Nestled on the eastern edge of Monmouth County are three beach communities. Their prime location, and variety of activities for all ages, attract visitors from all over the state and country; but there’s also a small-town charm immediately apparent. The towns – Deal, Long Branch and Sea Bright – each have distinct, unique offerings.
Whether you’re looking for family fun at the water’s edge, strolling down the boardwalk listening to the waves, or searching for something off the beaten path, you’ll find something worth the trip. Below, you’ll find our recommendations for how best to spend a day-trip in all three towns.
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The Best Events
Best for everyone: Thursdays by the Sea in Long Branch
When: Thursday evenings, 7:00 pm
Where: Festival Plaza, Pier Village
Description: This weekly music series is the perfect early start to the weekend. Spend your Thursday night listening to up-and-coming local talent while in the heart of Pier Village on the Long Branch boardwalk. While the music is playing, you can enjoy a wide variety of boutique shops and restaurants serving seafood, souvlaki, and cold beer.
More information: Visit http://www.visitlongbranch.com/index.php/summer-concert-schedule or call 732-222-7000 x5447.
Best for the active lifestyle: Sunset Yoga on the Beach – Sea Bright
When: Thursday evenings, 7:00 pm
Where: The beach in Sea Bright
Description: Unwind after a long day of shopping and time under the sun to the soothing sound of the ocean as you go through various yoga poses designed to relax and stretch your body. Sea Bright offers the ultimate relaxation experience at the shore, as local yoga instructors guide you through exercises in full view of the sunset over the ocean. Whether you’re an experienced yogi or just a beginner, if you’re looking to unwind and want to experience the sunset in a new, unique way, this weekly activity is for you.
More information: Visit http://www.seabrightnj.org/sbnj/Calendars/General%20Calendar/ or call 732-842-0099.
The Best Restaurants
Best for Lunch or Brunch: Le Club Avenue
Address: 23 Ocean Avenue Long Branch
Description: If you’re a foodie or appreciate gourmet cuisine and a fine dining experience, you’ve hit the jackpot with Long Branch, and the oceanfront Le Club Avenue is a pearl on these shores. With a distinct Parisian feel, Avenue offers a top-of-the-line experience with a unique menu including a wide selection of brunch options, tartar, and even escargot. If you’re looking for a high-end experience, look no further.
More information: Visit http://www.leclubavenue.com/ or call 732-759-2900.
Best for Dinner: Woody’s Ocean Grille
Address: 1 E Church Street, Sea Bright
Description: Woody’s offers Southern California and Mexican-inspired seafood and casual dining cuisine in a top-quality beachfront atmosphere. Famous for its fish tacos, the menu also includes many surf & turf options ranging from calamari to pork chops. Taco Tuesday, rain-only drink specials (that’s right!), and a wide variety of food and cocktails at casual dining prices make Woody’s a must-visit for dinner when you’re in the area.
More information: Visit http://www.woodysoceangrille.com/ or call 732-936-1300.
The Best Tourist Attraction
Deal/Long Branch Beaches
Location: Ocean-side, Deal & Long Branch
Description: These local beaches offer a laid back, ocean-side experience with a small town feel. If you’re looking for a day at the beach with less arcade games and funnel cake and more sandcastles and sunbathing, these (often) less populated beaches may be just what you’re looking for.
More information: Visit http://www.dealborough.com/beaches.html or http://www.long-branch.net/long-branch-beach.shtml.
The Best Beach Tips
Badges: Know ahead of time if you plan on staying for an afternoon, or plan on making frequent trips to these beaches, that way you can plan what kind of pass you are going to need to access the beaches.
Parking: With metered parking available along most beachfront areas, there is a decent amount of short-term parking. But look into lots with daily rates for extended stays; or free/customer parking at shops and restaurants and on smaller side streets if you don’t mind the walk.
Changing facilities: Depending on which beach you visit, the public restrooms and changing facilities can be across the street from the beach, so prepare accordingly.
Public Beach: Sea Bright offers seven free public beach access ways off of Ocean Avenue. Though these are not staffed by life guards and don’t have direct access to the restroom facilities and locker rooms of the municipal beaches requiring passes, they might be ideal for a day in the sand.
Hero (Top) Feature Image: © Sea Bright / Website
Additional Images (in Order) Courtesy:
Le Club Avenue
Woody’s Ocean Grille
Deal Borough / Website
Long Branch / Website
