8 Best Beaches in Atlantic City, NJ

Atlantic City, often called AC, is a seaside city in Atlantic County, New Jersey. Known for its rich history, vibrant nightlife, diverse cuisine, and iconic boardwalk, it’s the beaches that truly make the city shine as a top U.S. destination. Picture this: warm sand beneath your feet, a gentle ocean breeze, and waves lapping rhythmically against the shore—pure bliss.

Ready to explore Atlantic City’s shoreline? Here’s the ultimate beach guide featuring the top 8 beaches in and around the city. From Brigantine Beach, known for its serene sands and wildlife, to Longport Dog Beach, perfect for pets and owners alike, or Chicken Bone Beach, which blends history with ocean views—there’s a beach for everyone.

Brigantine Beach is a tranquil escape along the Jersey Shore, just under 15 minutes from downtown Atlantic City. Located across the Absecon Inlet and bordered by the Atlantic Ocean and Absecon Wildlife Management Area, it’s known for its clean sands, cycling paths, and wildlife sightings, including oystercatchers, sandpipers, hawks, and herons.

Beach tags are required for entry, and permits are necessary for jet skis and 4x4s. While Brigantine doesn’t have a boardwalk, it is lifeguarded from mid-June through Labor Day, making it ideal for families seeking a quieter beach day.

Margate Beach, also called Jefferson Avenue Beach, is about 20 minutes south of Atlantic City. Visitors need a $12 beach tag to access its expansive, clean sands and laid-back atmosphere. The area is famous for Lucy the Elephant, a six-story elephant-shaped monument built in 1881.

Summer visitors can enjoy kayaking, jet skiing, and sailing, with equipment rentals available at Ray Scott’s Dock. Margate Beach offers consistent surf, soft sand, and plenty of space for families and solo travelers alike.

Longport Dog Beach, located in Egg Harbor Township, roughly 25 minutes south of Atlantic City, is a haven for pets. This off-leash beach is free to access and provides plenty of space for dogs to run, play, and splash along the shoreline.

The beach is part of the Malibu Beach Wildlife Management Area, so some sections are protected for bird nesting. Open areas, however, are welcoming and spacious. There are no lifeguards, making swimming unsuitable, but the free parking and pet-friendly atmosphere make it a perfect day trip for animal lovers.

Atlantic City Beach, also known as Caspian Avenue Beach, is situated along the Absecon Inlet in the northeast corner of the city. It’s free to enter and is famous for its clear water, soft sand, and views of Brigantine Island and Absecon Lighthouse.

This beach is excellent for kayaking, swimming, and relaxation. Public restrooms and a small beach station provide added convenience. Located near the Atlantic City Aquarium and Steel Pier, it’s an accessible alternative to the busier central waterfront.

The downtown beaches are easily accessible via the Atlantic City Boardwalk. Popular entry points include Raleigh Avenue, Delaware Avenue, and New Hampshire Avenue, which lead to Crystal Beach.

These beaches feature reliable surf, making them ideal for seasoned surfers year-round. Non-surfers can enjoy designated swimming areas from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., monitored by lifeguards for safety. Crystal Beach, located near the northern edge of the city by the Absecon Inlet, is particularly popular for its strong waves.

Ventnor City Beach, just south of Atlantic City, is a quieter, residential beach perfect for reading, sunbathing, and strolling. The wide, clean shoreline is safe for swimming with lifeguards on duty during the summer.

Fishing enthusiasts can try their luck at the Ventnor City Fishing Pier, which offers catches like bluefish, flounder, and skate. The surrounding town provides luxury residences, dining options, and shops within walking distance, creating a relaxing beach experience. Beach tags are required for entry.

The Atlantic City Boardwalk, built in 1870, is the oldest in the United States. Stretching four miles along the Atlantic Ocean and extending 1.5 miles into Ventnor City, the boardwalk blends historic charm with modern attractions.

Visitors can explore upscale shops, family-friendly restaurants like the Rainforest Café, and amusement rides at Steel Pier, including The Wheel, the third-largest observation wheel in the U.S. The Lucky Snack Arcade offers over 300 games, VR experiences, and an indoor electric go-kart track. Access to the adjacent Atlantic City beach is free, making it a lively option for tourists of all ages.

Chicken Bone Beach is a free, historic public beach located along the central waterfront of Atlantic City. From the 1930s to the 1960s, it was a segregated gathering spot for African American visitors—a history now commemorated by a plaque on the boardwalk.

Today, Chicken Bone Beach features a wide stretch of sand ideal for relaxation and socializing. The beach hosts summer jazz performances organized by the Chicken Bone Beach Historical Foundation. Nearby Bally’s Beach Bar provides food, drinks, and entertainment, making it a lively and culturally rich spot to visit.

Book your stay at Fantasea Resorts and enjoy the perfect Atlantic City beach getaway just steps from the sand. Relax in comfort, wake up to ocean views, and make your seaside adventure unforgettable!