Great news for beach lovers and outdoor enthusiasts! Island Beach State Park has officially reopened for general admission after a temporary closure due to sewer line blockage that affected all restroom facilities throughout the park. The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection announced the reopening on July 26, 2025, bringing relief to thousands of visitors who have been eagerly waiting to return to one of New Jersey’s most pristine coastal destinations.
Current Park Status and Advisories
While the park is back open for business, there are several important updates visitors should know about before planning their trip:
IBSP has REOPENED for General Admission
New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection sent this bulletin at 07/26/2025 01:14 PM EDT
The park is now welcoming visitors back with all essential facilities operational. However, several ongoing construction projects and seasonal wildlife protections remain in effect.
PARK ADVISORY: Fisherman’s Walkway Construction
Beginning July 21, construction will begin to rebuild the western section of the Fisherman’s Walkway at Tices Shoal, which sustained damage during the winter. Access to Tices Shoal via the walkway will be intermittently closed while repairs are underway. This popular fishing spot may have limited access during construction hours, so anglers should plan accordingly.
PARK ADVISORY: Mobile Sport Fishing Vehicle Closures in Effect
📍GILLIKINS ACCESS POINT
Access to the Northern Natural Area from the Gillikins Access Point is closed to Mobile Sport Fishing Vehicles as of 6 p.m. on Saturday, June 21. The closure has the potential to remain in effect until mid-August.
Mobile Sport Fishing Vehicle permitholders should be aware that due to the closure Island Beach State Park may reach its capacity of mobile sport fishing vehicles sooner than normal. Thank you for your cooperation in ensuring the next generation of New Jersey’s shorebirds have a safe and successful start.
An update will be posted when the Gillikins Access Point and south of the A-23 Access Point reopen later this season.
SWIMMING ADVISORY
Swimming is only permitted on State Park Service property in designated areas when lifeguards are on duty. Visit the park’s swimming schedule page to stay up to date on when lifeguards are on duty.
What You Can Do at Island Beach State Park
Now that the park is back open, visitors can once again enjoy all the activities that make this barrier island destination so special:
Beach Activities
Ocean Swimming: Approximately one mile of designated swimming beach with lifeguards on duty during summer months
Surfing: Allowed south of the swimming beaches during summer months
Windsurfing: Available in marked areas at the extreme southern end of the designated swimming area
World-Class Fishing: Island Beach State Park remains one of New Jersey’s premier fishing destinations, offering:
- Surf Fishing: Excellent opportunities for striped bass and bluefish, plus summer flounder and weakfish
- 24-Hour Access: Fishing is permitted around the clock (except in designated swimming areas)
- Jetty Fishing: Tautog fishing along the north jetty of Barnegat Inlet during appropriate seasons
Mobile Sport Fishing Vehicle Access: For those with proper permits (subject to current closures)
Water Sports and Paddling
- Guided Kayak Tours: Summer tours through the Sedge Island to observe wildlife including New Jersey’s largest osprey colony
- Kayak and Canoe Launches: Available at bay-side Areas 15 and 21
- Stand-Up Paddleboarding: Launch from designated bay-side areas
Wildlife Watching and Nature Activities
- Birdwatching: Home to the state’s largest osprey colony, plus peregrine falcons, wading birds, and migrating songbirds
- Nature Trails: Eight trails, each under one mile, leading to different parts of the island
- Educational Programs: Available at the Forked River Interpretive and Nature Center
- Beach Exploration: Ten miles of pristine white sand beaches to discover
Seasonal Activities
- Horseback Riding: Permitted October 1 through April 30 on six miles of ocean beach
- Waterfowl Hunting: Available in designated areas during appropriate seasons
- Biking: Eight-mile main road (limited shoulder area)
Planning Your Visit
Location: 2401 Central Ave., Seaside Park, NJ 08752
Hours: Gates: 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Monday-Friday. 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Saturdays, Sundays and State Holidays.
Entrance Fees (Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day):
- Weekdays: NJ Residents $6.00, Non-Residents $12.00
- Weekends/Holidays: NJ Residents $10.00, Non-Residents $20.00
- Off-Season: NJ Residents $5.00, Non-Residents $10.00
What to Bring
The park maintains its wild character, so come prepared with water, snacks, sunscreen, and any gear you’ll need for your planned activities.
Accessibility Features
Island Beach State Park offers several accessibility options:
- Beach wheelchairs for ocean swimming
- Specialty beach wheelchairs for surf fishing
- The Fisherman’s Walkway boardwalk (currently under partial construction)
A Welcome Return
The temporary closure was a reminder of how much this special place means to New Jersey residents and visitors alike. Island Beach State Park represents one of the last undeveloped barrier beaches on the North Atlantic coast, offering a glimpse of what our entire coastline once looked like.
With over 400 plant species, critical habitat for threatened shorebirds, and some of the best surf fishing on the East Coast, the park’s reopening is cause for celebration. Whether you’re planning a family beach day, a serious fishing expedition, or a peaceful paddle through the Sedge Islands, Island Beach State Park is ready to welcome you back.
For the most current information on closures, construction updates, and swimming schedules, visit the park’s official website or call 732-793-0506 before your visit. Welcome back to one of New Jersey’s crown jewels!
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