Soon, Jersey Shore trips could cost less for certain beachgoers.
New Jersey lawmakers are advancing a bill that would allow Shore towns to waive or reduce beach badge fees for teenagers and expand discounted access for veterans. The law would not mandate free beach access for these groups statewide, but it would allow towns the flexibility to decide.
Who May Qualify for Free or Reduced Beach Badges
Teenagers (Ages 12–17)
If passed, municipalities could offer free or discounted beach access to teens between 12 and 17. Currently, most towns allow younger children to enter for free, but teens are typically required to pay the same price as adults.
Military Veterans
The bill would also expand beach badge discounts for U.S. military veterans. Existing rules limit free reduced prices to veterans who meet specific service requirements. However, the new plan would allow towns to extend discounts to veterans as a whole.
What the Bill Does and Does Not Do
The legislation, S1533, would not require towns to change beach fees.
IInstead, it giives local governments the choice to eliminate badge fees for teens and veterans—or offer both classes reduced fees.
Each town would decide whether to adopt these changes through local ordinances, based on budget needs, community input, and town priorities.
That means one town could offer free access to teens and veterans, while the town directly next to it still charges full price.
Why Lawmakers Are Pushing This Now
Beach badges are important. They serve as a major revenue source for shore towns, helping to fund lifeguards, maintenance, boardwalk repairs, and erosion control.
Lawmakers argue that even a modest fee reduction could improve access for families who visit the beach, while still generating the revenue needed to remain operational.
How Much Are Beach Badges?
Badge prices vary by town. A day pass at some beaches is only a few bucks—others, offer seasonal passes that top $100.
Some beaches across New Jersey are completely free like Island Beach State Park.
What Happens Next
The bill has cleared a state Senate committee with unanimous support. It still needs approval from both legislative chambers before it’s sent to Governor Sherrill’s desk for final approval.
Changes won’t be immediate. But if passed, Jersey Shore trips could get a tad more affordable for families across the state.
The New Jersey Digest is a new jersey magazine that has chronicled daily life in the Garden State for over 10 years.