Looking for a fun, hands-on activity to ignite your creative spirit? Midnight Candle Company in Belmar, New Jersey, offers unique candle-making workshops that are perfectly suited for a girls’ night out, a team-builder with work colleagues, or date night with your significant other. Each workshop is led by Midnight Candle owner and candle maker extraordinaire Matt Dates, who guides you step by step through the creative process of mixing and pouring your own custom creation. Matt Dates, owner of Midnight Candle Company in Belmar, New Jersey. What to Expect At Midnight Candle Company’s candle-making workshops, you’ll design and pour two 8-ounce jar candles from start to finish, including selecting your favorite fragrances and colors, and making your own labels. Throughout the session, Matt shares his extensive knowledge about the art and science of candle making using his specially designed premium soy-beeswax blend.   The process begins with a discussion of the different types of wax and wicks used, ensuring your candles burn evenly and cleanly. You'll then move on to inserting the wicks into the jars and picking a custom scent blend from Midnight Candle Company’s extensive fragrance library. You can stick with one scent or create a personalized blend by mixing and matching fragrances, whether you prefer fresh florals and spicy woods, or soothing vanillas and vibrant citruses.   After choosing your scent, you’ll pick colors for your candles, or you may opt to leave them uncolored if you prefer white wax. Next, you’ll hand-pour hot liquid wax into the two glass jars, leaving the candles to cure while you head over to the labeling station and choose from stamps, markers, and other supplies to design personalized labels for the jars.   RELATED : Belmar Business Spotlight – Midnight Candle Company Cozy Studio Setting The cozy, relaxed studio at Midnight Candle Company accommodates parties of various sizes, and private workshops for up to 25 people are available for special occasions. The laid-back atmosphere, combined with the creativity of candle-making, makes it a memorable experience for all. Some of the candle-making workshops at Midnight Candle Company are paired with dinner catered by a local Belmar restaurant or with a movie night to level up the entertainment factor. BYOB adult beverages are welcome for those 21 and older (beer and wine only). RELATED : Dining Around – Pizza Heaven, Belmar, NJ   Why Belmar? Belmar is known for its vibrant beach-town vibe, and Midnight Candle Company adds to the charm with this artisanal experience. After your candle-making session, you can explore the local shops, grab a coffee or a drink, or take a stroll on the Belmar boardwalk or beach. It’s a perfect weekend getaway or an evening of creative relaxation in a picturesque setting. RELATED : Discover The Coastal Birds Of Belmar – A Guide To Local Wildlife   How to Sign Up Ready to unleash your inner artisan? Signing up for a Midnight Candle Company workshop is easy. You can visit their website to check the calendar for upcoming workshop dates or call the studio directly to book a private session for your group. Workshops are held regularly, with both daytime and evening options available to fit any schedule.   Don’t miss out on this unique experience — get your creative vibes flowing at Midnight Candle Company in the heart of downtown Belmar! Midnight Candle Company 811 Main Street Belmar, NJ 07719 www.midnightcandle.com   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.  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 rental  in Belmar, New Jersey, is the perfect getaway place. The home sleeps up to four people and is consistently rated five stars for cleanliness, amenities and location. Learn more at www.vacationinbelmar.com .

You'll "shorely" delight those special someones on your list with these 16 Belmar-inspired holiday gift ideas. 🎄 And when you shop local in our community, you're making a difference for the independent, family-owned small businesses and the people they employ. Our local businesses need your support more than ever this holiday shopping season. 1. Belmar Historical Society Ornament The Belmar Historical Society (BHS) has an important mission to document and preserve the treasured memories of Belmar as the beloved seashore community has grown since the days of grand oceanfront mansions. Show your support with the purchase of Belmar Historical Society Christmas tree ornament. The ornament sells for $15.00 and may be ordered online and picked up at the BHS museum and history room, 900 E Street in the annex of the Union Firehouse. Shipping is also available for an additional $5.00 per order. Other memorabilia for gift-giving includes vintage postcards and wall art, 19th-century maps, etchings, and reproductions of flyers advertising the town's very first property lots for sale — nostalgic ephemera that showcases a bygone era in the history of our town. Two new holiday gift items for 2024 are a packet of seven vintage Belmar postcards and a colorful "Greetings from Belmar" beach towel. View items for sale and contact information for the Belmar Historical Society on their website , or stop by one of the holiday pop-up shops at the BHS museum. The pop-up shops will take place from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. on December 7 and December 14, 2024. The museum is located at 900 E Street. Cash or check only will be accepted for purchases. 2. Belmar Honey Belmar beekeeper Ed Lippincott is locally known for his delicious raw honey, which he sells from his home at 305 4th Avenue in 8-ounce and 16-ounce bottles. Or pick up some Belmar Honey at Eastern Lines Surf Shop, 1605 Ocean Avenue, or at Nourished by Nature juice bar, 801 Main Street (next to Beach Haus Brewery). RELATED : Belmar Honey - How Sweet It Is Belmar Honey for sale at Nourished by Nature. 3. Belmar Beach Tags Stuff their stockings with Belmar beach tags, which are now on sale for the summer 2026 season and may be purchased online . B each badge prices for summer 2025 are $80.00 for seasonal beach tags and $32.00 for seniors (age 65 and older; proof of age required). Shipping is $10.00, and please note that a "processing fee" is added to all online purchases, as well as to in-person cash or check purchases made at Belmar Borough Hall, 601 Main Street. Pick-ups and in-person purchases may be made weekdays between 9:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. For more information, call Belmar tourism officials at 732-681-3700, ext. 214. RELATED : Visitor Guide To Belmar Beach Tags, Parking, And More 4. Fishing, Tiki Boat, Or Whale Watching Tickets Tickets for a fishing trip off the Jersey Shore coast are an excellent gift idea if you want to share an experience with loved ones. Buy tickets in advance for one of the numerou s party head boats or private fishing charters that set sail from the Belmar Marina. Morning excursions depart the marina generally around 7:00 or 7:30 a.m. and return in the mid-afternoon, between 2:30 and 3:30 p.m. Some ships also go out for afternoon