New Jersey Island Beach State Park is a haven for beach lovers and nature enthusiasts along the Jersey Shore, known for its scenic beaches, diverse wildlife, and outdoor activities. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, this barrier island offers something for everyone, from swimming and hiking to birdwatching and fishing. Before heading to this beautiful park, it’s essential to know the operating hours, costs, and other practical details to make the most of your visit. Here’s a full breakdown:

Park Hours

The main gate of New Jersey Island Beach State Park opens at different times depending on the season:

• Summer (Memorial Day Weekend through Labor Day Weekend):
  • Weekends and Holidays: 7 A.M. – 8 P.M.
  • Weekdays (Mon-Fri): 8 A.M. – 8 P.M.
• Off-Season (After Labor Day Weekend):
  • Every day: 8 A.M. – Dusk

During the peak summer season, it’s important to arrive early, especially on weekends and holidays, as the park can reach capacity quickly. Once the parking lots are full, no more vehicles are allowed to enter. If you’re planning to visit during these busy times, aim for an early morning arrival to ensure you get a spot.

Entry Fees and Costs

Island Beach State Park charges an entrance fee per vehicle, with different rates for New Jersey residents and non-residents. Here’s the breakdown:

• Motorcyclists: $5.00 for NJ residents and $7.00 for non-residents every day of the year.
• Walk-ins or Cyclists: There is no fee for those walking or biking into the park.
• Buses: Buses are allowed, except for weekends and holidays, but advanced arrangements with park management are required.

The entry fees are reasonable, especially when you consider the park’s stunning beaches, clean facilities, and well-maintained natural areas. However, keep in mind that extra costs may arise if you plan to rent equipment or participate in certain activities such as surfing or fishing.

Popular Activities at Island Beach State Park

The park offers a wide range of activities to suit all interests, from adventure seekers to those looking for a relaxing day by the ocean.

1. Swimming and Surfing: New Jersey Island Beach State Park is renowned for its beautiful, clean beaches, which offer excellent swimming opportunities during the warmer months. Lifeguards are on duty in designated swimming areas, ensuring a safe environment for all visitors. Surfing is also popular here, with several spots that cater to different skill levels.
2. Surf Fishing: Fishing is another key draw for visitors. The park offers some of the best surf fishing on the East Coast, with the chance to catch species like striped bass, bluefish, and flounder. Fishing permits are required for vehicles driving onto the beach, and these can be obtained at the park office.
3. Hiking and Biking: If you’re not in the mood for a beach day, the park has miles of hiking and biking trails. These trails wind through dunes, maritime forests, and marshes, giving visitors a chance to experience the island’s diverse ecosystem. The Barrier Island Interpretive Center offers insights into the local flora and fauna.
4. Kayaking and Canoeing: For a peaceful adventure, explore the bay side of the island by kayak or canoe. Rentals are available nearby, and the calm bay waters provide a tranquil setting for paddling.
5. Wildlife Viewing: Birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts will love the park’s diverse ecosystems. The park is home to ospreys, herons, and even the occasional bald eagle. The coastal marshes are also teeming with other wildlife, including terrapins and various species of fish.
6. Picnicking and Barbecues: The park features several picnic areas, complete with tables and grills, making it easy to enjoy a meal with a view. These areas are popular with families and groups, offering a more relaxed way to spend the day.
7. Winter Activities: The park remains open during the winter months, providing a quieter and more serene experience. Winter swimming at the famous Bondi Icebergs Club is a popular activity for the bravest visitors.

Additional Information and Considerations

• Beach Driving: One of the unique features of Island Beach State Park is that, with the proper permits, you can drive your vehicle directly onto the beach to access prime fishing spots. This option is particularly attractive to surf fishermen who want to avoid carrying heavy gear across the sand.
• Facilities: The park offers clean restrooms, changing rooms, and outdoor showers, making it convenient for families and groups.

