16 Quaint New Jersey Shore Towns Perfect for a Summer Day Trip
The New Jersey Shore isn’t all about the crowds and the hustle of famous destinations like Atlantic City. Tucked away along the coastline are charming, lesser-known towns perfect for a peaceful summer day trip.
From beachside relaxation to quaint shops and restaurants, these towns offer a refreshing mix of coastal beauty, history, and relaxation. Here are 16 New Jersey Shore towns you should visit for a calm, unforgettable escape.
Cape May
Cape May is a historic gem with Victorian homes, boutique shops, and a relaxed beach vibe.
As one of the oldest resort towns in the U.S., it offers a stunning, quiet retreat with scenic walking tours, a lighthouse to climb, and quaint ice cream parlors.
Spring Lake
Known for its elegant charm, Spring Lake is often referred to as the “Jewel of the Jersey Shore.”
This picturesque town features a beautiful, pristine beach, a lovely boardwalk, and peaceful lakeside parks, ideal for those looking for quiet, scenic surroundings.
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Ocean City
Ocean City has a family-friendly, small-town feel with a classic boardwalk and amusement park attractions.
While it can get busy during peak times, its welcoming atmosphere, family-owned stores, and expansive beach make it a perfect choice for a day of fun and relaxation.
Long Beach Island
Long Beach Island is known for its natural beauty, sandy beaches, and relaxed pace.
The island boasts charming towns like Beach Haven and Barnegat Light, offering a mix of antique shops, fresh seafood restaurants, and cozy beach cottages.
Asbury Park
Asbury Park offers a vibrant arts scene, a beautiful boardwalk, and an eclectic mix of old and new.
Known for its music history and funky vibe, this town has plenty of small cafes, bars, and galleries to explore, perfect for creative souls.
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Stone Harbor
Stone Harbor is a quaint, family-friendly destination with serene beaches and charming streets lined with boutiques and cafes.
It’s a quieter alternative to some of New Jersey’s more bustling beach towns, ideal for leisurely exploring or unwinding by the calm ocean waves.
Sea Girt
This charming coastal town is ideal for visitors seeking peace and beauty without the crowds.
Sea Girt boasts a stunning beach, scenic boardwalks, and a historic lighthouse, offering a peaceful walk or quaint shopping experience.
Point Pleasant Beach
Point Pleasant Beach offers a great mix of traditional beach fun and serene spots.
The iconic Jenkinson’s Boardwalk has all the fun, with arcades, food stands, and a small aquarium, while the nearby beaches and parks offer a quieter escape.
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Bay Head
Bay Head is the epitome of a quiet, small town with a touch of beachy elegance.
Known for its charming Victorian homes and peaceful atmosphere, it’s perfect for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle.
Avalon
Avalon is perfect for those looking for a less crowded beach day.
With stunning beaches, upscale dining, and a serene atmosphere, it’s an ideal spot to relax and unwind. Whether enjoying water sports or soaking up the sun, Avalon offers a laid-back escape by the water.
Belmar
Belmar is a vibrant beach town with a small-town feel.
It boasts a beautiful beach, a bustling marina, and an inviting boardwalk, perfect for walking, cycling, or sitting at a café in a laid-back atmosphere.
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Lavallette
Lavallette is a hidden gem that feels like a step back in time.
The town’s quiet beaches and charming neighborhoods make it perfect for a relaxing day trip, followed by exploring small shops or enjoying a meal at family-run restaurants.
Wildwood Crest
Wildwood Crest offers a more laid-back alternative to its lively neighbor, Wildwood.
With calm beaches and a relaxed vibe, it’s ideal for those who want to lounge on the beach without the distractions of larger crowds and louder attractions.
Point Pleasant Borough
With its peaceful boardwalk, scenic beaches, and quiet parks, Point Pleasant Borough offers a relaxing getaway for those who want to take it easy.
Enjoy local seafood at charming restaurants or simply walk through its scenic streets.
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North Wildwood
North Wildwood is perfect for visitors who prefer a more relaxed, quiet beach atmosphere with plenty of historic charm.
With cleaner beaches, smaller crowds, and stunning scenery, it’s an ideal destination to unwind by the water and explore its quaint surroundings.
Manasquan
Manasquan is a cozy beach town known for its scenic shoreline and peaceful atmosphere.
With fewer tourists than its larger counterparts, it offers a chance to enjoy the quiet charm of New Jersey’s coast, whether strolling along the beach or dining at waterfront restaurants.
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