitors can enjoy its natural beauty and recreational activities.

Parking at Island Beach State Park is limited and managed to maintain the park's natural tranquility. The park charges entrance fees, which vary by season and residency. During peak summer weekends, parking fills quickly, and once full, visitors are not allowed to enter. This policy helps control crowds and preserve the park's natural environment. It is advisable to arrive early, especially during weekends and holidays. The park offers walk-in access at Fisherman’s Walkway for those without vehicles.

Island Beach State Park has several interesting historical and ecological facts. It is one of the largest undeveloped barrier islands in the United States, providing a unique habitat for diverse wildlife. The park was once a hunting and fishing resort before becoming a state park in the 1930s. It also hosts the official vacation residence of the New Jersey Governor, a Cape Cod-style house built in the 1920s. The park's natural areas, including the Sedge Island Marine Conservation Zone, are crucial for marine life and offer opportunities for scientific research and educational programs.

Island Beach State Park is surrounded by several attractions that complement its natural beauty. The Barnegat Lighthouse, located at the southern tip of the park, is visible from the bayside trails and is a popular spot for photography. The park itself features diverse ecosystems, including saltwater marshes and maritime forests, which are ideal for nature walks and birdwatching. Nearby, the lively boardwalks of Seaside Heights and Point Pleasant Beach offer a contrast to the park's serene atmosphere, with amusement rides, arcades, and dining options.