You don't have to be of Italian descent to enjoy the Belmar Feast of San Gennaro at the Jersey Shore. This annual celebration of Italian culture and cuisine takes place Saturday, September 19, in downtown Belmar, New Jersey, from 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. In addition to food truck fare such as sausage and peppers, pasta and zeppole, you'll find live music and a vendor market along the Belmar Italian San Gennaro Festival route between 10th and 12th Avenues. A special Mass of Gennaro Festival mass will take place at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, September 12, at St. Rose Catholic Church in Belmar. The Mass will be presented in Italian. Immediately after Mass, join the procession down Main Street, where the Statue of San Gennaro will be proudly displayed in the center of Pyanoe Plaza for all to see and honor. The tradition of pinning money onto the statue will continue as donations to St. Rose Church. Shops and restaurants throughout Belmar will also be open during the event, so be sure to explore the downtown business district while you're at the festival. Make sure to visit our friends at Caffè di Famiglia, who will be selling a selection of Italian-style sandwiches, snacks, and desserts in front of their coffee shop at 917 Main Street. Check out our Belmar shopping and dining guide! RELATED: Belmar Winter Rentals | Book Now! Belmar San Gennaro Doggie Costume Contest Saturday, September 19, 3:00 p.m. Pyanoe Plaza Main Stage Dress up your furry canine friends for the third annual Cagnolino (Doggie) Costume Contest at the Belmar San Gennaro Festival. To pre-register your dog, complete this form by September 1: Visit https://forms.gle/AHSxnRBoAfvAcpcX6 or stop by Belmar Borough Hall, 601 Main Street, Belmar, New Jersey 07719. Contest Rules: Dogs only - no other pets or animals permitted. Dogs must wear ID tag, be on a leash, and under the owner's control at all times. Owners assume full responsibility for the behaviors and actions of their dog. Dress to impress — your dog, that is! 🐶 Cannoli-Eating Contest Presented By Sweet! Saturday, September 19, 12:00 p.m. Two divisions: Adults and kids (age 12 and under) $25.00 cash entry fee - 100% to be donated to charity A highlight of the Belmar San Gennaro festival is the cannoli-eating contest sponsored by Sweet!, a family-owned candy and confection shop on 10th Avenue in the downtown business district. Proceeds from the $25.00 admission fee will be donated to Friends of Belmar Skatepark, which is working to bring a modern public skateboard facility to Dempsey Park in Belmar. In previous years, proceeds from the cannoli-eating contest were donated to the Belmar Elementary School; Saint Vincent de Paul Society of St. Rose Parish, a local faith-based charitable organization that helps community members in need of assistance with housing, medical expenses, clothing, transportation, food, and other basic necessities; Belmar Circle of Friends HYDAS, a non-profit that benefits young adults with special needs; and to MidAtlantic Bulldog Rescue for the medical care of their bulldogs in need. All participants in the Sweet! cannoli-eating contest will receive a commemorative T-shirt, a $25.00 Sweet! gift certificate, a custom trophy, and recognition on a custom-engraved plaque displayed in the shop for all to see. To register, visit Sweet! at 702 10th Avenue, Belmar, New Jersey 07719. Belmar San Gennaro Festival Vendor Signups Interested in being part of the vendor market at the Feast of San Gennaro in Belmar? The Borough is looking for local New Jersey food trucks and crafters. Submit your application here via this form, or call 732-681-3700, ext. 240. Belmar San Gennaro Festival Saturday, September 19, 11:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. Pyanoe Plaza and Downtown Belmar Main Street and 9th Avenue Belmar, New Jersey 07719 RELATED: Upcoming Events In Belmar, New Jersey Live Like A Local: Rent A Belmar Beach House Day trips down the shore are fun, but the best way to experience the area is to unpack your bags and stay for a week or two. If you are looking for a clean, quiet getaway for a couple, solo stay, or small family trip, our updated two-bedroom Blue Hydrangea Cottage in Belmar, New Jersey is the perfect place to relax in serene surroundings at the Jersey Shore. The house sleeps up to four people and is consistently rated five stars by our guests for its fantastic location, spotless upkeep, and all the thoughtful details that make for an easy beach stay. You can see photos and check open dates on our Blue Hydrangea Cottage rental page. RELATED: Explore our local Belmar NJ Travel Guide to plan your beach days, dining, and local events. Story and images © Christine Cardellino, Belmar Beachcomber Blog, and www.VacationInBelmar.com, 2017 to present. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material, including photography, without express and written permission from this site’s author/owner is strictly prohibited. If you wish to use a photograph from this site, full and clear credit must be given to Belmar Beachcomber Blog with appropriate and specific links to the original content.

From the beachfront to the business district, Belmar is a great shore town to explore on bicycle. Two of the best places to rent bikes when you're vacationing in Belmar, New Jersey, are Jersey Shore Bike Rentals right here in town and Shore Riders Bike Rentals out of Point Pleasant Beach. Both companies offer free delivery and pickup of the bikes from our beach house rental in Belmar. Jersey Shore Bike Rentals 732-440-9891 text or call $25.00 for 24 hours Discounts available for multiple-day rentals Shore Riders Bike Rentals 732-595-2453 text or call $30.00 for one day $100.00 for six nights If you want to rent an electric bike, check out the selection of e-bikes at Pedego Electric Bikes in Spring Lake, New Jersey. Pedego Electric Bikes 732-201-4117 $50.00/day, age 17 and older Biking On Belmar Boardwalk Once you rent a bike in Belmar, if you want to ride your bike to the beach, Belmar provides plenty of bike racks at every beach entrance. In peak summer season, bike riding is permitted on the Belmar boardwalk between 6:00 a.m. and 9:00 a.m. only. RELATED: Area Attractions Near Belmar Bike racks at Belmar beach. Where Else To Ride Bikes If you want to bike outside of Belmar, the Beachcomber Blog recommends the Edgar Felix Memorial Bikeway in Manasquan, New Jersey. This 5.5-mile paved bike path is part of the New Jersey Capital to the Coast Trail, a mixed-use network of trails that spans 55 miles from the state capital in Trenton to Manasquan in Monmouth County. The Asbury Park boardwalk is another favorite day trip destination on the bike. From Belmar to Asbury Park, it's about a five-mile ride hugging the coastline north along Ocean Avenue. In Asbury Park, popular sights include the historic Convention Hall and Paramount Theater, the Stone Pony, and the Wonder Bar. You'll also find a wide variety of restaurants to fuel up for the ride back to Belmar. Beachcomber Blog recommends Langosta Lounge and Pop's Garage on the boardwalk and Porta Pizza a couple of blocks west of the boardwalk. RELATED: Day Trip Destination - Asbury Park Boardwalk Live Like A Local: Rent A Belmar Beach House Day trips down the shore are fun, but the best way to experience the area is to unpack your bags and stay for a week or two. If you are looking for a clean, quiet getaway for a couple, solo stay, or small family trip, our updated two-bedroom Blue Hydrangea Cottage in Belmar, New Jersey, is the perfect place to relax in serene surroundings at the Jersey Shore. The house sleeps up to four people and is consistently rated five stars by our guests for its fantastic location, spotless upkeep, and all the thoughtful details that make for an easy beach stay. You can see photos and check open dates on our Blue Hydrangea Cottage rental page. RELATED: Explore our local Belmar NJ Travel Guide to plan your beach days, dining, and local events. Story and images © Christine Cardellino, Belmar Beachcomber Blog, and www.VacationInBelmar.com, 2017 to present. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material, including photography, without express and written permission from this site’s author/owner is strictly prohibited. If you wish to use a photograph from this site, full and clear credit must be given to Belmar Beachcomber Blog with appropriate and specific links to the original content.

