AFTER TWO YEARS OF REIMAGINING THEIR PROPERTIES, VENUES ALONG THE FABLED JERSEY SHORE ARE WELCOMING DEVOTEES BACK WITH NEW EXPERIENCES, ATTRACTIONS, AND A FEW SURPRISES
BY LAURA D.C. KOLNOSKI
FIRST LOOK: WHAT’S NEW FOR ‘22!
ASBURY PARK apboardwalk.com
Asbury is an ever-evolving kaleidoscope of restaurants, shops, watering holes, and entertainment options. The boardwalk, beach bars, superb local music scene, and Bruce Springsteen sightings are city hallmarks.
Stone Pony Summer Stage
Rock the block with the stars and under them. Calendar highlights include Fitz and the Tantrums June 11, Yacht Rock Review July 8, The Bouncing Souls Stoked for the Summer Tour July 16, and the Counting Crows Butter Miracle Tour August 6. stoneponyonline.com
The St. Laurent Social Club (Formerly Hotel Tides)
The tide has turned at the boutique favorite known for its restaurant and lively pool scene. New owners revived its original 1880s name, then improved and preserved the rest. 407 7th Avenue, thestlaurent.com
CAPE MAY capemaymac.org
New Jersey’s southernmost resort with its famed lighthouse, diverse restaurants, Washington Street Mall, and impressive collection of Victorian inns and architecture shines year ‘round. Partake in trolley, golf cart, house, boat, walking, and ghost tours sponsored by the Cape May Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts. capemaymac.org
Full Moon Lighthouse Climbs
For the first time, the public can climb the 199 spiral steps to the Watch Gallery of the 1859 Cape May Lighthouse on full moon dates. View the evening sky from 156 feet above the bay and ocean. Dates: Tuesday, June 14, Wednesday, July 13, and Thursday, Aug. 11, 8 p.m. Tickets available on site the evening of the event. capemaymac.org
Harriett Tubman Museum
Locals debate which restaurants the Underground Railroad heroine toiled in during the 1850s, but there is no doubt Harriet Tubman and Cape May played pivotal historic roles. The museum occupies a block that anti-slavery activists once called home and is the first of a planned Museum Row. 632 Lafayette Street, harriettubmanmuseum.org
Cape May/Lewes Ferry Park
White hot Exit Zero Hospitality is transforming the Cape May/Lewes Ferry terminal and Delaware Bay front parkland, a popular wedding spot, into a marquee destination. The project debuted with April’s launch of the Lookout, a second floor circular fi ne dining room serving up awesome panoramic views and coastal cuisine. The ground floor houses the revitalized Café 64 snack and gift shop. Outside, the renamed Boat Drinks, an upgraded and expanded patio bar, adds entertainment, seafood, themed libations, and front seats to the ferry action. Phase Two debuts next year with a shopping village and another restaurant, Exit Zero Ferry Station. 1200 Lincoln Boulevard, North Cape May, visitferrypark.com
La Mer
Those who seek luxury with their historic immersion flock to La Mer, considered Cape May’s top modern accommodation. Its coveted condos with floor to ceiling windows, balconies, and gourmet kitchenettes were remodeled for 2022. Families and groups of up to 22 can stay at La Mer’s stately ten-bedroom Beach House year ‘round. Well-appointed private cabanas have been added on the sand. Guests can elevate their experience with beach dining service newly instituted by the property’s acclaimed Pier House restaurant. The venue’s free Music on the Lawn series, complete with Lawn Bar and fire pits, is open to the public. 1317 Beach Avenue, capemaylamer.com
Summer Crafts & Collectibles Show
10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Saturday, June 18 on the grounds of the grand Victorian Emlen Physick Estate. Wares by vendors and crafters from throughout the Northeast. 1048 Washington Street, capemaymac.org
HIGHLANDS
Sandbox on the Beach
This Raritan Bay venue adjacent to the Seastreak Ferry Terminal debuted last summer. This year, it’s open Tuesdays through Sundays with picnic tables, a bar, fire pits, food vendors, and live music. Enjoy New York skyline views, food from Cousins Maine Lobster, Max’s Hot Dogs, and more, plus themed drinks like the Commodore and Whaling City Express. seastreak.com
Taste of the Highlands
Saturday, June 25. The borough’s many tasty restaurants present their cuisine and cocktails in Huddy Park. highlandsnj.com
LONG BRANCH jerseyfamilyfun.com
Continuing its high-rise evolution, the city’s waterfront area bustles with new eateries, shops, and attractions. There is always more to see and do along the famous boardwalk where seven U.S. presidents vacationed. Download the 2022 Discover Guide at longbranchchamber.org
Long Branch Summer Concerts at Pier Village
Thursdays by the Sea begin June 9 and continue through September 1. 7 p.m. Highlights include the Motor City Revue (June 23), the Moroccan Sheepherders (June 30), and Brian Kirk & the Jirks (Sept. 2 with fireworks). piervillage.com/events
Father’s Day at the Pier
27th Annual Cruise to the Jersey Shore Car Show 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. Sunday, June 19. piervillage.com/events
THE WILDWOODS wildwoodsnj.com
Tread $4 million in new pine on the 2.5-mile boardwalk before heading north to the revitalized ambiance of North Wildwood, alive with bars, restaurants, and super views from the walkable seawall.
