11 Best Jersey Shore Towns to Discover

Well-known for being the backdrop of MTV’s Jersey Shore, Seaside Heights has always been a top destination for the youth of the greater tri-state area and offers a party-centric environment, amusement parks, and nightlife. There’s also Breakwater Beach Waterpark and Seaside Heights Bike and Surrey Rentals for paddleboard rentals, jet ski, kayak, or ride mountain bikes along the street, while the John F. Peto Museum provides a feast for the eyes with modest exhibits of trompe l’oeil (“fool of the eye”) works of art. Schedule free time to dance and drink at JR’s Ocean Bar & Grill, then do not forget to stop by Old Times Photos, whose majestic studio and unique costumes will realize a memorable photoshoot, or chow down at the Sawmill by the main boardwalk, which offers a must-try enormously oversized pizza and homemade pork sandwiches.

Although its name has become synonymous for being a Bruce Springsteen and Bon Jovi springboard and the fulcrum of the gay community, Asbury Park is the ideal voyage for folks in need of freedom and queer nightlife. You can stroll down the boardwalk along the Jersey Shore before making your way to the Wooden Walls Art Project with more than 30 murals to admire on the Sunset Pavilion Building or to the art629, which displays LGBTQ+ artist's contemporary paintings. If you’re looking for a throwback experience, go to the Silverball Pinball Museum for 600 games to play and 200 vintage pinball machines from the 80s to see. Be sure to make a stop at Georgie’s Bar (nicknamed “The Gay Cheers of Asbury Park”) which offers everything from specialty drinks to delicious brunches with weekly karaoke nights on the outdoor patio since 1999.

WHERE: New Jersey, USA

Add Sandy Hook to your summer bucket list if you’re looking for a relaxing day filled with history, non-stop entertainment, and flawless sandy beaches. This old military base and mooring point for boats is located not too far from Manhattan and is home to multiple maritime attractions, including the oldest lighthouse in the US (built in 1764), Fort Hancock’s remains, and the Bay. You can book a day tour that provides an organized itinerary with stops at ambush walls, areas with officers’ old villas and radars, and transportation from New York, making it an easy activity for couples or friends.

WHERE: New Jersey, USA

Quiet and quaint, Spring Lake is a prime destination for your East Coast vacation. It houses the Irish St. Catharine Catholic Church, the Pedego Electric Bikes, and the Spring Lake Theatre, which often hosts classic Broadway-level musicals during the summer. Take a break by sauntering along the Boardwalk and enjoy Jean Louise Homemade Candies sweets by walking through the recreational Divine Park, where you can book a lake-kayak experience or wander along the nearby Marucci Memorial Park, ready to entirely satisfy any kind of visitor with its tennis clubs, well-groomed ballfields and wooden benches from which you can admire surrounding typical Victorian houses decorated with rosewood or mahogany colonnades. End your tour by going for a bit of a shopping spree with local shops like Artisan Spirit, best for unique and handmade souvenirs or It’s Good, suitable for all fashionistas.

WHERE: New Jersey, USA

Founded in 1854, Atlantic City is one of the most original and beloved casino towns in America perfect for a crazy weekend escape. Visit the Central Pier Arcade and Speedway, which brings an outrageous outdoor experience among entertainment centers full of slot machines, video games and cranes also offered in resorts like Hard Rock and Borgata. Rent a bike and ride along the 4.4 mile Boardwalk and ace at the Miniature Golf enjoy an alternative afternoon with the center’s 18-hole course featuring lovely landscapes and suggestive waterfalls. There’s lots to eat, too - especially speaking about savory delicacies. Local tops include the Sugar Factory, a huge confectionery and restaurant which sells handmade doughnuts, desserts, pizza and homemade burgers. At the end, bring back your energies and regenerate yourself by staying at the four-star Harrah’s Resort Atlantic City with its budget-friendly luxury suites, private pool and an equipped wellness area.

WHERE: New Jersey, USA

Nestled by the shoreline, Bradley Beach is a supreme destination for those who adore tradition and vintage aesthetic for their holidays. What does it offer? An old-fashioned boardwalk with a huge promenade where you can hike, jog or enjoy the ocean waves. Surf devotees will be astonished by the Summertime Surf School, which offers private classes for first-time learners or advanced surfers and children’s activities. Take a break from the seaside by grabbing some real Italian chicken dishes or pizzas at Vic’s Italian Restaurant or get a massage at Kur Wellness Studio, whose wellness treatments will regenerate mind and spirit. End your tour with culture and history at Bradley Beach Library, an old public school opened in 1927, which hosts creative writing or poetry programs while ordering from the quintessential diner FINS TropiCali Cuisine, (opened in 2003) which offer tasty Mauna Loa Burritos, Crispy Buffalo Chicken Dip and so much more.