If you’re looking for a scenic spot to admire the natural beauty of coastal waters, check out the Shark River Bridge between the boroughs of Belmar and Avon-by-the-Sea, New Jersey. The circa 1936 bridge spans the Shark River inlet and is easily accessible via Ocean Avenue or the Belmar boardwalk. The two-lane Ocean Avenue Shark River Bridge has sidewalks to accommodate foot and bicycle traffic. About halfway across the span, you’ll find a small niche, where you can stop and take in the magnificent views of the Atlantic Ocean to the east and the Shark River Inlet to the west. I love walking over the bridge and pausing at the little nook overlooking the inlet. If you time your visit just right, you can even catch the sunrise or sunset from the Shark River scenic overlook — a great photo opportunity for nature photographers and vacation selfies. In addition, you’ll often see people fishing off the jetties, along with recreational boaters and commercial fishing boats navigating the inlet to and from the Belmar Marina. The structure, which is known as a double-leaf bascule bridge (i.e., drawbridge), opens at various times throughout the day to allow larger boats to pass through. I’ve even seen kayakers, jet skiers, and scuba divers in the water below the bridge. You can also see the historic Belmar Fishing Club pier from the scenic overlook. There are so many different sights to see from the bridge, and the scenery changes every day. One of the things I really enjoy about the view from the bridge is watching how the water and sky change colors depending on the weather. You never know what Mother Nature will have in store when you’re visiting the Ocean Avenue Shark River Bridge. That’s what makes this area attraction so unique! Some days, you’ll see blue skies, bright sunshine, and aquamarine-hued water. When storms are approaching, the view might be foggy with low visibility across the sea. After a storm, the water will appear almost black, with a texture like obsidian, and clearing clouds overhead. You might even glimpse a rainbow if you're lucky! RELATED: More Area Attractions Near Belmar, New Jersey Shark River Bridge Scenic Overlook Photos The Ocean Avenue Shark River Bridge is one of only four movable bridges in Monmouth County, New Jersey. The county owns and operates the bridge. It is maintained by the Monmouth County Department of Public Works and Engineering, under the supervision of the Monmouth County Board of Chosen Freeholders. According to HistoricBridges.org, the Shark River Bridge “is one of the busiest movable spans in the state, opening an average of over 8,000 times per year.” Because many of the operating parts of the bridge have been replaced and modernized since the structure was built over 90 years ago, it is not considered to have historical or technological significance, according to the New Jersey Historic Bridge Survey. Nonetheless, you can't beat the spectacular water views from this special little spot between two of the best beach towns at the Jersey Shore! RELATED: Events In Belmar, New Jersey RELATED: Mini Golf With A Water View Story and images © Christine Cardellino, Belmar Beachcomber Blog, and www.VacationInBelmar.com, 2017 to present. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material, including photography, without express and written permission from this site’s author/owner is strictly prohibited. If you wish to use a photograph from this site, full and clear credit must be given to Belmar Beachcomber Blog with appropriate and specific links to the original content. Live Like A Local: Rent A Belmar Beach House Day trips down the shore are fun, but the best way to experience the area is to unpack your bags and stay for a week or two. If you are looking for a clean, quiet getaway for a couple, solo stay, or small family trip, our updated two-bedroom Blue Hydrangea Cottage in Belmar, New Jersey, is the perfect place to relax in serene surroundings at the Jersey Shore. The house sleeps up to four people and is consistently rated five stars by our guests for its fantastic location, spotless upkeep, and all the thoughtful details that make for an easy beach stay. You can see photos and check open dates on our Blue Hydrangea Cottage rental page. RELATED: Explore our local Belmar NJ Travel Guide to plan your beach days, dining, and local events.

The Belmar Restaurant Tour on March 8, 2020, was by far the biggest and best one yet in the event’s 12-year history. Over 1,000 tickets were sold for the food tasting and tour, which featured nearly 40 participating restaurants in downtown Belmar, New Jersey, and along Ocean Avenue and Route 71. Our culinary adventure started in the stretch of eateries along the western side of Belmar Mall in the downtown business district. First stop: 10th Avenue Burrito Co. for street tacos served with a choice of el pastor, carne asada, or chicken and topped with homemade salsa. From there, we walked down the strip with stops at Hoagitos (chicken sliders), Jersey Shore BBQ (barbecue wings), Kotta Sushi Asian Fusion (spicy crunchy tuna roll and salad with house ginger dressing), Sonny’s Grille (pulled pork sliders), Simply Southern (jambalaya, chicken gumbo, and fried chicken) and the recently opened Domesticated Dad Catering Company (herb-infused chicken salad). Across the street, Nourished by Nature was offering different flavors of its cold-pressed organic juices and house-made organic oat bars, while Mike’s Giant Submarines served two varieties of hoagies/subs (turkey and ham-salami). Beach Haus Brewery was pouring samples of its limited-production Swash White Ale, while Anchor Tavern was dishing out braised short ribs with polenta and tomato jam. From the plaza, our journey led us to 10th Avenue, where we appreciated the warm welcome at Beckman’s Deli (pork roll hash and chicken wings with homemade buffalo and barbecue sauces), Sweet! (peppermint bark, cheesecake in a cup, raspberry crumb cake, and chocolate cake with vanilla icing), and Federici’s on 10th (chicken Francaise and rice pudding). From there, we set out north along Main Street for stops at Federico’s (slices of white and plain pizzas), Sweet Tease Tea Room & Café (vanilla and chocolate mini cupcakes), Klein’s Waterside Café (New England and Manhattan clam chowder), and Doughboy’s Wood-Fired Pizza (chicken Francaise, penne vodka, bruschetta, and pizza). Comfi of Belmar did its usual fantastic job with its brunch buffet (grilled kielbasa, classic French toast, vanilla yogurt with fruit and granola, Forever Young breakfast bowl, and Chicken Pesto Sensation). We also enjoyed the generous hospitality at Flames Brazilian Steakhouse (black bean stew, garlic chicken, Brazilian top sirloin and pork sausage, white rice, vinaigrette, and yucca flour) and Stay Gold Café (golden apple walnut salad, chicken salad, Sunshine Dream juice drink). Moving on to Ocean Avenue, our stops included La Dolce Vita Italian Seafood Grill (gnocchi sautéed with roasted fennel and butternut squash in anisette-pistachio cream sauce), Playa Bowls (dragonberry pitaya, coconut blend, acai blend, and kale blend), and Coney Waffle (cannoli waffles and