North Beach Mini Golf
Putt in view of the Absecon Inlet and Lighthouse at an all-new 18-hole miniature golf course decorated with palm trees and nautical elements. Bike rentals and light concessions, too. 120 Euclid Avenue, northbeachminigolf.com
Barefoot Country Music Fest
June 16 – 19. Over 40 artists including Eric Church, Jason Aldean, Florida Georgia Line, and Bret Michaels perform across five stages on the beach between the famous ride-filled Morey Piers. barefootcountrymusicfest.com
New Jersey State Barbecue Championship
July 8 – 10. Cooking demonstrations, vendors, eats, and tasty competition in categories ranging from sauces to poultry, pork, beef, and desserts. 201 New Jersey Avenue, North Wildwood, njbbq.com
ATLANTIC CITY
THE BEACH BARS ARE OPEN, CALENDARS ARE PACKED, AND AN ARRAY OF NEW SUMMER EXPERIENCES AWAITS.
BALLY’S ballyac.com
Under new ownership, Bally’s $100 million renovation unveils all year. From rugs to chandeliers, new gaming, and all 750 rooms, every inch is undergoing an extreme makeover
Carousel Bar
A fi rst for the city, the new, revolving Carousel Bar replaces the Lobby Bar. Enjoy 360-degree views from the chic, slowly rotating space. A new menu of craft cocktails play off boardwalk fl avors of saltwater taffy, cotton candy, and popcorn.
Legend’s VIP Beach
Adjacent to the Beach Bar, Bally’s Rewards Legends members now have their own designated beach with private lounge seating, towel service, massages, security, and food and beverage service. Open weekends.
The Yard
Beers, Eats, & Beats. Bally’s next level beer garden is an exciting new build on the courtyard off the boardwalk. Groove to live entertainment, play ‘90s arcade games, select from a curated tap list, quaff craft cocktails, and try the gastro-pub menu.
CAESAR’S caesars.com
Michelin-starred chef Gordon Ramsey’s Pub & Grill here is a city favorite. His newest venture – Ramsay’s Hell’s Kitchen opens this summer with a kitchen resembling the cooking competition show as the centerpiece. Savor Ramsay classics like Beef Wellington and toffee pudding.
HARRAH’S caesars.com/harrahs-ac
New dining options highlight Harrah’s ongoing refresh with Food Network OG Bobby Flay opening a new location of his Bobby’s Burgers this summer. More fresh choices:
The Baywalk
The outdoor promenade overlooking the Absecon Inlet finally comes alive with a customized bayside container bar, dining, live music, games, and interactive activities.
Rum Point Crab House
Fresh seafood, along with water and sunset views, is garnering rave reviews for this second floor nautically refurbished spot. Stars here are local catches and a variety of clams, crab, steak, and ribs.
The Pool After Dark
The perennial party favorite has amplified its nightlife. The unique domed destination adorned with tropical greenery presents provocative entertainment by performance artists, musicians, entertainers, and DJs.
OCEAN RESORT theoceanac.com
Experience the Gallery Bar, Book & Games, a 12,000-square-foot part of an overall $55 million property wide transformation. The 100-foot elevated bar features giant LED walls. An open staircase connects to Balcony Bar, a mezzanine lounge overlooking the casino floor. Twelve floors of previously unused rooms and suites are open, as is Serendipity3, an outpost of the legendary Manhattan ice creamery. Located in the former Café 500, it also serves brunch, dinner, and late-night eats along with its famous Frozen Hot Chocolate.
RESORTS resortsac.com
Atlantic City’s first casino resort has an all-new year ‘round indoor/outdoor rooftop pool! Opening in June, the complex sports custom tile work, lounge areas, a retractable roof, and enhanced deck, private party, and event space, plus a new sound system, televisions, and a full bar.
