Old Bridge Waterfront Park is a cooperative project between the County of Middlesex and Old Bridge Township. In 1999 the County and Township came together to implement a shared vision of providing better access to the Raritan Bay for visitors. The County and Township entered into an agreement whereby the County would build and maintain a park and boardwalk on 71-acres of waterfront property owned by the Township. The first phase of the project in the Paul’s Beach section was dedicated in 2002, with the second phase in Laurence Harbor, following in 2005. The park sustained significant damage from Superstorm Sandy in October of 2012. The County made repairs and improvements including two new playgrounds, beach and dune restoration and new railing on the fishing piers.
Each year, Old Bridge Township holds an annual family fair event at the park reminiscent of "Salt Water Day," a festival dating back to the 1800's, during which local residents celebrated the many benefits the area's shoreline provided to the community's economy and social activites.
If you haven't visited this park, we cordially invite you and your family and friends to take a stroll along the boardwalk, take advantage of the scenic lookouts, explore the environmental education trail, or launch your canoe or kayak at Whale Creek.
Visitors can access Old Bridge Waterfront Park in three different locations: Paul’s Beach, Laurence Harbor and at Pirate’s Cove in Cliffwood Beach.
Paul’s Beach
Location: Route 35 North, Old Bridge Township
Facilities: Parking Area; Comfort Station; Raritan Bay Access; Boardwalk Access; Fishing Pier
The Paul’s Beach section offers visitors unparalleled access and views of the Raritan Bay. It is the start of 1.3 miles of boardwalk and walkways that extend all the way to Margaret’s Creek near Laurence Harbor. A comfort station and ample parking provide the necessities for a great day at the park.
Laurence Harbor
Location: Laurence Parkway, Old Bridge Township
Facilities: Parking Area; Portable Toilet; Boardwalk Access; Playground; Fishing Pier; Walking Paths; Gazebo
Visitors will find the Laurence Harbor section alive with activity. Walkers and joggers can easily access the boardwalk leading back towards Paul’s Beach or take the paved walking paths towards Margaret’s Creek. A brand new playground is a great venue for families and benches provide great views of the Raritan Bay. The Laurence Harbor section also offers easy pedestrian access to local stores, bait shops and restaurants.
Pirate’s Cove at Cliffwood Beach
Location: Raritan Boulevard, Old Bridge Township
Facilities: Parking Area; Portable Toilet; Kayak Access to Whale Creek & Raritan Bay; Boardwalk; Playground; Walking Paths; Gazebo
The Pirate’s Cove section is nestled away in Cliffwood Beach at the southern end of the park. A boardwalk leads out into the salt marsh with breathtaking views of the Raritan Bay. It is a great destination for wildlife viewing. A brand new playground is a great venue for families, along with paved walking paths and a gazebo. Kayakers can access the Rartian Bay from the kayak launch onto Whale Creek.