Several Jersey Shore towns are closing or restricting swimming at beaches as college-bound lifeguards leave for school, with some areas now unguarded and rip current risks forecast for late August
As summer draws to a close along the Jersey Shore, beachgoers are encountering new restrictions on swimming due to a seasonal shortage of lifeguards. With many student lifeguards returning to college earlier this year, several coastal towns in New Jersey have announced that some beaches will be left unguarded or closed to swimmers in the final weeks of August.
Seaside Park officials have confirmed that certain beach sections will not have lifeguard coverage as staffing levels drop. The National Weather Service has issued a moderate risk of rip currents for August 22 and 23, increasing the potential danger for swimmers, especially on unguarded stretches of coastline.
Beaches Affected by Staffing Shortages
Sandy Hook, part of the Gateway National Recreation Area, has already ended its lifeguard season, meaning swimming is now prohibited in areas without lifeguards on duty. Other communities, including Sea Isle City and Ship Bottom, have posted updates about reduced lifeguard staffing and changing coverage hours. North Wildwood Beach Patrol has published a list of guarded stations and their operating hours through Labor Day, urging visitors to swim only where lifeguards are present. Wildwood and Cape May City have also notified the public about beaches that will be unguarded during this period.
Safety Guidance and Local Updates
Beach patrols and local officials are strongly advising residents and visitors to check for the latest updates before heading to the shore. Swimmers are encouraged to stay near guarded stands and exercise caution, particularly when rip current risks are elevated. The changes come as schools in 2026 begin their academic year earlier than usual, with Labor Day falling later in September, further compressing the summer staffing window for many towns.
According to local authorities, the reduction in lifeguard coverage is a recurring challenge at the end of each summer, but the earlier start to the school year has made the issue more pronounced this season. Beachgoers are reminded that swimming at unguarded beaches is not only discouraged but may be prohibited in some areas for safety reasons.
Many Jersey Shore towns rely on high school and college students to staff their lifeguard teams. As these students depart for school, municipalities must adjust beach operations, sometimes closing sections or limiting swimming hours. Residents and visitors can typically find up-to-date information on municipal websites or by contacting local beach patrols directly.
