DUI Lawyers in Avon-by-the-Sea, NJ
New Jersey has some of the toughest laws in the country regarding drunk driving, specifically driving while intoxicated (DWI) or driving under the influence (DUI). Notably, there's a strict prohibition against plea bargaining to reduce DWI charges. A first-time conviction for drunk driving can result in hefty fines, a possible jail sentence of up to 30 days, and a 90-day suspension of your driving privileges, not to mention additional financial repercussions that can linger.
If you find yourself arrested for driving under the influence, prepare for mandatory license suspension, the potential for jail time, and a staggering minimum of $6,575 in fines and surcharges if convicted. If your insurance company catches wind of the conviction, you may have to pay significant premium increases over the next three years
The truth is that New Jersey's courts are notoriously harsh on people arrested for DUI and DWI. The penalties are substantial and can have a lasting impact on your freedom, work, and life as a whole. Fortunately, working with a quality DUI lawyer - like Edward G. Appel - can help prevent serious charges from going on your permanent record.

- Get Your DUI Case Dismissed with Help from Attorney Edward G. Appel
- The DUI Lawyers in Avon-by-the-Sea, NJ, You Can Trust
- What Happens After You're Arrested for a DUI in New Jersey?
- How Do DUI Lawyers in Avon-by-the-Sea, NJ, Help with DUI Cases?
- Top 3 Mistakes New Jersey Residents Make After a DUI Arrest
- DUI Dismissals Start with Great DUI Lawyers in Avon-by-the-Sea, NJ
Edward G. Appel, Esq.
Since 1988 Edward honed his litigation expertise serving as a defense attorney in Criminal Cases, DUI/DWI and traffic matters.
His distinguished courtroom seasoning will benefit his clients as Edward focuses on criminal defense litigation. He has handled thousands of cases and is well versed in motion practice with years of trial experience. His philosophy of being well prepared has served him well over the years and is a testament to his work ethic and diligence. Email: eappel@southjerseydui.com

The DUI Lawyers in Avon-by-the-Sea, NJ, You Can Trust
Did you know that getting a DUI conviction in New Jersey means that you'll have that charge on your record for everyone to see? We're not just talking about friends and family. We mean loan officers, college officials, and prospective employers - people and entities that can help set you on a pathway to success in life. For that reason alone, it's absolutely essential to have a seasoned DUI attorney by your side who can fight for your rights when it's time to go to court. That's where DUI attorney Edward G. Appel comes in.
Many law firms in New Jersey view DWI cases as just another item on their agenda. At our firm, however, it's a primary focus. Unlike those where DWI matters are handled by generalists, we have built a dedicated department solely for DWI cases, staffed with highly trained attorneys who are passionate about this area of law.
This level of specialization isn't just a talking point. It reflects our commitment to providing clients with the strongest defense possible. By leveraging advanced training and a thorough understanding of New Jersey DUI laws, our team is ready to fight your DUI charges and pursue the best possible outcomes for your case.
At the end of the day, our goal isn't to lecture you or judge your actions. Our goal is to defend you and your rights with reliable, aggressive advocacy so you have a real shot at reclaiming your life. Some of the most common situations we help clients overcome include:


DUI Defense in New Jersey
There are several methods to challenge a DWI charge, so facing this accusation does not necessarily lead to a conviction. Attorney Edward G. Appel will examine the specifics of your case to identify the best approach to defend your rights and safeguard your freedom.
DUI Penalties in New Jersey
Receiving a DUI conviction can lead to significant repercussions, irrespective of whether it's your first offense or a subsequent one. The best way to mitigate the risks of jail time, fines, license revocation, and other penalties is to contest your charge with the assistance of a skilled DUI attorney in Avon-by-the-Sea, NJ.


DUI Charges Involving Drugs in New Jersey
Being charged with DUI can happen if you're impaired by illegal substances, prescription medications, or even over-the-counter drugs. These situations tend to be complex, so having a skilled attorney is essential to effectively contest the charges.
DUI Penalties in New Jersey
A DUI conviction can lead to significant repercussions, whether it's your first offense or if you've been charged before. The best way to avoid penalties such as jail time, fines, and license suspension is to contest your DWI charge with the assistance of a skilled attorney.


