Philly Beaches: 15 Best Beaches Near Philadelphia for a Perfect Getaway

Living in Philadelphia doesn’t mean you have to miss out on sandy shores and ocean waves. While Philly itself might be landlocked when it comes to coastal access, the city’s prime location puts you within easy driving distance of some of the East Coast’s most beloved seaside destinations. Whether you’re craving a quick day trip to feel the sand between your toes or planning a full weekend shore escape, the coastal areas near Philadelphia offer something for everyone—from family-friendly boardwalks to quiet hidden gems where you can actually find a peaceful spot to lay your towel. This comprehensive guide covers the 15 best shoreline destinations near Philly, including classic Jersey Shore spots, charming Delaware coastal towns, and lesser-known oceanfront areas that locals love. We’ve done the research so you can spend less time planning and more time enjoying the waves, boardwalks, and seaside vibes that make summer near Philadelphia truly special.

Are There Beaches in Philadelphia?

Does Philly have ocean beaches?

Let’s address the elephant in the room: Philadelphia does not have oceanfront access within the city limits. The Atlantic Ocean lies approximately 60 miles east of Center City Philadelphia, which means you’ll need to take a drive to experience true coastal destinations. However, this distance is actually one of Philly’s greatest advantages—you can leave the city after breakfast and be building sandcastles or catching waves by lunchtime at some of the Mid-Atlantic’s best shoreline spots.

River beaches & waterfront spots in Philadelphia

While Philly lacks ocean access, the city does offer several waterfront recreational areas along the Delaware and Schuylkill Rivers. Spruce Street Harbor Park provides a seasonal beach-like atmosphere with hammocks, games, and river views, though you won’t find swimming opportunities here. Penn Treaty Park and other riverfront spaces offer water views and picnic areas, but when Philly residents talk about heading to “the shore,” they’re almost always referring to the Jersey or Delaware coastal towns that are just a short drive away.

Where locals actually go for beach trips

Ask any Philly local about their favorite shore destination, and you’ll likely hear passionate opinions about specific towns along the Jersey Shore or Delaware coast. Ocean City remains a perennial favorite among Philadelphia families, while younger crowds often gravitate toward the lively scenes in Atlantic City or Wildwood. Those seeking quieter escapes tend to head to Cape May, Bethany Beach, or the less-crowded towns along Long Beach Island. The diversity of coastal options near Philadelphia means that whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a party weekend with friends, there’s a perfect seaside destination waiting for you within a 90-minute drive.

Quick Comparison: Best Beaches Near Philly (Distance, Fees & Vibe)

Closest Beaches to Philadelphia (Under 1.5 Hours)

Atlantic City – Closest Ocean Beach to Philly

At just 60 miles from Philadelphia, Atlantic City holds the title as the closest oceanfront destination to Philly, making it the go-to choice for spontaneous shore days and quick getaways. The drive typically takes about an hour via the Atlantic City Expressway, and you can be digging your toes in the sand before lunch if you leave early enough to beat the traffic. Atlantic City offers completely free shoreline access—no tags required—which makes it particularly attractive for budget-conscious Philly beachgoers. The sandy stretches here extend for miles along the famous Atlantic City Boardwalk, offering a unique combination of natural coastal beauty and urban entertainment. You can spend your morning catching waves, grab lunch at one of the many boardwalk restaurants, try your luck at the casinos in the afternoon, and catch a concert or show in the evening, all without leaving the waterfront area. While Atlantic City can get crowded during peak summer weekends, the sheer length of the shoreline means you can usually find a spot. The areas near the northern end, away from the main casino district, tend to be quieter and more family-friendly. Keep in mind that Atlantic City has a more developed, urban feel compared to some of the quieter Jersey Shore towns, but that’s exactly what makes it perfect for those who want coastal access with easy access to restaurants, shopping, and nightlife.