Final Thoughts: A Must-Visit New Jersey Destination

New Jersey Island Beach State Park offers a blend of natural beauty, recreational activities, and a serene atmosphere that is hard to find elsewhere along the Jersey Shore. Whether you’re a nature lover, an avid angler, or simply looking for a quiet beach getaway, the park has something to offer everyone. With reasonable fees and plenty of parking (if you arrive early), Island Beach State Park is a true gem for anyone looking to experience the best of New Jersey’s coastline.

“Everyone holding on tight?”

“Brace! Brace! Brace!”

Not really the words I wanted to be coming out of our hot air balloon pilot’s mouth as we descended toward earth.

Even though I have always wanted to go hot air ballooning, I have not pushed it. You see, while Adela is not a fan of being underground, I hate being above ground. High above ground that is.

I don’t do heights very well.

So how did I find myself on a crystal clear summer morning above the stunning Costa Brava coastline? Being told to “brace” as we descended towards a tiny clearing between trees and cornfields?

Applying for Residency in Spain

For those enchanted by Spain’s charm and considering a longer stay, understanding how to apply for residence in this country is essential. Spain offers various residency options tailored to different needs, whether you’re pursuing work, study, or simply embracing the lifestyle. The process typically involves securing the appropriate visa, registering with local authorities, and meeting specific requirements like proof of income or health insurance. With its rich culture, warm climate, and inviting communities, Spain remains an ideal destination for expatriates seeking a new adventure.

I want to give a huge thanks to our incredibly talented pilot from Globus Costa Brava for taking me on a ride that will be forever remembered. And of course the extremely wonderful team at Costa Brava Tourism Board for helping me face my fears by organizing the hot air ballooning in Costa Brava, Spain.

This is a post from a series called Facing my Fears. It helps us to step outside our comfort zone, in comfort. Check out the rest of the series here.

Disclaimer: I was a guest of the Costa Brava tourism board, but as always our fears, stories, and photos are all our own.

Do you have a fear of heights or another phobia? How did you face your fears?

Hot Air Ballooning in Costa Brava, Spain

Rising before dawn is usually not a problem for me. I love sunrises. Even being told we have an awesome travel adventure high up in the sky doesn’t faze me this early.

It is not until we are actually watching the balloons be filled with scorching flames that I begin to worry a little bit. How is a little bit of hot air meant to hold 10 full-grown adults up 1,000 meters in the sky? Not to mention 10 adults that have been gorging themselves silly on food and drink for the past week.

Climbing into what can only be described as a fruit basket for humans, I begin snapping away with my camera to avoid looking anyone else in the eyes in case they see my fear.

Pulling my eye from the viewfinder I quickly realise we have already drifted several hundred meters above the ground. I was so preoccupied that I didn’t even notice how gently we had taken off.

Maybe it has something to do with the sunrise peaking its blazing head above the Costa Brava skyline. Or the tight space we have managed to all squeeze ourselves into. Or maybe it is the extreme stillness and quiet between bursts of flame.

I realize it is not that bad up here. I am even breathing normally and able to look over the edge of the basket. Who knows? Maybe someday I will start a business with a hot air balloon and entertain tourists from all over the world.

Okay, maybe not such a good idea.

But I am able to gaze into the distance towards the Pyrenees and across the stunning Costa Brava landscape. Farmland and Medieval towns drift silently below our feet. People go about their daily lives without even realising we are drifting above them.

It is not until we are starting to descend that irrational fear begins to take hold again.

Our Spanish-speaking pilot is gesticulating to our guide and interrupter that we are all meant to be doing something important. They both give nervous laughs before falling silent again.

Okay now would be the perfect opportunity to have finally learnt a second language like I promised myself at the beginning of the year.

Turns out that since we basically have no steering ability we are at the winds mercy. And with the coastline rapidly approaching it is time to take this contraption down to earth.

“Brace! Brace! Brace!”

