Not much to say about this one... who doesn't love a day at the beach at the Jersey Shore?! Having spent almost every weekend of the past 8 summers in Spring Lake, we're biased towards the beach at the corner of Ocean and Worthington. However, if you like to pack a big cooler and bring your own drinks we suggest moving a few blocks down toward Belmar. Daily beach passes can be purchased on the boardwalk for $9 (kids 15 and under are free).
Third Ave is the downtown area of Spring Lake. Located 3 blocks from the beach and running directly into the actual lake in Spring Lake, this area of town is absolutely picturesque. Some of Brittany's favorite clothing stores include Waterlilly and Juli Mei. Hit up Just Breezin' or Bain's Hardware Store for some Spring Lake apparel, or beach necessities. Get your Chocolate fix at Third Avenue Chocolate Shoppe or a delicious coffee at Driftwood. Stores range from cafes to home furnishings, pet boutiques to art galleries and everything in between.
Spring Lake is such a stunning town, and we personally think that the best way to see it is by bike! Rent a bike for the afternoon and peruse around! We suggest heading South once hopping on your bike and doing a lap around the actual "Spring Lake". You will pass by St. Catharine's as you make your way around. Ride over the bridges and stop for some photo ops! Weave through town to admire the beautiful homes or along Ocean Avenue. As you make your way North you will come upon another lake - Lake Como - which is much larger than Spring Lake. Take a lap around Lake Como before heading back to return your bike.
When you think of the "Jersey Shore" do you think of boardwalk games, cotton candy, and amusement park rides?! If so, head down to Jenkinson's Boardwalk in Point Pleasant! They have an AWESOME, double sized mini golf course and we highly recommend it.
The Parker House is a happy hour staple in this area of the Jersey Shore. Grab a lobster and a cold beer on the wraparound porch 1 block from the ocean. It's always a blast - we know you won't be disappointed!
The town of Asbury Park is a Jersey Shore icon! Two summers ago Bruce Springsteen made an impromptu appearance on stage while we were in the audience at The Stone Pony Summer Stage seeing Southside Johnny and The Asbury Jukes! Walk the boardwalk and get a hot slice at Maruca's Tomato Pies. Take a photo in front of The Stone Pony. There are tons of restaurants and bars to choose from. Stella Marina has delicious Italian food and a rooftop overlooking the ocean. Asbury Festhalle & Biergarten is always a good time. Cubacan Bar and Restaurant has great cocktails and overlooks the boardwalk. Enjoy!
THIS. ICE CREAM. IS. LEGIT! There will be a line. Go inside and take a number. The ticket machine should be on your right when you walk in. The number on your ticket vs. the number on the board will seem intimidating but we promise it's worth it. The wait is usually max 20 minutes. You also can order online by clicking the "View" button below and just pick it up! Some of our favorites are vanilla with sprinkles, strawberry, black raspberry, chocolate marshmallow, coffee oreo, black cherry, fudge mint cookie (think Girl Scout Thin Mint) and cookie monster (but scrub your mouth after because you will be totally blue, but the cookie dough/oreo combo is so worth it).
For some refreshing, homemade Italian Ice you need to try Strollo's! It's directly across the street from Klein's Fish Market, so if you get dinner there it makes for an easy dessert option. Our favorite is the classic creamsicle - orange ice swirled with soft vanilla ice cream. There is also a Strollo's location near the Jenkinson's Boardwalk in Point Pleasant!
Klein's is a local waterside restaurant that we frequent probably once per week. Their seafood is always fresh, staff is friendly, drinks are plentiful, and you can't beat the view of the boats coming in towards the marina! Also, they often have live music on the deck!
Marina Grill is a MASSIVE new restaurant and bar right on the water in Belmar that we can see directly from the deck on our townhouse! Get there early to put your name in - this place gets jammed - but a cold drink on the huge wraparound deck overlooking the marina should keep you at bay until your table is ready!
If you know Chris, you know that he often drinks about 6 espressos per day, or several cups of coffee. This is his favorite coffee place! If you're sensitive to caffeine opt for a half-caf - this place serves straight up jet fuel but it's delicious.
This is our go-to spot for breakfast on a Saturday or Sunday. The food is simple, the vibe is old fashioned, and the staff is always super friendly.
Tom Bailey's, or "Bailey's" as the locals call it, is our staple lunch spot all year round. They have a wide range of sandwiches and wraps, a large outdoor patio for seating yourself once you pick up your order, and it's right on the beautiful Third Ave!
Have a hankering for an old school Italian sub? Head over to Joe's and order a #20. Joe himself will most likely be sitting outside on the bench in his apron taking a little break, and will give you a warm but quick greeting.
If you're dying for a DELICIOUS slice of pizza and don't mind being seated in a dark sports bar in the dead of August then hit up Pete and Elda's! This is our favorite pizza spot at the Jersey Shore! They also serve comically large cups of soda - they may actually hold 1.5 liters!
Pizza, chicken parm, a nice antipasto, some mozzerella sticks - check out Vic's and get a booth or a table on the patio. Everything is delicious and it's super old school. Try their "special pizza" with sausage and peppers - you won't regret it!
While we recommend staying closer to the beach and exploring the local establishments, if you just can't get your mind off of some outlet deals then checkout the Jersey Shore Premium Outlets! They're beautiful and truly have something for everyone!