It is that time of year again. Pride in communities across the Jersey Shore is being brought to the forefront as voting gets underway to select New Jersey's Top 10 beaches.

Allenhurst Beach in Monmouth County. (Toniann Antonelli, Townsquare Media NJ)
Allenhurst Beach in Monmouth County. (Toniann Antonelli, Townsquare Media NJ)
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Started in 2008, the Top Ten Beaches Survey was created to encourage stewardship and pride in the state's beaches, while promoting healthy competition between New Jersey's favorite shore towns.

"Whether it's for a day trip or to spend a vacation, it is important to get out the vote for towns in New Jersey who rely on summer tourism.  It's good to have that spirit of competition," said Matthew McGrath, communications specialist with the New Jersey Sea Grant Consortium.

Voting started on May 1 and will continue through June 19.

"When considering your favorite beach, think about accessibility, the cost, the ease of getting there along with the amenities. Whatever you think makes for a good beach day should be considered when voting," McGrath said.

There are four categories to be voted on. Top Ten Beaches Overall, Top Ten Beaches for a Day Trip, Top Ten Beaches for Ecotourism and Top Ten Beaches for a Family Destination.  Ocean City, Wildwood and Wildwood Crest took the top three spots last year.  Belmar, Asbury Park and Island Beach State Park also made it in onto the list.

The project is a collaboration between the New Jersey Sea Grant Consortium and the Richard Stockton College of New Jersey's Coastal Research Center and has become a highlight of the state's summer festivities.

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