fishing charters and special excursions, such as sunset cruises and July 4th fireworks. Jersey Shore Whale Watching tickets are another great holiday gift idea. Tours are offered aboard the Miss Belmar Princess or the Royal Miss Belmar. The tour is guided by a marine life specialist from Rutgers University, who shares her extensive knowledge of humpback whales and other creatures that inhabit the sea. Tickets for the new Belmar Tiki Boat are also a great gift idea. Book now for summer 2024. RELATED : Guide To Fishing Boats At The Belmar Marina RELATED : All Aboard The Belmar Tiki Boat 5. Hand-Poured Candles Light someone's fire with a USA-made candle from Midnight Candle Company in Belmar. At Midnight Candle Company, 1108 Main Street, you'll find a rainbow of richly scented hand-poured scented jar candles, votives, and wax melts. You can even bring in your own heat-safe candle container for a custom-poured creation — pick your own candle scent and color. Candle-making kits are also for sale at Midnight Candle Company. Each kit includes materials and detailed instructions to create two 50-hour scented candles at home. Midnight Candle Company also offers private candle-making workshops , which are great for a fun night out with family or friends. Call 732-947-7861 to reserve or visit www.midnightcandle.com . 6. Something For Their Sweet Tooth Who could resist a box of decadent chocolates or a "Cupcake of the Month" shipment from Sweet! candy shop in downtown Belmar? A a "Best of Monmouth" winner, Sweet! candy shop in Belmar is a great place to buy shore-themed goodies such as salt water taffy and boardwalk fudge. Sweet, located at 702 10th Avenue, also offers gourmet gift baskets, cupcake jars, boxed chocolates, and more. 7. Locally Roasted Gourmet Coffee One of our favorite independent coffee shops in Belmar, Turnstile Coffee Roasters, sells sampler boxes (some with Taza Stone Ground Organic Chocolate), as well as custom gift boxes. Turnstile's online store also sells whole-bean coffee in 12-ounce or five-pound bags. Choose from four different grinding options, whether you prefer to brew by drip, pour-over, espresso, or French press. Pick up your gifts at their contact-less pick-up window (located on Route 71 across from Mr. Shrimp), or order online and have it shipped anywhere in the United States (free shipping when you order two or more bags). Turnstile's coffee bean grinders, presses, and brewing devices also make great gifts. Buy coffee and gift cards at Turnstile Coffee Roasters in Belmar, NJ. 8. Craft Beer Cheer The craft beer lover on your list will appreciate a gift basket brimming with IPAs, pilsners, spiced ales, and lagers from Beach Haus Brewery, 801 Main Street in Belmar. The retail store and website also sell Beach Haus gift cards, as well as logo hoodies, hats, t-shirts, koozies and more. Call 732-202-7782 or visit www.beachhausbeer.com . 9. Belmar Restaurant Gift Cards Gift cards to Belmar restaurants are a great gift not only for locals in the Monmouth County area, but also for far-away family or friends who like to vacation in Belmar or visit for a day trip. Belmar restaurants with gift cards for sale include the following: 10th Ave. Burrito Co., 732-820-1515 Beach Haus Brewery , 732-202-7782 Berg's Smoked Meat & Poutine , 732-749-3266 Brandl Restaurant, 732-280-7501 Comfi of Belmar, 732-749-3583 Emilio's On Main (NEW!), 848-404-9331 F Street Craft Pizza , 732-934-2378 Federici's Restaurant, 732-681-3337 Federico's Pizza & Restaurant, 732- 681-6936 Flames Brazilian Steakhouse, 732-681-7680 Hoagitos, 732-556-6617 Kaya's Kitchen vegan and vegetarian cuisine, 732-280-1141 or buy online Klein's Seafood Market and Waterside Café, 732-681-1177 La Dolce Vita, 732-749-3177 Marina Grille , 732-894-3211 Mr. Greek Mediterranean Cuisine , 848-404-9633 Mr. Shrimp Seafood Restaurant and Market, 732-681-7755 Nourished By Nature , 908-907-5893 Playa Bowls , 732-556-6897 Rajin' Cajun, 732-280-6828 Sweet! 732-280-8889 Sweet Tease Tea Room & Café , 732-722-8030 Turnstile Coffee Roasters, 732-894-9012 To inquire about ordering a gift card, call each establishment directly or visit the restaurant's website or Facebook page. Most places should be able to take a credit card payment over the phone and mail the gift card directly to you or to the lucky recipient. RELATED : Dining In Belmar 10. Belmar "Dine & Discover" Tickets Surprise the foodies on your list with tickets to the 16th annual Belmar Dine & Discover food tour and tasting (formerly known as the Belmar Restaurant Tour). The event is scheduled for Sunday, March 8, 2026, from 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Early-bird tickets are now on sale for $30.00 through December 31, 2025. RELATED : Belmar Dining Stories On The Beachcomber Blog 11. Belmar Swag Wear your Belmar pride with a custom-printed t-shirt, hat, or hoodie. Beckman's on the Beach , 1605A Ocean Avenue, specializes in custom screen printing, embroidery, and direct-to-garment printing. In addition to t-shirts, polos and tank tops, your selected design can be imprinted on hats, hoodies, and other apparel. Same-day printing services are available, and Beckman's also serves corporate clients and school sales, in addition to retail customers. Call 732-245-5020 or visit www.belmarshirts.com for more information. Taylor Hardware, 914 Main Street, also has a selection of Belmar sweatshirts and swag for sale. RELATED : Discover The Dining And Shopping Delights Of Belmar, New Jersey 12. Alpaca Apparel This past fall, we had the pleasure of visiting Arrow Acres Alpaca Farm in Wall Township, New Jersey. The farm has a cute gift shop, where you'll find scarves, gloves, hats, socks, wraps and other wearables made from silky soft alpaca fleece. They also sell handspun alpaca yarn and local honey from their family-owned farm. RELATED : Area Attractions - Arrow Acres Alpaca Farm 13. Surfing, Sailing, and SUP Lessons For stand-up paddle board (SUP) enthusiasts, give a gift card from the Endless SUP Company, which maintains a seasonal presence at Belmar's L Street bathing beach on the banks of the Shark River. Gift certificates may be used for SUP lesson packages, paddle yoga classes, and SUP boards and accessories. Endless SUP's on-water activities will resume in spring 2022. To learn more, visit https://endlessbelmar.com . Summertime Surf School in Belmar sells gift certificates for its youth and adult surfing camps and private lesson packages — perfect for anyone who has always wanted to learn how to surf. Visit www.summertimesurf.com to purchase. RELATED : 7 Ways To Enjoy The Water In Belmar Treat the kids to a summer surfing camp in Belmar. 14. Handcrafted Sea Glass Creations Nothing says "Jersey Shore" like sea glass, shells and driftwood. We love these adorable Christmas tree ornaments that are handcrafted by Joyce at Simply Sea Glass Art. See more of Joyce's amazing work at www.simplyseaglassart.com . Email the artist with questions or to place a custom order. 