When you think of Philadelphia, the City of Brotherly Love, you might think of The Liberty Bell and cheesesteaks or our luxury Center City apartments for rent. But what about the beach? You may not realize that some of the best beaches in the entire United States are only an hour away from your Philly apartment.
Join us as we explore the best beaches near Philadelphia—for a day trip, a week-long vacation or a second home on the shore. The sunshine and possibilities are endless.
Only an hour from Philly, Atlantic City is known for its casinos and nightlife. But there’s so much more.
You can book a fishing trip or go parasailing, sunbathe on the expansive sandy beach, shop all day and be entertained by world-famous acts.
Hop on the Atlantic City Expressway and you’ll be in Ocean City, NJ in about an hour. This popular destination, known as “America’s Greatest Family Resort,” is flanked by the Atlantic to the east and Great Egg Harbor Bay to the west.
Watersports (wave runners, parasailing, boating, kayaking) abound, while thrill-seekers are entertained at the amusement park. Arcades provide endless entertainment, the shopping is unparalleled, and the famous boardwalk never disappoints.
Drive just another 30 minutes on the Atlantic City Expressway and you’ll be in Wildwood, one of New Jersey’s most vibrant beach communities and family vacation destinations.
The boardwalk at Wildwood is a whopping 36 blocks in length, its amusement pier is stunning and its water parks provide days of fun.
For a quieter experience, Wildwood also offers museums, sightseeing, miniature golf, shopping and award-winning dining.
If 80s music is your jam, and you like a lively beach experience, then Asbury Park is for you. Less than 90 minutes from Philadelphia, it’s home to entertainment galore.
We can’t forget the superior seashore experience at Asbury Park. The sand is soft, the water quality is certified, buoys and ropes mark safe swimming areas and lifeguards are on duty. There’s also a parking area with Wi-Fi, playgrounds, lockers and more.
Only one hour and 15 minutes from Philadelphia, Sea Isle City will quickly become the whole family’s favorite beach destination.
Rich with history and opportunities for exploration, Sea Isle City prides itself on safe, protected beaches, clean restrooms and outdoor showers. You won’t find the large crowds you see at other beaches—but rather, a more leisurely seashore experience.
Guarded beaches in close proximity to Atlantic City make Margate City a desirable destination, just an hour’s drive from Philadelphia.
Watersports abound in this seaside community, including fishing, surfing, kayaking, parasailing and more. Or, just relax on a rented beach lounger and enjoy the convenience of clean restrooms and public showers.
Just outside the Atlantic City limits, Brigantine Beach is commonly referred to as “The Island.”
This barrier island is rich with history, including shipwrecks visible at low tide, a lighthouse and sea life museum. There’s a stranding center for marine mammals with an observation tank, as well as sailing, kayaking, guided tours… only an hour’s drive from Philadelphia.
Less than 90 minutes from Philly, this beach community is rich with family-friendly attractions and activities—without the noise and fast pace of other Jersey Shore destinations.
Stroll and stop for lunch along the one-mile-long boardwalk, play miniature golf, enjoy amusement rides and soak up the sun on the pristine beach.
Anyone looking for a kid-friendly beach vacation or long-stay destination will be thrilled with everything Belmar has to offer.
Just 1 hour and 15 minutes from Philadelphia, this beach community has colorful playgrounds every few blocks, guarded beaches, a composite boardwalk, handicap access, remarkable seafood restaurants and a rich festival schedule.
This barrier island, less than 90 minutes from Philly, is home to two vibrant beach communities: Stone Harbor to the south and Avalon to the north.
Both feature pristine beaches, abundant watersports, quaint and stunning architecture, colorful homes and boats, parks and high dunes.
The Best Beaches are Near Philadelphia
Whether you want to work in the city and spend your weekends at the shore, plan a summer vacation, take up permanent residence at the beach while being close to the city… the greater Philadelphia area and Jersey Shore have everything you could want.
It’s time to start exploring the best beaches near Philadelphia. That’s the beauty of having the best of both worlds: you never know what you’re going to find.