Coney Candy). Jimmy James, owner of Jimmy’s Place, always goes all out for the Belmar Restaurant Tour, and this year he did not disappoint with his generous offerings of shrimp Francaise; house grilled chicken; shrimp scampi lobster calzone; sausage and peppers; baked ziti; New England clam chowder; pork, egg, and cheese sandwiches; and pizza samples (Sicilian, plain, meatball, shrimp scampi, white pie, and chicken with broccoli and ricotta). Other restaurants that stand out every Dine and Discover Tour are Mr. Shrimp Seafood Restaurant and Market on Route 71, Ragin’ Cajun on Route 35, and Cielito Lindo Mexican Restaurant on Main Street. At Mr. Shrimp, guests were raving about the diverse selection of coconut shrimp, mini crab cakes, crab dip with bread sticks, chilled shrimp cocktail, and a raw bar with clams and oysters on the half-shell. Ragin' Cajun's small plates of blackened chicken bites, jambalaya rice, and Cajun sea mussels were also a hit. The hot buffet at Cielito Lindo included chicken with molé sauce, chicken fajitas, rice and beans, and other house specialties. The roundup of participating Belmar restaurants for 2020 also included Marina Grille (ahi tuna with scallions and vegetables on a flour tortilla), Surf Taco (pork and pineapple street tacos with cilantro and red onion), Jake’s Downtown (seafood chowder), Brandl Restaurant (hot smoked salmon with a Yukon gold potato wedge and caper sour cream), Main Street Donuts (doughnut bites in various flavors), Belmar Bagels (selection of bagels and cream cheese); Corner Bagelry of Belmar; Pizza Shop (selection of slices); Boathouse Bar and Grill; Joe’s Surf Shack; and Bar Anticipation. RELATED: 7 Favorite Casual Restaurants In Belmar RELATED: 5 Best Happy Hour Restaurants In Belmar We always like to end our afternoon with a final stop at Turnstile Coffee Roasters with a freshly baked scone (oat, cranberry, and currant) and a cup of hot coffee (Sumatra and House Blend). In all, we made it to 33 of the 37 participating Belmar restaurants this year. It was a mild, sunny day to be out exploring the Belmar dining scene, and the Belmar Beachcomber Blog would like to extend a big thank you to all the places that we visited for their generous and delicious hospitality! RELATED: More Dining Stories On The Belmar Beachcomber Blog RELATED: Upcoming Events In Belmar Story and images © Christine Cardellino, Belmar Beachcomber Blog, and www.VacationInBelmar.com, 2017 to present. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material, including photography, without express and written permission from this site’s author/owner is strictly prohibited. If you wish to use a photograph from this site, full and clear credit must be given to Belmar Beachcomber Blog with appropriate and specific links to the original content. Live Like A Local: Rent A Belmar Beach House Day trips down the shore are fun, but the best way to experience the area is to unpack your bags and stay for a week or two. If you are looking for a clean, quiet getaway for a couple, solo stay, or small family trip, our updated two-bedroom Blue Hydrangea Cottage in Belmar, New Jersey, is the perfect place to relax in serene surroundings at the Jersey Shore. The house sleeps up to four people and is consistently rated five stars by our guests for its fantastic location, spotless upkeep, and all the thoughtful details that make for an easy beach stay. You can see photos and check open dates on our Blue Hydrangea Cottage rental page. RELATED: Explore our local Belmar NJ Travel Guide to plan your beach days, dining, and local events.

The 14th annual Belmar Dine & Discover Tour on March 6, 2022, featured 34 diverse dining destinations throughout downtown Belmar, along Ocean Avenue, and on Route 71. Our tasting adventure started in downtown Belmar at Chef Chris Brandl's namesake BYOB restaurant, Brandl, which is located in Pyanoe Plaza near the bagel Shop and the bookstore. Brandl‘s chef creation for the food tour was short rib and French onion pot stickers. Next stops: Anchor Tavern, a Chef's International establishment, for chicken salad bites, and then over to Belmar’s locally known "restaurant row," a lineup of six dining spots along the western side of the Belmar Mall building. The delicious diversity of flavors in restaurant row included fajita tacos and spicy macaroni and cheese at 10th Avenue Burrito Company; crispy chicken nuggets at Hoagitos; spicy crab rolls and sweet potato rolls at Kotta Sushi; and homemade meatballs in sauce at Sonny’s Grille. Our last stop in restaurant row was Mr. Greek Mediterranean Cuisine, which showcased several popular menu items, including spinach-feta bites with tzatziki, gyro bites, and hummus with pita chips. RELATED: Favorite Casual Restaurants In Belmar A pour of Swash Belgian white beer followed at Beach Haus Brewery before we headed to the new Jack's By The Tracks for a generous offering that included corned beef Reuben sandwiches, loaded potato soup, loaded chicken fingers, Tracks fries, and assorted flatbreads. Next door, Federici's On 10th served baby arugula salad with lemon-oil dressing and fried shrimp in spicy marinara sauce. Back on Main Street, we enjoyed vanilla scones and chai tea lattes at Sweet Tease Tea Room; slices of plain and white pizza at Federico’s; and assorted churrasco (flame-grilled meats and sausages) at Flames Brazilian Steakhouse. Stay Gold Café greeted visitors with bites of signature tuna salad (white albacore tuna mixed with dried cranberries and diced apples), chickpea salad (chickpeas, hot sauce, celery, and onion); and cold-brew coffee. Local watering hole Boathouse Bar & Grill served chicken wings with coconut-chili sauce and pulled pork tacos with salsa verdé and chipotle sour cream sauce. Nearby, Berg’s Smoked Meat & Poutine introduced visitors to a French-Canadian dish known as poutine (French fries and cheese curds smothered with brown gravy – a Québecian take on New Jersey’s beloved disco fries). The poutine was accompanied by smoked pastrami sandwich bites, served open-faced on rye bread with a smear of mustard. Along the waterfront, we warmed up with small bowls of lobster bisque and Manhattan clam chowder at Klein’s Seafood Restaurant and Waterfront Café. That was followed by stops at the popular Marina Grille, which served Baja tacos (shrimp and spicy fresh chilis with ceviche sauce), and at Ragin' Cajun, a hidden gem of a restaurant on Route 35, across from the mini golf course at the Belmar Marina. Ragin’ Cajun served small plates of blackened chicken bites and crawfish mac and cheese, a nod to the recent Mardi Gras. RELATED: Outdoor Dining With A Water View In Belmar Moving on to the Ocean Avenue restaurants, our visit to La Dolce Vita Italian Seafood Grill included small bowls of Billy’s seafood risotto, one of our favorite entrees, along with servings of gnocchi in pistachio-fennel cream sauce. The popular Playa Bowls offered small portions of four superfruit bowl bases (açaí berry, coconut, green, and pitaya) and a sampling of juices. Inside Playa Bowls, we stopped for a caffeine fix at Coffee Surf Co., where the barista was pouring complimentary cups