Sunny skies, summer temperatures and refreshing ocean water are expected to make Ortley Beach one of the Jersey Shore’s top destinations this weekend.
ORTLEY BEACH, N.J. — With temperatures climbing into the 80s and abundant sunshine in the forecast, beachgoers are expected to flock to Ortley Beach this weekend for a classic Jersey Shore getaway. Nestled between Lavallette and Seaside Heights on the Barnegat Peninsula, the Toms River Township community offers a quieter, family-friendly atmosphere while remaining close to some of the Shore’s most popular attractions.
Ortley Beach lies just north of Seaside Heights and for families who want to take a break from the crowds there, it offers a great daytrip or weekend getaway at the Jersey Shore.
Key Points
• Hot weather and cool ocean temperatures are expected throughout the weekend.
• Daily, weekly and seasonal beach badges are required for beach access.
• Visitors can enjoy seafood restaurants, waterfront dining, ice cream shops and nearby boardwalk attractions.
Ortley Beach’s oceanfront stretches roughly a half-mile between Third Avenue and Harding Avenue, offering wide sandy beaches, lifeguard-protected swimming areas and designated surfing zones near Second Avenue.
For many visitors, the biggest draw this weekend will be the contrast between the summer heat and the Atlantic Ocean’s refreshing water temperatures. Lifeguards are on duty throughout the summer season, and officials remind visitors to only enter the water when beaches are guarded.
Beach badge prices and where to buy them
Anyone age 12 and older must have a valid badge or pass to access Ortley Beach during the summer season.
Current beach access rates are:
• Daily Pass: $13
• Weekly Pass: $45
• Seasonal Badge: $65
• Senior Seasonal Badge (65+): $15
Children under 12 are admitted free.
Badges and passes can be purchased at the beach guard houses located at Oceanfront and Fourth Avenue and Oceanfront and Fielder Avenue. Credit cards, cash and checks are accepted at most locations.
Visitors planning multiple beach trips throughout the summer will generally find seasonal badges to be the most economical option.
Beach rules visitors should know
Officials are encouraging visitors to review beach regulations before arriving.
Alcohol, smoking, vaping devices, fireworks, drones and pets are prohibited on the beach. Fishing is not permitted during guarded hours, and beach umbrellas or canopies must not exceed 7 feet by 7 feet.
Beachgoers are also reminded that swimming during red flag conditions is prohibited and that children should never be left unattended.
Where to eat in and around Ortley Beach
Ortley Beach may be small, but it offers several popular dining destinations within walking distance of the sand.
The Crab’s Claw Inn on Route 35 is a longtime Shore favorite known for steamed seafood, crab dishes and outdoor dining. During summer weekends, the restaurant is often packed with both locals and visitors.
For breakfast and lunch, Sunny Hunny is a staple in the area, serving pancakes, omelets, sandwiches and coffee just minutes from the beach.
Fans of Italian food often head to Mia’s Pizza and Cafe, a popular neighborhood spot offering pizza, pasta and casual family dining.
A short drive into neighboring Seaside Heights opens up even more options. Klee’s Bar & Grill remains one of the area’s best-known restaurants, featuring seafood, burgers and rooftop views near the boardwalk.
Visitors looking for waterfront dining on Barnegat Bay frequently stop at Chef Mike’s ABG in nearby Seaside Park, widely regarded as one of Ocean County’s premier seafood restaurants.
Sweet treats and boardwalk favorites
No Jersey Shore trip is complete without dessert.
Ortley Beach visitors can easily reach Kohr’s Frozen Custard, a Shore institution famous for its orange-and-vanilla swirl. Nearby boardwalk stands also offer funnel cakes, fried Oreos, soft serve ice cream and saltwater taffy throughout the weekend.
The nearby Seaside Heights Boardwalk provides classic Shore attractions including arcades, amusement rides, games and oceanfront nightlife just minutes from Ortley Beach.
With beautiful weather expected and peak summer crowds beginning to arrive, local officials recommend arriving early for parking and staying hydrated throughout the day. Whether visitors are looking to spend hours in the surf, enjoy fresh seafood or simply relax on the sand, Ortley Beach offers one of Ocean County’s most popular summer destinations.