Once, he said, he and his daughter, inflated a little rubber raft and launched into the ocean. We were floating in the sun and an enormous flock of sooty shearwaters flew over us. Joe Beach, who's 84 and lives up in the mountains, said he doesn't get to the beach much anymore, but he likes the beach in front of the Boardwalk. When it comes to all the amenities, you can't beat Cowell Beach . Beside being sheltered from the wind, there is a great beginner surf break just off shore.
Bathrooms are nearby.
Food isn't too far away and there's even a drinking fountain. If you're concerned about parking, New Brighton State Beach may be a better bet. Since you have to pay to go there, parking is rarely a problem. Look for gentle surf, close-in restrooms, and even a nice picnic ground on the bluff when you've had too much sun. Plus, it's got an outdoor shower to rinse off in before you start that scratchy ride home.