Do you know these secret NJ beaches? Here are 3 that made a national top 100 list

Since summer is on its way, the time to maximize local beaches in New Jersey has come, especially those hidden gems.

Family Destinations Guide, a family-friendly travel website, says the Garden State has three of America’s Favorite 100 Secret Beaches.

To determine the list the online website surveyed 3,000 families in the United States on which hidden beaches they most want to visit this summer.

Out of 100 beaches three New Jersey beaches ranked 5th, 49th, and 85th. But one of these beaches is not known for hiding.

Here are the beaches that made the list:

• Gunnison Beach is located in Middletown Township in Monmouth County and is the No. 85 hidden beach on the list. What Family Destinations Guide didn't point out but locals undoubtedly know is Gunnison Beach is New Jersey's only clothing-optional beach. This not-so-hidden beach has been named on a top 100 best skinny dipping spots in the world list. It is also part of the Sandy Hook Unit of Gateway National Recreation Area.

• Pearl Beach is located in Cape May and is the No. 49 hidden beach on the list. This beach is very quiet and is filed with birds and monarch butterflies. It also neighbors St. Pete's Beach and this beach area does not have a street or promenade between the houses and sand.

• Sedge Island located in Barnegat Bay off Island Beach State Park and is the No. 5 hidden beach on the list. A 15-minute boat ride from Island Beach State Park takes you to the island with soft sand, but no boardwalk.  It is also a marine conservation zone that offers environmental education programs to participants 12 years of age and older.

Three Hawaii beaches and one Florida beach are part of the top 5 hidden beaches. Check out the complete list of The Top 100 Hidden Beaches in the USA here.

This article originally appeared on Asbury Park Press: Three New Jersey spots make list of favorite secret beaches