Lifeguards to Remain at Island Beach State Park on Weekends, Surf Competition Planned

Island Beach State Park (Photo: Daniel Nee)

State officials say lifeguards will remain on duty at Island Beach State Park, at least in one location.

Lifeguards will be on duty every Friday through Sunday this month at Island Beach State Park so visitors may swim safely while enjoying the final weeks of the summer season, the State Park Service announced.

Lifeguards will be on duty at Swimming Area 1 beaches from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sept. 6-8, 13-15, 20-22 and 27-29.

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“September is a great time to enjoy Island Beach State Park, when smaller crowd sizes and water temperature are ideal for swimming,” Division of Parks and Forestry Director Olivia Glenn said. “Visitors can just relax or go for a swim, knowing that our lifeguards will be on duty every weekend to ensure the public’s safety while in the water.”

For those planning to swim at Island Beach State Park, the DEP and National Weather Service jointly reminded the public, in a statement released this week, to be cautious and swim only at lifeguarded beaches during the final weeks of summer, especially since many municipally operated beaches reduce lifeguard operations after Labor Day weekend. Island Beach State Park is open daily for visitors to enjoy the beach, but swimming is not permitted unless lifeguards are on duty.

In addition to offering extended swimming opportunities in September, the Friends Of Island Beach State Park is hosting two events at the park this month.

The 22nd Annual Beach Plum Festival is scheduled Sunday, Sept. 8 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Swimming Area 1. The event is rain or shine, and an $8 donation is suggested. The festival features crafters, children’s games, beach plum jelly and ice cream, various environmental exhibits and other vendors. Learn more at www.friendsofibsp.org/events/beach-plum-festival-2/.

The Barrier Island Surf Classic Adult Surf Competition is scheduled from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 21. A no wave day will be Sunday, Sept. 22. The event will be at the surfing beach south of Swimming Area 2, with competition in the longboard division and short board division open to any surfer age 18 or older.

To register for the Barrier Island Classic or for more information, visit www.friendsofibsp.org/event/barrier-island-classic-adult-surf-competition/

“There are plenty of activities for the public to enjoy in September, from swimming to enjoying nature,” said Jen Clayton, Superintendent of Island Beach State Park. “In addition, the popular annual Beach Plum Festival and a surfing classic also are scheduled this month. These are perfect opportunities for people of all ages to come out and appreciate the post-summer season.”