Jersey Shore Gravel vs Pea Gravel
Side-by-side comparison of Jersey Shore Gravel and Pea Gravel to help you choose the right gravel for your project.
Overview
Jersey Shore gravel is a naturally rounded, multicolored stone originating from river deposits in the northeastern United States. Its smooth texture and varied coloration make it a popular decorative gravel.
Small, rounded stones about 3/8 inch in diameter. Smooth texture and available in natural earth tones. Pea gravel is one of the most popular decorative gravels for residential projects thanks to its comfortable feel underfoot and attractive appearance.
Common Uses
Jersey Shore Gravel
- ✓ Landscaping
- ✓ Garden beds
- ✓ Decorative ground cover
- ✓ Walkways
Pea Gravel
- ✓ Patios
- ✓ Walkways
- ✓ Playgrounds
- ✓ Drainage
- ✓ Landscaping beds
- ✓ Garden paths
Pros & Cons
Jersey Shore Gravel
- + Attractive multicolor appearance
- + Smooth texture
- + Low maintenance
- − Does not compact
- − Can shift under foot traffic
- − Higher cost than standard gravel
Pea Gravel
- + Affordable and widely available
- + Smooth and comfortable underfoot
- + Excellent drainage
- + Attractive natural colors
- + Easy to spread and install
- − Shifts and migrates easily
- − Not ideal for driveways (poor compaction)
- − Requires edging to stay contained
- − Can be tracked indoors
- − Difficult to shovel snow from
Cost Comparison
| Measure | Jersey Shore Gravel | Pea Gravel |
|---|---|---|
| Per ton | $60 – $120 | $25 – $50 |
| Per cubic yard | $75 – $150 | $30 – $60 |
Sizes & Colors
Jersey Shore Gravel
Typically available in 3/8" to 1.5" sizes. Colors include tan, brown, gray, and red tones.
Pea Gravel
Pea gravel ranges from 1/4 to 3/8 inch in diameter. It comes in natural earth tones including tan, brown, white, gray, and rust. Some suppliers offer mixed-color blends. The stones are naturally rounded and smooth from water erosion.
Published February 11, 2026
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