Eyeing up the only clear patch of earth within a mile, our pilot is all business. The trees and houses that looked like miniature toys just a moment ago suddenly loom large directly in front of us.

Instead of gently floating down in replication of our takeoff, we are drifting along quite quickly thanks to the wind picking up speed in the last 10 minutes.

My knuckles turn white as we brace our knees and back against the flimsy wicker basket.

And even though the command to brace is just a precaution, we still manage to bounce hard 3 times before settling down. A laugh escapes my lips as the tension eases from my muscles. And from the looks on the other’s faces, I am not the only one to be relieved we are back on solid earth again.

I had done it. I had conquered my fear.

And if I ever get the chance to go hot air ballooning ever again, then I would jump at the chance, check the ETIAS Spain program.

I want to give a huge thanks to our incredibly talented pilot from Globus Costa Brava for taking me on a ride that will be forever remembered. And of course the extremely wonderful team at Costa Brava Tourism Board for helping me face my fears by organizing the hot air ballooning in Costa Brava, Spain.

This is a post from a series called Facing my Fears. It helps us to step outside our comfort zone, in comfort. Check out the rest of the series here.

Disclaimer: I was a guest of the Costa Brava tourism board, but as always our fears, stories, and photos are all our own.

Do you have a fear of heights or another phobia? How did you face your fears?

The best thing about living in Edinburgh, okay second best after Edinburgh Castle, is that you can be outside the city within a matter of minutes if you are willing to hop in your car. However, like most backpackers and travellers, having a car on hand is not always an option.

You are in luck as exploring Edinburgh on foot is just as good, if not better, due to the excess of parks within just a few short steps. And the Arthurs Seat walk is one of the best in Edinburgh.

Guide to Arthur Seat Walk

Our favorite place to get away from the hustle and bustle within the city limits is walking up Arthurs Seat in Holyrood Park. Visible from nearly every corner of Edinburgh it is quite easy to be daunted by the Arthurs Seat walk which provides a spectacular backdrop to an already beautiful city.

The fact is that it is actually only 251m to the summit which makes it a perfect vantage point for views. These views, and its close proximity to Edinburgh’s Royal Mile, make it extremely popular with walkers, joggers, locals, and tourists alike. You should also be aware of dangers like slip and fall or other possible issues that can get you in front of a doctor and a personal injury lawyer.

There are a variety of pathways up the hill for all ages and abilities. You can tackle it by going straight up the guts for a lung-busting, calf-burning steep climb (my favorite) which takes about 20 – 30 mins. Or take one of the many meandering paths that wind their way leisurely to the top.

The map below shows some of the many easier routes available…

And for those extremely lazy folks, you can even drive most of the way up and park near the top for an even shorter stroll.

The views at the top of Arthurs Seat Walk are truly spectacular. On a clear day you can see across the Pentland Hills, the Firth of Forth, not to mention that Edinburgh lies at your feet.

If you have a few hours to spare then don’t stop at the top.

The rest of Holyrood Park has a variety of different places to explore. Following the Salisbury Crags will lead you back towards Holyrood Palace. Or wander around the park trying to locate the three lakes, Duddingston Loch, Dunsapie Loch and St Margaret Loch, which all provide an opportunity for the kids to get rid of that stale loaf of bread in their backpack to feed the swans.

There are also the ruins of Anthony’s Chapel which provides a great opportunity for photo taking. Or the secret Underground Railway which I don’t think many people know about as I only found it by accident one day as I was exploring the small pathways. Will let you find that one for yourself.

I am also convinced there must be secret tunnels from Holyrood Palace in case old Queenie ever needed to escape from a marauding horde! Let me know if you find them 🙂

Edinburgh’s largest hill is definitely a quiet place of sanctuary away from the crowded streets and a small slice of Scotland’s largest countryside within the city limits. An Arthurs Seat walk is the perfect way to spend your sunny summer’s afternoon.