SHOWBOAT showboathotelac.com
Showboat opened Lucky Snake Arcade with mini-golf, bars, boxing ring, and music on the former casino floor last year. Construction of the new $100 million Oasis waterpark is underway, due to open next year. This summer brings Raceway at Lucky Snake, a 40,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art indoor electric go-kart track with an “Escaping Las Vegas” theme. The high-performance vehicles were custom made in Italy. Racers can fi lm their ride via helmets equipped with 4k cameras while being cheered on by fans in viewing areas equipped with arcade games, food, and drinks.
MORE CASINO CONNECTIONS:
Borgata/Water Club: theborgata.com Golden Nugget: goldennugget.com/atlantic-city Hard Rock: hardrockhotels.com/atlantic-city Tropicana: tropicana.net
RETURNING FAVORITES
ASBURY PARK
The Black Swan Public House
European gastropub featuring eclectic fare from chef James Avery. 601 Mattison Avenue, theblackswanap.com
The Bonney Read
Nautical hotspot serving hyper-fresh seafood dishes and more. 525 Cookman Avenue, thebonneyread.com
Asbury Lanes
A retro bowling alley with diner-style dining, a bar, and lively music scene. 209 4th Avenue, asburylanes.com
Brando’s Citi Cucina
Chef/owner Steven Botta elevates his family’s traditional Italian recipes to create superb culinary experiences. 162 Main Street, brandosnj.com
Convention Hall & The Paramount Theatre
Concerts, shopping, dining, and bars on each side that spill onto the beach. apboardwalk.com
The Stone Pony
Legendary rock venue with outdoor summer stage. 913 Ocean Avenue, stoneponyonline.com
Wonder Bar
Live music, food, patio, canine Yappy Hours. 5th & Ocean Avenue, wonderbarasburypark.com
Cubacan Restaurant & Bar
Tasty Cuban food, drinks, and authentic atmosphere. 800 Ocean Avenue, cubacanrestaurant.com
Langosta Lounge
Live music, sushi by the sea, and farm to-table specials. 1000 Ocean Avenue N, langostalounge.com
Pop’s Garage
Mexican eatery featuring authentic, laid-back cuisine on the boardwalk. 1000 Ocean Avenue N, popsgaragenj.com
Stella Marina
Rustic classic Italian cuisine (homemade pasta!) overlooking the boardwalk and ocean. 800 Ocean Avenue, stellamarinarestaurant.com
ATLANTIC HIGHLANDS/ HIGHLANDS
2022 Summer Classic Car Show
Saturday, 18, 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Music, vendors, crafters, and classics on wheels. ahchamber.org
First Avenue Playhouse & Dessert Theatre
Thirty years of live theater, plus cake! 123 1st Avenue, firstavenueplayhouse.org
Hartshorne Woods Park
This 794-acre preserve with hiking, cycling, horseback riding, fishing, and camping monmouthcountyparks.com
The INLET Cafe
Relaxed waterfront dining with fresh seafood and great wine. 3 Cornwall Street, inletcafe.com
Proving Ground
Waterfront space with live music and a large patio. 56 Shrewsbury Avenue, theprovingground.com
AVALON & STONE HARBOR
Dune Drive
Some of Avalon’s hottest restaurants line this lively thoroughfare including Princeton Bar & Grill, the Circle Tavern, and the Sea Grill providing the perfect spot to dance, eat, and bar hop.