Ocean City – Classic Family Beach

Ocean City, New Jersey, consistently ranks as one of the best seaside destinations near Philadelphia for families, and it’s easy to see why. Located about 65 miles from Philly with a drive time of roughly 75 minutes, Ocean City offers the perfect balance of shoreline relaxation and family-friendly entertainment. The town’s dry status (no alcohol sales) creates a more family-oriented atmosphere that many Philly parents appreciate. The Ocean City shoreline requires tags during the summer season (typically Memorial Day through Labor Day), which cost around $10-12 per day or you can purchase seasonal passes if you plan multiple visits. These fees help maintain the pristine condition of the sand and support the excellent lifeguard coverage that makes Ocean City one of the safest coastal spots near Philly for children. The iconic Ocean City Boardwalk stretches for 2.5 miles and features classic attractions including Gillian’s Wonderland Pier amusement park, countless arcades, mini-golf courses, and some of the best boardwalk food you’ll find at any shore town near Philadelphia. From Mack & Manco Pizza to Kohr Bros. frozen custard, the culinary offerings alone are worth the trip. The Ocean City waterfront is well-maintained with clean sand, and the surf tends to be calmer here than at some other Jersey Shore locations, making it ideal for younger swimmers.

Wildwood – Wide, Free Beaches

Wildwood stands out among seaside spots near Philadelphia for one major reason: you get some of the widest, most spacious shorelines on the East Coast without paying a penny in tag fees. Located about 85 miles from Philly (approximately 90 minutes of driving), Wildwood’s sandy expanses are famously broad—so wide that you might feel like you’re walking through a desert before you reach the water, especially at low tide. This unique geography makes Wildwood perfect for families who want plenty of space to spread out. You can set up your tent, chairs, coolers, and toys with room to spare, and kids can run around without constantly bumping into other beachgoers. The sand here is meticulously groomed and consistently rated among the cleanest shorelines near Philly. The Wildwood Boardwalk is legendary, stretching over two miles and packed with three major amusement piers, water parks, and countless attractions that make it feel like a summer carnival. While the boardwalk scene can be lively and crowded (especially popular with teenagers and young adults), the waterfront itself offers enough space that you can find quieter areas. For Philly families on a budget, Wildwood represents exceptional value—free access, relatively affordable accommodations, and enough entertainment to keep kids happy for days.

Best Beaches in New Jersey Near Philadelphia

Cape May – Historic & Charming

Cape May offers a completely different seaside experience compared to the livelier Jersey Shore towns, making it one of the most unique coastal destinations near Philadelphia. Located at the southern tip of New Jersey about 90 miles from Philly, Cape May combines beautiful shorelines with Victorian architecture, historic charm, and a sophisticated atmosphere that appeals to couples and adults seeking a more refined getaway. The sand in Cape May requires tags (around $8-10 daily), and the area is generally less crowded than Atlantic City or Ocean City. The shoreline is clean and well-maintained, and the water tends to be calmer here at the point where the Delaware Bay meets the Atlantic Ocean. Cape May’s waterfront is perfect for long morning walks, afternoon reading sessions under an umbrella, and sunset strolls along the shore. Beyond the oceanfront, Cape May’s appeal lies in its beautifully preserved Victorian houses, excellent restaurants, craft breweries, and wineries. The Washington Street Mall offers boutique shopping, and the Cape May-Lewes Ferry provides a scenic connection to Delaware if you want to explore multiple coastal destinations. For Philly residents seeking shore towns with character and culture beyond just sun and surf, Cape May delivers an experience that feels more like a coastal New England village than a typical Jersey Shore spot.

Long Beach Island – Relaxed Coastal Escape

Long Beach Island, often simply called LBI by locals, is an 18-mile barrier island that offers some of the most laid-back shoreline destinations near Philadelphia. Located about 75 miles from Philly with a drive time of approximately 90 minutes, LBI has a distinctly different vibe from the boardwalk-heavy towns that dominate much of the Jersey Shore. Unlike Ocean City or Wildwood, LBI doesn’t have a traditional boardwalk with amusement parks and arcades. Instead, the island features a collection of small seaside communities—each with its own personality—connected by Long Beach Boulevard. Towns like Beach Haven, Surf City, and Barnegat Light each offer beautiful waterfront access, charming shops, and local restaurants, but the overall atmosphere is quieter and more relaxed than the party scenes or family boardwalk destinations. LBI requires shore tags (around $10-12 daily), and the island attracts many Philly residents who rent houses for the week or even the entire summer. The sandy stretches here are excellent for surfing, especially in the northern sections, and the relatively uncrowded shores make LBI perfect for those who want coastal relaxation without the crowds and commercialization. Barnegat Lighthouse at the northern tip provides stunning views and great photo opportunities, while the southern areas near Beach Haven offer calmer waters ideal for families with young children.

