Sandy Hook is another one of those New Jersey attractions that just perfectly captures everything the Jersey Shore is all about. Imagine picturesque, family-friendly beaches, speckled with wonderful sand, clean water and tons of beautiful rocks and shells for the kids to scoop up and bring home.

Aside from its natural beauty, Sandy Hook has a leg up on many of the other New Jersey beaches for a few good reasons. For instance, while some beaches prohibit food and drink in the sand, Sandy Hook allows it. Picnics always make a day chock-full of family fun in the warm sun that much better.

Also, Sandy Hook only charges admission per car, whereas many beaches charge an entrance fee per person — which can undoubtedly get a little pricey for bigger families.

If you’re looking to do a little more than just sit around and lounge on the beach, be sure to check out the Sandy Hook Lighthouse. Constructed in 1764, it is the oldest lighthouse in the country!