Weekends in the summer are a time to unwind, catch up with friends and family and head to your favorite outdoor destinations. Just a short car or train ride away, the Jersey Shore is a great destination for a quick getaway. Long Branch is one of the shore’s most popular beach towns for travelers from the north as it’s one of the first stops along the 130 miles of shore {and has its own stop on direct NJ Transit trains from NYC}. We have a list of the best places in Long Branch for you to check out this summer.
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Getting There
Packing up and going to the shore is one of the joys of summertime in New Jersey. However, shore traffic can deter you from hitting the road altogether. If you plan to go for the weekend and can skip out of the office early Friday afternoon, do it. You will likely beat a majority of the southbound traffic before rush hour takes its toll. If you are heading out Saturday or Sunday morning, you’ll want to leave super early and grab a coffee on the go. Aiming to get to the beach before 9AM will almost guarantee a smooth ride to Long Branch’s Exit 105 {about an hour and ten without traffic}. You can also grab NJ Transit with a transfer at Secaucus Junction.
Must-Dos:
Pier Village
If you combined the shops and eateries of Washington Street in Hoboken with the soothing sounds of the ocean, you would get Pier Village. This is one of the premiere beach spots in Long Branch because there are options for anything summer-related. Grab brunch at an NJ favorite, The Turning Point {also found in Hoboken!}, with friends to kick off your day {or dinner with a view at McCloone’s Pier House}.
If you are looking for something to do during the day, head to Le Club Avenue for frozen drinks and great music with the sand between your toes all day long. To get the best outfits for summer, Pier Village has you covered here as well. Small clothing boutiques and accessory stores line the Long Branch Boardwalk giving you a chance to rack up those credit card points. Other summer classics like Stewart’s Root Beer, Playa Bowl, and Luke’s Lobster are here as well for a quick bite between working on your tan.
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READ: Your Guide to The Best Jersey Shore Beaches
Monmouth Park Racetrack
Technically in Oceanport, New Jersey, the racetrack is just up RT-36 from the beaches of Long Branch. Enjoy fun for all ages watching the horses race throughout the day. You can place your bets for a gambling thrill or just soak up the sun. Check out their website for their various events like their annual Wine & Chocolate Festival, Ladies Day, or the BBQ & Craft Beer Festival.
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Overnight Accommodations
Ocean Place Resort & Spa
When you live in Hudson County, sometimes going to the Jersey Shore doesn’t really seem like a true vacation. But, the Ocean Place Resort & Spa will change your mind on those feelings quickly. This is a true resort that will make you feel like you just stepped off an airplane and onto a tropical island — complete with luxury accommodations, palm trees, and breathtaking views. While at the resort, choose from their extensive spa menu to pamper yourself with a facial, massage, or body wraps.
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Where to Eat
Amy’s
Omelets on omelets — that’s what you can expect when you go to Amy’s {who spells omelets — the American spelling — omelettes, no judgement}. With over 200 options {yes, we said 200} on just their omelet menu, this restaurant has something for even the pickiest of eaters. Choose from over half a dozen different menu sections to narrow down your choices based on what you’re craving that day. In addition to their massive breakfast menu, they have a wide variety of lunch and dinner options including their famous baby back ribs and ciabatta sandwiches.
Rooney’s Oceanfront Restaurant
One of the most unique dining experiences on The Shore, Rooney’s has been a Jersey classic for over 20 years. Most of their dishes have a seafood component. Try the crab pretzel bites that marry a traditional boardwalk treat with a taste of the Atlantic Ocean or the Lobster Mac-a-Rooney — an oceanic twist on the crowd favorite, mac and cheese! If you’re looking to dance the night away, Rooney’s also has live entertainment every Friday starting at 6PM.
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Outdoor Fun
Summer Festivals
It’s not summertime without a festival of some sort to celebrate the warm weather, good food, and great friends. Long Branch keeps the festivals coming all summer long with opportunities to gather together and enjoy the Garden State. The annual Fourth of July Oceanfest is one of the state’s largest Independence Day fireworks shows. Watch performances from local bands, dancers and clowns while feasting on delicious food trucks. The Jazz & Blues Festival happens every August and is a Long Branch hit. Watch various jazz bands take the stage throughout the day and then enjoy fireworks at the end of the evening.
See More: Things to Do in Asbury Park {Jersey Shore Weekend Getaway}
Parks & Recreation
Long Branch offers plenty of open outdoor spaces to take advantage of during the summer. Ride a bike, scooter, or rollerblades down the boardwalk during sunrise for optimal views. Seven Presidents Park is equipped with jungle gyms, a skatepark and open land perfect for a picnic.
What’s your favorite thing to do in Long Branch? Share with us in the comments below! Happy {almost} Summer Friday 🙂
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