of 100 percent Columbian coffee, cold brew, and specialty coffee drinks. Next door, Coney Waffle served hand-scooped ice cream in their signature waffle boat, or in a sugar or wafer cone. Both of Belmar’s Mexican restaurants joined in the food tour’s festivities. The impressive spread at Cielito Lindo included pork pastor, Mexican-style steak, beef quesadillas, chicken mole, fresh guacamole and chips, and pork carnitas. Similarly, El ReyMexican Restaurant, which opened March 6, delighted diners with chicken fajitas, shrimp cocktail on crackers, pork pastor, and spicy shrimp with lime. RELATED: 7 Must-Try Mexican Restaurants For our sweet tooth, a visit to Main Street Donuts satisfied with doughnut bites in various flavors (Salted Caramel, Fruity Pebbles, Yankee Doodle, and Cookies and Cream). On 10th Avenue, Sweet! confection shop served bites of vanilla cake with chocolate or vanilla buttercream icing, as well as chocolate and vanilla cupcakes. The newly opened Coney Waffle Cakery on Main Street treated visitors to fudge samples (Oreo, raspberry, mint, peanut butter, and chocolate-peanut butter), along with bites of giant chocolate-chip cookies. RELATED: More Stories – Dining In Belmar, NJ Our last leg of the 2022 Belmar Restaurant Tour concluded with a stop at Mr. Shrimp Seafood Restaurant on Route 71. Owner Vincent Petruzziello always goes all out for this event, and he did not disappoint this year. Visitors nibbled on chilled shrimp cocktail, fresh tuna bruschetta, and Mr. Shrimp’s signature crab dip with bread sticks. In all, we made it to 29 of the 34 participating Belmar restaurants. Unfortunately, we ran out of time to stop by Bar Anticipation, Joe’s Surf Shack, Mike’s Giant Subs, Nourished by Nature, and Corner Bagelry, but we appreciate the generous and delicious hospitality of all the places that we did get to visit. Story and images © Christine Cardellino, Belmar Beachcomber Blog, and www.VacationInBelmar.com, 2017 to present. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material, including photography, without express and written permission from this site’s author/owner is strictly prohibited. If you wish to use a photograph from this site, full and clear credit must be given to Belmar Beachcomber Blog with appropriate and specific links to the original content. Live Like A Local: Rent A Belmar Beach House Day trips down the shore are fun, but the best way to experience the area is to unpack your bags and stay for a week or two. If you are looking for a clean, quiet getaway for a couple, solo stay, or small family trip, our updated two-bedroom Blue Hydrangea Cottage in Belmar, New Jersey, is the perfect place to relax in serene surroundings at the Jersey Shore. The house sleeps up to four people and is consistently rated five stars by our guests for its fantastic location, spotless upkeep, and all the thoughtful details that make for an easy beach stay. You can see photos and check open dates on our Blue Hydrangea Cottage rental page. RELATED: Explore our local Belmar NJ Travel Guide to plan your beach days, dining, and local events.

Get your comfy pants and walking shoes ready for the 16th annual Belmar Restaurant Tour, AKA the "Belmar Dine & Discover" food tasting and tour. The event takes place Sunday, March 8, 2026, from 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. and will feature 25 diverse dining destinations throughout downtown Belmar and along Ocean Avenue and Route 71. Individual tickets are available for purchase on the Belmar Tourism website for $35.00 through March 7 (plus $3.09 processing fee). For those planning a friends or family outing, purchase a small-group package for $175.00 plus $10.16 processing fee (buy five tickets, get one free) or a large-group package (buy eight tickets, get two free) for $280.00 plus $15.46 processing fee. Tickets are $40.00 the day of the event. Early-bird ticket pricing was $30.00 if purchased by December 31, 2025; however, that special has ended. Wristband Pick-Up Info If you bought your Belmar Dine and Discover tickets in advance, you may pick up your wristbands at 10th Avenue Burrito on Saturday, March 8, from 12:00 to 4:00 p.m. and on Sunday, March 8 (event day) from 10:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. The restaurant is located at 801 Belmar Plaza in downtown Belmar (in "Restaurant Row"). RELATED: More Belmar Restaurant News Participating Restaurants | Belmar Restaurant Tour The following Belmar restaurants will be participating in the 2026 Belmar Dine & Discover Tour. Check back for updates as more restaurants sign on to the event. 10th Ave. Burrito Co. — READ MORE Beach Haus Brewery — READ MORE Cielito Lindo — READ MORE Coney Waffle Ice Cream Cakery Coney Waffle Ice Cream Test Kitchen Corner Bagelry of Belmar F Street Social — READ MORE Federico’s Pizza India Garden — READ MORE Joe’s Surf Shack Klein's Fish Market & Waterside Café Kotta Sushi La Dolce Vita Italian Restaurant Marina Grille — READ MORE Mike’s Giant Submarines Mr. Shrimp Seafood Restaurant Nourished by Nature — READ MORE Playa Bowls (803 Ocean Ave. location) — READ MORE Ragin' Cajun Sweet Tease Tea Room — READ MORE Free Trolley Rides Free trolley service will be available throughout the event, starting at Anchor Tavern with nine stops throughout town. The trolley will run from 11:30 a.m. to 3:15 p.m. with approximately 20 minutes in between each stop. Drop-off points include the Belmar Marina (Rajin' Cajun and Marina Grille), Ocean Avenue (La Dolce Vita, Playa Bowls, and Jimmy's Place), Route 71 (Mr. Shrimp), and various points along Main Street, including Belmar Mall, Pyanoe Plaza, and 8th Avenue. This is a rain-or-shine event. I've been attending the tour since it first started, and it's a fun day to get out and sample a taste of Belmar! RELATED: Upcoming Belmar Events Free trolley service will be available throughout the 2026 Belmar Restaurant Tour. Story and images © Christine Cardellino, Belmar Beachcomber Blog, and www.VacationInBelmar.com, 2017 to present. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material, including photography, without express and written permission from this site’s author/owner is strictly prohibited. If you wish to use a photograph from this site, full and clear credit must be given to Belmar Beachcomber Blog with appropriate and specific links to the original content. Live Like A Local: Rent A Belmar Beach House Day trips down the shore are fun, but the best way to experience the area is to unpack your bags and stay for a week or two. If you are looking for a clean, quiet getaway for a couple, solo stay, or small family trip, our updated two-bedroom Blue Hydrangea Cottage in Belmar, New Jersey is the perfect place to relax in serene surroundings at the Jersey Shore. The house sleeps up to four people and is consistently rated five stars by our guests for its fantastic location, spotless upkeep, and all the thoughtful details that make for an easy beach stay. You can see photos and check open dates on our Blue Hydrangea Cottage rental page. RELATED: Explore our local Belmar NJ Travel Guide to plan your beach days, dining, and local events.

