Seven Presidents Oceanfront ParkUnited States Beach Guide

Seven Presidents Oceanfront Park is boat- and ferry-only — there is no road access to the beach side. Seastreak operates ferry service from Belford and from Highlands, both running approximately 45 minutes to the Battery Maritime Building; Hornblower Cruises runs a roughly 41-minute crossing from Brooklyn Army Terminal/Sunset Park to Rockaway. Seaplane access is also an option for those who want to arrive in style. Adults 18 and over must purchase a $10 daily access pass to enter the beach; the fee is waived when accompanied by children under 18.

The surf tag is well-earned here — the open Atlantic coast delivers real waves, and you'll see boards in the water throughout the summer season. The skate park is a genuine draw in its own right, pulling a young, energetic set who treat it as seriously as the surf. County park infrastructure means there's enough organised space to spread out, and the sheer length of the shoreline gives you room to find your own patch of golden sand. It's a beach that rewards activity over lounging, though there's plenty of room for both.

The park itself has an on-site food option, so you won't go hungry without leaving the grounds. Just a short distance away, Attilio's serves pizza and Italian at 0.3 km, and Amy's Omlette House is a solid breakfast and diner stop at 0.4 km. If you're willing to go a little further, McLoone's Pier House brings seafood to the table at 1.4 km, and Wild Bamboo offers Asian cuisine at the same distance.

No accommodation options are listed within the immediate beach area, which makes sense given the boat-only access to the beach side itself. Long Branch, the nearest town at essentially zero distance from the park's broader area, is your best base for finding a place to stay and catching the ferry out each morning.

The long golden shoreline photographs best in the early morning when the light is low and the blue water catches the angle cleanly — get there on the first ferry if you want the sand to yourself. The skate park and surf break offer dynamic action shots later in the day when the young visitors is in full swing.

Arrive early — the lively, young-leaning vibe means this place fills up fast on summer weekends, and the badge system doesn't slow foot traffic once the ferries start running. The best months to visit are June through September; outside that window the Mid-Atlantic temperate climate can be unpredictable and cold. Bring everything you need for the day: food, sunscreen, and cash or card for your badge, since you're arriving by water and resupply isn't as simple as a quick drive. Check ferry schedules carefully before you go — missing the last boat back is not a fun end to a beach day.