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Almost twice the number of beach visitors have decided to set their chairs and umbrellas up on Asbury Park beaches this year as compared to the same time last year, according to city records.

Revenues for the period between May 1 and June 15 show a nearly 100 percent increase, from $63,108 last year to $124,058 this year, an increase of $60,950 between the same period last year.

The majority of beachgoers purchase passes at Third Avenue beach, which drew the highest total at $18,100. First and Fifth avenue beaches follow a close second and third, at $17,951 and $16,222, respectively.

Asbury Park beach utility manager Garrett Giberson, Sr. attributes the increase to a “combination of things,” he said.

“Word got out that Asbury Park is the place to go,’ he said. “Of course, the sun helps, but I think we have a real reputation. Our wide, spacious beaches are inviting to people.”

In addition, people who come to the city to visit the boardwalk businesses and attractions get to see the quality of the beaches and, in turn, those who visit the beach get to see what the boardwalk offers, said Giberson.

“I think they are mutually supportive of one another,” he said. “It is increasingly evident that more people are visiting Asbury Park and we are fortunate to have good weather.”

Seasonal beach memberships are up $38,000 from last year, records show.

Within the previous ten summers, beach revenue has increased from $100,000 to $1 million.

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