Visit Belmar Beach NJ: Local Guide to Beach Tags, Parking & Food
- May 18
- 11 min read
Updated: 3 days ago
The coastal community of Belmar, New Jersey, is one of the most popular beaches at the Jersey Shore. Whether you’re coming for the day, a long weekend, or a whole week, explore the best of Belmar with our ultimate guide to visiting Belmar Beach NJ, updated for summer 2026.
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Beach Tags | Parking | Beach Amenities | Dining | Beach Rules | Shopping | Beach House Rentals | Belmar Beach FAQs
Where To Buy Belmar Beach Tags | Summer 2026
During peak summer season, admission to Belmar beach is free for children age 13 and younger.
Beach tags are required for everyone age 14 and older.
On weekdays in peak season, beach tags are required between 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.
You need a beach tag to get on Belmar beach between 9:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. on Fridays, holidays, and weekends until Labor Day (Monday, September 7, 2026).
Beach tags are not required before Memorial Day weekend or after Labor Day.
Summer 2026 Season Beach Tags
Full-Season: For summer 2026, Belmar beach badges are $80.00 for the season, plus a $2.00 processing fee.
Senior Badges: If you are age 65 or older, you are eligible to buy a reduced-cost senior beach tag in Belmar. The tags cost $32.00 (proof of age required), plus $1.00 processing fee.
Season and senior beach tags for summer 2026 may be purchased online. Shipping is $10.00 or, to save on the cost of shipping, you may pick up your beach badges at Taylor Pavilion, 500 Ocean Avenue, between 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. seven days a week. Please note that the added "processing fee" will still be charged if you pick up your tags in person.
Daily Belmar Beach Tags
Daily Belmar beach tags cost $12.00 each, plus .25 cent processing fee, and also may be purchased online up to two weeks in advance.
Get Your QR Code: For summer 2026, Belmar is requiring that all daily beach tags be pre-ordered via your smartphone or mobile device prior to visiting a beach tag booth. Once your purchase is completed, you will receive a confirmation email with a QR code.
Pick Up Your Beach Tag: Upon your arrival to the beach, you will need to check-in at one of the Belmar beach tags booths and scan the QR code to receive a daily wristband. Alternately, you may show your confirmed QR code to the beach attendant to get onto the beach.
Belmar beach tag booths are located on the boardwalk at 3rd Avenue, 8th Avenue, 11th Avenue, 14th Avenue, 16th Avenue, and 19th Avenue.
Free Beach Admission For Active-Duty Military And Veterans
Through its “Operation: Thank You” program, Belmar provides free beach access to active-duty servicemen and women with valid military ID and to all U.S. veterans with a valid ID that identifies them as a veteran. Gold Star family members are also eligible to participate in Operation: Thank You.
To obtain your free Gold Star Family or U.S. veteran Belmar beach tag, visit belmarbeachbadges.com, select Veterans/Gold Star or Active Military, proceed to the Belmar beach tag booth, scan your QR code and show ID and receive your wristband for entry. Veterans can pick up a season badge at Borough Hall in the off season or at Taylor Pavilion in season. If you are not able to use the online system, you may obtain a beach tag at Taylor Pavilion during beach hours.
Disabled individuals with proof of disability may purchase a season Belmar beach tag for $32.00. The borough requires a letter from the Social Security Administration or a Medicare card, along with the disabled person's valid identification. Please call Belmar Tourism at 732-681-3700 for more information.
RELATED: 8 Ways To Enjoy The Water In Belmar
Parking At Belmar Beach
As with other Jersey Shore towns, parking in the summer can be tricky, especially on nice weekends and major holidays such as July 4th, Memorial Day, and Labor Day. If you are planning a day trip to Belmar beach, the earlier you get here, the more parking you will find available. Belmar has both free parking and paid parking.
Free Belmar Parking
You may park for free on any of the neighborhood side streets in Belmar (except those in ParkMobile zones), or at the NJ Transit train station in downtown Belmar.
Free parking is also available on the west side of Ocean Avenue (across from the boardwalk) and on Main Street in Belmar.
Handicapped parking is free in designated handicapped spots along Belmar boardwalk with a valid state-issued placard. You must pay for parking if you park in a non-handicapped spot, even if you use your placard or have a special handicapped license plate.
Paid Parking
The Borough of Belmar uses a mobile application called ParkMobile for paid parking along Ocean Avenue and in other areas of town. The ParkMobile app allows for contact-less payment via your smartphone or tablet. In total, Belmar has six designated ParkMobile zones, as follows:
Zone 1 (58101): East side of Ocean Avenue (nearest the boardwalk). The cost for parking in Zone 58101 is $2.00/hour between 7:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m. daily.
Zone 2 (58102): 5th and 6th Avenue around Silver Lake up to Ocean Avenue (the angled parking spots). The cost for parking in Zone 58102 is $2.00/hour between 7:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m. daily.
Zone 3 (58103): North Boulevard, from Ocean Avenue to B Street (south side of the street only). The cost for parking in Zone 58103 is $2.00/hour between 7:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m. daily.
Zone 4 (58104): Municipal parking, $2.00/hour between 7:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m. daily.
