Summer vacation doesn’t have to derail a healthy diet. You’ll find a multitude of healthful food options in the Belmar region of the Jersey Shore — whether you’re shopping for organic produce at the supermarket, choosing low-carb or gluten-free dishes at a local restaurant, or enjoying a bottle of raw cold-pressed juice from Nourished by Nature, a popular juice and smoothie bar in downtown Belmar. Nourished by Nature is owned by Cassandra Quarantello, who opened her business in 2014 after an unfulfilling stint in the corporate world. She had been laid off from her position and was seeking a new path forward without the restrictions and monotony of corporate life. As fate would have it, Cassandra had a life-changing “aha” moment over at juice drink at Whole Foods with her mother. An entrepreneur herself, Cassandra’s mother encouraged her daughter to open a small business built around her long-time passion for juicing and the healing qualities of juice. Cassandra started out with made-to-order juices, working in a rented commercial kitchen to fulfill customer orders. Six months into her new endeavor, she had built an established clientele and decided the time was right to launch her first retail operation in downtown Belmar. Fast forward to a decade later, and Cassandra has made her mark in the Belmar business community. In 2021, she relocated to a larger space with a vegan café on Main Street (next to Beach Haus Brewery). She also has expanded the Nourished by Nature menu with the addition of organic nut milkshakes, juice cleanses, detox lemonades, juice power shots, and vegetarian/vegan smoothies. Nourished by Nature also sells breakfast toasts, sandwiches and wraps, hot and cold coffee drinks, protein-packed energy balls, overnight oats, organic oat bars, and other healthy snacks. Locally sourced Belmar Honey is also available for sale. The honey is bottled by resident Ed Lippincott, who has a small apiary on his Belmar property. Cassandra also has teamed up with local candlemaker Matt Dates, owner of Midnight Candle Company, to produce Nourished by Nature hand-poured jar candles in heavenly scents such as Coconut Kick, Peace Punch, and Lavender Lemonade. Succulent planters from nearby Lanza's Nursery in Wall Township, New Jersey, are also available for purchase. RELATED: Belmar Honey – How Sweet It Is RELATED: Belmar Business Spotlight – Midnight Candle Company Cold-Press Juice Process In a recent “Busy People Podcast,” Cassandra explained how the process of extracting cold-pressed juice differs from that of other fresh juice drinks and the commercially produced, pasteurized juice that you find in a grocery store. “When you go to a juice bar, the machine you see is a tabletop machine or a traditional masticating juicer like you would use at home,” she said. “The juice comes out one side and pulp comes out the other. The fast blade makes the juice break down because it’s introducing heat and air. The layer of foam you see at the top is the air that’s in the juice that’s causing it to break down, or to oxidize. If you don’t drink it within 15 to 20 minutes, the juice starts to turn brown, and at that point, you are just drinking calories, you’re not getting the nutritional value.” In contrast, the cold-press process, according to Cassandra, uses a huge commercial juicer to grind the fruits and vegetables with a blade, rather than whipping or blending them as with other juicing methods. “All of that pulp is dropped into a big bag, which is then pressed with two plates that apply thousands of pounds of pressure, and the juice comes out of the bottom. That pulp, when we are done pressing it, is extremely dry, rendering all of the nutrients intact and keeping the juice alive for at least four or five days after bottling, as opposed to traditional juices, in which the nutrients die within 15 to 20 minutes,” Cassandra said in the podcast. Because Cassandra’s juice is refrigerated right after bottling, the health benefits are preserved for several days. Vitamins, antioxidants, and minerals in the juice “provide a great nutritional boost to help detox the body and support the immune system,” she said in the podcast. Top-Selling Juices Some of Nourished by Nature’s most popular juices are the green varieties, due to their low fruit and fructose (sugar) content. The green juices are prepared from fresh ingredients such as organic kale, celery, cucumber, and spinach, making them high in Vitamin K. RELATED: Dining Around - Skratch Kitchen In Bradley Beach RELATED: Explore The Belmar Treasure Trail One of the most popular fruit juices at Nourished by Nature is the Ginger Snap Apple, made from organic apple, lemon, turmeric and ginger. The juice contains anti-inflammatory properties and antioxidants to hydrate and cleanse the body inside and out. One detox lemonade that “flies off the shelf,” according to Cassandra, is the Black Ginger-Aid. It has activated charcoal, which “acts as a broom to sweep the internal system,” she said. During flu season, Cassandra’s elderberry organic power shots are popular, as is the Shoo Phlew shot, which is a concentrated 2-ounce drink with cayenne pepper, lemon, ginger, and pineapple. In addition shopping at Cassandra’s retail store in Belmar, you can place delivery orders of selected smoothies and breakfast toasts via DoorDash. Juice orders for delivery can be placed via the Nourished by Nature website. The delivery fee is $10.00 and service is available to most of New Jersey and parts of Pennsylvania (Philadelphia and local suburbs, including Bucks County) and New York. Gift cards for use in the retail store are also available for purchase. Nourished By Nature 801 Main Street, Unit 1A Belmar, New Jersey 07719 908-907-5893 www.iamnourishedbynature.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.

