A Weekend At The Jersey Shore - Point Pleasant Beach Locals Guide
As someone who was born and raised at the Jersey Shore, I can tell you that there's no better place to spend a summer weekend. With its pristine beaches, bustling boardwalks, and vibrant nightlife, New Jersey has everything you need for the ultimate summer escape. I grew up in Point Pleasant, and have spent the last 27 summers laying on the beach, riding my bike, eating ice cream, and visiting all the local shops, bars, and restaurants. I figured I would share here with you my favorite spots so you can have one of the best summer trips at the shore.
Where to Stay:
There are plenty of accommodation options in Point Pleasant Beach, from cozy seaside motels to modern beachfront hotels. If you are looking for a cheaper classic seaside motel option, I would recommend the Surfside Motel. This motel is clean and reasonably priced and it is located in walking distance of a variety of restaurants, bars and the beach.
For a more upscale experience, the White Sands Oceanfront Resort & Spa offers luxury accommodations, private beach access, and world-class dining and spa services. It's the perfect place to pamper yourself and indulge in a little relaxation and rejuvenation.
*Travel Tip: You will have to pay for parking in any of the large parking lots and on any street that is east of Ocean Avenue and also on Ocean Avenue. However, parking is free anywhere west of Ocean Avenue. Some of the parking meters along Ocean Ave only accept coins, so I would be prepared with enough coins to pay for a whole day if you plan on paying*
Beach Day:
Of course, the main draw of Point Pleasant Beach is its beautiful beaches. With its soft sand and crystal-clear waters, it's the perfect place to catch some rays and take a dip in the ocean. If you are planning on spending a day at the beach at the shore, make sure you pack the beach day essentials as some of the beaches do not have any amenities.
*Travel Tip: One thing you must know when visiting the Jersey Shore is that you have to pay to visit any of the beaches. So make sure you have cash on you as most of the beach access points do not accept credit cards.”
This being said you have to deiced which beach access point you are going to enter through when you visit as that will be where you have to sit and stay during your beach day. For Example: If you were to purchase a wristband to enter Bradshaws Beach, than you can only sit and relax on Bradshaw’s beach and you cannot walk down to Jenkinsons and sit on their beach. Also, many of the beach access points offer different experiences for the day so be aware when choosing.
If you are looking forward to day drinking on the beach in a more party-like vibe, than you will definitely want to check out Martells off the boardwalk. At Martells, you can pay for their wristband where you can relax on the beach with a cold alcoholic beverage.
If you are looking for a quiet and less crowded beach, you can purchase a wristband for Bradshaws Beach at, 1 Washington Ave, Point Pleasant Beach. Here you can purchase a wristband for the day right at the gate and relax on the beach all day. Be aware Bradshaw’s beach does not allow alcoholic beverages on the beach and only has a port-o-potty for a restroom, but this beach will be much less crowded and more relaxing than by the boardwalk beaches which are farther north. This beach also does not have any rentals so you have to be prepared with anything you need for the day.
If you are looking for a beach day with children then there are two main beaches in Point Pleasant that you will want to look. First would be any of the Jenkinson’s Boardwalk Beaches that are located up and down Jenkinson’s boardwalk. These beaches will have children’s rates, full bathrooms, and tons of food, drinks, games, and even umbrella and beach chair rentals. The second option that I would recommend would be to visit Maryland Avenue Beach. This beach offers cheaper rates for children under a certain age so you are not paying full price for all your kids. This beach is also within walking distance of a couple of restaurants if you need to grab lunch, but other than that, this beach only offers the beach and a port-o-potty. They do not have rentals or any full bathrooms here.
Where to Eat:
When it comes to dining in Point Pleasant Beach, there are plenty of options to choose from. If you're in the mood for seafood, there's no shortage of options here are some of my favorites:
For Seafood:
For Casual Bar Food:
For a Fancy Sit Down Dinner
Charlies of Bayhead (yes this is in Bayhead but it is so close to Point Pleasant Beach and SO delicious)
For a slice of pizza (we all know the jersey shore has the best pizza)
Pat’s Pizza (This one is technically in Point Pleasant Boro, but this is the best pizza and totally worth the 10 minute drive)
Patio Bar at The Wharfside
Breakfast:
Barons Bagels
Round Dough With a Hole
Joe’s Bagel and Grill
Muller’s Bakery (This is technically in Bayhead again but this is one of the best bakeries at the Jersey Shore)
Where to Party:
When the sun goes down, Point Pleasant Beach comes alive with a lively nightlife scene. For a more casual drink with live music I would visit the Patio Bar at the Wharfside, this bar is all outdoors on the water and has a huge central bar and live music on the weekends. Another favorite spot of mine is the Broadway Bar and Grill, the broadway used to be an old fisherman bar but is now a fun local hangout with a big bar, live music, and authentic decor.
If you are looking for a livelier party scene, I would visit Jenk’s Club. This is one of the largest clubs at the Jersey shore with an indoor band and outdoor DJ on the weekends, you will have to pay a cover to get in, but if clubs are your thing, this will be worth it.
Where to Shop:
There are a ton of cute shops all around Point Pleasant Beach, I would recommend you take a stroll down Arnold Ave, this is where you can find most of the great little stores in town. These are a few of my favorites:
From the beautiful beaches to the lively boardwalks and delicious local cuisine, there is never a dull moment at the Jersey Shore. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly vacation or a fun-filled getaway with friends, the Jersey Shore has something for everyone. So pack your bags, grab your sunscreen, and get ready to create unforgettable memories at one of the East Coast's most beloved summer destinations!
