First Time-Loved It & Tips/Tricks

I finally made it to Gunnison this past weekend and I see why folks have nothing but great things to say about it. I ended up spending all day (8 hours) there and loved every minute of it. Super friendly folks, great beach, and even a group who was giving away free drinks!

Of course, I am not an expert by any means but I did want to provide some information I got in case in first timers come here and want some info (I noticed there wasn't really much available in this forum at least in terms of FAQs or such; and perhaps putting some more info in the "About" Section would be helpful).

1. A great place to start is here: https://gunnisonbeachnj.us/ This site includes FAQs.
2. Go early, the main parking lot for the beach is Lot G and it fills up fast. There is overflow but it is longer distance away and they sometimes close the parking lot if it is too full (they reopen around 2 p.m. after folks start to leave). The suggested time is 9:30 to arrive during peak season. You will see other beaches before Gunnison but Gunnison is the one you want.
3. You will have to pay to park and the current parking rate is $15/day
4. The lifeguards are on-duty until 6 p.m. The park closes at 9 p.m.
5. The beach itself is '"clothing optional" though everyone pretty much seems to go nude. The beach area is noted and there is a non-clothing optional section located right next to the clothing options section (though it didn't seem this was heavily "enforced") and you can't miss the signs.
6. There are not hotels really in the immediate area but if you go out some ways (20-45) mins you can find options. I stayed up near the Woodbridge Township NJ. and it wasn't a bad trip into Sandy Hook.
7. It is a little bit of a hike into the beach and it not all smooth sand. I would recommend a good pair of flip flops or beach shoes.
8. If you plan to stay all day, bring in whatever you want to drink and eat. There is a food truck at the main entrance but it's best to bring in something as its a bit of a hike back out. I went with granola bars. Also, I had no problems leaving my bag and stuff unattended and it seems like this isn't an issue (people don't mess it and doesn't seem like stuff gets stolen).
9. You can rent beach chairs and umbrellas at the main entrance but if you are planning to do this, bring your ID because they will hold it for the rentals.
10. Don't even think about any "funny business." One of the best parts of this beach aside from having lifeguards is that it is overseen by park rangers. They are super friendly but folks have and do get arrested for "lewdness."

Anyway, I'm sure all the regulars can more than annotate or even correct this list, but if it's your first time going, I hope the above will help and most of all, DO IT!! It's great beach with great folks!

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