Island Water Sports
Waterlogged fun with inflatables, slides, climbing contraptions, and light crafts on the Back Bay inlet. 9701 3rd Avenue, Stone Harbor, islandwatersportsnj.com
Movies on the Beach
Every Tuesday at dusk, June 28 – August 30. This year’s lineup includes Dolittle, Space Jam: A New Legacy, and Casablanca. avalonrecreation.org
The Reeds at Shelter Haven
Upscale hotel, restaurant, banquet facility, and spa. 9601 3rd Avenue, reedsshelerhaven.com
BAY HEAD
Charlie’s of Bay Head
Upscale seafood and American classics with ample outdoor seating for prime ocean views. 72 Bridge Avenue, charliesofbayhead.com
Mueller’s Bakery
Local institution famed for crumb cake and homemade pies. 80 Bridge Avenue, muellersbakery.com
BELMAR
New Jersey Sandcastle Contest
July 13. Registration begins at 8:30 a.m., judging at noon. Judging is based on several criteria, including creativity, resourcefulness, originality, and accessories. visitbelmarnj.com
Beach Haus Brewery
Guided and self-guided tours, private events. 801 Main Street, beachhausbeer.com
D’Jais Oceanview Bar & Café
A seaside institution for live bands, and a hot see-and-be-seen scene since 1959. 1801 Ocean Avenue, djais.com
La Dolce Vita
A family owned, authentic Italian seafood grill with its roots stemming back to the picturesque hills of Sicily. 400 Ocean Avenue, ladolcevitanj.com
Marina Grille & 9th Avenue Pier
Adjacent venues with ample outdoor seating in season. Live music, seafood, mini golf, and stellar views of Shark River. Entrance on Rt. 35 at 10th Avenue, marinagrillenj.com, 9thavepier.com
LONG BEACH ISLAND
Annual Beach Haven Art Walk
The Boulevard, Saturday, June 11. Over 50 artists and crafters, music, face painting, caricature artists, and more. welcometolbi.com
Bay Village Shopping
Dining and events. 830 N. Bay Avenue, bayvillagelbi.com
Fantasy Island Amusement Park
LBI’s only amusement/carnival area with rides, arcade, boardwalk eats. 320 7th Street, Beach Haven. fantasyislandpark.com
Hotel LBI
Early 1900s style, 102 guest rooms, dining, a salon and spa, and indoor pool. 350 8th Street, hotellbi.com
LONG BRANCH
Oceanfest
The biggest seasonal event on the Jersey Shore is back this July 4 on the beach. Music, food, vendors, activities. oceanfestnj.com
Bungalow Hotel
Boutique property a block from the boards. 50 Laird Street, bungalowhotel.net
Ocean Place Resort & Spa
Beachfront hotel with spa, public Tiki bar, and many dining options. 1 Ocean Boulevard, oceanplace.com
Sirena Ristorante
Romantic Italian restaurant serving classic dishes against sweeping ocean vistas. 27 Ocean Avenue N, sirenaristorante.com
The Wave Resort
Oceanfront high-rise with casual and fine dining, spa, and hair salon. 100 Ocean Avenue, waveresort.com
The Whitechapel Projects
Restaurant, brewery, and creative venue in 120-year-old reconstructed warehouse. 15 2nd Avenue, whitechapelprojects.com
MONMOUTH BEACH
Abbiocco
Authentic Italian culinary excellence at the Channel Club Marina. 2 Channel Drive, channelclubnj.com
Beach Tavern
Dockside dining featuring elevated American cuisine and seafood. 33 West Street, beachtavern.net
POINT PLEASANT
Jack Baker’s Wharfside and Patio Bar
Large, casual indoor/outdoor dining on the inlet, live music. 101 Channel Drive, wharfsidenj.com
Red’s Lobster Pot
Iconic waterfront Jersey Shore seafood house. 57 Inlet Drive, redslobsterpot.com
River Belle & River Queen
Sightseeing and dining cruises on the Manasquan River, Point Pleasant Canal, and Barnegat Bay. 800 Ashley Avenue, riverboattour.com
Uncle Vinnie’s Comedy Club
Dinner and shows, open mic nights downtown. 518 Arnold Avenue, unclevinniescomedyclub.com
White Sands Oceanfront Resort & Spa
Premier beach property with indoor/ outdoor pool, restaurant, lounge. 1205 Ocean Avenue, thewhitesands.com
RED BANK
Count Basie Center for the Arts
Landmarked 1926 movie house named for jazz great and borough native William “Count” Basie. Concerts, productions, events, education. 99 Monmouth Street, thebasie.org
The Molly Pitcher Inn
Elegant historic waterfront hotel on the Navesink River with fine dining and lounge. 88 Riverside Avenue, themollypitcher.com
The Oyster Point Hotel
Luxurious contemporary waterfront hotel, restaurant, and patio. 146 Bodman Place, theoysterpointhotel.com
Two River Theater