DUI Field Sobriety and BAC Tests in New Jersey
Authorities use several types of tests to ascertain whether a driver is under the influence. These tests consist of field sobriety tests, breath analysis, and blood examinations. However, the outcomes of these evaluations can sometimes be misleading. Edward G. Appel has the expertise to recognize and demonstrate the inaccuracies in these results to protect your freedom.
What Happens After You're Arrested for a DUI in New Jersey?
Most people feel anxious and frightened after getting arrested for DWI because they are uncertain about what comes next. It almost feels like you're about to hike AvonbytheSea Public Beach near Avon-by-the-Sea, NJ without the proper climbing gear. That's why it's so important to understand what to anticipate following a DUI arrest - so you can prepare yourself. The initial step in the legal process is the arraignment, which is a court session that occurs soon after your DUI arrest. At this session, the judge will outline the charges that have been brought against you and give you a summary of the penalties you might face. A significant number of traffic cases are settled with plea agreements, but prosecutors are prohibited from providing these arrangements in DUI cases.
That means you have two options: You can plead guilty and face the full penalties of a DUI conviction, or you can plead not guilty and continue to fight for your rights. There is a chance that your charges could be dropped before the trial, but this usually occurs only if there are significant weaknesses in the prosecution's evidence. The judge in your case will decide the outcome after both parties have presented their evidence. Instead of going through this complicated legal process by yourself, call a New Jersey DUI lawyer like Edward G. Appel. It could mean the difference between years of hardship and a clean record.

Understanding DUI Charges in New Jersey: Criminal vs. Traffic Offenses
In New Jersey, driving under the influence (DUI) is categorized as a traffic violation, though the consequences of DUI charges are severe. However, a license suspension is not mandatory for all offenders. First-time offenders arrested with a blood alcohol content (BAC) level under 0.15% may avoid suspension if they quickly install an ignition interlock device (IID) in their personal vehicle. Other potential penalties associated with a DUI conviction can include community service, fines, and, in certain situations, imprisonment. Depending on the circumstances of your case, working with experienced DUI attorneys in Avon-by-the-Sea, NJ, can help you avoid some or all of these punishments.
You may also be charged with DUI if you operate a vehicle while under the influence of any intoxicating substances, regardless of whether they are illegal, prescribed, or available over the counter. The specific type of drug is irrelevant; what matters is your impairment and inability to drive safely.
If convicted of a drug-related DUI, you could face:
- A license suspension of 7 to 12 months
- Up to 30 days of incarceration
- Fines and surcharges exceeding $3,500
A second conviction may result in a jail sentence ranging from 2 to 90 days and a 2-year suspension of your driver's license, along with increased fines and surcharges.

Here's What to Expect After Your 1st DUI Charge in New Jersey
Many individuals charged with DUI believe that they will receive leniency if it's their first offense, but this is not always true. First-time offenders may incur significant fines, up to 30 days of incarceration, and the compulsory installation of an ignition interlock device (IID) in their vehicle. Penalties increase for first-time offenders with a BAC of 0.10% or more at the time of arrest.
As mentioned above, these individuals face a longer mandatory IID installation period, larger fines, and the potential for jail time. First-time offenders will also experience a rise in their auto insurance premiums after their arrest. The State of New Jersey takes DUI offenses seriously, even for those encountering it for the first time.

Here's What to Expect After Your 2nd DUI Charge in New Jersey
It doesn't take a graduate from Monmouth University in Avon-by-the-Sea, NJ to know that getting a second DUI is bad. Defendants who are charged again within 10 years of a prior conviction face increased penalties for a second DUI offense. They may be fined up to $1,000 and must serve at least 48 hours in jail, with a maximum of 90 days. Additionally, a second conviction can lead to 30 days of community service, a one-to-two-year license suspension, and two to four years of mandatory ignition interlock device (IID) use. These consequences, along with higher insurance rates, can significantly affect a repeat offender's life.