Last summer, the American Littoral Society held its first Sunset Seining event at Maclearie Park in Belmar, New Jersey. The event, held in partnership with the Shark River Cleanup Coalition and the Belmar Environmental Commission, brought together nature enthusiasts of all ages for an unforgettable ecological experience on the banks of the Shark River Inlet. Under the expert guidance of the Littoral Society’s Program Coordinator, Samantha Hemming, small groups waded carefully into the shallow water with a large weighted seining net to discover the wonders of marine life at the Jersey Shore. As the nets were pulled back to the shoreline, excited children and adults alike placed their catches into a blue plastic kiddie pool, gathering around to see the living treasures that had been scooped from the water. As the event leader, Hemming’s role is to provide a few ground rules, such as not stepping on the net to avoid damaging it and harming the fish, and to help participants identify the species found. She describes each creature’s role in the ecosystem and their fascinating life histories. Shark River Estuary: A Safe Habitat For Growth Hemming describes the Shark River Inlet as an important nursery for fish, crabs, snails, and more. “By getting into the water and discovering what’s living beneath the surface, participants see the inlet in a new way,” she explained. “The biodiversity there really shows how important this estuary is as a nursery for marine life.” In addition to an abundance of Atlantic Silverside fish, the group caught about 10 different species of sea life. We saw baby crabs and jellyfish, along with native shrimp and rarer finds such as a baby sea bass, a North Atlantic pufferfish, and a sleek pipefish. RELATED READING: Discover The Coastal Birds of Belmar, New Jersey “I was pleasantly surprised by the variety of species we caught in the Shark River Inlet,” Hemming said. “The North Atlantic pufferfish was definitely a highlight of the evening. They used to be much more plentiful in our waters, so seeing juveniles is always encouraging, and of course, their puffing behavior is a crowd-pleaser.” “The native pipefish, a relative of the seahorse,” she added, “has a scaly texture instead of the typical ‘slimy’ feel, which makes them easier for hesitant participants to hold. They’re adorable, almost like tiny water snakes, and always spark a lot of conversation.” Sunset Seining In Belmar: A Hands-On Connection To Environmental Conservation For many participants, the event wasn’t just about the catch-and-release experience. It was a chance to connect with the coastal life in a new way, to see firsthand the life beneath the bay, and to better understand the importance of protecting New Jersey’s fragile marine habitats. Parents at the event watched their children learn about sea life with wide-eyed wonder and the importance of handling tiny fish, baby crabs, and other species with the utmost care. “Sunset seining is one of my favorite programs because it gives participants a hands-on way to discover why our coasts deserve protection,” Hemming said. “The best part is watching hesitation turn into fascination. Sometimes participants won’t go near a fish at the start, but by the end, they’re holding one and asking questions. Seeing that transformation, curiosity replacing fear, never gets old.” By all accounts, sunset seining in Belmar provided an important reminder of how lucky we are to live among such an abundance of natural beauty. Community-based conservation programs like those from the American Littoral Society can make an incredible Impact on people and our planet. RELATED READING: Area Attractions - Shark River Bridge Scenic Overlook “Events such as Sunset Seining bring the waterway to life, highlights why clean water matters, and builds a sense of stewardship for our coastal environment. Doing this at sunset adds to the experience because it’s a beautiful time of day that makes the experience feel special and memorable,” Hemming said. “Close encounters with marine life can spark a lasting sense of wonder and a stronger personal connection to our coastlines. That connection is what inspires people to care for and protect these ecosystems.” Live Like A Local: Rent A Belmar Beach House Day trips down the shore are fun, but the best way to experience the area is to unpack your bags and stay for a week or two. If you are looking for a clean, quiet getaway for a couple, solo stay, or small family trip, our updated two-bedroom Blue Hydrangea Cottage in Belmar, New Jersey, is the perfect place to relax in serene surroundings at the Jersey Shore. The house sleeps up to four people and is consistently rated five stars by our guests for its fantastic location, spotless upkeep, and all the thoughtful details that make for an easy beach stay. You can see photos and check open dates on our Blue Hydrangea Cottage rental page. RELATED: Explore our local Belmar NJ Travel Guide to plan your beach days, dining, and local events. All content of this story © Christine Cardellino, Belmar Beachcomber Blog, and www.VacationInBelmar.com, 2017 to present. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material, including photography, without express and written permission from this site’s author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. If you wish to use a photograph from this site, full and clear credit must be given to Belmar Beachcomber Blog and www.VacationInBelmar.com/belmar-beachcomber-blog with appropriate and specific direction to the original content.

If you're looking for something fun and different to do for a birthday celebration, date night, or getting together with friends or family, book a cruise on The Original Belmar Tiki Boat at the Belmar Marina. Book A Sunset Cruise On The Belmar Tiki Boat The Belmar Tiki Boat I is a 45-foot pontoon boat that accommodates up to 34 guests, including adults and children together. The Belmar Tiki Boat II holds up to 45 passengers. The tiki boats will delight you with a leisurely cruise around the scenic Shark River, departing from L Dock at the Belmar Marina. Belmar Tiki Boat: What To Bring Both boats in the Belmar Tiki Boat fleet are equipped with plenty of seating around the perimeter and large covered console tables in the middle of the boat. You are welcome to bring snacks and drinks on board, as the tiki boat tour is BYOB, with only soft coolers and backpacks permitted, and no glass bottles. Sunscreen is always a good idea, as well as hats and maybe a light jacket or sweater in case the evening air gets a bit cool at sunset. The Belmar Tiki Boat sailed its maiden voyage in April 2023. The tiki boat is operated by the same folks who own the Golden Eagle fishing party boat, which also docks at the Belmar Marina by 9th Avenue Pier and Marina Grille. More recently, the fleet of Belmar Tiki Boats expanded to include a location in Brick, New Jersey, cruising the Metedeconk River, and another new location in Toms River, New Jersey. RELATED: Local Guide - Fishing Boats And Charters At The Belmar Marina RELATED: Best Spots For Watching The Sunset In Belmar Celebrating Birthdays On The Belmar Tiki Boat I recently had the opportunity to enjoy a Friday-evening tiki boat ride to celebrate a friend’s milestone birthday at the end of August. There were about 15 of us in our group. We booked a 1.5-hour public cruise and shared the boat with other guests. There was plenty of room for everybody to have their own space, under the expert care of Captain Matt and a small crew. If you have a large enough group (up to 34 people), you have the option to book a private, flat-rate cruise for either two hours ($1,450.00 plus tip) or three hours ($2,100..00 plus tip). The per-person cost will vary depending on how many people are joining your group. RELATED: Coastal Birds Of Belmar NJ: A Guide To Local Marine Wildlife Everyone in our party really enjoyed the experience, including the music, and the time went by really fast. The summer evening weather was perfect, and the pontoon boat glided slowly and gently through the calm waters of the Shark River as we took in the beautiful sights of nature and scenery all around us. I would definitely ride again on the Belmar Tiki Boat, perhaps next time for a sunset cruise. Tom’s River Tiki Boat and Brick Tiki Boat also offer four-hour swim cruises if you’re looking for a little fun in the water. Even if you don’t like sailing in a big head boat on the ocean, I encourage you to try a ride on the Belmar Tiki Boat in the Shark River. It's a completely different experience, and you won’t need your sea legs for this one! The Original Belmar Tiki Boat Belmar Marina – L Street Dock 610 River Road Belmar, New Jersey 07719 732-233-7624 Live Like A Local: Rent A Belmar Beach House Day trips down the shore are fun, but the best way to experience the area is to unpack your bags and stay for a week or two. If you are looking for a clean, quiet getaway for a couple, solo stay, or small family trip, our updated two-bedroom Blue Hydrangea Cottage in Belmar, New Jersey, is the perfect place to relax in serene surroundings at the Jersey Shore. The house sleeps up to four people and is consistently rated five stars by our guests for its fantastic location, spotless upkeep, and all the thoughtful details that make for an easy beach stay. You can see photos and check open dates on our Blue Hydrangea Cottage rental page. RELATED: Explore our local Belmar NJ Travel Guide to plan your beach days, dining, and local events. www.VacationInBelmar.com Story and photos ©Christine Cardellino, Belmar Beachcomber Blog, and www.VacationInBelmar.com, 2017 to present. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material, including photography, without express and written permission from this site’s author/owner is strictly prohibited. If you wish to use a photograph from this site, full and clear credit must be given to Belmar Beachcomber Blog with appropriate and specific links to the original content.

