Boomboxes Are Back, But They’re Now Banned on the Seaside Heights Beach

They say everything old is new again, and the latest item to follow the trend is that iconic device from which 90s hits once blared. The boombox is back – albeit in Bluetooth form, streamed from a smartphone – but its reign on the sand in Seaside Heights may be short-lived.

The borough council on Wednesday voted in favor of a 60 day trial where “amplified music,” such as boomboxes and other speakers, would not be allowed on the beach due to complaints over noise as well as lyrics with foul language roaring.

“People are bringing not only boomboxes, but DJ speakers up to the beach,” said Mayor Anthony Vaz. “If you go to the beach to rest and relax, you’re okay with a radio playing, but not these things blasting.”

The new policy is not yet codified in an ordinance, rather, the borough will post signs along the beachfront this week as a warning and beach badge checkers will ask those carrying boomboxes and speakers not to bring them onto the beach. Seaside Heights officials won’t be looking to write summonses, Vaz said, but want to take a stand that excessively loud music isn’t appropriate.

“This summer, we’re seeing it much more often,” he said, of the loud speakers. “Sometimes, people have been blasting vulgarities while there are little kids around.”

If the borough gets positive feedback on the measure, the council will likely pass a formal ordinance in September, Vaz said.