Gunnison Beach also known locally as Sandy Hook, is New Jersey's only legal clothing-optional beach, located on the Atlantic Coast, in Middletown Township. This two-mile stretch of sand was once the site of a military base; soldiers frequently went skinny-dipping in the nearby surf until the facility was decommissioned in the early ’70s.

A very popular nude beach; You will find the clothing-optional section is about ¾ mile long. The signs perpendicular to the shore, mark the boundaries with the clothed sections. The path from the pavilion brings you to the left-side boundary which is an imaginary line that is not strictly honored.

The location of the beach is on a lovely peninsula that comprises the Gateway National Recreation Area. It protrudes into New York harbor and provides a great view of Staten Island and Manhattan. Because of the park entry fee, being located all the way to the back, and approx half-mile walk from the plaza (where the restrooms are located) to the beach, Gunnison deters gawkers. Many nudists make a visit to the beach part of a Jersey Shore vacation, driving through such scenic towns as Rumson and Red Bank or eventually making their way into New York City.