Here's What to Expect After Your 3rd DUI Charge in New Jersey
The court has the authority to impose stringent penalties on individuals with two or more DUI convictions within the past decade. If a person is found guilty of DUI for the third time in a 10- year span, the court may sentence them to 180 days in jail along with a $1,000 fine. Those convicted for the third time will lose their driving licenses for a duration of 8 years.
The court may also require these offenders to install an ignition interlock device for a period of two to four years after their driving rights are reinstated. Because third-time offenders are categorized as high-risk drivers, they will likely face significantly increased auto insurance rates. These individuals should anticipate an extra $1,500 surcharge on their auto insurance each year for three consecutive years. Given that these penalties can have a serious impact on both personal and professional aspects of life, it is crucial to contest the charges with help from a skilled DUI attorney like Edward G. Appel.
How Do DUI Lawyers in Avon-by-the-Sea, NJ, Help with DUI Cases?
Hiring a well-respected DUI lawyer often has a major impact on your case's outcome. Great attorneys will get started immediately by taking a deep dive into the particulars of your case. They'll look for issues with the prosecution's evidence, such as:
- Did on-scene officers follow protocol when storing samples and administering chemical tests?
- Did officers have a valid reason for pulling you over to begin with?
- Are the results from your chemical tests reliable?
If not, a lawyer can expose these concerns, potentially resulting in the dismissal of the charges. These are just a few examples of how an attorney can challenge DUI charges for you.
At the law firm of Edward G. Appel, we thoroughly investigate every detail when defending our clients. In fact, our clients benefit from personalized attention, support, and a meticulously crafted defense that aligns with the specific details of their arrest. For instance, if you're arrested for DUI near Twin Lights State Historic Site in Avon-by-the-Sea, NJ, our team can examine the scene, analyze the protocols police took, and interview witnesses. We're not satisfied until our lawyers have explored every potential defense strategy for your case. Through comprehensive investigation, negotiation, and, when required, litigation, we strive to achieve the best possible outcome for our clients.
Clients choose us not to simply enter a guilty plea but to robustly contest the charges against them. While no attorney can promise specific outcomes, we assure you that we will continue to advocate for you until you decide otherwise. We examine every detail of your case to ensure all necessary evidence is gathered and the right motions are submitted. There are motions available to suppress evidence if your constitutional rights were infringed upon during the stop, as well as motions to limit or dismiss evidence under particular conditions. Contact us today to evaluate your case. We are eager to help you, even if it's just to provide an initial consultation.

Top 3 Mistakes New Jersey Residents Make After a DUI Arrest
The steps you take following a DUI arrest can significantly influence your chances of successfully contesting the charges. Unfortunately, many individuals fall into common traps that can worsen their situation and negatively impact the outcome of their case. Here's a list of the three most common mistakes that people tend to make after being arrested for DUI.


1. Failing to Hire Reputable DUI Attorneys in Avon-by-the-Sea, NJ
When selecting a lawyer for a DUI case, you can consult your family lawyer, seek a recommendation from a friend, or find a local attorney. The biggest thing to remember is that you should hire an attorney who understands DUI law and has a solid reputation in DUI defense. Legal issues can be complicated in New Jersey, which is why competent support is paramount. Presenting the right defenses at the right time is crucial; otherwise, you may lose those opportunities. Evidence can disappear, memories can fade, and witnesses may become unavailable. A case that seems winnable can quickly turn into a lost cause. Remember that failing to act is also a choice.


2. Downplaying DUI Consequences
Understanding the implications of a conviction is a key part of strategizing your defense and can influence your defense approach. Factors such as how your home state handles convictions, the impact of any previous offenses, whether you are a commercial driver or the potential effects on your employment should be explored with a DUI lawyer who is familiar with the possible repercussions of your unique situation.


