Today’s Summer at the Shore article features two towns that are sometimes confused as one by tourists; Both Atlantic Highlands and Highlands offer summertime fun from dawn to well after dusk. With views overlooking the Sandy Hook Bay, its close proximity to New York City, and scenic historical landmarks, there’s plenty to do. Add on delicious dishes from the area’s leading restaurants in seafood and sweets, and you’ve got yourself a day to remember.
Below, you’ll find our top recommendations for how to spend the best day-trip in either Atlantic Highlands or Highlands.
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The Best Events
Best for Families: 22nd Annual Clamfest
When: Thursday, August 4th – Sunday, August 7th
Where: Waterwitch and Bay Avenues, Highlands
Description: Celebrating the Jersey Shore’s fresh seafood, the 22nd Annual Clamfest is the perfect opportunity to sample some of the area’s best restaurants. Enjoy live entertainment, rides and games all weekend long, rain or shine. With views overlooking the Sandy Hook Bay, it’s hard not to feel like the Highlands’ Annual Clamfest is the quintessential Jersey Shore summer event.
More Information: Visit http://highlandsnj.com/.
Best for Adults: Carton Brewing Company Tours and Tastings
When: Every Saturday and Sunday, beginning at Noon.
Where: 6 E. Washington Avenue, Atlantic Highlands
Description: Tour one of the Jersey Shore’s most beloved breweries. Set in a turn-of-the-century red brick warehouse, cousins and local residents Chris and Augie Carton teamed up to brew one of the tastiest beers at the shore. Sample classics including the Boat Beer, 077XX, and Carton of Milk as you hang out in the upstairs lounge area (just be sure to hold onto your poker chips).
More Information: Visit http://cartonbrewing.com/ or call 732-654-2337.
The Best Restaurants
Best for Breakfast and Lunch: The Flaky Tart
Where: 145 1st Avenue, Atlantic Highlands
Description: Ever since The Flaky Tart opened its doors, locals have been wowed by the sweet and savory treats. Now run by Chefs Mathew Rosenzweig and Laura Martelli, you can find out-of-this-world tartletts, buttery croissants, and cheesy frittatas all under one roof. Nominated as a semi-finalist by the James Beard Foundation in 2016, this small shop continues to impress as you never know what they’ll come up with next! (Rhubarb, Goat Cheese, Rosemary and Caramelized Onion Focaccia – who knew!)
More Information: Visit http://www.theflakytart.com/ or call 732-291-2555.
Best for Dinner: Bahrs Landing Seafood Restaurant and Marina
Where: 2 Bay Avenue, Highlands
Description: Open since 1917, Bahrs Landing Seafood Restaurant and Marina is a no-frills seafood joint where you can enjoy upscale cuisine inside the Anchor Room or hang out on Moby’s Deck overlooking the Sandy Hook Bay with the freshest seafood take out. There’s a reason they’ve been open for almost 100 years; great food, picturesque views, and a family friendly mentality.
More Information: Visit http://bahrslanding.com/ or call 732-872-1245.
The Best Tourist Attraction
Navesink Twin Lights
Where: 2 Light House Road, Highlands
Description: Technically in Atlantic Highlands’ sister town, Highlands, Navesink Twin Lights is well worth a visit. Situated high above sea level, the Twin Lights were built in 1828 to support the increase in shipping traffic to the area. The Twin Lights are home to countless historic occurrences, including the first official reading of the Pledge of Allegiance in 1893, the testing of the Mystery Ray, and countless communications experiments. Take a walk inside the building, around Mt. Mitchill – the highest point on the Eastern seaboard – or in neighboring Hartshorne Park.
More Information: Visit http://www.twinlightslighthouse.com/.
General Travel Tips
Ferries: Atlantic Highlands and Highlands are home to two Seastreak Ferry terminals that can bring you to New York City, Martha’s Vineyard, Nantucket, and Boston. The ferries are a great option in the summer if you’re traveling to the Jersey Shore from New York City. Avoid the traffic and enjoy a boat ride!
More Information: Visit https://seastreak.com/.
Hero (Top) Feature Image: © Frank Nicolato /Pinterest
Additional Images (in Order) Courtesy:
Carton Brewing
The Flaky Tart
Bahrs Landing
SeaStreak Ferry
