HomeFeaturesEntertainmentSummer at the Shore: The Series

Summer at the Shore: The Series

The Jersey Shore is one of the premier summertime destinations for NJ natives and tourists alike. But the more you learn about the Jersey Shore, the more confusing it can be to plan out your vacation. Which town do you visit? What are the rules of that particular beach? Where should I go for food and shopping, or to change my clothes? To help alleviate the anxiety that comes with planning a trip to the Jersey Shore, Best of NJ created the Summer at the Shore series.
What follows is a series of day-trip guides to a large number of Jersey Shore destinations. From great summer events to the best restaurants for brunch, lunch and dinner, to must-see tourist attractions, we’ve got everything you need to decide how to spend the day at any one of the Shore’s most notable areas. Our guides are also full of beach tips, so you’re always prepared for parking, passes, and places to change.
Summer at the ShoreCape May
When it comes to summer at the Jersey Shore, Cape May is in a class of its own. The town offers pristine beaches, fabulous restaurants and a number of other shore amenities. Beyond that, it’s also brimming with rich history and a collection of gorgeous Victorian homes. Here are just a few things that we suggest checking out…
Summer at the ShoreBradley Beach
Home to a thriving Main Street that’s full of delectable restaurants and one of a kind shops, and a pristine beachfront that’s family friendly, it’s no wonder that Bradley Beach has continued to be the home of summer and full-time residents for generations. Bradley Beach provides family-friendly entertainment all summer long…
Summer at the ShoreBelmar & Sea Girt
Set along a stretch of beach that has everything someone could want – no matter their style – these Jersey Shore beach towns are a perfect excuse to get away for a day or weekend. For those looking for live entertainment, great happy hours and tons of activities, there’s no place like Belmar…
Summer at the ShoreBarrier Islands
The Barrier Islands draw thousands of visitors to the New Jersey Shore each summer. From sandy white beaches to fun-filled water parks, this collection of delicate isles is a haven from the hustle and bustle of city life. The islands also have a wealth of restaurants, shops, hotels, and bed and breakfasts all in close proximity to the ocean…
Summer at the ShoreWildwood
This quaint seaside town is a popular resort destination established in the last decade of the 19th Century. You’ll be transported back in time at one of 200 motels, built during the 1950s, that feature neon signs and historic architecture. Wildwood is a quiet destination, making it the perfect spot for families…
Summer at the ShoreAvon by the Sea
Boasting a number of nationally-recognized restaurants and tons of cools shops and events, Avon by the Sea has become a New Jersey hotspot. Whether you are looking for a nice, relaxing day on the beach, a stroll along the boardwalk, or an event-filled day jam-packed with food and shopping, Avon by the Sea is perfect for a day-trip…
Summer at the ShoreAsbury Park
A diverse, funky-yet-family-friendly vibe distinguishes Asbury Park from other Shore towns. The iconic Asbury Park Boardwalk has choice people-watching, great shops and restaurants, and fun kids activities like a Splash Pad and mini-golf course. Beyond the beach, the downtown area is full of eclectic shops, antiques, and great vintage stores…
Summer at the ShoreLong Beach Island
Why visit just one beach town when you can enjoy an entire island full of summer fun? Long Beach Island has it all–the bay, the beach, and plenty of fun, food and entertainment to keep the whole family busy whether you’re visiting for the week or staying all summer long. So pack up the car, grab your sunscreen and head down to Exit 63…
Summer at the ShoreAtlantic City
Long known for its casinos, and as the inspiration for the classic Monopoly game, it may come as a surprise that there is a lot more than gambling going on in Atlantic City this summer. From fabulous restaurants, hotels, shops, and sights by the sea, there is plenty to see and do on and near the city’s famous four-mile boardwalk…
Summer at the ShoreAvalon & Stone Harbor
If you’re looking for a family-friendly trip to a quaint Jersey Shore town with beautiful beaches, great restaurants and plenty to do, Stone Harbor and Avalon are both excellent choices. These two beach towns, located in Cape May County on Seven Mile Island, offer everything you need for a memorable summer vacation…
Summer at the ShoreManasquan
It looks like we’re headed for a scorching hot summer this year; luckily, Manasquan has the perfect destinations to cool off and enjoy the weather. From their restaurants to their tourist attractions, Manasquan has a number of establishments and locations that welcome all beach-goers and travelers…
Summer at the ShoreAtlantic Highlands & Highlands
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…
Summer at the ShoreSandy Hook
Just off the coast of Highlands is the Garden State’s special island, Sandy Hook. The slice of paradise is a tremendous location for fishermen, beach-goers, and tourists alike. Not far from its shore are a number of restaurants and attractions to keep families busy throughout the summer season of vacations…
Summer at the ShoreWall Township
Though Wall Township does not encompass its own beach, it has still become a popular spot for relaxing and enjoyable New Jersey vacations. The township has a number of renowned restaurants and attractions, and is not far from Belmar and Asbury Park, so families, couples, and even large groups can always keep busy…
Summer at the ShoreSpring Lake
The charming little town of Spring Lake hails itself as “The Jewel of the Jersey Shore,” and for good reason. The non-commercial, pristine boardwalk borders a beautifully-kept beach and a picturesque, tree-lined downtown area that’s filled with unique shops and excellent restaurants…
Summer at the ShoreOcean Grove
Fun fact #1: In 2014,  Fodor’s named Ocean Grove as one of the Top 15 Beach destinations in the world, citing the pristine beach, family-centered entertainment, charming downtown and beautiful Victorian buildings. Fun fact #2: Ocean Grove has the highest concentration of authentic Victorian architecture in the country…
Summer at the ShoreRumson
One visit makes it easy to see Rumson’s appeal: There is waterfront access (via the Navesink River), but the swelling Jersey Shore crowds are kept at bay. A visit to Rumson offers a glimpse at some magnificent turn of the century estates and gardens, best seen on a bike or on foot. Here are our picks for the best that Rumson has to offer visitors…
Summer at the ShoreDeal, Long Branch & Sea Bright
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…
Summer at the ShoreRed Bank
Red Bank is one of those unique Jersey Shore destinations not focused on the beach, with an unparalleled downtown experience and plenty of waterside fun on the Navesink River. The area offers boutique shops, gourmet and casual restaurants, and plenty of lodging, making it perfect for a day-trip or long weekend at the shore…


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