3. Giving Up and Pleading Guilty
Anyone can choose to plead guilty. However, if you decide to challenge your DUI charge, you have a chance of winning. By pleading guilty, you forfeit that opportunity. There are many scientific and constitutional challenges that can lead to the dismissal of your DUI case. When you plead guilty, you give up your right to contest these issues and force the State to prove its case against you. It's important to check that your lawyer is well-equipped to spot the issues that could lead to a successful defense in your case
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DUI Dismissals Start with Great DUI Lawyers in Avon-by-the-Sea, NJ
Since 1988, Edward G. Appel, Esq. and his team of criminal defense attorneys have fought hard for the rights of clients just like you - men and women who have been charged with a DUI in New Jersey. Because the truth is that a DUI conviction can change your life in an instant.
Opportunities that you once had may be lost, sometimes forever. Having an experienced and dedicated defense attorney by your side can mean the difference between incarceration and dismissed charges or a diminished sentence. It's critical that you exercise your right to hire an attorney who can protect your freedom and defend you in court. Call the offices of Edward G. Appel to learn more about DUI law in New Jersey and to schedule your initial consultation today.
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Latest News in Avon-by-the-Sea, NJ
New Jersey Is Home To America’s Oldest Beach Town
Lou Russohttps://943thepoint.com/new-jersey-is-home-to-americas-oldest-beach-town/
Did you know that the Garden State is the home of the oldest beach town in America? And it's still one of the state's most popular resort towns.Summer at the Jersey Shore is here, and it's time to enjoy beautiful, warm days at the beach and boardwalk.Sign up for the 94.3 The Point NewsletterOne of the wonderful things you can do this summer right here in the Garden State is spend some quality summer time at the oldest beach town in Americ...
Did you know that the Garden State is the home of the oldest beach town in America? And it's still one of the state's most popular resort towns.
Summer at the Jersey Shore is here, and it's time to enjoy beautiful, warm days at the beach and boardwalk.
Sign up for the 94.3 The Point Newsletter
One of the wonderful things you can do this summer right here in the Garden State is spend some quality summer time at the oldest beach town in America, according to a report at Veranda..
If you walk through this town today, you may think you stepped back in time, since it has captured the past and has held onto it in so many ways.
The gorgeous beach town of Cape May will transport you back to the Victorian era while still maintaining a 21st-century feel.
Read More: New Jersey's Best Beach For Couples
But let's spend some time at the beginning of the history of this legendary resort town. The story is amazing.
It was back in 1766 when the first pleasure seekers chose Cape May as a destination for relaxation, and most came from Philadelphia.
According to the official website for Cape May, the town was attracting visitors from New York, Baltimore, and Washington by the 1830s.
As Cape May's popularity grew, so did the town, and it even had visits from Presidents Pierce and Harrison during the mid-19th century.
The town is a celebration of the past, the present, and the future all wrapped into one, and that is why it is still one of America's top beach resort destinations.
2 Monmouth, 1 Ocean County beach named Best in New Jersey: USA Today 10BEST list
APP.com Digital Deskhttps://www.app.com/story/news/local/new-jersey/2025/05/28/best-nj-beach-long-beach-island-asbury-park-avon-usa-today-10best/83876486007/
Can you feel it?Summer is just around the corner and it's time to head to the beach.USA Today 10BEST Readers’ Choice Awards has announced the winners for the Best Beach in New Jersey and three Jersey Shore — our Jersey Shore — spots made the top 10.Long Beach Island, Asbury Park and Avon-by-the-Sea placed Nos. 6, 7 and 10, respectively.The awards celebrate top picks in travel, food & drink and li...
Can you feel it?
Summer is just around the corner and it's time to head to the beach.