Although our Belmar vacation rental has a well-equipped kitchen for preparing meals, sometimes you just don't feel like cooking after a sun-soaked day on the beach. For moments when you’d rather relax than make dinner or trek out to a restaurant, fill your fridge with high-quality takeout meals from our favorite gourmet markets and Italian specialty shops. Simply reheat your to-go meal in the oven or microwave, make a fresh salad if you like, and enjoy an easy dinner from the comfort of home! Below, you'll find a local's list of the area's most popular gourmet takeout markets near Belmar NJ. Shop these specialty markets for take-home meals, fresh ravioli and sauces, entrees, sides, salads, fresh Italian bread from New York, pasta dishes, meatballs, robust deli sandwiches, and desserts. In many of the shops, you'll also find a selection of imported oils, foods, and grocery items. The markets are listed in order of proximity to our beach house vacation rental in Belmar. Drew's Market Spring Lake Heights Shopping Center 2407 Route 71 Spring Lake Heights, New Jersey 07762 732-974-9399 Drew's Market is popular among the locals for its takeout entrees, full-service deli, catering services, and in-house butcher. Drew's Market is very close to our Belmar rental, less than 10 minutes away by car. On August 1, 2023, a new owner, Chuck Grosso, took over the operations of Drew's Market. He's made some renovations to the store but has kept the traditional recipes and takeout offerings that Drew's is known for. In addition to daily hot and cold lunch specials, I shop at Drew's for dinner entrees, homemade soups, fresh Pastosa brand ravioli from Brooklyn (more on that below!), Boar's Head cold cuts, and Italian bread from New York City. Check out the wide selection of fresh meats, house-made Italian sausage, and fresh Bell & Evans chicken. Belmar Beachcomber recommends: Chicken Diane, Pastosa ravioli, holiday pie (turkey pot pie with stuffing and cranberry sauce on top), balsamic marinade, shrimp salad, grilled turkey London broil, lobster bisque, chicken pot pies, stuffed rigatoni with sausage, and beef barley soup, cheesy garlic bread, to name a few of our favorites. Drew's Market and Deli in Spring Lake Heights. Joe Leone's Italian Specialties 527 Washington Boulevard Sea Girt, New Jerse 08750 732-681-1036 Joe Leone's Italian Specialties will celebrate its 20th year of business in 2027. Joe Leone's flagship location is located in Point Pleasant Beach, but the second location in Sea Girt is closer to our summer rental home in Belmar. Similar to Drew's Market, Joe Leone's offers catering, as well as a wide variety of gourmet takeout fare. You'll find seasonal menu items, homemade soups, made-to-order deli sandwiches, and a rotating roster of chef’s specials packed by the pound to takeout. The Sea Girt location of Joe Leone's offers grab-and-go fare — prepared sandwiches, packaged foods, salads, soups, sauces, etc., conveniently packaged for takeout. If you're game for a short drive, the Pt. Pleasant Beach location of Joe Leone's Italian Specialties has a wide selection of imported gourmet foods and takeout prepared foods, homemade breads, fresh mozzarella, and cheese. It's a fun adventure for foodies! A third Joe Leone's location, the Centro Market at 113 Main Street in downtown Manasquan, New Jersey, opened in March 2022. Belmar Beachcomber recommends: Flounder Francaise, honey balsamic dressing, potato salad, semolina rolls, pasta fagioli soup, homemade rice pudding, stuffed breads, chicken cutlets, and the specials. RELATED: Where To Shop For Groceries Near Our Belmar Vacation Rental Gourmet takeout from Joe Leone's Sea Girt location. Pastosa Ravioli 2410 Highway 35 Manasquan, New Jersey 732-722-8076 Website After discovering the Pastosa cheese ravioli at Drew's Market for several years ago, I was thrilled when Pastosa opened a market with its full product line nearby in Manasquan, New Jersey. The Manasquan location of Pastosa Ravioli is the second one at the Jersey Shore for this family-owned and operated Italian specialties market (Matawan being the first). Trust me: You will never eat grocery store ravioli after one bite of the fresh ravioli from Pastosa. Although the round cheese ravioli are my personal favorite, Pastosa's in Manasquan sells an unbelievable variety of ravioli flavors: chicken, crab, lobster, meat, broccoli rabe, artichoke, spinach, pumpkin, gorgonzola-walnut, sun-dried tomato, Tuscan style (stuffed with potatoes, leeks, and pancetta), and more. For those with special dietary needs, Pastosa also sells low-fat, gluten-free, and whole-wheat ravioli. The gourmet sandwiches here are hearty and served on semolina bread delivered fresh from Brooklyn and Staten Island. Shop here for prime cuts of meat, fresh Italian sausage, pasta sauces, fresh and frozen pasta, hot and cold prepared foods, Boar's Head cold cuts, traditional Italian desserts, and more. And the tiramisu? Incredible!! You must try it. Find it in the frozen case at the front of the store. Belmar Beachcomber recommends: Fresh cheese ravioli, marinara, meat sauce, vodka sauce, focaccia pizzas, fresh Mozzarella, chicken soup, artichoke hearts with seasoned bread crumbs, tiramisu, marinated bean salad. Gourmet takeout at Pastosa Ravioli in Manasquan, New Jersey. Other