Things To Do
Boardwalk
Point of historic interest, local artwork, and great places to eat and check out the local music scene, like Langosta Lounge, Pop's Garage and the legendary Stone Pony, home of The Boss.
Manasquan Beach
Head up to Brielle Road beach to get your tan on, or to Whiting Ave (to the south) or Ocean Ave (to the north) for family friendly spot. Stop by the Inlet to watch fishing boats go out in the morning and grab a cup of coffee at Carlson's Corner (not related)
BookTowne
Brigit worked here for a few years, and has been a loyal customer ever since. The staff are brilliant at picking out the perfect book.
Batch.
For a coffee experience that can't be beat
Sunburst Pie Company
Not saying you have to try the hot chocolate, but it's made from real chocolate, whole bean vanilla and topped with a handmade marsh mellow, blowtorched to perfection right in front of you. Their pies are good too.
Strollos Italian Ice
Get the peanut butter ice swirled with vanilla soft serve, or get funky with the fresh berry flavors. You can't really go wrong (but peanut butter + vanilla is the best way to go right)
Asbury Festhalle & Biergarten
Sit on the sunny roof to enjoy German brews + brats with river and ocean views
Brielle Bagels
Once you eat a Jersey bagel, you won't see bagels the same way ever again
Squan Tavern
See the note on bagels - same applies to pizza. It's the water or something.
Jenkinson's Aquarium
Sharks, penguins, seals and more live in this aquarium on the boardwalk. Fun fact: Brigit had here birthday here an absurd number of times as a kid (what can I say? Percy the Penguin is a great host)
Brits on the Beach
Classic car show featuring all British cars
Point Pleasant Beach Farmers Market
We're not called the Garden State for nothin'. Stop by on your way out of town for some delicious veggies, artisan jams, and more.
Grandma's Meatball
The best Italian food outside of Italy. If you want to stop here one night while you're in town, be sure to make reservations. As the name suggests, try the meatballs.
Blend on Main
Pop in for some delicious fare and relaxing atmosphere. Downstairs from the Inn on Main
The Committed Pig
An entire restaurant dedicated to The Greatest Mystery Meat of all time, whose name is a major point of contention (one of many) between Central Jersey (another point of contention) and our fellows to the North, and who pairs the most perfectly with egg and cheese, the humble, salty, outrageously tasty, Porkroll.
The Salty Whale and Guesthouse
Sit in the beer tent or eat inside, great for grabbing a quick bite and beer
Spring Lake South End Pavilion
Start here for a two and a half mile boardwalk stroll. You'l pass by the Essex and Sussex hotel – opened in 1914 to serve customers looking for an elegant seashore retreat from the bustle of New York City, visited by dignitaries, presidents and more. In 1916, a rogue shark ate one of their bellhops in a spate of shark attacks along the Jersey coastline that later served as inspiration for Jaws.
Hoffman's Ice Cream
You won't regret it. Local chain with delicious flavors.
Rook Coffee
Local staple. Brewed to perfection.
Allaire State Park
For a bit of Jersey shore history, check out Allaire State Park – once an iron town – and walk the trails or visit the historic buildings and interact with re-enactors
Scone Pony
Stop in for tasty pastries at a shop named after one of the Jersey shore's most iconic music venues
Rella's Italian Tavern
Stop by for a beer, pizza, classic goodness