Avalon – Upscale & Peaceful

Avalon represents the more upscale side of Jersey Shore destinations near Philadelphia, offering pristine sand, high-end dining, and a sophisticated atmosphere that attracts affluent visitors from Philly and beyond. Located about 80 miles from Philadelphia with a drive time of roughly 100 minutes, Avalon shares Seven Mile Island with nearby Stone Harbor, creating one of the most desirable coastal areas in New Jersey. The shoreline in Avalon is impeccably maintained, requiring tags (around $10 daily) that help fund the excellent services and amenities. The sand is clean and soft, the water is clear, and the area is never overcrowded like some of the more commercial Jersey Shore destinations. Avalon offers a premium seaside experience—think upscale clubs, well-spaced umbrellas, and a general sense of tranquility that’s increasingly rare near major cities. Beyond the waterfront, Avalon offers boutique shopping along Avalon Boulevard, excellent restaurants serving fresh seafood and farm-to-table cuisine, and beautiful residential areas filled with impressive shore houses. The town has strict regulations that maintain its upscale, family-friendly character—no loud bars or rowdy nightlife here. For Philly residents willing to invest a bit more in their coastal experience, Avalon provides an almost exclusive resort feel without actually being a private resort.

Sea Isle City – Great for Groups

Sea Isle City has earned its reputation as one of the best destinations near Philadelphia for groups, young adults, and anyone seeking a social atmosphere with a vibrant bar scene. Located about 78 miles from Philly with a drive time around 95 minutes, Sea Isle offers beautiful sand combined with a lively social scene that makes it particularly popular with twenty-somethings and groups of friends from Philadelphia. The shoreline at Sea Isle requires tags (around $10 daily) and offers clean sand and good waves for bodysurfing and boogie boarding. The waterfront is well-maintained with plenty of lifeguards during the summer season, making it safe despite the party reputation. During the day, the area attracts a mix of families and younger crowds, but the atmosphere shifts in the evening when the bars and restaurants along JFK Boulevard and Landis Avenue fill up with sun-seekers ready to continue the party. Sea Isle’s appeal to Philly groups lies in its walkability and variety of entertainment options. The Promenade, a new boardwalk section, features restaurants, bars, and shops with ocean views, while the famous Townsends Inlet Bridge provides stunning sunset views and Instagram-worthy photo opportunities. The town strikes a balance between shore relaxation and social entertainment that makes it perfect for friend groups, bachelor/bachelorette parties, and Philly young professionals who want coastal fun with a nightlife scene but not quite as intense as Atlantic City.

Best Delaware Beaches Near Philly

Rehoboth Beach – Boardwalk & Family Fun

Rehoboth Beach stands as Delaware’s premier seaside destination and one of the most popular coastal towns near Philadelphia, especially for families seeking a complete vacation experience. Located about 100 miles from Philly with a drive time of approximately 110 minutes, Rehoboth offers a classic boardwalk experience without the tag fees required at most New Jersey locations. The mile-long Rehoboth Beach Boardwalk buzzes with activity throughout the summer, featuring Funland amusement park (with its classic rides and games), Dolle’s saltwater taffy, Thrasher’s french fries, and countless shops and restaurants. The shoreline itself is wide, clean, and well-maintained by lifeguards, making Rehoboth one of the safest coastal spots near Philly for families with children. The sand is soft, the water is typically calm enough for young swimmers, and the atmosphere is welcoming and family-oriented. Beyond the boardwalk and waterfront, Rehoboth offers excellent shopping along Rehoboth Avenue and in nearby Tanger Outlets, diverse dining options ranging from casual seafood shacks to upscale restaurants, and easy access to Delaware Seashore State Park for nature-loving Philly visitors. The town’s location also makes it a perfect base for exploring other Delaware coastal areas—Dewey Beach is just a mile south for those seeking more nightlife, while Lewes and Bethany Beach are short drives away for quieter alternatives.

