732.389.4800Jersey Shore Travel Guide – Best Beaches & Things to do
Looking for an authentic East Coast beach getaway that’s just a short trip from New York City? The Jersey Shore is the perfect destination.
Stretching from the vibrant boardwalks of Asbury Park to the windswept dunes of Sandy Hook, this region blends coastal beauty and seaside charm with rich history and dynamic cultural attractions.
Whether you’re planning a relaxing retreat or an activity-packed adventure, this Jersey Shore travel guide is your key to making the most of your Jersey Shore vacation:
Why Visit the Jersey Shore?
The Jersey Shore is not just a summer vacation destination. The region provides a dual experience of beach activities alongside shopping districts and live musical entertainment.
Our Jersey Shore travel guide provides so many reasons to visit the Jersey Shore.
- Close to NYC: The coastal destination provides a quick escape from NYC as it is less than an hour away by car which makes it perfect for weekend visits or longer trips.
- Varied Activities: The area features a mix of amusement parks, arcades, lighthouses and hiking trails which appeal to different types of visitors.
- Historic and Cultural Charm: The area features a unique blend of historic sites, Victorian homes and art and music venues.
- Great for Families: The combination of clean beaches and walkable towns along with multiple ice cream stands makes this destination especially appealing for families.
Where to Stay in Jersey Shore
While there are plenty of beachfront rentals and hotels, consider staying slightly inland for easier access to the entire region.
One such central location is Tinton Falls where you can quickly access major highways and visit the best Jersey shore towns.
Address: 3 Centre Plaza Tinton Falls, NJ 07724
Phone: (732) 389-4800
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- Central location to the many things to do in the Jersey Shore.
- Luxury furnishings and amenities inspired by five-star hotels
- Easy access to nearby businesses such as notable attractions such as Netflix and St. Barnabas cancer research hospital and attractions like the Capelli Sports Center and the PNC Bank Arts Center.
- Special Vacation offers and discounts for weddings and private events.
- With so much to see and things to do in Jersey Shore, yet you should choose a central location that provides comfort and accessibility to all attractions.
What Our Guests Are Saying
New Jersey Coastal Towns Worth Visiting
Each town along the Jersey Shore offers its own unique vibe, from artsy enclaves to laid-back beach retreats. Get ready to discover coastal gems that cater to every kind of traveler.
Here’s a quick snapshot from our Jersey Shore travel guide highlighting some of the top towns you won’t want to miss!
- Asbury Park: Famous for its boardwalk, indie spirit, and live music venues like the Stone Pony and Asbury Lanes.
- Ocean Grove: A quieter alternative known for its Victorian architecture and historic Great Auditorium.
- Long Branch: A more modern seaside experience with shopping and dining at Pier Village.
- Sandy Hook: A haven for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and history buffs with its preserved landscapes and military heritage.
Best Beaches on the Jersey Shore
This coastal area contains the best Jersey Shore beaches.
No jersey shore travel guide would overlook the beaches located on the Jersey Shore.
Asbury Park’s mile of beach attracts surfers along with swimmers, sunbathers and fishermen. Beach badges can be acquired online or at First Avenue on the boardwalk.
Visitors can relax, swim, and shell hunt at this family-friendly beach. Visitors can buy their beach badges online.
The main beach offers a wide area of golden sand and many spaces for sunbathing, swimming, and playing beach sports. Get a beach badge by visiting any entry point or on the boardwalk.
The barrier beach peninsula at Sandy Hook extends over 7 miles with swimming, sunbathing, and fishing areas. Reach them through parking lots that connect to the beach. Parking costs $20 per day.
Latitude Suites in Tinton Falls provides the perfect home base to explore Jersey Shore coastal towns and beaches.
Top Things to Do
Our Jersey Shore travel guide showcases the best of the region—from iconic beach boardwalks buzzing with energy to quaint historic districts that echo with charm, and peaceful natural escapes perfect for unwinding. Whether you’re planning a fun-filled family getaway, a cultural exploration, or an outdoor adventure, the Jersey Shore delivers a diverse mix of activities, flavors, and unforgettable coastal vibes.
Family-Friendly Activities
The Asbury Park Boardwalk features arcade games together with mini-golf and splash pads and shops which create an excellent destination for families.
Shoppers can find beachfront dining options together with shopping establishments at the Pier Village located in Long Branch.
The historic horse racing events at Monmouth Racetrack provide visitors with both live races and restaurant facilities.
Major brands can be found at discounted prices at the Jersey Shore Premium Outlets which are only a short drive inland.
The Tinton Avenue Waterfall exists as a secret natural attraction that visitors can find behind the municipal building of the town.
