The entire length of Atlantic City has open, public, no cost beaches. There are umbrella rentals in front of each of the resorts and there are lots of people all summer. During low tides there is lots of opportunities for children to find shells galore and this activity is probably the favorite of all I have traveled with. Seaglass is always a crowning jewel in the hunt!!! The cities south and north of Atlantic City had wonderful beaches also but require a tag system with an associated cost. Rather than purchasing your sunblock on the boardwalk or at the resorts...venture to the larger chain stores (i.e. Pathmark or Bradlees) in Ventnor for reasonable prices. The beaches are generally less crowded in the morning and late afternoon.
From journal Atlantic City With the Entire Family - 2006