Bethany Beach – Quiet & Laid-Back

Bethany Beach offers a refreshing contrast to the busier boardwalk towns, making it one of the best quiet seaside spots near Philadelphia for those seeking relaxation over entertainment. Located about 105 miles from Philly with a two-hour drive time, Bethany Beach bills itself as “The Quiet Resort,” and it lives up to that promise with town ordinances that limit noise and maintain a peaceful, family-friendly atmosphere. Delaware doesn’t require shore tags, so you can enjoy Bethany Beach for free, which adds to its appeal for budget-conscious Philly families. The sand here is beautiful—clean and pristine, with gentle waves and a relaxed vibe that makes it easy to spend hours reading a book, playing in the surf with kids, or simply soaking up the sun without the sensory overload of boardwalk arcades and amusement parks. The small boardwalk in Bethany Beach features a handful of restaurants, ice cream shops, and casual stores, but nothing overwhelming. The town’s main street offers additional dining options and local boutiques, but the overall emphasis is on the waterfront itself and the natural beauty of the Delaware coast. For Philly residents who find places like Atlantic City or Wildwood too overwhelming, Bethany Beach provides a setting where you can actually hear the waves and have conversations without shouting over boardwalk noise.

Lewes – Calm Waters & Nature

Lewes offers one of the most unique seaside experiences near Philadelphia, combining calmer bay access with ocean shorelines and a historic town that dates back to 1631. Located about 95 miles from Philly with a drive time of roughly 110 minutes, Lewes provides waterfront options for every preference and some of the calmest conditions you’ll find at any coastal spot near Philadelphia. The areas along Delaware Bay in Lewes are particularly special for families with young children. The bay waters are significantly calmer than the Atlantic Ocean, with gentler waves and warmer water temperatures that make swimming more comfortable for little ones. Cape Henlopen State Park offers both bay and ocean access, along with hiking trails, a fishing pier, and historic Fort Miles to explore. All Delaware shorelines, including those in Lewes, are free to visit—no tags required. The town of Lewes itself is charming and historic, with a walkable downtown featuring excellent restaurants, antique shops, and the Lewes Historical Society complex. The Cape May-Lewes Ferry connects Delaware to Cape May, New Jersey, providing a scenic travel option and making it possible to explore both Delaware and New Jersey coastal areas in a single trip. For Philly nature lovers and history buffs who want seaside experiences with more than just sun and surf, Lewes delivers a well-rounded adventure.

Best Beaches Near Philly for Families

When traveling with children, not all shoreline destinations near Philadelphia are created equal. The best family spots combine safe swimming conditions, convenient amenities, kid-friendly entertainment, and an overall atmosphere that welcomes families rather than party crowds. Ocean City, New Jersey tops most lists as the best family destination near Philly, and for good reason. The town’s alcohol-free policy creates a family-oriented environment, the sand is well-staffed with attentive lifeguards, and the 2.5-mile boardwalk offers enough entertainment to keep kids happy even on rainy days. The calmer waters and gradual slope into the ocean make Ocean City particularly safe for younger children learning to swim. Cape May offers a different type of family experience, perfect for families with older children who appreciate history, nature, and a quieter atmosphere. The shoreline is less crowded, the town offers educational opportunities like the Cape May Point Lighthouse and nature center, and the overall vibe is more refined and peaceful than the typical Jersey Shore boardwalk scene. Bethany Beach, Delaware earns its place among the best family destinations near Philadelphia by offering free access, a genuinely quiet atmosphere, and a small but charming boardwalk with just enough entertainment without being overwhelming. The sand here is clean, safe, and perfect for families who want to focus on building sandcastles and playing in the waves rather than bouncing between boardwalk attractions. All three of these locations offer convenient parking (though it fills up early on summer weekends), clean restroom facilities, and nearby accommodations ranging from budget-friendly motels to larger family resorts. When planning a family trip to the shore from Philly, prioritize spots with reliable lifeguard coverage, calmer water conditions, and enough activities to keep kids entertained without the chaos of adult-oriented party towns.

