Squan Beach facts for kids
Squan Beach is a special strip of land along the Jersey Shore in New Jersey, United States. It's like a long, narrow sandbar that separates the big Atlantic Ocean from a calmer body of water called Barnegat Bay. Squan Beach is a big part of the Barnegat Peninsula, which is a long stretch of land that includes other beaches too. It has been connected to Island Beach since about 1812.
What is Squan Beach?
Squan Beach is a type of landform called a barrier peninsula. Think of it as a natural wall of sand that protects the mainland from ocean waves. It runs along the coast, with the Atlantic Ocean on one side and Barnegat Bay on the other. At its northern end, it connects to the main part of New Jersey. To the south, it joins up with Island Beach, making one long piece of land.
This sandy strip is usually less than half a mile wide. It stretches for many miles along the coast. Long ago, there was an opening in this beach called Cranberry Inlet. This inlet was a waterway that ships could use. However, it closed up around 1812. Another important opening is the Manasquan Inlet to the north.
Towns and Beaches on Squan Beach
Many popular towns and beaches are located on this beautiful peninsula. People love to visit these places for their beaches and ocean views.
Some of the communities you can find here include:
Other areas on the peninsula are part of larger townships, like:
- Beaches in Brick Township (known as Beaches I, II, and III)
- Communities in Toms River Township, such as Ocean Beach, Chadwick Beach, and Dover Beaches South.