15. Beach Cruiser Who wouldn't be delighted with a shiny new bicycle under the tree? Belmar Bike Shop, 1318 Main Street, sells a full line of Electra beach cruisers for women, men, and kids. Customize your new ride with Belmar Bike Shop's wide selection of baskets, bells, night lights, helmets, and other accessories. RELATED : Edgar Felix Memorial Bike Trail In Manasquan, New Jersey 16. Jersey Shore Cookbook New Jersey food blogger Deborah Smith ("Jersey Bites") has published a compendium of recipes from 50 of the Jersey Shore's most popular restaurants, diners, cafés, and bakeries. Contributors from the area include Brandl in Belmar; the Buttered Biscuit in Bradley Beach; Fratello's Restaurant in Sea Girt; Waypoint 622 in Brielle; and Porta, Talula's Pizza, and Brick Wall Tavern in Asbury Park. From cover to cover, you'll find recipes for every course, from starters, salads and soups, to main dishes, sides, breakfast, and desserts. Colorful custom photography showcases the restaurants and their culinary creations. Each recipe is also accompanied by a brief profile of the contributor. The Jersey Shore Cookbook is available for purchase at www.jerseyshorecookbook.com . Photo credit: Jersey Shore Cookbook Author Deborah Smith. © 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. 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, single adults and small families, the two-bedroom Blue Hydrangea Cottage rental in Belmar, New Jersey, is the perfect getaway place. The home sleeps up to four people and is consistently rated five stars for cleanliness, amenities and location. Learn more at www.vacationinbelmar.com . RELATED : Visit Belmar, New Jersey

Enjoy Delicious Mexican and Tex-Mex Cuisine Anytime in Belmar, NJ You don’t have to wait for Taco Tuesday or Fajita Friday to enjoy delicious Mexican and Tex-Mex fare in the Belmar region of the Jersey Shore. The restaurants on our top picks list serve some of Monmouth County's best burritos, enchiladas, and house specialties that are sure-fire palate pleasers. 1. Azteca Mexican Restaurant 1633 State Highway 71 Belmar, New Jersey 07719 732-749-3536 BYOB, dine in, takeout We're letting you in on a local secret: Azteca Mexican Restaurant in Belmar, New Jersey, serves some of the best Mexican food in the area. Azteca is a modest, hole-in-the-wall place with a small dining area and booth seating. They also have takeout if you prefer your food to go. We especially like the freshly made guacamole, the chicken enchiladas, and the spicy pork sopes. The pinto beans are very good, too. BYOB. RELATED : One-Of-A-Kind Finds: Nourished By Nature Juice Bar Chicken enchiladas and fresh guacamole and chips from Azteca Mexican Restaurant in Belmar, NJ. 2. La Sierra Mexican Restaurant 1621 Main Street Lake Como, New Jersey 732-749-3081 http://lasierrarestaurantandbar.com Dine in, takeout, full-service bar La Sierra Mexican Restaurant is within an easy five-minute walk of our beach house rental in Belmar. They have indoor and outdoor dining (weather permitting for outdoor seating), and a full-service bar with margaritas, sangria, beer, and cocktails. Huevos rancheros, fajitas, and chicken sopes are a few of the dishes that I have ordered here — all very good! RELATED : Dining Around - F Street Social Craft Pizza And Kitchen 3. Cielito Lindo Restaurant and Taqueria 1501 Main Street Belmar, New Jersey 07719 732-894-3977 https://cielitolindomexicanfood.com/menus/belmar BYOB, dine in, takeout, delivery Another delicious destination for authentic Mexican food in Belmar, New Jersey, is Cielito Lindo on Main Street. The chicken sopes, tortilla soup, chicken nachos, and fajitas are some excellent choices here. Cielito Lindo is within a very short walk of our Belmar vacation rental. Dine there (BYOB) or get it to go. They also deliver to the local area. 4. Oaxaca By The Sea 123 Main Street Bradley Beach, New Jersey 07720 732-646-4178 www.oaxacabytheseanj.com BYOB, dine in, takeout, delivery via Uber Eats or DoorDash Oaxaca By The Sea opened in downtown Bradley Beach, New Jersey, in March 2023, in the small shopping strip next to Country Farm convenience store. We recently dined there after a Bradley Beach Saturday night concert (Moroccan Sheepherders). We started with the Oaxaca Platter ($20.00), which was a generously sized sampler of three mini tacos, a sope (fried masa base topped with black beans, queso, and lettuce), two tacos dorados, a quesadilla, and a small sharable serving of nachos. There was enough food for the two of us, and it easily could have been our meal. I especially liked the sope and plan to order Oaxaca's chicken sopes the next time I visit. For our entrées, my dearly beloved chose the chicken enchiladas ($13.00) with red sauce. I selected the Camarones a la Diabla ($18.00), shrimp in a spicy chipotle sauce with rice and black beans. There's a small, colorfully decorated dining room, and takeout business was brisk the night we dined here. BYOB. RELATED : Places We Love - DelPonte's Bakery 5. Plaza Tapatia Restaurant 707 Main Street Asbury Park, NJ 07719 732-776-7826 https://tapatiarestaurant.com/ Dine in, takeout, full-service bar Dinner at Plaza Tapatia in Asbury Park was the perfect setting for a girls' night out to celebrate my recent birthday. We had the good fortune to choose half-price fajita night (Wednesday) for our dining adventure. The cuisine here is inspired by the Oaxaca and Jalisco regions of Mexico. Plaza Tapatia serves lunch from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. and dinner from 3:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. Plaza Tapatia has a full-service bar with margaritas, classic cocktails, beer, wine, and coffee drinks. 6. Los Barbaros Birria 1110 Main St. Belmar, NJ 07719 848-404-9041 www.losbarbarosbirriabelmar.com BYOB, dine in, takeout The star of the menu at Los Barbaros Birria in Belmar are their birria tacos. Birria tacos are made with beef that has been simmered in a savory broth and seasoned with chiles and other spices. The meat is braised in the spice-broth mixture until it is very tender and infused with lip-smacking flavor. Once the meat is ready, the taco shells are dipped in the braising liquid and then stuffed with meat and cheese, and grilled. The tacos are served with a side of the flavorful red braising liquid for dipping. In addition to birria tacos, the menu at Los Barbaros includes quesabirria, pizzabirria, noodle birria, and birria sandwiches (tortuga birria). 7. 