This Beach In NJ Was Ranked #1

NEW JERSEY - Memorial Day has ushered in summer for 2025 along the Jersey Shore, and with it, a new ranking of the state’s top beaches.

The Wildwoods have been crowned atop the list of the USA Today 10BEST Readers’ Choice Awards for a second year in a row.

The largest valleys of sand on the Jersey Shore (500 yards wide at different spots, according to USA Today) are home to plenty of iconic jersey landmarks along the famed Wildwood Boardwalk. The beach taxi service is also a famed staple of the grounds, allowing for effortless access from the games and rides to the ocean.

This latest honor comes after the Wildwoods Boardwalk was also voted the 2025 #1 Best Boardwalk in the US for 2025, according to another USA Today 10BEST Readers’ Choice Awards contest.

The five-mile stretch of beaches are free to access and require no beach tag.

“The Wildwoods Beaches have been the backdrop to countless family memories for generations,” added Greater Wildwoods Tourism Improvement Development Authority Director of Marketing and Public Relations, Ben Rose. “To be recognized by visitors across the region as the best beach in New Jersey for the second year in a row is a tremendous honor.”

The USA Today Readers’ Choice 10BEST candidates are nominated by a panel of experts in each category. The final group is selected through editorial review by USA Today editors. Anyone can then vote on the awards online, with one vote per nominee per category each calendar day.

Patch's 2025 Jersey Shore Beach Guide