The latest update for The Best Jersey Shore Towns to Visit During Winter is written by Lindsay Podolak.
After summer in New Jersey passes by, colder weather brings an incredible peace and quiet to those shore towns that were so chaotic just weeks before. Which means it’s the perfect time to plan an off-season getaway. Imagine a world where there’s no wait at your favorite restaurants, and no sound other than the ocean just a few feet away.
It’s a true break from everyday life, and you deserve it. So leave the bathing suit at home and plan your cold-weather getaway to one of these unlikely shore towns.
Quick Click Guide: Select a County below to find Shore Towns from that area.
| Atlantic County | Cape May County | Monmouth County | Ocean County |
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Atlantic County
Atlantic City
Location: Atlantic County, Exit 38
During the Winter: The casinos and clubs run year-round and are the city’s most popular destinations. In particular, the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City treats their guests like rock stars. Besides the casinos, Atlantic City is also home to New Jersey’s tallest lighthouse, Absecon Lighthouse; which happens to be the third-tallest in the US as well. If you’re traveling with kids, check out the Ripley’s Believe It or Not! museum. Restaurant Week is typically an annual tradition, but for 2021 will take place in October.
Where to Stay: The Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, of course!
Why I like it: Animal lovers can visit the nearby Marine Mammal Stranding Center in Brigantine. They offer a gift shop, educational exhibits, and an inside look at sea animals during rehabilitation.
Hammonton
Location: Atlantic County, Exit 28
During the Winter: Wineries and breweries abound in Hammonton, but there’s plenty more besides imbibing to keep you busy. The downtown is a bustling center of independent shops and restaurants, as well as the Eagle Theatre; however, the latter is currently closed due to COVID-19.
Where to Stay: Step back in time with a stay at The Farmhouse at White Horse Winery. First, you’ll wake up to a gourmet breakfast in one of six guest rooms before your visit to the winery. (Editor’s Note: The Farmhouse is currently closed, but hopes to re-open in the fall of 2021.)
Why I like it: Hammonton’s Casciano Coffee is one of eleven spots serving the best hot chocolate in South Jersey. Stop by for a cozy cup of goodness this winter.
Galloway
Location: Atlantic County, Exit 41
During the Winter: Take a day trip to Historic Smithville. This old-fashioned village boasts over 60 shops, cobblestone streets, and foot bridges. You’ll find it all — toys, collectibles, clothing, candles, and food — at this 17th-century landmark.
Where to Stay: The Colonial Inn inside Historic Smithville features rooms with lakeside views, porches and luxurious decor.
Why I like it: Bird watchers, rejoice! The Edwin B. Forsythe Wildlife Refuge spans 47,000 acres and is a magnet for winter birds. For instance, you can spot piping plovers, American black ducks, and Atlantic brants in the cold months.
Cape May County
Cape May
Location: Cape May County, Exit 0
During the Winter: There are wine tastings at Willow Creek Winery, and craft beer samples at Cape May Brewing Company. Meanwhile, history buffs can enjoy the Naval Air Station Wildwood Aviation Museum and The Museum of Cape May County. Some of the best eateries around include The Washington Inn and Peter Shields Inn and Restaurant. Then there’s the Beef Jerky Outlet, which offers jerky as well as jellies, jams, candy, and popcorn.
Where to Stay: The Star Inn offers a variety of suites to suit any group size.
Why I like it: Cape May is far enough south it feels like a road trip without crossing state lines!
Ocean City
Location: Cape May County, Exit 30
During the Winter: Ocean City is a year-round fishing destination. While October and November is striped bass season, December catches include blackfish, ling, and cod. Likewise, cold weather migration makes for great bird watching in the Back Bay. The Asbury Avenue shopping district offers more than 100 shops and eateries. In fact, there’s a restaurant for every meal. Families will find plenty of interesting info during a day trip to the Ocean City Historical Museum.
Where to Stay: The Port-O-Call Hotel features beautiful ocean views and is just half a mile from the Ocean City Music Pier.
Why I like it: There is always plenty to do along the famous Ocean City boardwalk!
Stone Harbor
Location: Cape May County, Exit 10A
During the Winter: Stone Harbor is perfect for families. The town has educational spots like The Wetlands Institute and the Stone Harbor Bird Sanctuary, as well as great food; stop by the famous Uncle Bill’s Pancake House or grab dessert at Springer’s Homemade Ice Cream. There are also annual charitable traditions like the Polar Bear Plunge and Stone Harbor Shiver, if you’re brave enough.
Where to Stay: The Reeds at Shelter Haven is a picturesque place to spend your Stone Harbor getaway.
