Long Branch Beach doesn’t make a big fuss, but it doesn’t have to.
People keep coming back for the same reasons: the easy access to miles of shoreline, a boardwalk that’s as much about people-watching as it is about the food, and Pier Village, where you can grab everything from fish tacos to a seat at the bar.
It’s got that relaxed Jersey Shore energy without the chaos some beach towns bring.
But it’s also a place where history runs deep.
U.S. presidents used to make this their go-to summer escape, and while the town has modernized since the Gilded Age days, it still feels like a spot where time slows down just enough to make you forget your to-do list.
So, stick around because there’s a lot to uncover about Long Branch Beach—starting with the stories that have shaped this seaside town into what it is today.
A Little History of Long Branch Beach, New Jersey
Long Branch Beach, New Jersey, has stories that go back to the 19th century when it became a favorite summer spot for U.S. presidents.
Names like Ulysses S. Grant and Chester A. Arthur spent their summers here, turning the town into one of the country’s first seaside retreats.
Today, Seven Presidents Park serves as a reminder of that era, honoring the leaders who once walked these shores.
One of Long Branch’s most memorable moments involves President James Garfield.
After being shot in 1881, Garfield was brought here in hopes that the ocean air would help him recover.
While he didn’t survive, his time in Long Branch is still remembered through the Garfield Tea House, a small structure built from the railroad ties that carried him to town.
In more recent history, Hurricane Sandy devastated the Long Branch boardwalk in 2012.
The storm left the area in ruins, but by 2016, the boardwalk was rebuilt and reopened, restoring its role as the heart of the town.
The Longbranch Saloon Connection
Long Branch’s influence stretches further than you might think—even to the Wild West.
The famous Longbranch Saloon in Dodge City, Kansas, was named after Long Branch, NJ, by its owner, William Harris.
Originally from this seaside town, Harris brought a piece of the Jersey Shore to Dodge City, turning it into a legendary name in cowboy history.
While the saloon itself has become a symbol of Wild West culture, its connection to Long Branch is a quirky reminder of how this beach town’s charm traveled far beyond its shores.
Long Branch Boardwalk: Finding Your Beach Vibe
The Long Branch Boardwalk has a personality all its own. And it’s not one of the best places to visit in New Jersey for no reason.
Mornings are peaceful, with joggers and dog walkers enjoying the quiet breeze.
But by afternoon, the energy shifts as beachgoers stroll the boards, grabbing a bite or soaking in the atmosphere.
Pier Village is definitely the hub of the action.
Restaurants, shops, and events draw the biggest crowds.
But don’t stop there! If you head north, you’ll find a different pace.
The crowds thin, the noise fades, and the path opens up to Seven Presidents Park.
And families seem to love this spot for its wide-open beaches, picnic areas, and calmer vibe––you could say it’s the perfect escape from the boardwalk buzz.
Speaking of escaping the buzz, the southern beaches are a local secret.
The stretches are quieter, with fewer people and uninterrupted views of the Atlantic.
Whether you crave the energy of Pier Village, the family-friendly space of Seven Presidents Park, or the quiet solitude of the southern beaches, Long Branch has a spot for you.
A Foodie’s Beach Day at Long Branch, NJ
Okay, let’s be real: a day at the beach just isn’t complete without some seriously good eats.
Luckily for you, Long Branch, NJ, is a foodie paradise.
Personally, I’d kick things off with a Playa Bowls smoothie bowl. They’re packed with fresh fruit and healthy toppings, perfect for fueling up before hitting the waves (or, you know, just working on your tan).
When that lunchtime hunger hits, Robinson’s Ale House is where it’s at.
Think juicy burgers, crispy fish and chips, and salads that are actually exciting. Plus, their patio has killer ocean views. Can’t beat that, right?
Now, if you’re like me and have a soft spot for the classics, Stewart’s is a must-visit.
This old-school spot has been a boardwalk staple for ages, serving up root beer floats and ice cream sundaes that’ll take you straight back to childhood.
And then there’s Pier Village.
This place is practically a culinary United Nations, with everything from casual taco joints to fancy seafood restaurants.
Seriously, you could spend a week here and still not try everything.
But honestly, no beach trip is complete without ice cream, and Long Branch has ice cream stands galore.
So grab a cone, pile on the sprinkles, and enjoy the sweet life.
Get Active at Long Branch, NJ Beach
Sometimes, a day at Long Branch, NJ, Beach calls for more than sitting in the sand.
If the water’s calling, paddleboarding or kayaking is a great shout.
The gentle waves here make it easy for anyone to give it a shot—no need to be an expert. And rentals are close by, so it’s all set up for you.
Back on the boardwalk, it’s about finding your stride.
Grab a bike (or rent one if you didn’t bring your own) and cruise the stretch with the ocean breeze keeping you company.
Mornings are great for a quiet ride, but afternoons bring more of that lively boardwalk energy.
Whether you’re here for the workout or just the views, it’s a good way to break up your beach day.
Then there’s Seven Presidents Park.
The bocce courts here add something unexpected to the mix.
It’s casual, low-pressure, and a little fun if you’re with friends—or even just passing time on your own.
And if you’re not into bocce, it’s still a great spot to hang out and watch a game or two.
Plan Your Day at Long Branch Beach
There’s nothing worse than showing up at the beach unprepared, but with a few insider tips, you’ll feel like a local at Long Branch.
Here’s the lowdown:
1. Getting There Without Stress
If you’re taking NJ Transit, you’re already winning.
The train gets you close enough to the sand that a quick walk or Uber ride down Pavilion Avenue will have you beach-ready in minutes.
And if you’re driving, the municipal grass lots are a solid bet, but beachfront parking on Ocean Boulevard is metered and fills up fast—so don’t roll in late unless you love a parking hunt.
2. Beach Hours You Should Know
This isn’t one of those beaches where you can hang out all night.
Official hours run from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM daily, with occasional extensions to 7:00 PM if the beach manager gives the thumbs-up.
So, it’s worth asking if you’re planning to linger.
3. Don’t Forget Your Badge
Yes, you’ll need a beach badge, but it’s easy to grab one at the entry point.
Weekdays cost $6, and weekends cost $9, but teens get a deal at just $3.
Oh, and if you’re under 13 or over 62 (with ID), congrats—it’s free!
Seven Presidents Park has its own system, so double-check before you head there.
4. Accessibility That Makes It Easy
Long Branch makes sure everyone can enjoy the shore.
ADA-compliant ramps can be found at Pavilion Avenue, Morris Avenue, and Chelsea Avenue, among others.
And if you need a surf chair, just flag down the staff—they’ll sort you out so you can easily hit the sand.
Long Branch Deserves a Spot on Your List
There’s no shortage of beach towns along the Jersey Shore, but Long Branch, NJ, has a way of standing out.
Maybe it’s the mix of wide, sandy beaches and a boardwalk that feels alive without being overwhelming.
Or perhaps it’s the little details—like how you can go from a quiet day in Seven Presidents Park to grabbing fish tacos in Pier Village, all in the same afternoon.
But what sets it apart is how easy it makes everything.
Parking’s manageable if you plan ahead, the beach is accessible for everyone, and there’s always something to do without feeling like you’re stuck following a checklist.
So, if you’ve been looking for a beach that doesn’t overcomplicate things but still delivers on every front, Long Branch is where you’ll find it.