WHERE: New Jersey, USA

With less than 800 residents, Stone Harbor is a charming southern city surrounded by dense vegetation and biggest attractions for everyone. Stop at the family-run business Mack’s Pizza and taste their “tomato pie” before visiting the Wetlands Institute, whose owners offer educational fun for adults and children, in order to learn more about the coastal ecosystem. Don’t miss Ocean Galleries, which often features exhibitions with collections produced by incredible artists who show sculptures and mostly glass pieces. Take some free time, finally, to enjoy Seven Mile Beach, which is tucked between this town and Avalon. Here you can find sandy dunes and high waves, ideal for practicing paddleboard or kayaking.

Despite its proximity to the futuristic and dynamic New York City, you can definitely see a difference between the latter and this postcard rural town. Long Branch is one of the most popular spots for travelers who look forward to rest and totally relax, with its friendly inhabitants and various food stands overlooking the 32-mile-long restored boardwalk. With its fresh look, you must go to the Seven Presidents Oceanfront Park where you can sunbathe or do extreme activities like kayaking or canoeing. For a peculiar immersion in art and culture, visit the Ocean Historical Museum, whose exhibitions give you a glimpse of this city and Monmouth County history. If you want to make your kids live an unforgettable moment, go to the Manhasset Creek Park Playground with a naturalistic area where it is possible to walk, play with swings, slides and be part of educational fun programs. In the meantime, satisfy your culinary cravings by tasting fresh seafood delicacies at Sirena Restaurant, opened since 2006 and mostly known for its gelato and tiramisu.

WHERE: New Jersey, USA

One of the more interesting and unrepeatable things to do in the Jersey Shore is to visit Cape May, which gives visitors much greater insight into the town’s traditions by exploring the Willow Creek Winery and the Cape May Winery and Vineyards, whose owners grows more than 10 varietals across four vineyards since the 90s. This is why you can’t miss a 10$ tasting tour with more than six wines and tasty delicacies. Aviation lovers will love going to the Naval Air Station Wildwood Aviation Museum. The latter, located in the heart of this place, was anciently used as an area to practice takeoffs and landings during WWII. By now, you can admire numerous types of air means like historic planes or helicopters, vintage cars or ferries. Alternatively, the farm Jersey Shore Alpacas allows you to interact with these gentle animals and shop refined handmade clothes. Although this city is also known for being the most haunted in the USA and If you’re looking for a once in a lifetime experience, Cape May MAC will offer you a trolley ride full of paranormal stories about murders and spirits. Conclude your spooky trip with a stop at the Emlen Physick Estate. Opened in 1879, this 11 acres mansion embodies the beauty of the Victorian architecture seen in its 18 rooms, furniture and structure, commissioned by the Physick family and built by the iconic architect Frank Furness.

Whenever you are looking for a sudden routine change, Keansburg might be the perfect solution. Not too far from Coney Island, this beach town will amaze you with its sandy dunes, amusement parks and impressive shopping spots based along the Boardwalk. Once arrived, take a moment to admire the breathtaking view from the closest Pier and book a day at the Runaway Rapids Water Park equipped with water slides, deep pools and spas for families with kids. For a cultural immersion, don’t miss the Historical Society and Museum, which hosts massive exhibits and meetings about Keansburg’s origins and its political and social development. Terminate your vacation by visiting Lake Lefferts and its bluegills and sunning, without forgetting to stop at Half Moon to taste their nationally famous Smash Hamburger Menu.

With only 1334 inhabitants, the sparkly Avalon is a top destination for uncovering different aspects of the Jersey Shore’s biodiversity and vegetation. Once you’ve entered the Avalon Seawatch, multiple species of birds, reptiles, and fishes will welcome all animal lovers. Plan a break to play golf at the iconic Pirate Island Mini Golf and don’t miss the safe fishing excursion by stopping at Miss Avalon Fishing Museum. End your tour by entering at the Avalon History Center to know better how this place was born but, in the meantime, enjoy a brunch at Cafe Loren, famous for its fries and homemade milkshakes and pastries.