Why I like it: Stone Harbor and Avalon are right next to each other on Seven Mile Island; in other words, you can visit two great towns for the price of one vacation!
Monmouth County
Asbury Park
Location: Monmouth County, Exit 102
During the Winter: Asbury Park is both a bar-hopper and music-lover’s paradise. They typically have events along the boardwalk every single evening. Many spots are even pet friendly (for instance, the Wonder Bar hosts a “Yappy Hour” for furry friends). The Asbury Park Convention Hall also houses many events, from shopping to entertainment.
Where to Stay: The Asbury Hotel is the latest social hub, located right in the center of the action.
Why I like it: The Stone Pony rocks all year round, and the winter is no exception.
Red Bank
Location: Monmouth County, Exit 109
During the Winter: Red Bank is the perfect place for a shopping getaway. From high-end boutiques to mom-and-pop hobby shops, there’s a store for every shopper. (Of course, Red Bank is home to Kevin Smith’s famous comic shop, Jay and Silent Bob’s Secret Stash.) One notable eatery is JBJ’s Soul Kitchen, run by the Jon Bon Jovi Foundation. The menu has no prices, and guests can donate either money or volunteer hours to pay for their meal. As for fun, theaters such as the Two River Theater and Count Basie Theater offer new performances regularly.
Where to Stay: The Oyster Point Hotel as well as sister hotel The Molly Pitcher Inn are great options.
Why I like it: You can go ice skating at the Red Bank Armory.
Spring Lake
Location: Monmouth County, Exit 98
During the Winter: Close proximity to Allaire State Park makes Spring Lake a great destination for bikers and hikers. But indoorsy types can also enjoy the living museum at Allaire Village, a nineteenth-century iron-working town. During normal circumstances, the Spring Lake Theatre Company hosts an annual holiday performance of Scrooge. Other holiday standouts include the Spring Lake Christmas Celebration and Candlelight Christmas Inn Tour. Foodies can delight their palates at dining destinations such as Whispers and Arugula.
Where to Stay: The Spring Lake Inn, built in 1888, is just a block from the beach and boardwalk.
Why I like it: The iconic Spring Lake Footbridges. They span the lake and are decked out with lights during the holiday season. You will also be able to enjoy the improvements that the town recently made to the shoreline.
Ocean County
Long Beach Island
Location: Ocean County, Exit 63
During the Winter: The popular Fantasy Island leaves their arcade open on weekends. (The rides are, however, closed during winter.) In addition, this 18-mile long barrier island offers fishing, beaches, and surfing even when it’s cold. From the top of the Barnegat Lighthouse you can catch a panoramic view of the island. You can also explore the New Jersey Maritime Museum’s collection of maritime history and artifacts. The most famous food stop in the area is The Chicken or the Egg (or “CHEGG” as the locals say). While the menu is full of options, their chicken wings are the signature item.
Where to Stay: Drifting Sands Hotel in Ship Bottom is pet friendly with beach access and on-site parking.
Why I like it: Long Beach Island has many year-round dining options, so the food choices are aplenty.
Point Pleasant
Location: Ocean County, Exit 98
During the Winter: The biggest draw of Point Pleasant is arguably Jenkinson’s Arcade. However, Jenkinson’s Aquarium is also a hot spot during cold months, with many types of sea life. Car buffs can also make a trip to the Vintage Automobile Museum of New Jersey. Healthy eaters will appreciate Local Urban Kitchen, a restaurant that accommodates vegan and gluten-free diets.
Where to Stay: The White Sands is on a private stretch of Point Pleasant Beach; complete with a full-service spa and a heated indoor pool.
Why I like it: Given the area’s summer popularity, Point Pleasant is best enjoyed as a quiet, winter getaway.
Toms River
Location: Ocean County, Exit 82
During the Winter: The Toms River Winding River Rink is usually one of the biggest draws. (They hope to open for public skating again soon. But for now, they offer small skating classes.) Meanwhile, the Robert J. Nevins Planetarium offers all sorts of off-world activities. Finally, Cattus Island State Park is great for nature and wildlife lovers.
Where to Stay: The Mathis House is a true Victorian era bed and breakfast, complete with tea time. Click here to visit their website and see why it’s called a hidden gem in the heart of Toms River.
Why I like it: There are plenty of restaurants with heated outdoor seating. The list includes Baker’s Water Street Bar & Grille, Teresa’s Osaka, Burger 25, and The Office.
Hero (Top) Feature Image: © mimadeo / Dollar Photo
Additional Images (in Order) Courtesy:
Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City / Website
Ocean City NJ / Facebook
Asbury Park Boardwalk / Facebook
Mathis House / Website
