Beachgoers rejoice as beaches are free for Labor Day
News 12's Jim Murdoch says about 10 protesters gathered this morning to advocate for free access, arguing it's time to rethink the badge system.
More Stories
In Belmar, a surprise for many beach goers soaking up the final unofficial day of summer - it's free!
This comes two weeks after the arrest of a surfer renewed the fight among some groups for free beach access.
“Very bittersweet. We love summer. All of us. I am looking forward to maybe a pumpkin spice latte, but love summer,” said Cara Sosnoski, visiting Belmar from Bucks County, Pennsylvania.
By most accounts, it was a great summer - businesses were booming, crowds were escaping the early heat - but in Belmar, that success was overshadowed by controversy last month.
Surfer Liam Mahoney was arrested, when police say he ignored the officer's orders after not showing a badge. Protesters, small in numbers, made their thoughts known as the now viral videos reignited a decades-old debate here in New Jersey.
“I saw what happens when people can't afford to get on the beach. A lot of them wait until the badge checkers and the lifeguards go home and then they go swimming and that's when most drownings occur on unguarded beaches,” said Neil Scheck of Belmar.
A last-minute decision by the town to open the beaches for a free Labor Day had many visitors celebrating.
“We actually thought there was a glitch in the app when we showed up but then tried to get our tickets he told us it was free so exciting morning,” said Justin Garber, Celine’s dad.
Monday's free beaches in Belmar means you won't pay again until Memorial Day Weekend 2025 but other beaches in the state of New Jersey do vary. Before you head down it's always best to check the local municipalities websites before heading to the shore.