Gourmet Takeout Markets Near Belmar NJ: Tom Bailey's Market 1323 3rd Avenue Spring Lake, New Jersey 07762 732-282-0920 Website Tom Bailey's West 2100 Highway 35 Sea Girt, New Jersey 848-469-8820 Website Whole Foods Prepared Foods 1933 State Road 35 Wall, NJ 07719 732-359-3400 ShopRite of Belmar 1732 State Route 35 Wall Township, New Jersey 07719 732-681-0900 The World-Class ShopRite supermarket at Route 35 and 18th Avenue in Wall Township, New Jersey, has an expansive prepared foods section! You'll find a fresh salad bar, soup bar, sushi, Chinese food, BBQ ribs, submarine sandwiches (if you know me, you know I call them hoagies!), entrees and sides to go, rotisserie chicken, bake-at-home pizza, fresh pasta and sauces, and much more. The butternut squash soup is my go-to in fall and winter ... also a fan of the creamy tuna salad and the turkey London broil for salads. Local Tips: Marked-down prepared foods and bakery items are sold daily at the front of the store by the checkout registers. If you're bringing lunch somewhere, you also can order custom subs (hoagies) right at at the sandwich counter — great for a day at the beach, a fishing trip, or a tiki boat tour. Live Like A Local: Rent A Belmar Beach House Day trips down the shore are fun, but the best way to experience the area is to unpack your bags and stay for a week or two. If you are looking for a clean, quiet getaway for a couple, solo stay, or small family trip, our updated two-bedroom Blue Hydrangea Cottage in Belmar, New Jersey, is the perfect place to relax in serene surroundings at the Jersey Shore. The house sleeps up to four people and is consistently rated five stars by our guests for its fantastic location, spotless upkeep, and all the thoughtful details that make for an easy beach stay. You can see photos and check open dates on our Blue Hydrangea Cottage rental page. RELATED: Explore our local Belmar NJ Travel Guide to plan your beach days, dining, and local events. Story and photos© Christine Cardellino, Belmar Beachcomber Blog, and www.VacationInBelmar.com, 2017 to present. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material, including photography, without express and written permission from this site’s author/owner is strictly prohibited. If you wish to use a photograph from this site, full and clear credit must be given to Belmar Beachcomber Blog with appropriate and specific links to the original content.

Mark your calendar for Wednesday, July 15, 2026, when crowds of competitors will convene on Belmar beach for the ever-popular New Jersey Sandcastle Contest. This family-favorite event draws all ages of sandcastle sculptors and spectators to 18th Avenue beach in Belmar for a day of digging and designing by the sea. The Belmar NJ Sandcastle Contest begins with registration at 8:00 a.m. Admission to 18th Avenue beach is free for contest participants — just bring your sand pails, shovels, and creative flair! ​Judging for the NJ Sandcastle Contest in Belmar begins at 12:00 p.m. Judges will evaluate each sandcastle for its originality, creativity, resourcefulness, and use of accessories. Because the tide eventually washes the sandcastle designs into the ocean, participants should use natural ingredients and environmentally safe materials when creating their masterpieces. First, second, and third prizes will be awarded in the following categories, along with a Best on Beach award: Age 7 and under Age 8 to 11 Age 12 to 15 Age 16+ Camps and recreation Family Classic sandcastle RELATED: Upcoming Events In Belmar RELATED: Sky-High Summer Adventures At Belmar Parasail The Belmar NJ Sandcastle Contest is presented by the Belmar Tourism Commission and D’Jais. In case of rain, the event will be rescheduled for Thursday, July 16. Admission to 18th Avenue beach will be free during the Sandcastle Contest. Spaces on the beach for contestants are available on a first-come, first-served basis between 17th and 19th Avenues. For more information, contact Belmar Tourism officials at 732-681-3700, ext. 214, or email us with any questions. Story and images © Christine Cardellino, Belmar Beachcomber Blog, and www.VacationInBelmar.com, 2017 to present. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material, including photography, without express and written permission from this site’s author/owner is strictly prohibited. If you wish to use a photograph from this site, full and clear credit must be given to Belmar Beachcomber Blog with appropriate and specific links to the original content. Live Like A Local: Rent A Belmar Beach House Day trips down the shore are fun, but the best way to experience the area is to unpack your bags and stay for a week or two. If you are looking for a clean, quiet getaway for a couple, solo stay, or small family trip, our updated two-bedroom Blue Hydrangea Cottage in Belmar, New Jersey is the perfect place to relax in serene surroundings at the Jersey Shore. The house sleeps up to four people and is consistently rated five stars by our guests for its fantastic location, spotless upkeep, and all the thoughtful details that make for an easy beach stay. You can see photos and check open dates on our Blue Hydrangea Cottage rental page. RELATED: Explore our local Belmar NJ Travel Guide to plan your beach days, dining, and local events.

