Memorial Day weekend is here. If you’re headed to the beach, here are reminders about rules, courtesies, and beach badge information. (Karen Wall/Patch)
By Karen Wall, Patch staff
NEW JERSEY — You’ve packed up your beach chairs, your towels and your blanket, all set for the unofficial start of summer at the Jersey Shore: Memorial Day weekend.
As you prepare to head to the beach, here’s what you need to know about rules and restrictions as things continue to return to normal in the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Gov. Phil Murphy has removed restrictions on outdoor gathering capacity and mask-wearing, along with social distancing. That means there should be fewer issues getting onto most beaches, as they will no longer be bound by 50 percent capacity limits as they were in 2020.
Some, like Island Beach State Park and Sandy Hook, have always had capacity closures, and beachgoers should keep that in mind. Island Beach State Park in particular will fill more quickly with the free beach access offered to those who have received COVID-19 vaccinations.
Read more: COVID-19 Shot In NJ Now Gets You Free Beach Pass, Glass Of Wine
Murphy has been anticipated to issue updated rules for beaches since at least April 19. But as of May 25, he had not done so.
Read more: NJ To Provide Graduation, Beach Guidance Amid COVID Crisis
Most towns are scheduled to open their beaches on Memorial Day weekend. Some will be open daily, but others will operate weekends only until mid-June. Towns are permitted to set capacity limits, which may happen only as beaches up and down the area have been struggling to hire enough lifeguards.
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Boardwalks are open, and rides, amusements, and water parks are back in operation. Restaurants will be allowed to operate at 100 percent capacity beginning Friday, so your favorite beachfront dining spots should be open.
