Island Beach State Park

New Jersey · Northeast

Habitat
Coastal
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Easy

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Island Beach State Park is a productive birding destination in New Jersey, with 322 species recorded on eBird. This coastal habitat attracts American Oystercatcher, Northern Gannet, and Horned Lark among many others. Spring and fall migration bring waves of warblers and shorebirds through the area.

Location

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Notable Species

Live Bird Data

Powered by eBird / Cornell Lab of Ornithology

Notable Sightings

Rare or unusual species spotted nearby in the last 14 days

Piping Plover

Charadrius melodus

3/6/2026Island Beach SP (please consider using more specific locations)5 observed

Blue-winged Teal

Spatula discors

2/28/2026Lake of the Lilies1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Greater Scaup

13/6/2026

Harlequin Duck

23/6/2026

Surf Scoter

203/6/2026

White-winged Scoter

23/6/2026

Black Scoter

203/6/2026

Long-tailed Duck

2003/6/2026

Bufflehead

43/6/2026

Red-breasted Merganser

23/6/2026

American Oystercatcher

23/6/2026

Ruddy Turnstone

83/6/2026

Sanderling

303/6/2026

Dunlin

1003/6/2026

Purple Sandpiper

123/6/2026

Ring-billed Gull

103/6/2026

American Herring Gull

123/6/2026

Great Black-backed Gull

83/6/2026

Common Loon

73/6/2026

Great Cormorant

73/6/2026

Double-crested Cormorant

13/6/2026

Horned Lark

13/6/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Check rocky shorelines and jetties at low tide for shorebirds.

  2. 2

    Scan offshore waters with a spotting scope for seabirds and waterfowl.

  3. 3

    Visit during mid-May for peak warbler migration.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Island Beach State Park for birding?
The best months to visit Island Beach State Park for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Island Beach State Park?
Notable species at Island Beach State Park include American Oystercatcher, Northern Gannet, Horned Lark, House Finch, Brant. The area supports coastal habitats.
How difficult is birding at Island Beach State Park?
Birding at Island Beach State Park is rated as Easy. The trails and viewing areas are accessible for birders of all experience levels.
What amenities are available at Island Beach State Park?
Island Beach State Park offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Visitor Center.