A cute downtown to walk around with plenty of places to eat. Neil's for subs, Windmill for hot dogs, Jack's for pizza and wings. Tak Waterman is a surf / fishing shop owned by friends with some nice New Jersey apparel. Walk to the end of Brighton Avenue to access the boardwalk for a nice stroll along the water.
Another beach destination, Asbury Park features many great shops and restaurants along Cookman Avenue and Ocean Avenue. Visit the historic Convention Center and check out murals along the boardwalk. Frank's is the best for breakfast (be sure to try a pork roll, egg and cheese on a hard roll) or subs for lunch. They are cash only. Mutiny BBQ on 5th Avenue is also delicious.