USA Today 10BEST Readers’ Choice Awards has announced the winners for the Best Beach in New Jersey and three Jersey Shore — our Jersey Shore — spots made the top 10.
Long Beach Island, Asbury Park and Avon-by-the-Sea placed Nos. 6, 7 and 10, respectively.
The awards celebrate top picks in travel, food & drink and lifestyle. Each week, industry experts nominate their favorite attractions. 10BEST editors then review these nominations and present a curated list for the public to vote on for four weeks.
Long Beach Island
According to USA Today:
Long Beach Island features idyllic beaches, charming seaside communities, and an abundance of recreational opportunities for beachgoers of all ages. Whether you're surfing the waves, fishing off the shoreline, splashing in the shallow water, or napping on your beach blanket, Long Beach Island provides a quintessential beach experience. The island is primarily residential, although parking and amenities are located at main beach entrance points along the island.
Asbury Park
USA Today writes:
Famous for its vibrant boardwalk and live music scene, Asbury Park offers a dynamic coastal experience for beachgoers of all ages. It’s fun to soak up the sun on the expansive sandy shores, go surfing, and take a dip in the refreshing ocean waves. Everything here is close by — you can easily rent beach chairs and umbrellas, browse shops, and grab a snack at the beachfront eateries. Afterwards, catch some live music steps away from the ocean.
Avon-by-the-Sea
USA Today says:
Avon-by-the-Sea enchants visitors with its quaint coastal charm, featuring tree-lined streets, historic Victorian homes, and a low-key stretch of scenic beaches ideal for sunbathing and swimming. Avon-by-the-Sea is known for its low-key vibe, and it’s a must-visit destination for those seeking relaxation without the bustle and crowds of neighboring beaches.
Also in the running was Belmar Beach, Island Beach State Park, Manasquan, Monmouth Beach, Sandy Hook – Gateway National Recreation Area, Sea Girt, Seaside Heights and Spring Lake.
Best beach in New Jersey
???? USA Today put out its list of the Top 10 Beaches in New Jersey
Jen Ursillohttps://nj1015.com/new-jersey-top-ten-beaches-usa-today/
The unofficial start to summer is here, and that means warm weather and long, lazy days on the beach.Luckily for us, New Jersey has 130 miles of coastline dotted with beaches. Residents not only enjoy them, but hundreds of thousands of visitors from all over flock to the Jersey Shore every year to enjoy them.So, where should you go? USA Today ...
The unofficial start to summer is here, and that means warm weather and long, lazy days on the beach.
Luckily for us, New Jersey has 130 miles of coastline dotted with beaches. Residents not only enjoy them, but hundreds of thousands of visitors from all over flock to the Jersey Shore every year to enjoy them.
So, where should you go? USA Today nominated their picks for the 10 best beaches in the Garden State. Did your beach snag the No. 1 spot on the list?
10 – Avon-by-the-Sea
“Avon-by-the-Sea enchants visitors with its quaint coastal charm, featuring tree-lined streets, historic Victorian homes, and a low-key stretch of scenic beaches ideal for sunbathing and swimming,” USA Today wrote.
9 – Brigantine Beach
Brigantine Beach in Atlantic County snags the No. 9 spot on USA Today’s Top 10 NJ Beaches list.
“Primarily a residential destination, Brigantine attracts repeat visitors with its natural beauty, offering miles of serene beaches, framed by dunes and stunning wildlife habitats,” the publication wrote.
8 – Avalon
Avalon boasts a 7-mile-long beach on this mostly residential island.
“Avalon is an upscale seaside retreat with soft sands, shimmering waters, and a laid-back ambience ideal for family vacations,” USA Today wrote.
7 - Asbury Park
Coming in at No. 7 on USA Today’s Top 10 NJ Beaches list is the very popular Asbury Park beach in Monmouth County. Here is why.
“Everything here is close by — you can easily rent beach chairs and umbrellas, browse shops, and grab a snack at the beachfront eateries. Afterwards, catch some live music steps away from the ocean,” according to USA Today.
6 – Long Beach Island