New Jersey Fishing Trip For Special-Needs Children The Belmar Marina will welcome a meaningful and memorable event to its docks this summer. On Saturday, July 18, 2026, the Miss Belmar Princess will host the first‑ever Fish For Life fishing adventure for special-needs youth out of coastal Monmouth County. Fish For Life, a California‑based nonprofit that also operates events in Wildwood Crest, is expanding its New Jersey presence by bringing this incredible program to Belmar for the very first time. About Fish For Life Founded in Dana Point, California, Fish For Life is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit with a mission to enhance the lives of special‑needs children through confidence‑building fishing trips at sea. Each event pairs participants with volunteer mentors, deckhands, and crew who guide them through a day of hands‑on fishing, ocean education, teamwork, and celebration. The organization is known for creating uplifting, inclusive experiences that leave lasting memories for families. Their motto, “Spreading Love One Boat at a Time,” reflects the heart of their work. "Starting a Fish For Life chapter in Belmar was inspired by a dear friend who has experienced several of our trips in California and spends his summers at the Jersey Shore," said Fish For Life Founder and CEO Jim Holden. "As a member of the Belmar Fishing Club, his passion for our mission and connection to the local community helped spark the idea of bringing Fish For Life to Belmar. From there, the dream began to take shape and ultimately became a reality." About the Miss Belmar Princess The Miss Belmar Princess is one of the most prominent vessels in the Belmar Marina. At 100 feet long, the boat offers a spacious deck, clean restrooms, shaded seating, and a stable ride — ideal for a supportive, family‑friendly fishing experience. The crew is known for its professionalism, hospitality, and decades of experience running safe and enjoyable trips off the Jersey Shore. “We’re incredibly excited to launch our first-ever Fish For Life voyage in Belmar on Saturday, July 18, aboard the Miss Belmar Princess," Holden said. "Our model requires chartering large sportfishing vessels, and the Miss Belmar Princess is an ideal fit. Its size, layout, and ability to comfortably host our special needs guests and volunteers make it a wonderful platform for creating the unforgettable Fish For Life experience." According to Holden, the Fish For Life adventure aboard the Miss Belmar Princess will host approximately 100 passengers, including 30 special needs youth, 30 chaperones, and 40 volunteers. A marine biologist from New Jersey Fish & Wildlife will accompany the group at sea. RELATED: All Aboard The Belmar Tiki Boat What To Expect: Miss Belmar Princess Fish For Life Event The event will include a warm welcome for each child, one‑on‑one mentorship, fishing lessons, lunch, music, and a celebratory atmosphere throughout the day. A trophy ceremony will honor every young fisher, emphasizing confidence, inclusion, and joy. According to Holden, "The red-carpet opening ceremonies that will start by 9:00 a.m. We'll first have a few speakers share brief remarks, including Belmar Mayor Caitlin Donovan, followed by a prayer, singing of the National Anthem, and then we'll individually introduce our special-needs guests as they make their way down a red carpet to board the Miss Belmar Princess." Additional speakers will include New Jersey Fish & Wildlife Officer Jim Warner, Miss Belmar Princess Captain Allen Shinn, and Bob McCrimlisk from the Belmar Fishing Club. "Everyone in the community is welcome to come enjoy the opening ceremony, and we're asking everyone to arrive by 8:30 a.m. to help kick off the event," Holden said. "We look forward to creating joyful memories, building meaningful friendships, and providing children with special needs and their families with a day they will never forget." RELATED: Sky-High Summer Adventures At Belmar Parasail Fish For Life: How To Sign Up Fish for Life is currently accepting: 30 special‑needs participants (typically ages 8–21) Volunteer mentors Event sponsors and donors Registration is on a first-come, first-served basis. Families who miss the cutoff will be placed on a standby list for next year or contacted if a spot opens due to a cancellation. To register or learn more about the Miss Belmar Princess Fish For Life event, visit: https://fishforlife.org, select "Events" and look for the "Belmar, NJ – July 18, 2026" trip. Space is limited, and this first Belmar voyage is expected to fill quickly. RELATED: More Belmar Marina Stories Belmar Welcomes Fish for Life Belmar is an excellent choice as the first Monmouth County port to host this inspiring program. The partnership between Fish For Life and the Miss Belmar Princess brings together community spirit, ocean adventure, and a mission that makes a meaningful difference. If you know a family who would benefit from this experience — or if you’d like to volunteer — please help spread the word and support this special day on the water. Live Like A Local: Rent A Belmar Beach House Day trips down the shore are fun, but the best way to experience the area is to unpack your bags and stay for a week or two. If you are looking for a clean, quiet getaway for a couple, solo stay, or small family trip, our updated two-bedroom Blue Hydrangea Cottage in Belmar, New Jersey, is the perfect place to relax in serene surroundings at the Jersey Shore. The house sleeps up to four people and is consistently rated five stars by our guests for its fantastic location, spotless upkeep, and all the thoughtful details that make for an easy beach stay. You can see photos and check open dates on our Blue Hydrangea Cottage rental page. RELATED: Explore our local Belmar NJ Travel Guide to plan your beach days, dining, and local events. Story and images © Christine Cardellino, Belmar Beachcomber Blog, and www.VacationInBelmar.com, 2017 to present. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material, including photography, without express and written permission from this site’s author/owner is strictly prohibited. If you wish to use a photograph from this site, full and clear credit must be given to Belmar Beachcomber Blog with appropriate and specific links to the original content.

Bring your beach chairs to 7th Avenue beach for free movie night in Belmar, New Jersey, starting Wednesday, July 1, 2026, through Wednesday, August 26, 2026. Movies start at dusk, but it's best to get there earlier to get a good spot in the front of the big screen on the sand. For extra summer fun, treat the family to a pre-movie dinner at one of Belmar's casual or fine-dining restaurants along Ocean Avenue or along "restaurant row" in the downtown business district. Popular places on Ocean Avenue include La Dolce Vita, with its beachfront views and outside tables, as well Jersey's Mike's Subs on the boardwalk. Treat yourself to ice cream from Coney Waffle at 803 Ocean Avenue, a superfruit bowl from Playa Bowls next door at 804 Ocean Avenue, or a super-sized slice of pizza from Jimmy's Place at 804 Ocean Avenue. Local Tip: In downtown Belmar, you'll find a wide array of choices for takeout to bring to the summer moves on Belmar Beach. In Belmar's "restaurant row," try Pizza Lucci, India Garden, Hoagito's, Kotta Sushi, the new cheesesteak place, or Mr. Greek. On Main Street, you can grab some to-go fare from Ellie's Indian Curry (previous location of Surf Taco) or F Street Social (new owners; read more here!) Around the corner, you can grab a salad and pizza to go from Fed's On 10th. Local nonprofit organizations, such as Belmar Boy Scout Troop 40, Belmar Elementary School PTO, the Belmar Community Garden, the Belmar Historical Society and the Belmar Woman's Club, will be holding popcorn and snack fundraisers before each weekly movie. Belmar Movies On The Beach Summer 2026 Schedule July 1 - Ratatouille July 8 - The Emperor's New Groove July 15 - A Cinderella Story July 22 - The Goonies July 29 - Freaky Friday August 5 - Footloose August 12 - The Incredibles August 19 - Up August 26 - What a Girl Wants Belmar Movies on the Beach are sponsored by 10th Avenue Burrito Co., Beach Haus Brewery, D'Jais, Flames Brazilian Steakhouse, Klein's Seafood Restaurant, Marina Grille, La Dolce Vita, and Playa Bowls. Movies on Belmar beach are a weather-permitting event with no rain dates. RELATED: Upcoming Events In Belmar, New Jersey Story and images © Christine Cardellino, Belmar Beachcomber Blog, and www.VacationInBelmar.com, 2017 to present. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material, including photography, without express and written permission from this site’s author/owner is strictly prohibited. If you wish to use a photograph from this site, full and clear credit must be given to Belmar Beachcomber Blog with appropriate and specific links to the original content. Live Like A Local: Rent A Belmar Beach House Day trips down the shore are fun, but the best way to experience the area is to unpack your bags and stay for a week or two. If you are looking for a clean, quiet getaway for a couple, solo stay, or small family trip, our updated two-bedroom Blue Hydrangea Cottage in Belmar, New Jersey is the perfect place to relax in serene surroundings at the Jersey Shore. The house sleeps up to four people and is consistently rated five stars by our guests for its fantastic location, spotless upkeep, and all the thoughtful details that make for an easy beach stay. You can see photos and check open dates on our Blue Hydrangea Cottage rental page. RELATED: Explore our local Belmar NJ Travel Guide to plan your beach days, dining, and local events.