Zone 5 (58105): Municipal parking, $2.00/hour between 7:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m. daily.
Zone 6 (58106): ParkMobile is used at certain areas of the Belmar Marina near Marina Grille and the marina entrance at Route 35 and 10th Avenue. The cost for parking in Zone 58106 is $2.00/hour between 4:00 p.m. and 2:00 a.m. This is the year-round paid parking zone.
ParkMobile has a six-hour maximum time limit. After six hours, you must make a new payment through the app. Download the ParkMobile app. For those who wish to pay by phone instead, call 1-877-727-5304 for assistance.
Paid parking is in effect in Belmar for Zones 1 through 5 from May 1 through October 1. Zone 6 (Marina Grille parking lot) has year-round paid parking. You may park for free in designated handicapped parking spots with a valid state-issued placard or license plate.
Belmar Beach Amenities
Officials in Belmar, New Jersey, take great pride in providing visitors with the best beach amenities. In addition to clean, staffed restrooms, the beachfront is equipped with pirate-themed beach playgrounds, places to fill your water bottle and charge your cell phone, and touch-free shower stations at each beach entrance for rinsing off.
Mobility Mats for Wheelchairs and Strollers: Belmar also has ADA-accessible beaches equipped with blue mobility mats. These hard-surface beach-access ramps are designed for people who use wheelchairs or walking aids, and families coming to the beach with strollers, wagons and beach carts.
Public Restrooms: Public bathrooms are located at the following beach entrances: 8th Avenue, 11th Avenue, and 16th Avenue. Taylor Pavilion (5th Avenue and boardwalk) also has public restrooms. Beach playgrounds are located at 4th Avenue, 8th Avenue, 12th Avenue, and 16th Avenue, where a year-round permanent restroom building is under construction. The north side of Taylor Pavilion (5th Avenue and boardwalk) also has public restrooms.
Beach Wheelchairs: Beach wheelchairs are available at 4th, 8th, 12th, and 16th Avenues. See the gate attendant for help.
Where To Eat At Belmar Beach
The Belmar beachfront has a wide variety of options for your enjoyment. In the middle of the boardwalk, you will find Jersey Mike's Subs at the Taylor Pavilion, located at 500 Ocean Avenue.
Across from the beach, along Ocean Avenue, casual dining stops include Playa Bowls at 803 Ocean Avenue and 1607 Ocean Avenue, J's Pizza at 804 Ocean Avenue, Luigi’s Pizza at 1609 Ocean Avenue, Mamaluke’s Pizza at 1715 Ocean Avenue, TR’s Food Court at 1605 Ocean Avenue and Bubbakoos Burritos at 1603 Ocean Avenue. For your sweet tooth, Coney Waffle at 803 Ocean Avenue has ice cream treats and confections.
For an ocean-view dining experience with great people-watching, try La Dolce Vita Italian Seafood Grill at 400 Ocean Avenue. The 7-11 convenience store at 8th and Ocean Avenues and Beckman's by the Beach at 16th and Ocean Avenues are quick places to grab bottled water, snacks, and sundries.
RELATED: Dining In Belmar
Belmar Beach NJ Rules
Allowed On Belmar Beach
Unlike the Spring Lake beach nearby, Belmar does allow you to bring coolers onto the beach so you can enjoy your lunch and snacks right where you are sitting.
When enjoying food and drinks on Belmar Beach, please be respectful to our town — and to the environment. Do not leave your trash on the beach. Water bottles, bottle caps, plastic bags, plastic cups, and other trash get washed into the ocean, putting endangered coastal birds and sea life such as fish and dolphins at risk of harm. Belmar provides trash and recycling containers right on the beach for your convenience in cleaning up after yourself.
Beach umbrellas are allowed on Belmar Beach, but tents, canopies, and shade coverings higher than 36 inches are not allowed on Belmar Beach between Memorial Day and Labor Day.
Boogie boards are permitted at the following beaches only: 7th Avenue, 14th Avenue, and 20th Avenue.
Not Allowed On Belmar Beach
Loud music and Bluetooth speakers. Please bring your earbuds if you like to listen to music on the beach.
Tents, canopies, and shade structures over 36 inches tall are allowed on the beach between Memorial Day and Labor Day.
No ball playing of any kind, including footballs and volleyball.
Alcohol and anything in glass bottles.
Smoking and vaping.
Unleashed dogs (leashed dogs are permitted between October 1 and April 30 only).
Surfing At Belmar Beach
The surfing beaches in Belmar are located at 17th and 18th Avenues. Swimming is not allowed at these beaches.
In addition, Summertime Surf School offers surfing camps for kids and group or private surfing lessons for adults and organizations at 3rd Avenue beach in Belmar. Boogie boards may be used at 7th Avenue, 14th Avenue, and 20th Avenue beaches.
Bike Riding On Belmar Boardwalk
Between May 1 and September 30, bike riding on Belmar boardwalk is permitted only between 6:00 a.m. and 9:00 a.m.
In the off-season (October 1 to April 30), you may ride your bike on the boardwalk at any time of day.