Best Party & Nightlife Beaches Near Philadelphia

For Philly young adults and groups seeking coastal areas with vibrant nightlife, several Jersey Shore destinations deliver the party atmosphere you’re looking for without sacrificing the daytime waterfront experience. Atlantic City reigns supreme as the party capital among shore towns near Philadelphia. The casino resorts offer world-class nightclubs, celebrity DJ performances, upscale lounges, and 24-hour entertainment that keeps the party going long after the sun sets. During the day, you can enjoy free sand access, and in the evening, you can hit pool parties at resorts like Ocean Casino or catch concerts at major venues. Atlantic City’s combination of oceanfront, casinos, nightlife, and shows makes it the ultimate party destination for Philly groups seeking non-stop entertainment. Sea Isle City offers a more casual, approachable party scene that’s particularly popular with Philly twenty-somethings. The bars along JFK Boulevard—like Ocean Drive, Springfield Inn, and The Dead Dog Saloon—fill up with sunburned visitors every evening, creating a social atmosphere that’s lively but not overwhelming. Sea Isle strikes the perfect balance for those who want waterfront fun during the day and a bar scene at night without the casino resort intensity of Atlantic City. Wildwood caters to a younger crowd with its massive boardwalk featuring three amusement piers, multiple nightclubs, and countless bars. While Wildwood is family-friendly during the day, the boardwalk comes alive at night with a party atmosphere, live music venues, and bars that attract younger crowds. The free access and relatively affordable accommodations make Wildwood particularly appealing for Philly college students and budget-conscious party-goers.

Free Beaches Near Philadelphia (No Beach Tags Required)

Shore tags can add up quickly when you’re making multiple trips to the coast or traveling with a large family. Fortunately, several excellent destinations near Philly don’t require tags, saving you money while still delivering fantastic experiences. Wildwood offers the best free waterfront access near Philadelphia in New Jersey. The expansive shorelines are meticulously maintained despite having no tag fees, and the town makes up for the lost revenue through parking fees and the thriving boardwalk businesses. For Philly families on a budget, Wildwood represents unbeatable value—free sand access, free boardwalk entry (you just pay for rides and games), and plenty of affordable dining options. Atlantic City provides completely free coastal access, making it perfect for spontaneous day trips from Philly when you don’t want to worry about purchasing tags. While Atlantic City has a more commercial, urban feel than some other towns, the free entry makes it ideal for quick getaways and shore days that won’t break the budget. All Delaware coastal towns—including Rehoboth Beach, Bethany Beach, Dewey Beach, and Lewes—are free to access. Delaware state law prohibits shore fees, which is one reason Delaware destinations are increasingly popular with Philadelphia residents. Among these, Rehoboth Beach offers the most complete experience with its mile-long boardwalk, amusement park, and variety of restaurants and shops, all accessible for free beyond any purchases you choose to make. When heading to free destinations near Philadelphia, remember that you’ll still encounter parking fees at most locations. However, these fees are typically much lower than the combined cost of parking plus tags at New Jersey towns that require both.

Hidden Gems & Less Crowded Beaches Near Philly

If you’re tired of fighting for parking spots and playing blanket Tetris on overcrowded sand, these lesser-known coastal spots near Philadelphia offer more peaceful alternatives without sacrificing quality. Brigantine sits just north of Atlantic City but feels worlds away from the casino boardwalk scene. This quiet town offers beautiful, uncrowded shorelines with free parking along many residential streets. Brigantine is perfect for Philly residents who want easy access (only about 65 miles from Philadelphia) without the Atlantic City crowds. The sand here is clean, the water is clear, and you can actually spread out and relax without strangers setting up camp inches from your towel. Strathmere is a tiny community between Sea Isle City and Ocean City that many Philly shore-goers have never heard of. With only a few hundred year-round residents, Strathmere offers quiet sand, a laid-back atmosphere, and a charming local feel. There’s no boardwalk, no arcades, and limited commercial development—just beautiful waterfront and a couple of local restaurants and bars. For those seeking hidden gems near Philadelphia, Strathmere delivers an almost private experience despite being easily accessible from the city. North end Long Beach Island towns like Barnegat Light, Loveladies, and Harvey Cedars offer significantly less crowded areas compared to the more popular Beach Haven section. These quieter LBI communities attract fewer day-trippers from Philly, resulting in more peaceful shorelines where you can actually find parking and enjoy a relaxing day without the crowds. The sand here is excellent, and the northern location on LBI provides beautiful views of Barnegat Lighthouse.

