Yes, you need beach tags to access Ocean City NJ beaches during the summer season. Before you complain, here is everything you need to know—and why the system actually makes sense.
Beach Tag Basics
When Tags Are Required
- Dates: Late June through Labor Day (exact dates vary slightly by year)
- Times: Generally 10am to 5pm when tag checkers are on duty
- Who needs them: Anyone age 12 and older
Tag Prices (Approximate)
- Season tags: $25-30 (valid entire summer)
- Weekly tags: $10-15
- Daily tags: $5-8
Prices may change yearly. Check the official Ocean City website for current rates.
Where to Buy Tags
- Beach tag booths: Located at major beach entrances
- City Hall: Ocean City Municipal Building
- Online: OCNJ website (buy ahead and pick up)
- Local businesses: Some stores and rental offices sell tags
Pro tip: Buy your tags before hitting the beach. Lines at beach booths get long on sunny mornings.
Tag-Free Beach Times
You can hit the beach without tags:
- Before late June: No tags required in spring
- After Labor Day: No tags required in fall
- Early morning: Before 10am tag checkers usually are not on duty
- Evening: After 5pm tag checkers leave
How the System Works
Beach tag checkers walk the beach during peak hours. They will ask to see your tag (worn visibly on your bathing suit or attached to a bag). If you do not have one, you can buy one on the spot from roving sellers.
The tag is a small plastic pin—wear it where it is visible to avoid being asked repeatedly.
Why Beach Tags Exist
Some visitors complain about paying for beach access. Here is the reasoning:
- Lifeguards: Tag revenue pays for beach safety
- Beach maintenance: Cleaning, equipment, infrastructure
- Keeps beaches better: Towns with free beaches often have more crowding and less maintenance
- Relatively cheap: A season tag costs less than one nice dinner
Compare OCNJ beaches to free beaches elsewhere—the difference in cleanliness is usually noticeable.
Tips for Families
- Kids under 12: Free, no tag needed
- Season tags: Best value if staying a week or more
- Keep tags safe: Losing them means buying new ones
- Pin them securely: Many people lose tags in the water
Common Questions
Can I use last years tag?
No. Tags are dated for the current year only.
What if I forget my tag at the rental?
You will have to buy another or go back for it. Tag checkers hear every excuse.
What about babies and toddlers?
No tag needed for anyone under 12.
Is it one tag per beach?
No—one tag works for all OCNJ beaches all season.
The Verdict
Beach tags are just part of OCNJ life. Buy a season tag when you arrive, pin it to your suit, and forget about it. The money goes toward keeping the beaches clean and safe—which is why OCNJ beaches consistently rank among the best at the Jersey Shore.
Ready to hit the sand? Check out our best beaches guide and first-time visitor tips.