It’s impossible to think Jersey Shore and not think LBI, a very popular vacation spot for locals and visitors alike. So, it’s no surprise it made the top 10 list.
“Long Beach Island features idyllic beaches, charming seaside communities, and an abundance of recreational opportunities for beachgoers of all ages,” USA Today contributors wrote.
We’re halfway through the list. Let’s find out what NJ beaches made USA Today’s top five.
5 – Sea Isle City
In Cape May County lies the family-friendly beach town of Sea Isle City, so it makes sense that this beach would score a spot in the top 5.
4 – Cape May Beach
Cape May is no doubt a Jersey Shore vacation getaway with its Victorian town and gorgeous beach, earning it a top spot on USA Today’s list.
“Beaches here are truly enchanting and convenient to food (and amenities). In the evening, it’s a tradition for visitors and locals alike to gather and admire the sun setting behind the Cape May Lighthouse,” USA Today wrote.
3 – Atlantic City
Coming in at #3 on USA Today’s Top 10 NJ Beaches list is good ol’ Atlantic City, and here’s why.
“With a backdrop of the giant Ferris wheel and amusement park, the city boasts plenty of restaurants and amenities (like beach chairs and umbrella rentals) along the main beach access points," USA Today said.
2 – Ocean City
The family-friendly beach town of Ocean City, NJ, ranks as the 2nd-best beach in the Garden State, according to USA Today.
So, what is the No. 1 beach in New Jersey? The cream of the crop? The best of the best? Could it be Belmar? Point Pleasant? Manasquan? Sandy Hook? Island Beach State Park?
There are so many notable beaches that could be tops in New Jersey.
1 – The Wildwoods
“Surrounded by iconic retro architecture, the legendary Wildwood Boardwalk is a big entertainment hub, offering an electric vibe day and night," USA Today said.
USA Today also recently ranked The Wildwoods as the “Best Boardwalk” in the country. The area also won accolades as one of Nasdaq’s “GoBanking Rates” most affordable beach trips on the East Coast.
Report a correction ???? | ???? Contact our newsroom
The complete list of names for the 2025 Atlantic Hurricane Season
How to Get Your New Jersey Beach Tag Money Back for Memorial Day Weekend
Josh Hennighttps://973espn.com/new-jersey-beach-tag-money-back-mdw/
For many New Jersey Coastal Communities, Beach Tags and Passes have been a valuable source of revenue along with a novelty collector's item for Jersey Shore Visitors and Vacationers.The original purpose when beach tags were introduced in New Jersey 100 years ago was to keep "Riff Raff" off the beaches. Today, this is the reason why some beachgoers will visit certain Shore Towns that don't require beach tags compared to others.Yes, there are New Jersey Coastal Communities that do not require beach tags to use their bea...
For many New Jersey Coastal Communities, Beach Tags and Passes have been a valuable source of revenue along with a novelty collector's item for Jersey Shore Visitors and Vacationers.
The original purpose when beach tags were introduced in New Jersey 100 years ago was to keep "Riff Raff" off the beaches. Today, this is the reason why some beachgoers will visit certain Shore Towns that don't require beach tags compared to others.
Yes, there are New Jersey Coastal Communities that do not require beach tags to use their beaches, a list that includes:
-The Wildwoods (North Wildwood, City of Wildwood, and Wildwood Crest-Atlantic City-Upper Township (Strathmere, Beasley's Point)
While some South Jersey Shore Towns are fighting the Trenton Politicians over controversial changes to Beach Tag laws, one Northeast-based company is offering to reimburse New Jersey beachgoers for Memorial Day Weekend.
For the 2025 Summer Season, the cost of Beach Badges on New Jersey Beaches is between $8 and $13 Daily while Seasonal Tags cost between $20 and $115 for Memorial Day Weekend through Labor Day Weekend.
If you are visiting a Jersey Shore Beach Memorial Day Weekend, Sun Cruiser is offering to reimburse beachgoers for the cost of their beach tags this weekend.
The Sun Cruiser Beach Badge Buy Back Program starts Friday, May 23rd, offering New Jersey Beachgoers "from Sandy Hook to Cape May" the opportunity for reimbursement of their Beach Tags. Sun Cruiser Iced Tea Vodka Drinks are a popular beverage you see every summer in South Jersey.