10th Ave. Burrito Co. 801 Belmar Plaza Belmar, New Jersey 07719 732-280-1515 www.tenthaveburrito.com Dine in, takeout, full-service bar We have been going to 10th Ave. Burrito Co. since its early days on 10th Avenue, way before the restaurant expanded in 2009 to its current location at Belmar Plaza. Our favorites here include the sweet and spicy corn soup, pineapple-habañero wings, and shredded pork molé nachos. In addition to an updated dining room, 10th Ave. Burrito has a covered and heated dining patio along with a full-service bar, a perfect spot to sip on a classic margarita with Grand Mariner in a salt-rimmed pint glass. Take out is also available, along with delivery via GrubHub. RELATED : Spicy Tomatillo Salsa Recipe From 10th Avenue Burrito Co. Also Try: Panchos and Juanchos Cocina Mexicana 320A Main Street Bradley Beach, New Jersey 07720 732-740-0656 www.panchosandjuanchos.com Panchos and Juanchos serves both Mexican and Colombian food from their downtown location in Bradley Beach. They serve all-day breakfast, traditional Mexican dishes and sandwiches (tortas), salads, and Colombian specialties such as Bandeja Paisa. Order online via their website and pick up. Jose’s Mexican Food 101 State Route 71 South Spring Lake Heights, New Jersey 07762 732-974-8080 http://josesspringlake.com FINS TropiCali Cuisine - Bradley Beach 120 Main Street Bradley Beach, New Jersey 07720 732-897-8600 www.finsusa.com I first tried FINS TropiCali Cuisine on the beach during the Belmar Pro surfing competition. One bite of the island spiced shrimp tacos, and I was an instant fan. The FINS locations in Bradley Beach and Sea Girt are a short drive from our weekly summer rental in Belmar. Order online for pickup or delivery. Pop’s Mexican Cantina 1000 Ocean Avenue, 2nd Ave. Pavilion Asbury Park, New Jersey 07712 732-576-2181 www.popsgaragenj.com Surf Taco Coastal Cuisine 1003 Main Street Belmar, New Jersey 732-681-3001 https://surftaco.com/location/belmar-nj Surf Taco is a small regional chain of Tex-Mex-style restaurants with 13 locations throughout New Jersey, including one at 1003 Main Street in Belmar. Swing by the fresh salsa bar to sample Surf Taco's housemade salsa toppings to complement your meal. Try the Baja Surf Taco, a combination of tempura-style Cod and avocado lime sauce served with shredded cabbage, chipotle mayonnaise, and Baja salsa. Bubbakoo’s Burritos 1603 Ocean Avenue Belmar, New Jersey 07719 www.bubbakoos.com/location/belmarnj 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 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 rental in Belmar, New Jersey, is the perfect getaway place. The home sleeps up to four people and is consistently rated five stars for cleanliness, amenities, and location. Learn more at www.vacationinbelmar.com .

At our beach house rental in Belmar, New Jersey, you’ll find a well-equipped kitchen for preparing meals, along with a diverse selection of nearby supermarkets, farm markets, and natural-foods stores to shop for groceries and provisions. Our rental is a short drive from popular markets such as ShopRite, Whole Foods and Wegmans, as well as independent grocers such as Matt’s Farm Market and Soulberry Natural Market. Check out the Belmar Beachcomber's top picks for grocery stores near Belmar, NJ. We've also compiled a list of our favorite places for gourmet takeout and Italian specialties for those super-chill days when you don't feel like cooking or dining out. Remember to bring your own shopping bags to the grocery store, as New Jersey no longer allows retailers to provide single-use paper or plastic bags as of May 2022. Most markets have bags available for purchase if you do not bring your own, and we have a small supply of reusable tote bags available in our beach house rental for our guests to use. 1. Matt's Farm Market & Garden Center 1740 Highway 71 Belmar, New Jersey 07719 732-449-5600 <1 mile Great for: Fresh fruits and vegetables, bundles of fresh basil, Jersey sweet corn and tomatoes, winesap apples. RELATED : Belmar Honey - How Sweet It Is Matt's Farm Market in Belmar, New Jersey. 2. ShopRite of Belmar 1732 State Route 35 Wall Township, New Jersey 07719 732-681-0900 1.5 miles A World-Class ShopRite supermarket opened on Route 35 and 18th Avenue in May 2021. The 71,500-square-foot store is a foodie's dream. You literally could spend an hour or two shopping in this store — there's that much to explore and experience. Great for: General groceries, household provisions, personal care items, grab-and-go meals, fresh seafood and meats, bakery cakes and breads, salad bar, and more. Grocery delivery and curbside pickup are available at ShopRite of Belmar. ShopRite of Belmar. 3. Soulberry Natural Market Spring Lake Heights Shopping Center 2407 Route 71 Spring Lake Heights, New Jersey 07762 732-449-4950 2 miles Soulberry Natural Market is a family-owned independent grocery store that opened in 2023 at the retail location formerly occupied by Nature's Corner. This is the second location of Soulberry, the first one being in New Hope, Bucks County, Pennsylvania. Shop at Soulberry Natural Market for organic and non-GMO groceries, organic and local produce, health and beauty products, nutritional supplements, and vitamins. Soulberry Natural Market in Spring Lake Heights, NJ. 4. Aldi Supermarket 1919 State Route 35 Wall Township, New Jersey 07719 Approx. 2.5 miles Great for: Fresh produce, gourmet cheese, eggs, frozen food, bottled spring water, condiments, coffee, bread, pantry items, and seasonal merchandise. Bring a quarter to use the shopping carts. The store has a shopping cart system where you insert the quarter to unlock the cart. You get your quarter back after you return the cart to the corral at the front of the store. Aldi supermarket in Wall Township, New Jersey. 4. Whole Foods Market 1933 NJ–35 Wall Township, New Jersey 07719 732-359-3400 Approx. 3 miles Great for: Organic produce and foods, gourmet cheeses, bakery items, fresh fish and seafood, Bell & Evans chicken, cold cuts, hot prepared foods and salad bar. If you are an Amazon Prime member, Whole Foods will deliver your groceries to the house for a nominal fee. 5. Acme 2007 New Jersey Highway 35 Wall Township, New Jersey 07719 732-974-9090 Approx. 3 miles www.acmemarkets.com Great for: General groceries, Boar's Head cold cuts, household provisions. The Wall Township Acme offers online ordering with free curbside pickup and home delivery (fee applies). 6. Wegmans 1104 Highway 35 Ocean Township, New Jersey 07712 732-695-7000 Approx. 6 miles Great for: General groceries, basic provisions, hot prepared foods, takeout sushi, fresh meat and seafood, organic foods and produce, international ingredients, wine and beer. Grocery delivery is available from Wegmans via Instacart (subject to service and delivery fees). 7. Costco 2361 Highway 66 Ocean Township, New Jersey 07712 732-481-0023 Approx. 6 miles 8a. Trader Joe’s 1031 Broad Street Shrewsbury, New Jersey 07702 732-389-2535 Approx. 13 miles 8b. Trader Joe’s 110 Brick Plaza Brick, New Jersey 08723 Approx. 12 miles In addition to these markets, there's a Target nearby in Wall Township, New Jersey, as well as a small convenience store in downtown Belmar called Supersavers Market, where you can buy fresh produce and basic groceries. There's also a Family Dollar store near the 10th Avenue train station in the Belmar Plaza and a Walgreen's Pharmacy on Main Street in downtown 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 rental in Belmar, New Jersey, is the perfect getaway place. The home sleeps up to four people and is consistently rated five stars for cleanliness, amenities and location. Learn more at www.vacationinbelmar.com . RELATED : Visit Belmar, New Jersey 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.

