Gunnison Beach

This beach is a hidden gem, located far from the parking lot and delightfully uncrowded. The cost of parking is a reasonable $20 per car. However, it's important to note that this north beach is quite wild and lacks amenities such as toilets and showers. Nonetheless, the natural beauty and peacefulness of this beach make it well worth the visit.

Located within Fort Hancock, at the north end of the Sandy Hook Unit of Gateway National Recreation Area, is the serene and secluded North Beach. Unlike its busier neighbors, this beach offers ample parking and a peaceful atmosphere. However, the journey to the shore is not for the faint of heart, as the thick sand requires a long walk from the parking lot. While this may deter families with young children or those carrying heavy loads, the effort is well worth it for those seeking a quiet escape. It is important to note that there are no lifeguards on duty, and visitors should be cautious of the local deer population. Additionally, a recent sighting of a lone star tick on seagrass found under the boardwalk serves as a reminder to take necessary precautions. Unfortunately, the concession stand was closed during our visit, and the beach concession area was empty. Nevertheless, the North Beach Observation Deck offers a breathtaking view of the New York City skyline, making it a must-see destination for nature enthusiasts and city dwellers alike.

If you're looking for a beach that's a bit off the beaten track, then Sandy Hook's northernmost beach is the perfect choice. While it's a bit of a trek from the car park, the challenge of navigating the thick sand is a great workout. Once you arrive, you'll find restrooms, a food place, and a deck with stunning views of the City and beyond. During the summer months, this beach is definitely worth a stop. So why not pack your bags and head out for a day of adventure on this unique and challenging beach? Cheers!

This beach is truly beautiful, however, I have only visited during the winter season when the amenities are closed. The distance from the parking lot and facilities to the beach can be quite a trek, but the reward is finding some lovely shells, especially for the New Jersey area. One perk of visiting in January or February is the lack of crowds. While the old bunkers add a cool element to the scenery, unfortunately, they are not accessible to visitors. Additionally, this beach is a fantastic location for observing birds.

During my weekday visit, I noticed that this beach had fewer crowds compared to other places I've been to, which was a plus. Although it required a bit more driving, the beach itself was quite good and had lifeguards on duty. However, it's worth noting that the beach is a bit of a trek from the parking lot, requiring a 10-15 minute walk. Once you reach the beach, you'll find decent shower and bathroom facilities, but again, you'll need to walk for about 10 minutes to reach them. On the bright side, there's a huge parking lot that's great for bike riding. Due to Covid, it's possible that the beach shop may be closed, so it's a good idea to bring your own food and water just in case. While the beach does have more rocks than some others, it offers a stunning view of New York and if you're lucky, you might even spot some dolphins. Keep in mind that the parking rate is $20 from 9-5, but after 5 pm it's free. Be sure to check the exact timing on their website.