Culture and Entertainment Activities
Spend an evening at the Stone Pony or Asbury Lanes. Live music fans can experience both local musicians and national touring acts at these iconic music venues.
The Silverball Retro Arcade in Asbury Park provides vintage pinball machines to create a nostalgic gaming experience.
The Great Auditorium in Ocean Grove is a historic venue which hosts concerts, plays and lectures.
The Count Basie Center & Two River Theater in Red Bank are excellent choices for those who love music, theater and art performances.
Outdoor and Adventure Activities
The protected coastal landscape in the Gateway National Recreation Area in Sandy Hook allows visitors to hike, bike, kayak and birdwatch.
The scenic rail-trail of Henry Hudson Trail is a perfect spot for walkers, runners and cyclists.
Jumping Brook Golf Club operates as a public golf course in Neptune, which offers its players well-designed fairways along with beautiful landscapes.
Seastreak Ferry Tours operates whale-watching cruises and scenic boat rides during seasonal periods.
Where to Dine Along the Shore
The Jersey Shore food scene offers a wide variety of dining options which match the diverse character of its coastline. Here are recommendations from our jersey shore travel guide.
Robinson Ale House in Asbury Park serves seafood alongside American dishes while providing oceanfront dining opportunities.
The restaurant “Seagrass” in Ocean Grove is a cozy eatery that serves seafood with seasonal ingredients.
McLoone’s Pier House in Long Branch serves upscale meals and steaks from its waterfront dining location.
The Redbank restaurant “Buona Sera” provides Tuscan cuisine to customers while offering an extensive wine selection in its elegant dining area.
Social Centre Bistro & Bar at Latitude Suites in Tinton Falls provides guests with a peaceful spot to enjoy small plates and cocktails.
Plan Your Perfect Getaway
Limited Time Offer- Receive 15% off your stay!
Latitude Suites offers the ideal blend of comfort and convenience, whether you're here for business or leisure. Our spacious rooms, premium amenities, and central location are all designed to make your stay exceptional. Book now and save 15% on your stay!
Jersey Shore Vacation planning Tips
A useful jersey shore travel guide together with prior preparation will significantly improve your vacation experience. To help you create the perfect shore vacation follow these crucial planning tips.
Best Times to Visit
Summer months represent the peak time for Jersey Shore visits particularly from late June through August. The late May to early September period offers you pleasant weather and lower hotel prices because it avoids the peak season crowds.
What to Pack
Your wardrobe should contain light clothing for daytime and a sweater or light jacket for evening. Sunscreen and swimwear together with beach towels, flip-flops, sunglasses and a reusable water bottle are essentials.
Transportation Options
Driving allows the most convenient access to the shore because it provides flexibility for transporting many items and allows you to visit multiple towns. The NJ Transit train system operates along the shore. Visitors should research parking options in advance because some towns have limited parking availability.
Book Early
The Jersey Shore becomes extremely crowded during summer months so guests should book accommodations in advance to avoid paying higher prices at the last minute.
Why Latitude Suites is Your Ideal Jersey Shore Base
At Latitude Suites, we believe your stay should feel like more than just a place to sleep—it should feel like home. That’s why we’ve created a boutique all-suite experience right in the heart of the Jersey Shore, designed for comfort, convenience, and a touch of coastal charm. Here’s what you can expect when you stay with us:
- A prime location that puts you within easy reach of New York City and all the best shore towns via major highways, NJ Transit, and local roads
- Spacious, stylish suites with fully equipped kitchens, multiple bedrooms, and comfortable living areas—perfect for families, couples, or longer stays
- All the essentials you need, including onsite parking, high-speed Wi-Fi, and round-the-clock support from our friendly 24/7 guest services team
- Great vacation packages and exclusive offers to help you get the most out of your trip
Whether you’re here for a weekend getaway or an extended stay, we’re here to make your Jersey Shore experience unforgettable.
Plan Your Perfect Getaway
Limited Time Offer- Receive 15% off your stay!
Latitude Suites offers the ideal blend of comfort and convenience, whether you're here for business or leisure. Our spacious rooms, premium amenities, and central location are all designed to make your stay exceptional. Book now and save 15% on your stay!
Plan Your Stay
Ready to escape to the Jersey Shore in style?
The Jersey Shore is a preferred East Coast vacation spot which unites classic American traditions with contemporary attractions throughout the year to provide something for everyone. Its top towns and beaches combine world-class dining, cultural activities, historical sites with all manner of beach activities and many other things to do.
Starting your journey with our jersey shore travel guide and Latitude Suites as your home base, you will have a stress-free jersey shore vacation filled with wonderful memories.
We invite you to book your stay today.