Update 9-22-2025: Very sad to report that Pizza Heaven is permanently closed as of September 2025. :-( The Belmar Beachcomber is on a tour of the best pizza restaurants in our region of the Jersey Shore – and, boy, do we have a lot of ground to cover! Our tour starts with Pizza Heaven in downtown Belmar, which is owned by the Riano brothers, Rigoberto and Manny. Rigoberto perfected his pizza-making skills during his 12-year stint at Porta in Asbury Park, New Jersey, where he worked prior to opening Pizza Heaven in April 2022 with his brother. The wood-fired, thin-crust pies at Pizza Heaven are created in the Neapolitan style using specially milled flour imported from Italy. The superfine 00 pizza flour yields a stretchy and elastic dough – and a tender, crispy crust after a short time in the hot oven. You’ll find 12 styles of 13-inch Neapolitan-style pizza on the menu at Pizza Heaven in Belmar NJ. In addition to classic margherita pizza, your choices include arugula pizza; a white pie with fresh mozzarella, ricotta, and Parmigiano Reggiano; and several selections of specialty pies. Specialty pizza toppings include sliced meatballs, Italian sausage, long hot peppers, fresh garlic, cherry tomatoes, spinach, mushrooms, and hot Italian salami. The penne vodka pie is a decadent combination if you love pasta on your pizza. View the Pizza Heaven Belmar NJ menu >> You can taste the quality of ingredients not only in the light and airy crust at Pizza Heaven, but also in the pizza sauce and toppings. The brothers use fresh house-made mozzarella cheese, fine extra-virgin olive oil, and imported San Marzano tomatoes on all their pies. “The margherita pizza was delicious as was the Orolanda,” wrote one customer in a Google review. “Our favorite was the wood-fired Brussels sprouts…my kids were eating them like candy! I’ve been twice this summer since new owners took over and I now plan my beach days around stopping here for dinner before we head home. Food is amazing, service is fantastic and you can’t beat the prices.” For appetizers, you can’t go wrong with an order of fried calamari (pictured below) or wings from Pizza Heaven in Belmar. If you’re watching your carb intake, or following a vegan/vegetarian diet, Pizza Heaven has a selection of fresh artisan salads and à la carte vegetable sides, such as sautéed broccoli rabe and wood-fired brussels sprouts or mushrooms. My go-to salad at Pizza Heaven is the Fresca (pictured below, center), which is a generous serving of arugula, radicchio, grape tomatoes, sliced pears, roasted almonds, and champagne vinaigrette — big enough for sharing, but you may want to keep the salad all to yourself once you dig in. RELATED : Dining In Belmar Another Google reviewer wrote, “That crust!! 😍 What more can I say!? I love the Fresca salad as well as the pasta pomodoro. My sister still can’t stop talking about the meatball pie. Every pizza we have ordered, whether takeout, delivery or dine in, has been mouthwatering. The place itself is low-key, perfect for catching up and chatting, and the owner/chef and his family are so warm. We had a chance to talk a bit, and he was trained by a line of world-famous pizzaiolas.” If you’re hungry for something a little heartier, Pizza Heaven also serves entrées (seared salmon, chicken Parmesan, chicken Francese, and chicken marsala), as well as burgers, cheesesteaks, grilled and fried chicken sandwiches, and meatball subs. There’s also a children’s menu for the little ones. For dessert at Pizza Heaven, your options include tiramisu, New York cheesecake, Nutella pizza, and three flavors of ice cream. Pizza Heaven in Belmar is BYOB. They have large dining room, as well as a party room that can be rented for private events. There’s also a catering menu with half- and full-tray options. You can order online for delivery via DoorDash. Pizza Heaven is one pizza restaurant that really lives up to its name! Highly recommend!! Pizza Heaven 507 Main Street Belmar, New Jersey 07719 732-556-6062 https://pizzeriaheaven.com/ 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 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 rental in Belmar, New Jersey, is the perfect getaway place. The home sleeps up to four people and is consistently rated five stars for cleanliness, amenities and location. Learn more at www.vacationinbelmar.com .

