One Of America's Best Secret Beaches Is In The Barnegat Bay

BARNEGAT BAY, NJ — Going to the beach is a great way to spend the summer, but the crowds there aren't so great. For those in search of something more secluded, travel site Family Destinations Guide put together the top 100 best secret beaches in the country for 2023, and a hidden Barnegat Bay beach is in the top 10.

The site surveyed 3,000 families to find out what secret beaches they most wanted to visit in 2023. Number five on the list is Sedge Island, which offers "a unique and secluded coastal experience," the website said.

Sedge Island is in the top five among beaches in Hawaii and Florida. Family Destinations Guide notes that its exclusivity is furthered by the fact that it is only accessible by boat, off Island Beach State Park.

This island is unique in that it is a marine conservation zone, and is the only one that offers residential environmental education programs to those over age 12.

The pristine salt marsh is home to a variety of wildlife, including the largest osprey colony in the state.

Island Beach State Park regularly offers regular recreational programs like kayak tours and birding to explore the island. You can find more about those here.

There's also plenty of educational programs that allow middle schoolers to college students to experience marine biology. Learn more here.

This summer, try exploring Sedge Island for a unique beach experience that is both fun and educational for all.

And if you're up for more exploring, two other Jersey Shore beaches are in the top 100 - Pearl Beach at 49 and Gunnison Beach at 85.