Gateway National Park Located on the northern tip of New Jersey's oceanfront barrier island, Sandy Hook has been a family beach destination for over 30 years. These two features alone draw thousands to Sandy Hook each day during the summer months. Since this beach is the closest New Jersey ocean beach to northern urban areas such as Newark, Elizabeth, Staten Island, NY and New York City, many city dwellers shorten their trip to the beach by stopping at Sandy Hook, rather than continuing down the Garden State Parkway to the larger, less crowded beaches of southern New Jersey. For this reason many Monmouth County natives don't go near the place, opting to travel farther south to cleaner beaches with local crowds. The panoramic water views of Sandy Hook take on an almost Carribbean look as the sun sets to the west.
Musicians perform each afternoon and evening and food is available.
Long a treasured secret, Donovan's has recently expanded to offer more than just a brew on the beach. A full indoor and outdoor stage, a fresh raw bar, outdoor Tiki-style huts and a sun deck atop the original Sea Bright seawall offer a family a fun way to spend a few hours on the weekend. The grill, a favorite of local workers, posts a superb menu with specials posted daily. All dining is done at the bar or on outdoor wooden picnic tables. Beach access is available, although there is no lifeguard on duty.