Book an ocean-view table for breakfast, lunch or dinner at The Promenade restaurant in Avon By The Sea, New Jersey. The BYOB Avon Promenade opened in April 2023, taking over the space that previously housed the legendary Avon Pavilion restaurant, which closed on September 26, 2022, after 33 years of serving the community. According to its OpenTable listing, “Gorgeous views of the ocean are visible from every seat at The Promenade as one of the only beachfront restaurants in Monmouth County, New Jersey. Our exquisite menu has been designed by our Chef Josa Curiel and owner Liam Moloney to create a unique and memorable dining experience for everyone.” Go to Avon Promenade menus >> Avon Promenade restaurant on the Avon boardwalk, 600 Ocean Avenue. The dinner menu at Avon Promenade restaurant has plenty of choices for all appetites. For starters, there’s a raw seafood bar and sushi, a choice of five different salads, and appetizers such as fried calamari, clams casino, and roasted oysters. Entrée selections include a variety of Italian-inspired dishes (cavatelli pomodoro, $32.00; chicken Parmesan, $29.00; chicken Milanese, $29.00; and linguine with white clam sauce, $39.00). If seafood's more your thing, try the grilled bronzino ($43.00), seared halibut with fingerling potatoes and clams $49.00), or grilled salmon with asparagus, roasted tomatoes and crab meat sauce ($43.00). For the meat lovers, main courses include a 16-ounce grilled and oven-roasted pork chop ($49.00), grilled skirt steak with herb compote butter ($48.00), or braised short ribs over polenta and baby spinach ($52.00). During a recent dinner with friends, we shared two pear salads with baby arugula and blueberry goat cheese ($18.00), which easily served the four of us (two people per salad). For my entrée, I chose the pistachio-crusted red snapper ($49.00), which was accompanied by velvety whipped potatoes and sautéed broccoli rabe. One friend chose Avon Promenade’s luxurious lobster ravioli with fra diavlo sauce ($48.00), while two others opted for the pan-seared scallops over creamy risotto ($48.00). After dinner, we enjoyed cappuccinos and shared a slice of decadent pistachio cake ($12.00). Avon Promenade’s dessert menu also includes a selection of sorbets and gelatos ($10.00), as well as New York cheesecake, carrot cake, chocolate cake, and red velvet cake. RELATED : Dining Around - F Street Social Craft Pizza And Kitchen RELATED : One-Of-A-Kind Finds - Nourished By Nature Organic Juice Bar The lunch menu is small but covers the basics for a mid-day meal. Choose from a crab cake sandwich, classic BLT, turkey club, Philly and chicken cheesesteaks, chicken wings, buffalo chicken wrap, and grilled sirloin burger. Lunch ranges in price from $14.00 to $24.00 at Avon Promenade. The Avon Promenade is owned and operated by Spring Lake residents Liam and Carmen Moloney. They have also owned Amelia's By The Sea (formerly known as Bareli's By The Sea) at the Grand Victorian Hotel in Spring Lake, New Jersey, since 2017. In addition to their fine-dining restaurant in Avon, the Moloneys have taken over the adjacent beach concession stand, which they call Leo’s Landing, and the seasonal clothing boutique and gift shop at the far end of the beachfront pavilion. Leo’s Landing on the Avon boardwalk serves casual grab-and-go fare for breakfast, lunch and dinner — breakfast sandwiches, burgers, sushi, ice cream, and the like. Leo’s Landing hours of operation are 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. seven days a week. The Beach House Boutique is open daily from 10:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., with Avon-branded clothing and swag for sale, along with beach day necessities, such as tote bags, toys, sunscreen, and more. Avon Promenade Restaurant BYOB 600 Ocean Avenue Avon By The Sea, New Jersey 07717 732-505-7770 Reservations Recommended: https://www.opentable.com/r/the-promenade-avon-by-the-sea 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 rental in Belmar, New Jersey, is the perfect getaway place. The home sleeps up to four people and is consistently rated five stars for cleanliness, amenities and location. Learn more at www.vacationinbelmar.com . 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.

If you're looking for something fun and different to do for a birthday celebration, date night, or getting together with friends, family or coworkers, book a cruise on the original 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. The boats are equipped with plenty of seating around the perimeter and a large covered console table in the middle of the boat. Guests 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. 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 I recently had the opportunity to enjoy a Friday evening cruise 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. 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 boat on the ocean, I encourage you to try a ride on the Belmar Tiki Boat in the Shark River. 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 www.belmartikiboat.com 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 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 rental  in Belmar, New Jersey, is the perfect getaway place. The home sleeps up to four people and is consistently rated five stars for cleanliness, amenities and location. Learn more at www.vacationinbelmar.com.

When you see a twine-wrapped box from Del Ponte’s Bakery, you know you’re in for a tasty treat. Del Ponte’s Bakery in Bradley Beach, New Jersey, is a local standout for its amazing assortment of luscious layer cakes, cookies, pastries, and Italian bread. You can't miss the biscotti-lined front window at Del Ponte's when you're walking down Main Street in Bradley Beach. The bakery sells over 20 varieties of the twice-baked Italian biscuits. The biscotti at Del Ponte’s are the perfect texture for dunking but won’t bust your teeth if you prefer to eat them straight like I do. Some of my favorite flavors include peanut butter, cinnamon, and chocolate chip with pecans. Cookie trays from Del Ponte’s Bakery are always a hit when I bring them to BBQs or family get-togethers. The velvety cheesecake at Del Ponte’s is the best I’ve ever tasted and can be bought by the slice (a generous portion) if you don’t want to splurge on a whole cake. If you do want to buy a whole cheesecake, though, and cut it into individual servings, it freezes very well. I know from personal experience. ;-) RELATED : A Slice Of Indulgence At Sweet Tease Tea Room And Café The velvety cheesecake from Del Ponte’s Bakery is the best I’ve ever had! Del Ponte’s is also known for its indulgent brownies (peanut butter, Snickers, mint, and more), old-fashioned jelly doughnuts, pies, cupcakes, and custom cakes. They make specialty baked goods and desserts for all the major holidays and even seasonal celebrations such as St. Joseph’s Day and St. Patrick’s Day. The cannoli at Del Ponte’s have been named among the “Best of Monmouth County” by the readers of Monmouth Health & Life Magazine. The original Del Ponte's Bakery was founded in Brooklyn, New York, by the current owner's parents. The family’s traditional Italian baking techniques were passed down by a beloved grandfather who emigrated from Naples in 1960. The Bradley Beach bakery was established in 1999. You really must stop in for yourself to see the “oasis of sweet treats” at Del Ponte’s – as one customer described it in a Yelp review. Del Ponte's baked goods deliver on their promise of "The best of Brooklyn in Bradley Beach." Del Ponte’s Bakery 600 Main Street Bradley Beach, NJ 07720 732-869-1111 delpontesbakerybb.com RELATED : Places We Love – Scone Pony Specialty Bake Shoppe RELATED : Enjoy A Handcrafted Sweet Treat At Main Street Donuts 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 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 rental in Belmar, New Jersey, is the perfect getaway place. The home sleeps up to four people and is consistently rated five stars for cleanliness, amenities and location. Learn more at www.vacationinbelmar.com . RELATED : Plan Your Vacation In Belmar, New Jersey