How to Get to the Beach from Philadelphia

Driving routes

Getting to shore destinations from Philadelphia is straightforward, with several major routes serving different coastal areas. For Atlantic City and most southern New Jersey towns, take the Atlantic City Expressway (Route 42 to the AC Expressway), which provides the fastest route from Philly to the coast. This toll road delivers you directly to Atlantic City in about an hour, and you can access other locations by taking the Garden State Parkway north or south from there. For Ocean City, Sea Isle City, Avalon, and Cape May, take I-76 East to I-676 East to I-76 East again to the Walt Whitman Bridge, then follow signs to Route 42 South and the Atlantic City Expressway. Exit onto the Garden State Parkway South and take the appropriate exit for your destination. GPS navigation makes these routes easy to follow, but the key is getting onto the Atlantic City Expressway or Garden State Parkway, which serve as the main arteries to all Jersey Shore locations. For Delaware coastal towns from Philadelphia, take I-95 South into Delaware, then Route 1 South toward the shore. Route 1 runs along the Delaware coast and provides access to Lewes, Rehoboth Beach, Dewey Beach, and Bethany Beach. This route is slightly longer than reaching New Jersey destinations but offers scenic views, especially as you approach the water.

Public transportation options

Public transportation to the shore from Philadelphia is limited but possible for certain destinations. NJ Transit operates seasonal bus service from Philadelphia to Atlantic City, making it the most accessible waterfront spot via public transit. The ride takes about 90 minutes, and you can catch the bus from various locations in Philadelphia. However, service to other towns is limited or non-existent. Several private bus companies offer shore trips from Philly during the summer season, often targeting specific destinations like Ocean City or Wildwood. These services tend to be more reliable for groups and can be cost-effective if you’re traveling without a car, though schedules are limited compared to driving yourself.

Best time to avoid traffic

Traffic to the shore from Philadelphia can be brutal during peak summer weekends. To avoid the worst congestion, leave Philadelphia before 7:00 AM on summer Saturdays and Sundays—this early departure gets you to most destinations before the roads become parking lots. The Atlantic City Expressway and Garden State Parkway experience the heaviest traffic between 9:00 AM and 2:00 PM on summer weekends. For return trips, try to leave before 3:00 PM or wait until after 8:00 PM to avoid the mass exodus that happens between 4:00 PM and 7:00 PM. Mid-week trips from Philly are significantly less congested, making Wednesdays and Thursdays ideal for those with flexible schedules.

Parking tips

Parking at shore destinations near Philadelphia can be challenging and expensive during peak season. Arrive early—before 9:00 AM on summer weekends—to secure spots in municipal lots or find free street parking in residential areas (where permitted). Many towns offer daily parking rates ranging from $10-25, with some offering early bird discounts if you arrive before 9:00 AM. Consider parking a few blocks from the waterfront in less expensive or free residential areas, then walking to the sand. Download parking apps like ParkMobile or PayByPhone, which are commonly used at Jersey Shore towns and make payment easier than hunting for meters with quarters. In places like Ocean City and Cape May, parking enforcement is strict, so always pay for parking and observe time limits to avoid tickets.

