Ocean City, Nj: Beer Availability And Restrictions

Ocean City, New Jersey, is a dry town, meaning no alcohol can be sold within its borders. However, it is legal to drink alcohol at home, and residents can buy it in Somers Point and bring it across the bridge. While there are no bars or restaurants that sell alcohol in Ocean City, there are several liquor stores in neighbouring towns, such as Somers Point and Ventnor, that stock a wide range of beers, wines, and spirits.

Ocean City, New Jersey, is a dry town

The state laws governing alcoholic beverages in New Jersey are complex, and individual municipalities have substantial discretion in passing ordinances regulating the sale and consumption of alcohol within their limits. As a result, the availability of alcohol and the regulations surrounding it vary significantly from town to town. A small percentage of municipalities in the state, including Ocean City, are "dry towns" that do not allow alcoholic drinks to be sold and do not issue retail licenses for bars or restaurants to serve alcohol to patrons.

Although it is illegal to drink alcohol on the beach in Ocean City, many tourists are unaware of this ordinance and choose to disobey it. Since 2012, public consumption of alcohol in the town has been classified as a criminal offense, and offenders can face up to 90 days in jail and a $500 fine.

Despite being a dry town, Ocean City residents and visitors can still enjoy a variety of drinks at establishments just off the beach, and there are several options for purchasing alcohol before crossing the bridge into the town.

You can buy alcohol in Somers Point and bring it to Ocean City

If you're planning a trip to Ocean City, New Jersey, it's important to know that it's a dry town, meaning no alcohol can be sold within its borders. So, what's a person to do if they want to enjoy a drink while vacationing in this popular destination? The answer lies just across the bridge in Somers Point.

Somers Point is known for its liquor stores, offering a wide range of options for those looking to stock up before heading to Ocean City. One notable establishment is the Circle Liquor Store, conveniently located right before the Stainton Memorial Causeway. Here, you'll find a variety of liquor, mixers, and liqueurs to suit your tastes. If you're seeking something a little more unique, take a detour off Route 52 to Passion Vines Wine Bar & Spirit Company. This store specializes in handcrafted, artisanal wines and liquors, including local and organic options, and regularly hosts tasting classes during the summer months.

When it comes to purchasing alcohol in New Jersey, it's essential to be aware of the state's complex alcohol regulations. While the state allows bars to remain open until 2 a.m., individual counties and towns may enforce earlier closing times. In Ocean City, the consumption of alcohol in public places like the beach, sidewalks, and the boardwalk is strictly prohibited and can result in fines or even jail time. However, it is legal to drink alcohol at home, and visitors often opt for the BYOB option, bringing their drinks to restaurants and cafes.

So, if you're heading to Ocean City and wish to indulge in some adult beverages, Somers Point is your go-to destination for stocking up. Just remember to drink responsibly and be mindful of the local laws to avoid any unpleasant encounters during your vacation.

Drinking alcohol on the beach in Ocean City is illegal

Drinking alcohol on the beach in Ocean City, New Jersey, is illegal. The town has been a "dry town" since its founding in 1879 by four Methodist clergymen. This means that no alcohol can be sold within its borders.

While it is legal to drink alcohol at home in Ocean City, it is not permitted to consume it in public places such as the beach, boardwalk, or streets. The law prohibits open containers of any kind, and violators can face up to 90 days in jail and a $500 fine.

The Ocean City Beach Patrol works hard to enforce these laws and ordinances, but they need the cooperation of visitors and residents. Drinking alcohol on the beach is not only illegal but also extremely unsafe. Alcohol is dehydrating and impairs judgment, which can lead to accidents and injuries, especially when combined with swimming in the ocean.

If you plan to drink alcohol, it is recommended to do so responsibly and in a private setting or at establishments where it is permitted.

You can buy beer in New Jersey from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m

If you're looking to buy beer in Ocean City, New Jersey, you're out of luck—Ocean City is a dry town, meaning no alcohol can be sold within its borders. However, you can buy beer in New Jersey from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. any day of the week at bars and restaurants, and there are plenty of options just outside Ocean City.

Where to Buy Beer Near Ocean City

Before heading to Ocean City, stock up on beer and other alcoholic beverages at one of the many stores in the neighbouring areas. Here are some options:

• Boulevard Super Liquors in Marmora: This store offers a wide range of wines, including fine and hard-to-find specialty bottles. They also have a rotating craft beer list and dozens of craft and domestic kegs.
• Circle Liquor Store in Somers Point: This almost 80-year-old establishment is known for its liquor, mixers, and liqueurs.
• Passion Vines Wine Bar & Spirit Company in Somers Point: This store offers handcrafted, artisan wines and liquors, including local and organic wines, and regularly hosts tasting classes during the summer.
• Bloom Liquor Store, White Star Liquors, and Downbeach Liquors in Margate: These three stores are located close to each other on Ventnor Ave and offer impressive craft beer, booze, and wine selections.

New Jersey's Alcohol Laws

The state laws governing alcoholic beverages in New Jersey are complex and give individual municipalities substantial discretion in passing ordinances regulating the sale and consumption of alcohol. While some towns in New Jersey allow 24-hour alcohol sales, others are dry towns like Ocean City, where no alcohol can be sold.

In New Jersey, you can generally buy beer from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at bars and restaurants, and from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. at package and liquor stores. However, these hours may vary depending on local ordinances, and some towns may have stricter laws, especially for Sunday sales.

It's important to note that New Jersey has strict laws against public consumption of alcohol, and drinking alcohol on the beach in Ocean City is illegal and can result in fines and even jail time.

So, while you can't buy beer in Ocean City, you can purchase it at various locations near the town and enjoy it responsibly during the permitted hours in New Jersey.

You can get beer delivered in New Jersey

If you're in New Jersey and craving a beer, you're in luck! There are several options for beer delivery across the state.

Beer Delivery Services

Several companies offer beer delivery in New Jersey, including Drizly and Minibar Delivery. These companies partner with local liquor retailers to bring their inventory straight to your fingertips. You can download their apps or use their websites to browse thousands of beer, wine, and liquor options from local and well-known brands. Your order will be delivered to your door in as little as 30-60 minutes.

Breweries and Distilleries

If you're looking for something more local, some breweries and distilleries in New Jersey also offer delivery services. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, some breweries like the Cape May Brewing Company started offering takeout and delivery services. Other breweries that may offer delivery include the Bradley Brew Project, Bolero Snort Brewery, and Carton Brewing, although it's best to call ahead to confirm.

Liquor Stores

Liquor stores like Amanti Vino, Bottle King, and Buy Rite Wine & Liquors also deliver in certain areas of New Jersey. These stores offer a wide range of alcoholic beverages, so you're sure to find what you're looking for.

Online-only Liquor Stores

If you don't mind waiting a little longer for your beer, you can also try online-only liquor stores like WiredForWine.com, which offer delivery across New Jersey.

Ocean City, NJ

It's worth noting that Ocean City, NJ, is a "dry" town, meaning no alcohol can be sold within its borders. However, you can buy alcohol in nearby Somers Point and bring it across the bridge to enjoy at home.

So, whether you're at the beach, in a big city, or somewhere in between, there are plenty of options for beer delivery in New Jersey! Just remember to follow local laws and drink responsibly.

Frequently asked questions