Island Beach State Park, New Jersey, driving on the beach

Driving your vehicle on the beach

You can drive a 4 wheel drive vehicle on the beach, with a valid permit, to gain access to areas of the park where you are allowed to surf fish. The permit is designed soley to allow for fishing access. Island Beach State Park issued permits do not allow you to just drive around on the beach.

A three day permit is $75.00 for residents ($90 for non-residents). It is valid for 72 hours, starting from midnight of the day of purchase. The number of three day permits that are issued is limited during the summer season. Annual permits are $195.00 for residents ($225 for non-residents). They are valid for one calendar year. They are valid from January 1 and run through December 31 regardless of the date of purchase.

Along with a valid permit, if you want to drive on the beach to go fishing you are required to have the following equipment in your vehicle:

1) Fishing equipment and bait and tackle for each person over 12 years of age;

2) Tire gauge;

3) Spare tire;

4) Workable jack and board/support for jack in sand (3/4 in. x 12 x 12 in. plywood square minimum size)

5) Tow chain or snatch line;

6) Shovel;

7) Flashlight;

8) Fire extinguisher;

9) Auto first aid kit;

10) Litter/trash bag;

11) Minimum of 1/4 tank of fuel.

A current tide chart is highly recommended. Jumper cables for the vehicle's specific battery type are also recommended.

You can obtain additional information about beach driving permits by calling the park at (732)793-0506.

If you would like to learn more about driving a vehicle on the beach you should visit the New Jersey Beach Buggy Association website.