Professional regional theater producing plays and educational programs. 21 Bridge Avenue, tworivertheater.org
Catch 19
Elevated, creative seafood, craft cocktails, and more by chef Dominick Rizzo. 19 Broad Street, catch19redbank.com
Centrada
Recently opened three-story Latin hotspot with two dining rooms and three bars. 8 W Front Street, centradarestaurant.com
Gabriella’s Italian Steakhouse
Modern dining experience with classic cuts, surf n’ turf, and timeless Italian fare. 447 NJ-35, gabriellasnj.com
Urban Coal House Pizza & Bar
Brick oven artisan pizza, roasted wings, and pastas. 2 Bridge Avenue, urbancoalhouse.com
Garmany
A refined men’s and women’s designer department store. Clothing, accessories, shoes, tailoring, bar & lounge, shoe shines, and more. 121 Broad Street, garmany.com
EYEDESIGN
Fine custom eyewear from owner/optician Linda Cohen. 90 Broad Street, eyedesignnj.com
GEMS Boutique
Hip fashion boutique featuring fresh styles from leading brands. 19 Monmouth Street, gemsboutiquenj.com
SEA BRIGHT
Donovan’s Reef
Private beach, Tiki bar, live and DJ music, food, drinks, and lively special events. 1171 Ocean Avenue, donovansreefbeachbar.com
Anjelica’s
Cozy BYOB serving classic Italian staples and fresh seafood. 1070 Ocean Avenue, anjelicas.com
Drifthouse by David Burke
Elevated Italian-Mediterranean fare by celebrity chef David Burke amid stunning panorama. 1485 Ocean Avenue, drifthousedb.com
Eventide Grille
Riverfront venue with live music. 1400 Ocean Avenue, eventidegrille.com
Rum Runner
Riverfront dining destination with seafood & clever cocktails. 816 Ocean Avenue, mcloonesrumrunner.com
UNION BEACH
THE GOAT by David Burke
The homegrown celebrity chef’s seventh NJ restaurant, featuring creative wood-burning Italian American cuisine. 1411 NJ-36, thegoatbydb.com
TOP MUSIC & FESTIVALS
ATLANTIC CITY atlanticcitynj.com
Orange Loop Rock Festival
Noon, Friday, June 10 through 10 p.m., Sunday June 12. Over 15 rock and metal bands will take over the “Orange Loop” Tennessee Avenue area, a burgeoning dining and partying mecca, including the Stone Temple Pilots, Hoobastank, Great White, and local groups. orangelooprockfest.com
Tidal Wave Music Festival
August 12 – 14. Two stages and over 30 artists at an all-new country music fest. Luke Bryan, Morgan Wallen, Dierks Bentley. Vendors, crafts, food, drinks. Lifeguards will be on duty for ocean swimming until dark. info@tidalwavefest.com
LONG BEACH ISLAND bestoflbi.com
Hop Sauce Festival
11 a.m. – 5 p.m., Saturday, June 18. Music as hot as the 50+ sauces and plenty of craft beer at Engleside and Atlantic Avenues, Beach Haven. jettyrockfoundation.org
Barnegat Bay Day
Noon – 4 p.m., Friday, July 6. Hands-on family activities and guided tours explore the plants and wildlife in Barnegat Bay’s ecosystem. View the aquarium and participate in related crafts. 120 Long Beach Boulevard, savebarnegatbay.org
POINT PLEASANT/ POINT PLEASANT BEACH
Summer Fest
6 – 10 p.m., Friday, June 3 and 11 a.m. – 7 p.m., Saturday, June 4. Rain date June 5. Food, drinks, arts, crafts, vendors, music, performances. Community Park, Bridge Avenue, and Beaver Dam Road pointpleasantchamber.com
Beach PARTy Art Festival
8 p.m., Thursday, July 21 through 1 a.m., Friday, July 22. Unique art, photography, vendors, artisan crafts, and music. Arnold and Bay Avenues pointpleasantbeachchamber.com
SEASIDE HEIGHTS
Kites in the Heights
4 – 7 p.m., Sunday, June 12; Tuesday, July 26, and Tuesday, August 23. A free festival of majestic and whimsical kites filling the sky. Bring your own to join in. Carteret Avenue on the beach, exit82.com
Arts & Crafts By the Sea
11 a.m. – 7 p.m., Saturdays, June 4 and August 6 along the boardwalk
MORE COASTAL MUSIC VENUES:
Ocean City Music Pier ocnj.us/box office
PNC Garden State Arts Center, Holmdel livenation.com
The Great Auditorium, Ocean Grove oceangrove.org
Waterfront Music Pavilion, Camden livenation.com
More information to plan your vacation: visitnj.org, new-jersey-leisure-guide.com
Atlantic Highlands: ahnj.com Avalon: visitavalonnj.com Belmar: vacationbelmar.com Brigantine: brigantinebeach.org Highlands: highlandsnj.com Keyport: visitkeyport.org Manasquan: facebook.com/ manasquantourism Ocean City: oceancityvacation.com Ocean Grove: oceangrove.org Sea Bright: seabrightnj.org Spring Lake: springlake.org Stone Harbor: stoneharborbeach.com