Weekend Beach Trip Itineraries from Philly

1-Day Trip Plan

6:30 AM: Depart Philadelphia heading to Ocean City or Atlantic City (closest destinations to Philly) 8:00 AM: Arrive at the shore, secure parking, and set up your spot on the sand before crowds arrive 8:30 AM-12:00 PM: Enjoy the waterfront—swimming, sunbathing, building sandcastles, or reading 12:00 PM: Break for lunch at a boardwalk restaurant or pack a picnic 1:00 PM-4:00 PM: More seaside time or explore the boardwalk, shops, and attractions 4:30 PM: Head back to Philly before the worst return traffic 6:00 PM: Arrive back in Philadelphia with a full day of coastal memories

Romantic Weekend Plan

Friday Evening: Drive to Cape May after work (2 hours), check into a Victorian B&B, enjoy dinner at a waterfront restaurant Saturday Morning: Breakfast at your B&B, then head to the shoreline for a peaceful morning swim Saturday Afternoon: Lunch at a café, explore Cape May’s historic district and Victorian architecture Saturday Evening: Watch the sunset from Cape May Point, dinner at an upscale restaurant, evening stroll along the sand Sunday Morning: Leisurely breakfast, final waterfront time Sunday Afternoon: Visit Cape May Winery or take the Cape May-Lewes Ferry for scenic views Sunday Evening: Return to Philadelphia

Family Weekend Plan

Saturday Morning: Early departure from Philly to Ocean City (arrive by 9:00 AM), check into family-friendly hotel or rental Saturday 9:00 AM-2:00 PM: Shore time—swimming, sandcastle building, boogie boarding Saturday Afternoon: Late lunch, rest time at accommodation Saturday 4:00 PM-8:00 PM: Boardwalk adventure—Gillian’s Wonderland Pier, mini golf, boardwalk games Saturday Evening: Boardwalk dinner, ice cream, return to hotel Sunday Morning: Breakfast, final waterfront time (9:00 AM-12:00 PM) Sunday Afternoon: Pack up, grab pizza for the road, head back to Philly Sunday Evening: Arrive home with tired, happy kids

When Is the Best Time to Visit Beaches Near Philadelphia?

Summer peak season

The peak season for shore destinations near Philadelphia runs from mid-June through Labor Day, with July and August representing the absolute busiest period. During these months, all coastal areas experience maximum crowds, highest accommodation prices, and most extensive traffic. Water temperatures are warmest (typically 68-75°F), all boardwalk attractions are open, and the seaside atmosphere is most vibrant. For Philly families constrained by school schedules, peak season is unavoidable, but you can mitigate the crowds by choosing weekdays over weekends and visiting less popular towns rather than the most famous destinations. Tags are required during this period at most New Jersey locations, and parking can be challenging—arrive early or book accommodations within walking distance of the waterfront.

Shoulder season perks

Late May through mid-June and September offer the best value and most pleasant conditions for coastal trips near Philadelphia. The weather is still beautiful—May and September often deliver sunny days with temperatures in the 70s—but crowds are significantly smaller, accommodation prices drop, and the overall experience is more relaxed. September is particularly magical for Philly shore trips. The ocean water remains warm from the summer heat, the air temperature is comfortable (not scorching hot), and many locations no longer require tags after Labor Day. Boardwalks and restaurants remain open through September, so you don’t sacrifice amenities for the smaller crowds. Late May can be hit-or-miss weather-wise, but if you catch a warm weekend, you’ll enjoy shorelines that are practically empty compared to summer crowds. Memorial Day weekend itself is busy, but the weeks before and after offer sweet spots for peaceful getaways from Philadelphia.

Weather considerations

Shore destinations near Philadelphia experience variable weather throughout the season. June can be rainy and cool, with water temperatures still in the 60s—not ideal for extended swimming but fine for walks and boardwalk activities. July and August deliver the most reliable conditions but also bring occasional thunderstorms that can clear areas quickly (always check weather before long drives from Philly). Hurricane season (June through November) occasionally impacts the Jersey and Delaware coasts, usually in the form of rough surf and rip currents rather than direct hits. Always check surf conditions and lifeguard warnings before entering the water, especially after tropical systems pass offshore. September and early October can bring the most beautiful weather—warm days, cool evenings, and crystal-clear water—but also carry slight hurricane risks.

FAQs About Philly Beaches