TOMS RIVER, NJ — With Memorial Day weekend expected to bring heavy crowds to the Jersey Shore, Toms River officials are encouraging residents and visitors to purchase Ortley Beach season badges early to avoid long holiday lines and delays at beach entrances.
Toms River Mayor Daniel Rodrick says he and his township are ready to welcome residents and vacationers to the township’s beautiful oceanfront beach in Ortley Beach.
Season badges for the 2026 summer season officially went on sale April 20 and are currently being sold through the township’s Youth Services building at 1505 North Bay Avenue because of water damage at the Recreation Office, according to township beach information.
Officials said preseason badge sales continue through May 22 before beach operations shift into Memorial Day weekend scheduling.
Ortley Beach, also known as Dover Beaches South, stretches along the Atlantic Ocean between 3rd Avenue and Harding Avenue on the Barnegat Peninsula and remains one of Ocean County’s busiest summer destinations.
Holiday Weekend Marks Start of Busy Shore Season
Township officials expect a major influx of beachgoers beginning Memorial Day weekend as summer tourism ramps up across the Jersey Shore.
During the early season period from May 23 through June 14, badge and pass sales will also be available on weekends at guard houses located at Oceanfront and 4th Avenue, Oceanfront and Fielder Avenue in Ortley Beach, and at Shelter Cove Beach on Bay Avenue.
The township said beaches will remain guarded through Sept. 1, and officials warned visitors not to enter the water when lifeguards are off duty.
Key Points
• Toms River officials are encouraging early Ortley Beach badge purchases before Memorial Day weekend
• Badge sales are temporarily operating from the Youth Services building because of water damage at the Recreation Office
• Guarded beaches remain open through Sept. 1, weather permitting
Township Releases Reminder on Beach Rules
Along with promoting badge sales, Toms River officials also reminded visitors about strict beach regulations heading into the summer season.
Alcohol, smoking devices, fireworks, drones, glass bottles, and pets are prohibited on township beaches, according to the posted rules.
Officials also said beach umbrellas and canopies must remain under 7 feet by 7 feet and securely anchored for safety. Digging holes deeper than 12 inches is prohibited, and visitors are required to remove their trash under the township’s “carry in, carry out” policy.
State-of-the-art lightning detection
Ortley Beach uses a lightning-detection system and multiple weather-monitoring services to determine when beaches must close for public safety.
As Memorial Day weekend approaches, officials are urging visitors to plan ahead, purchase badges early, and arrive prepared for large crowds at Ortley Beach and surrounding shore communities.