July 3 was an unforgettable beach day. It started like most others — securing a spot near the water and drifting into my Zen zone under a cool umbrella shade. But as high tide rolled in, those of us sitting nearby witnessed an incredible wildlife rescue reminiscent of the starfish story, as concerned beachgoers and a determined lifeguard joined forces to save a freshwater creature in distress. The events unfolded around 12:30 p.m., when a mother and daughter were walking along the breaking waves on Belmar beach. As the water pulled back from the shoreline, something unusual caught their attention — a pair of eyes poking up from the sand. Curious, they asked some people sitting nearby what it could be. Several people came to take a closer look, and to everyone’s surprise, it wasn’t shells or seaweed — it was a snapping turtle, almost entirely buried in the wet sand on Belmar beach. Snapping turtles are freshwater reptiles, not sea creatures, so finding one on the beach near the Atlantic Ocean was a surprising and unusual discovery indeed! These turtles are known for their powerful jaws and rugged appearance, quite different from the graceful sea turtles that inhabit the ocean. Snapping turtles usually live in lakes, ponds, or slow-moving rivers, and sometimes can tolerate brackish waters — but in this case, it most likely lived in Lake Como. The lake, nestled between Belmar and Spring Lake, New Jersey, drains into the Atlantic via a 700-foot outflow pipe at the far southern end of Belmar beach to help prevent local flooding. One theory among bystanders was that the turtle had been swept from Lake Como through the drainage tunnel during torrential rainstorms that pummeled the Jersey Shore the day before. Battling ocean tides, the freshwater turtle had likely been struggling in unfamiliar saltwater and was finally tossed back onto shore by the incoming surf. But now, it was in trouble. And the tide was moving in fast. As the waves continued to push toward the shore, water kept washing over the turtle, reburying it deeper into the sand. Onlookers used their bare hands and kids’ plastic shovels to dig away at the sand that had trapped the exhausted reptile, while a bystander called the Marine Mammal Stranding Center for help. Belmar Police soon arrived on scene, followed by a lifeguard from Belmar Beach Patrol. Realizing that time was running out as high tide approached, the lifeguard joined the effort, helping to dig and loosen the tired turtle. With teamwork and care, the group finally managed to loosen the creature from its sandy trap. Then, in a brave and careful move — snapping turtles can deliver a painful bite — the lifeguard picked up the turtle and carried it across the sand to a waiting vehicle. While I can't say for certain, it’s believed that the turtle was transported back to its habitat in Lake Como, where it belongs. This extraordinary turtle rescue was a beautiful example of humans and nature colliding in the best possible way. It reminds us that all living creatures sometimes need a helping hand. And on that picture-perfect summer day leading into a major holiday weekend, people made a difference and saved a life. Just like that boy in the parable who was throwing stranded starfish back into the sea, one by one, even though so many had already washed up on the beach. ”I made a difference for that one.” Snapping Turtle Vs. Sea Turtle: What’s the Difference? While sea turtles are built for life in saltwater — with streamlined shells and flippers for swimming long distances — snapping turtles are freshwater reptiles. They have rugged, dinosaur-like shells and strong claws for walking in muddy lake bottoms, not gliding through the surf. Sea turtles often nest on beaches, but snapping turtles don’t belong in the ocean. They’re solitary and territorial, and prolonged exposure to saltwater can harm their health. That’s why the beachgoers’ quick thinking and compassion saved this turtle’s life. So next time you’re walking along the Jersey Shore, keep your eyes open. You never know what you might discover in the sand — or who (or what) might need your help. 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 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 rental  in Belmar, New Jersey, is the perfect getaway place. The home sleeps up to four people and is consistently rated five stars for cleanliness, amenities and location. Learn more at www.vacationinbelmar.com .

Looking for the best scoops, sundaes, and soft serve around Belmar, New Jersey? Whether you're a long-time local or a summertime visitor, these seven Jersey Shore ice cream spots are sure to satisfy your creamy cravings. From traditional ice cream parlors to artisanal gelato, fro-yo, and Italian ice shops, Belmar and its surrounding towns have something sweet for all tastes and ages — even pup cups! Let’s dive into seven of the best ice cream shops near Belmar that will have you coming back for more. (Listed in random order.)   1. Del Ponte's Café & Creamery 602 Main Street Bradley Beach, New Jersey 07720 What Makes It Special : Handcrafted gelato and ice cream, plus a selection of yummy pastries and desserts from the nearby Del Ponte’s Bakery. If you're in the mood for Italian-style gelato or small-batch sorbet, head to Del Ponte’s Creamery in Bradley Beach, New Jersey. With a rotating selection of 24 flavors and 23 toppings and drizzles, your taste buds will dazzle with delight. Some of my favorite flavors are tiramisu, peanut butter cup, cannoli, and mint chip.   For a lighter treat, choose a scoop or two from the spinning sorbet wheel. You’ll also find a small selection of freshly baked bread pudding, brownies, cupcakes, and other decadent desserts from Del Ponte’s Bakery next door. A freezer case near the door also offers pints and quarts to take home.Del Ponte’s is probably my most favorite of all those on this list.   RELATED : Places We Love – Del Ponte’s Bakery 2. Hoffman's Ice Cream Shop 569 Church Street Spring Lake Heights, New Jersey 07762 What Makes It Special : Homemade, hand-scooped ice cream with a nostalgic vibe. Hoffman’s Ice Cream has been a beloved Jersey Shore landmark since 1976. Located just a short drive from our beach house rental in Belmar, this old-fashioned ice cream parlor is known for its rich, homemade flavors.   Whether you're into classic choices like chocolate and vanilla or something more adventurous like Salty Shipwreck, Strawberry Bon Bon, or Jersey Monkey (banana with peanut butter and chocolate chunks), Hoffman's draws huge daily crowds for good reason.   The generous portions and family-friendly atmosphere make it a must-visit for ice cream lovers of any age. “Take home the very best” is their motto, and you literally can take home their delicious ice cream cakes, ice cream pies, and ice cream sandwiches from a self-serve freezer case.   Sugar-free and vegan ice cream is also available, and you can even buy pumpkin ice cream candles with a Hoffman’s label, locally sourced from Surf’s Up Candle in Belmar. RELATED : Places We Love – Surf’s Up Candle Shop 3. Strollo's Italian Ice 500 Main Street Belmar, New Jersey 07719   What Makes It Special : Italian ice meets soft-serve ice cream in a tasty twist! Located across from Klein’s Seafood Restaurant in Belmar, New Jersey, Strollo’s is a local favorite for a refreshing scoop of Italian ice. With refreshing flavors like lemon, cherry, and mango, this smooth, creamy treat is perfect for cooling off on a hot summer day. Also popular is the Strollo’s twist — combining Italian ice with soft-serve ice cream, creating a unique and tasty experience. Whether you grab a cone or a cup after your beach day or while strolling the downtown, Strollo’s is a must-try during your vacation in Belmar. 