Smoke-Free Beach & Boardwalk
In 2014, Belmar became the first New Jersey shore town to ban smoking on the beach. Smoking is prohibited on the entire beach and boardwalk at all times. The smoking ban includes cigarettes, vape pens, cigars, and e-cigarettes. Violators of the no-smoking ordinance will be ticketed and fined. In July 2018, New Jersey banned smoking on all beaches, following Belmar's lead.
RELATED: Area Attractions In The Belmar Area
Ocean Avenue Shopping In Belmar
From sunscreen and souvenirs to newspapers and custom t-shirts, you'll find a little bit of everything at the retail merchants on Ocean Avenue in Belmar.
Check out Eastern Lines Surf Shop and Beckman's on the Beach along the 1600 block of Ocean Avenue. We also love the selection of beachwear and gifts at the Beach Nut boutique at 804 Ocean Avenue (next to J's Pizza).
RELATED: Upcoming Events In Belmar
Live Like A Local: Rent A Belmar Beach House
Day trips down the shore are fun, but the best way to experience the area is to unpack your bags and stay for a week or two. If you are looking for a clean, quiet getaway for a couple, solo stay, or small family trip, our updated two-bedroom Blue Hydrangea Cottage in Belmar, New Jersey is the perfect place to relax in serene surroundings at the Jersey Shore.
The house sleeps up to four people and is consistently rated five stars by our guests for its fantastic location, spotless upkeep, and all the thoughtful details that make for an easy beach stay. You can see photos and check our open dates on our Blue Hydrangea Cottage rental page.
RELATED: Explore our local Belmar NJ Travel Guide to plan your beach days, dining, and local events.
Belmar Beach FAQs
Is Belmar Beach free?
Belmar Beach is not free during the summer season. Everyone age 14 and older needs a beach tag to access the sand when badge checkers and lifeguards are on duty. Kids 13 and under are always free. Active duty military, National Guard members, veterans, and Gold Star family members may access Belmar Beach at no cost with proper identification.
Where can I buy Belmar beach badges?
Beach tags can be purchased through the Viply mobile app or at on-site boardwalk badge booths during the summer season.
When does Belmar start checking beach badges?
Belmar begins checking beach badges once the summer season starts and badge checkers are on duty. Beach tags are required starting Memorial Day weekend and through Labor Day.
What time do Belmar lifeguards go off duty?
Lifeguard hours vary by day and weather, but they generally staff the beach from around 9:00 a.m. until about 5:30 or 6:00 p.m. during the summer season. Always follow posted signs and never swim when lifeguards are not present.
Do I need a beach badge after 5:00 p.m.?
Once badge hours end for the day, beach tags are no longer checked, though lifeguards may also be off duty. For your own safety, do not swim in the ocean when lifeguards are not present.
Are Belmar beach tags refundable?
No. All beach tag sales are final.
How much are senior beach badges in Belmar for 2026?
Senior beach badges in Belmar cost $35.00 for the 2026 season. Seniors are defined as age 65 and older and must present proof of age.
Where is free parking in Belmar?
You’ll find plenty of free parking in Belmar if you know where to look. All residential streets between Ocean Avenue and Main Street provide free, non‑metered parking, and these spots are your best option closest to the beach if you arrive early enough on summer weekends. You’ll also find a free parking lot at Dempsey Park, located at 16th Avenue & Railroad Avenue. It’s west of Main Street, so it’s farther from the beach but a reliable option when the residential areas fill up.
Where do I pick up season beach tags?
Beginning in mid-June, season beach tags may be picked up at Taylor Pavilion, located at 500 Ocean Avenue, between 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. daily during the summer season. If you ordered your tags online, bring your confirmation email and ID. Between December and June, season beach tags may be picked up at Belmar Borough Hall, 600 Main Street, during weekday business hours.
Where do I pick up my daily wristband once I have paid through the app?
After purchasing your daily beach tag through the app, you can pick up your wristband at any Belmar beach tag booth on the boardwalk. Show your QR code at the booth or to the beach attendant to receive your wristband for entry.
Are tents permitted on Belmar Beach?
No. Tents, canopies, and shade structures taller than 36 inches are not permitted on Belmar Beach between Memorial Day and Labor Day. Beach umbrellas are allowed.
What county is Belmar, New Jersey, located in?
Belmar is located in Monmouth County, New Jersey.
Are there vacation rentals in Belmar?
Yes. Belmar offers a variety of vacation rentals, including private homes, condos, and seasonal cottages. Options range from large homes suitable for multi‑generation vacations to smaller properties well-suited for couples or solo travelers. You’ll also find a number of off‑season and winter rentals available at reduced monthly rates. You may browse local listings on popular vacation‑rental platforms (keeping in mind the added service fees and state taxes) or explore individual property websites such as VacationInBelmar.com for direct‑from‑owner options.
Story and images © Christine Cardellino, Belmar Beachcomber Blog, and www.VacationInBelmar.com, 2017 to present. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material, including photography, without express and written permission from this site’s author/owner is strictly prohibited. If you wish to use a photograph from this site, full and clear credit must be given to Belmar Beachcomber Blog with appropriate and specific links to the original content.
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