You’re driving down Route 88, windows down, smelling that salt air, and someone in the passenger seat asks a simple question: "Wait, what county is Point Pleasant NJ in?" You’d think it’s an easy answer. But if you’ve spent any time at the Jersey Shore, you know that nothing is ever quite as simple as a GPS coordinate.
Honestly, the confusion usually stems from the fact that Point Pleasant feels like it belongs to two different worlds. To the north, you’ve got the more suburban, manicured vibes of Monmouth County. To the south, you’re deep in the heart of the "Shore" lifestyle. So, let’s clear the air once and for all. Point Pleasant (and its sister, Point Pleasant Beach) is located in Ocean County, New Jersey. It’s not just a technicality on a map. Being in Ocean County defines the taxes, the schools, and the very soul of the town.
The "Two Points" Problem
People mess this up constantly because they don't realize there are actually two different municipalities. You've got Point Pleasant Borough (often called "The Boro" by locals) and Point Pleasant Beach.
Both are in Ocean County.
Point Pleasant Beach is the one with the famous Jenkinson’s Boardwalk, the aquarium, and the neon lights. It’s tiny—barely 1.7 square miles. Then you have the Borough, which is much larger, more residential, and sits just inland. If you're looking for the high school or the local Pig & Parrot, you're likely in the Borough. If you're looking for a $20 parking spot near the sand, you're in the Beach.
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Why Everyone Thinks It’s Monmouth County
I get why people are confused. If you cross the Manasquan River bridge heading north, you are instantly in Brielle or Manasquan. Those towns are in Monmouth County.
Point Pleasant is basically the northern gateway to Ocean County. It’s the literal border. For decades, the "Squan" area was a bit of a geographic blur. In fact, back in the 1800s, this whole area was actually part of Monmouth County. It wasn't until 1850 that Ocean County was officially carved out because the folks down south felt like they weren't getting enough attention from the courthouse in Freehold.
So, if you’re a history buff, you’re technically right—it used to be Monmouth. But unless you’re planning to pay your property taxes with a time machine, you’re dealing with Ocean County now.
Life in the "Northern Frontier" of Ocean County
Being in Ocean County matters for a lot of practical reasons. Take the library, for instance. If you have a library card in Point Pleasant, you’re part of the massive Ocean County Library system. You can request a book from the branch in Toms River and have it delivered to the Boro branch on Beaver Dam Road in a couple of days.
Then there’s the vibe. Ocean County is home to the Pine Barrens, Barnegat Bay, and a massive stretch of the Intracoastal Waterway. Point Pleasant sits right at the top of all that.
A Quick Look at the Neighborhoods
- Bay Head Border: Some of the most expensive real estate in the county sits right where Point Pleasant hits Bay Head.
- The Canal: The Point Pleasant Canal is a local icon. It’s a narrow, fast-moving stretch of water that connects the Manasquan River to the Barnegat Bay. Watching boats struggle against the current there is basically a local sport.
- Sunshine Harbor: A classic "lagoon" neighborhood where almost every house has a boat dock. This is quintessential Ocean County living.
What You Need to Know If You’re Visiting
If you're coming from North Jersey or New York, you're probably taking the Garden State Parkway. You’ll likely get off at Exit 98.
The second you cross that bridge into Point Pleasant, you’ll notice the shift. The air gets a little saltier. The traffic slows down (except on Arnold Avenue during a Saturday in July, where it basically stops).
Ocean County is a bit more "down to earth" than its northern neighbors. While Monmouth County has the glitz of Asbury Park and Red Bank, Ocean County—specifically Point Pleasant—retains that classic, family-oriented Jersey Shore grit. You'll find multi-generational families who have owned the same bungalow since the 1950s sitting right next to a brand-new $2 million modern farmhouse.
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Actionable Takeaways for Your Next Trip
- Check the Parking Rules: Since you’re in Ocean County, specifically a high-traffic tourist zone, Point Pleasant Beach uses the Flowbird or ParkMobile apps. Don't assume street parking is free; the meter maids here are legendary for their speed.
- Visit the Borough Side: Everyone goes to the boardwalk, but the "real" town is in the Borough. Check out the shops on Bridge Avenue or grab a coffee at a local spot like Green Planet.
- Know Your Bridges: There are two main ways in and out—the Route 35 bridge (leads to Brielle) and the Route 88 bridge (leads to Brick). If there's an accident on one, the whole town bottlenecks. Always check Waze before you leave the beach.
At the end of the day, whether you're in the Boro or the Beach, you're in one of the most beautiful corners of Ocean County. It’s a place where the river meets the bay and the ocean is always just a few minutes away. Just remember: if you see a cop or a government building, it’s going to say "Ocean County" on the seal.
Save yourself the argument at the dinner table—you now have the facts.
Next Steps: If you are planning a move to the area, start by looking up the Ocean County tax records specifically for the 08742 zip code. This will give you a clear picture of the difference in property assessments between the Borough and the Beach, which can vary wildly despite being in the same county. For travelers, download the ParkMobile app and set up your vehicle profile before you hit the bridge to save yourself a headache at the kiosk.