From dirty-water dogs and gyro platters, to gourmet sandwiches, thin-crust pizza and signature salads, you'll find a variety of casual, family-friendly dining options in Belmar, New Jersey. Here are some popular places to check out in Belmar when you're looking for lunch or a light bite. 1. F Street Social Craft Pizza and Kitchen 1002 Main Street Belmar, New Jersey 07719 732-934-2378 Specialty: Wood-oven pizza, sandwiches, salads, pasta, and more www.fstsocial.com F Street Social serves both lunch and dinner, with an extensive and diverse menu that includes appetizers; homemade soups; big salads; sandwiches; charcoal-grilled burgers; pasta, meat, chicken, and seafood entrées; family-style meals; and house-made desserts. There's also an $8.00 children's menu. The pizza menu at F Street Social in Belmar is equally as vast, with your choice of ultra-thin crust or hand-tossed thin crust. Pizzas come in two sizes, a 10-inch personal pizza or the 16-inch large pie. All pizzas are cooked in a specially designed wood-burning oven that the owners imported from Italy. 2. Comfi of Belmar 707 Main Street Belmar, New Jersey 732-749-3583 https://www.comfinewjersey.com Specialty: Breakfast, brunch, and lunch Comfi of Belmar is one of our go-to spots for breakfast and lunch, and we love to ride our bikes there in the summer. On a recent visit, Comfi's "And Then I Met You" sandwich provided a generous serving of grilled turkey topped with egg whites, melted pepper jack cheese, and guacamole. Served on a hearty multi-grain bread with sweet potato fries. Add bacon and Sriracha sauce to make this sandwich over the top! Comfi has a newly remodeled dining room and offers sidewalk seating outside, as well as takeout with curbside pickup. 3. Mr. Greek Mediterranean Cuisine 821 Belmar Plaza Belmar, New Jersey 07719 848-404-9633 Specialty: Greek and Mediterranean food www.mrgreekbelmar.com Mr. Greek Mediterranean Cuisine, which opened December 2020 in downtown Belmar, serves freshly prepared pita sandwiches (lamb and chicken gyros), traditional Greek dips and salads, and specialties such as spanakopita, gyro platters, stuffed grape leaves, and avgolemono soup. Mr. Greek Mediterranean Cuisine has a small seating area for socially distant ndoor idining. You also can order curbside pickup/takeout or delivery through DoorDash or Uber Eats. RELATED: Belmar Business Spotlight - Mr. Greek Restaurant 4. Federici's on 10th 705 10th Ave Belmar, New Jersey 732-681-3337 Specialty: Thin-crust pizza and Italian food www.fedspizza.com If you're fond of anything prepared in the Francaise style, you must try the Francaise sauce at Federici's on 10th Avenue in Belmar. Their Francaise sauce is the best I have ever eaten! Try the artichokes Francaise appetizer for a sample of Fed's velvety lemon-butter sauce — or go all in with an order of chicken Francaise. The vodka sauce pizza with a Shanna Salad on the side are also highly recommended, along with the daily selection of fresh hot soups. Feds on 10th has shaded patio seating, as well as indoor dining and takeout. Reservations are recommended. 5. Hoagitos 807 Belmar Plaza Belmar, New Jersey 732-556-6617 Specialty: Gourmet mini hoagies (subs) www.hoagitos.com "Small size, big flavor" is the motto at Hoagitos, which is located in Belmar Plaza, a few doors down from 10th Ave. Burrito Co. The sweet-and-spicy glaze on their "Forbidden Chicken" sandwich is a personal favorite, along with their "Southern Comfort" panko fried chicken sandwich topped with griddle macaroni and cheese (oh my!). Dine in at the Hoagitos dining room or get your order to go. Delivery is also available through DoorDash. Hoagitos was featured on Season 11 of the Travel Channel's "Food Paradise." RELATED: Best Spots For Outdoor Dining In Belmar 6. Sonny's Grille 821 Belmar Mall Plaza Belmar, New Jersey 732-749-3953 Specialty: Italian hot dogs, dirty-water dogs, hand-pressed Angus hamburgers, disco fries www.sonnysgrillenj.com Locals flock to the family-owned Sonny's Grille for their old-school dirty-water hot dogs and their half-pound Angus burgers. Customers also rave about Sonny's pulled pork, cheesesteaks, handmade crab cakes, shakes, and French fries. “Our vintage-looking restaurant was hand built by my family and me. We put our heart into this place,” says owner David LaTempa. "We pride ourselves in using the best ingredients and making most items from scratch, including our famous chili and hand-made burgers. We are mostly known for Sonny’s Italian hot dog and our signature hot dogs, for which we were voted among New Jersey’s 25 Best Hot Dog Joints." Sonny's Grill offers takeout and delivery via GrubHub and DoorDash. 7. La Dolce Vita Italian Restaurant 408 Ocean Avenue Belmar, New Jersey 732-894-3855 Specialty: Italian food, pizza, pasta Website La Dolce Vita is the place to go in Belmar for Italian favorites with an ocean view. Located on Ocean Avenue La Dolce Vita Italian Restaurant is a great destination for lunch or dinner with appetizers, pasta dishes, pizza, and more. Lunch is served from opening until 3:00 p.m. RELATED: Outdoor Dining With A Water View In Belmar, NJ 8. 10th Avenue Burrito Co. 801 Belmar Plaza Belmar, New Jersey 732-280-1515 Specialty: Tex-Mex www.tenthaveburritoco.com Local and visitors alike enjoy gathering for a casual meal at 10th Avenue Burrito Co. in downtown Belmar, New Jersey. Our favorites here include the sweet and spicy corn soup, pineapple-habañero wings, pork molé nachos, and shrimp in tequila-lime sauce. 10th Ave. Burrito Co. has indoor seating, as well as outdoor seating under a covered patio and at tables in the Belmar Plaza parking lot. In 2010, owner Brian Katz shared his secrets to a great adobo sauce during a taping of Food Network's "Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives," with host Guy Fieri. RELATED: More Belmar Dining Stories RELATED: 8 Great Breakfast Restaurants In the Belmar Area 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.

