With its wide, accessible beaches and its friendly small-town charm, the coastal community of Belmar, New Jersey, is a jewel of the Jersey Shore. Here are six must-do activities during your summer vacation, recommended by the Belmar Beachcomber Blog.
1. Recharge and relax on Belmar beach.
Belmar officials take great pride in providing visitors with the cleanest beaches and the best amenities, as well as a smoke-free beach and boardwalk. Belmar consistently ranks among New Jersey's Favorite Beaches and also among the best beaches in Monmouth County. A day spent relaxing on the beach will give you plenty of "vitamin sea."
2. Watch the sunset at Belmar Marina.
The Belmar Marina on Route 35 at the Shark River is widely known for its large fleet of fishing boats and charters that sail year-round for fluke, sea bass, stripers, blackfish, ling, and more. In addition, the marina is home to Belmar Parasail and a miniature golf course. RELATED: Dine With A Water View In Belmar
3. Stroll on the Belmar boardwalk.
Enjoy the panoramic ocean views during a leisurely walk on the Belmar boardwalk — or go for an invigorating morning run. Pause on one of the memorial benches and see the sunrise unfold, or just take in the natural beauty of the sea. Across from the boardwalk, along Ocean Avenue, you'll find various places to eat and shop. The Belmar boardwalk connects with the adjacent towns of Spring Lake and Avon-by-the-Sea, and you can walk or jog all the way to Asbury Park if you are so inclined.
4. Enjoy free events and entertainment all summer long.
Summer entertainment in Belmar includes country line dancing on Monday nights, Belmar Cruise Nights featuring classic cars, and free downtown concerts on Friday nights. Belmar also hosts the St. Patrick's Day Parade, the New Jersey Seafood Festival, the Belmar Kite Festival, the New Jersey Sandcastle Contest, and other special events throughout the year.
COVID-19 Update: All spring and summer events for 2021 are currently on hold.
5. Dine outside with a view.
When it comes to dining out in Belmar, New Jersey, you will find a delicious diversity of restaurants and cuisines. Many restaurants have outdoor seating in the warmer months and some have water views. Whether you're craving fresh seafood, a romantic dinner for two, happy hour bites, or a home-style breakfast, we're happy to recommend some of our favorite places to eat in Belmar.
6. Explore the downtown shops and boutiques.
Downtown Belmar is a great place to treasure hunt in the gift shops and boutiques .... or to pamper yourself with afternoon tea, a massage, a yoga class, or a spa service at one of the Main Street salons. Browse the secondhand bookstore and the vintage record shop. Tour the craft brewery and grab lunch, appetizers or dinner at one of the nearby restaurants.
COVID-19 Update: Belmar businesses are following current coronavirus protocols. Face coverings and social distancing are required when shopping and dining in Belmar.
Live Like A Local: Rent A Belmar Beach House
Day trips down the shore are fun, but it's even better to rent a beach house for the week to experience everything wonderful about the Belmar area. For couples, solo adults and small families, the two-bedroom Blue Hydrangea Cottage in Belmar, New Jersey, is the perfect getaway place. The home sleeps up to four people and is consistently rated five stars for comfort, cleanliness, amenities, location, and homelike decor. Learn more at www.vacationinbelmar.com. Weekly summer rentals at the Jersey Shore. Rent directly from the owner and save!
Story and photos © copyright by Christine Cardellino, owner of www.VacationInBelmar.com and publisher of the award-winning Belmar Beachcomber Blog, a travel and tourism guide for the Belmar region of the Jersey Shore. Do not copy any content (including images) without our permission. All rights reserved.