4. Lola's European Café 539 Cookman Avenue Asbury Park, New Jersey 07712 What Makes It Special : European-style gelato, sorbet, boozy milkshakes, and dessert martinis. For a chic dessert experience, head to Lola’s European Café in Asbury Park. Situated on the trendy Cookman Avenue, Lola’s serves up handcrafted gelato and silky sorbet in a relaxed vibe with indoor and outdoor seating, great for people watching in downtown Asbury. For a sophisticated indulgence, try a grasshopper martini or a boozy cookies and cream milkshake. Lola’s in Asbury Park is open year-round.   RELATED : Day Trip Destinations – Asbury Park Boardwalk 5. Beach Plum Ice Cream Parlor 420 Main Street Bradley Beach, New Jersey 07720 What Makes It Special : Homemade, small-batch ice cream, family favorite. Beach Plum Ice Cream in Bradley Beach, New Jersey, is a local ice cream parlor that families flock to in the summer. Choose from nearly 40 traditional and creative flavors, including fan favorites like banana cream pie, black raspberry, and strawberry cheesecake.   With a laid-back atmosphere and outdoor seating, it’s the perfect place to enjoy a cone or sundae after a day of fun in the sun. Beach Plum also serves milkshakes, flying saucers, sundaes, banana splits, soft serve, vegan options, and ice cream cakes. 6. Belle’s Ice Cream Shop 300 Morris Avenue Spring Lake, New Jersey 07762 https://www.bellesicecreamshop.com   What Makes It Special : Ice cream is freshly made twice a week, customers rave about the high butterfat content, which makes for a luxurious texture. Non-dairy options are available, too.   Family-owned and operated in the heart of downtown Spring Lake, New Jersey. Serving premium, hand-scooped ice cream, ice cream pies, milkshakes, ice cream sandwiches, cold brew coffee, Italian ice, sundaes, and cyclones. Order online for pickup, or have your treats delivered via DoorDash or Grubhub. This is a seasonal summer business.   RELATED : Places We Love – Scone Pony Specialty Bake Shoppe 7. Coney Waffle 803 Ocean Avenue and 801 Belmar Plaza Belmar, New Jersey https://www.coneywaffle.com   The original Coney Waffle ice cream shop opened along Belmar’s Ocean Avenue in 2016. A second location in downtown Belmar, Coney Waffle Ice Cream Cakery, opened more recently at 801 Belmar Plaza (next to Beach Haus Brewery). Coney Waffle is most well-known for its signature waffle cone shaped like a hot dog roll and filled with cannoli ice cream. The other claim to fame at Coney Waffle are the super-sized ice cream creations that you customize with candies, toppings, and drizzles. Coney Waffle currently has five locations in New Jersey (two in Belmar, one on the Asbury Park boardwalk, Red Bank, and Long Branch). The franchise also recently expanded into Brooklyn, New York, at its namesake Coney Island location, where the owner's grandmother used to sell ice cream on the boardwalk in the 1940s. © 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. 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 rental  in Belmar, New Jersey, is the perfect getaway place. The home sleeps up to four people and is consistently rated five stars for cleanliness, amenities and location. Learn more at www.vacationinbelmar.com.

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 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 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 rental in Belmar, New Jersey, is the perfect getaway place. The home sleeps up to four people and is consistently rated five stars for cleanliness, amenities and location. Learn more at www.vacationinbelmar.com .

In recognition of World Bee Day in May and National Honey Month this September, now is a great time to stock up on locally sourced raw honey from Belmar’s beekeeper extraordinaire Ed Lippincott. Ed started his apiary in 2007. He currently has three hives on his 4th Avenue property, but he’s had up to a dozen hives in the past. “I’m a big gardener, and beekeeping sparked my interest. I did a bunch of research before I pulled the trigger to buy the equipment and bees, and I’ve been at it ever since,” he says. “All the bees I have are called Italians. They are not native to North America, but Europe, as are all the bees used to produce honey here.” Ed’s yard is a flower-lover’s delight, with colorful plantings that draw not only his beloved bees, but also butterflies and hummingbirds. “The favorite bee plants in my yard are lavender and white clovers that grow in the lawn,” he says. Ensuring Happy Hives Overall, maintaining the beehives is not too complicated. Ed mows around the hives and replaces the wooden parts as they wear out, but keeping them well-pained helps to extend the life of the hives. RELATED : Cultivating A Spirit Of Community At The Belmar Magical Garden One important aspect of beekeeping, he notes, is watching out for varroa mites that infect the bees and weaken their immune systems. Environmental threats are also a factor in determining the health of a bee colony. According to the New Jersey Beekeepers’ Association (NJBA), pesticide poisoning, diseases, and habitat loss due to commercial and residential development are several factors that have led to the threatened status of honeybees and other pollinating insects in New Jersey and across the country. Without the efforts of honeybees and other pollinating insects, our food supply would be in great danger, as some 85 percent of all plants would be unable to produce seeds or fruit. “It doesn’t help that everyone is spraying for ticks and mosquitoes, either. People should stick to native plantings and organic methods to try and help the bees survive,” Ed says. In the winter, the bees stay in the hives and they eat honey to generate body heat. The core temperature of the hive stays 90 degrees all winter. Advice For Aspiring Apiarists If you have an interest in becoming a beekeeper, Ed suggests reading up on the topic first and taking a beginning beekeepers course. A good one to try is “ Bee-ginner's Beekeeping: The Basics of Apiculture ,” a self-paced online program offered by Rutgers University Cooperative Extension. Or check out Penn State Extension”s “ Beekeeping 101 .” “Also, you should get another beekeeper to mentor you. Join the local beekeeping association to help with that. Locally, we have the Central Jersey Beekeepers Association,” he adds. Where To Buy Belmar Honey You can buy Ed’s Belmar Honey from his home at 305 4th Avenue; at Eastern Lines Surf Shop on Ocean Avenue in Belmar; and at Nourished by Nature juice bar, 801 Main Street (next to Beach Haus Brewery). Ed is also selling homemade blueberry and strawberry jams, a special request from his loyal customers. RELATED : One-Of-A-Kind Finds: Nourished By Nature Organic Juice Bar RELATED : Belmar Business Spotlight – Eastern Lines Surf Shop In the true spirit of environmental conservation, Ed also has a box on his front porch where you can recycle your empty Belmar Honey jars. “Keeping bees is a lot of work, but I really enjoy it,” he shares. “I love watching the bees in the morning while I’m having my coffee.” I first discovered Ed’s delicious “Belmar Honey” at the Belmar Farmer’s Market last summer. Ed’s honey is so good that I devoured a whole jar of it in a week — a spoonful here and there with peanut butter, and drizzled over vanilla Greek yogurt with fresh Jersey blueberries mixed in. It's so good you can chug it from the jar! Belmar Honey 305 4th Avenue Belmar, New Jersey 07719 732-272-4442 Read More About Beekeeping And Honeybee Conservation View an informative video produced by the NJBA on the importance of preserving honeybees Blooms for Bees – Fact Sheet from Rutgers University Cooperative Extension Supporting Bees In Your Garden – Fact Sheet from Rutgers University Cooperative Extension Penn State Extension beekeeping resources The Pollinator Partnership National Wildlife Federation news and blogs about honeybees National Resources Defense Council Honeybee on a lantana plant at our Belmar beach house rental. 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 rental in Belmar, New Jersey, is the perfect getaway place. The home sleeps up to four people and is consistently rated five stars for cleanliness, amenities and location. Learn more at www.vacationinbelmar.com . 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.