Starting on Friday, you must go through the following steps to get your $20 via Venmo from Sun Cruiser:
-Visit the website starting the morning of Friday, May 23-Upload a clear photo of your 2025 beach badge receipt from any New Jersey Shore Town-Submit your contact information to receive reimbursement
Sun Cruiser Senior Brand Director Erica Taylor spoke to Townsquare Media South Jersey about their Beach Badge Buy Back Program for 2025 Memorial Day Weekend:
"Sun Cruiser believes nothing should stand in the way of enjoying a sunny day at the beach and having to pay for access to the Shore is a bit of a buzzkill! So this Memorial Day (Weekend), we are making it a little easier for our fans to get out and let the good times cruise.”
Featuring Gluten-Free Adult Drinks that are 4.5% ABV, Sun Cruiser comes in several flavors of Iced Tea Vodka and Lemonade Vodka, including Classic Iced Tea, Peach Iced Tea, Pink Lemonade Vodka, and Strawberry Lemonade Vodka.
Speaking of Memorial Day Weekend, here are some iconic photos that showcase what makes New Jersey Shore Towns such a great destination during the Summer Season:
15 Pictures From Memorial Day Weekend That Show The Beauty Of The Jersey Shore
NJ's Top 20 Beaches For 2025
If you're looking for the perfect Jersey Shore getaway this summer, these are the 20 best beaches at the Jersey Shore, according to American Oceans
Exclusive enclave near NYC sparks fury over ‘extortionate’ new beach pass prices for summer
Marissa Matozzohttps://nypost.com/2025/05/16/lifestyle/jersey-shore-town-slammed-over-new-beach-pass-rules-for-2025/
No, Deal!Nothing like a beach day that drains your wallet — before you even hit the sand.The Borough of Deal, a desirable Jersey Shore destination known for golden beaches and coastal charm, has tourists and locals al...
No, Deal!
Nothing like a beach day that drains your wallet — before you even hit the sand.
The Borough of Deal, a desirable Jersey Shore destination known for golden beaches and coastal charm, has tourists and locals alike fuming over the sky-high cost of a seasonal beach pass.
The new price of $200, which kicks in for the summer of 2025, has been dubbed “extortionate” by beachgoers — who say the towel tariff is way out of line.
To put it in perspective, nearby Asbury Park and Belmar charge just $70 and $80 for their seasonal passes, respectively — a downright bargain compared to Deal’s steep fee.
Bayhead, another popular spot, charges $60 for a half-season badge and $110 for the full summer.
Last year, Deal, an exclusive oceanfront enclave ranked among the country’s most affluent communities, didn’t even offer seasonal passes — instead charging beachgoers a relatively modest $10 to visit Monday through Thursday and $12 on weekends.
This year, those daily rates are up too, rising to $12 on weekdays and $15 on weekends. Meanwhile, kids 11 and under can still splash around for free.
But some say the new pass price feels like a slap in the face, especially since most beaches across the U.S. don’t cost a dime to enjoy.
While New Jersey and other Northeast states has normalized charging for beach access — ostensibly to help fund lifeguards, maintenance, and crowd control — this particular price-hike has sparked an unusual amount of outrage online.
One irate Redditor didn’t mince words, as reported by The Daily Mail, writing, “NJ residents shouldn’t have to buy tags. No one really should have to. Without beachgoers, they have no economy.”
Another chimed in, agreeing that locals are being taken for a ride: “If you are paying taxes in New Jersey, you should not have to pay to use the beaches.”
The timing couldn’t be worse, as Memorial Day — the official start of beach season — is just around the corner on May 26.
As Deal’s newly priced passes go on sale, many are left wondering whether the iconic summer escape is becoming a luxury they just can’t afford.
While some defend the fees as necessary to keep beaches safe and well-maintained, many apparently can’t help but feel squeezed by the rising costs.
And as Deal’s beaches fill up with those willing to pay the premium, plenty of Jersey Shore fans may be heading to cheaper sands this summer — or voicing their frustration online.
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