If you enjoy BYOB restaurants at the Jersey Shore, book a table at Skratch Kitchen in Bradley Beach. Skratch Kitchen opened in spring 2023 at 812 Main Street, in the former location of Citrico’s. I’ve had the pleasure of dining at Skratch Kitchen to celebrate a birthday and for a girls’ night out. It’s also a great spot for a special occasion or date night. The restaurant has an intimate dining room that seats up to 48 people, as well as outdoor sidewalk seating in the warmer months. Owner and Chef JT Dunn has created a unique menu of rustic Italian fare at Skratch Kitchen. Choose from an array of appetizers and salads; main courses starring seafood, chicken, pasta, and prime cuts of meat; homemade ricotta dumplings (gnudi); pappardelle bolognese; and other pastas. The restaurant also has gluten-free and vegetarian options, such as wild mushroom tacos; orange, fennel and arugula salad; and romaine chopped salad. Make sure you ask about the chef’s daily specials, too. If you have a sweet tooth, I can vouch that the blueberry bread pudding and other house-made desserts at Skratch Kitchen are worth every indulgent calorie! During a recent dinner at Skratch Kitchen, friends and I shared appetizers of Caesar salad tacos, crispy calamari with cherry peppers, and grilled artichoke hearts wrapped in prosciutto. The artichoke hearts were accompanied by lemon whipped goat cheese and the entire dish was surrounded by a citrus reduction. Outstanding!! RELATED : Read More Restaurant Reviews And Recommendations For my entrée, pan-roasted Tuscan cod was a hearty and flavorful delight. The fish was accompanied by clams and cannellini beans in a savory broth, perfect for dunking toasted bread. We finished our meal with after-dinner cappuccinos and two desserts for sharing: Skratch Kitchen’s signature pistachio tiramisu and a decadent brownie with homemade ice cream and bananas. Reservations at Skratch Kitchen are recommended, especially on busy summer weekends. You may book your table via the Resy app, via their website , or by calling the restaurant at 732-984-6363. Takeout is also available (no delivery, though). The restaurant is closed on Mondays. Current hours are Tuesday through Thursday, 5:00 to 9:00 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 5:00 to 10:00 p.m.; and Sunday, 3:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Note that a 3 percent service fee is added to credit card transactions; no fee is added to your bill if you pay cash. RELATED : Area Attractions Near Bradley Beach, NJ Scratch Kitchen 812 Main Street Bradley Beach, New Jersey 07720 732-984-6363 BYOB – Bradley Liquors is next door www.skratchkitchen.com 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.

Since its founding in October 2007, MidAtlantic Bulldog Rescue in Belmar, New Jersey, has helped more than 1,000 bulldogs in need find permanent, loving homes. The dogs fostered and adopted through this nonprofit rescue group come from heart-wrenching, and often dire, circumstances — but the organization's dedicated volunteers, fosters, and adoptive families are determined to give these dogs a second chance. "Bulldogs have the absolute best personalities and cutest faces," says Belmar resident Cathy Kittell, who co-founded MidAtlantic Bulldog Rescue (MABR) and serves as its treasurer and secretary. "When we bought our first bulldog puppy, I realized this breed can be high maintenance and not for everyone. That’s one of the reasons so many are surrendered to rescue." According to the American Kennel Club, French bulldogs and bulldogs are the second and sixth most popular dog breeds, respectively, in the United States as of 2021. Kittell and her husband adopted their bulldog, Brenner (pictured below, left), in October 2019, after their beloved rescue, Monty, crossed the Rainbow Bridge in January 2019 after battling some health issues. "We strive to educate the public on the bulldog breed," she says. "We understand that not everyone is equipped to take a rescue dog, as some are elderly and may have ongoing health issues. It’s important that people who are getting a pet understand it’s a long-term commitment. Yes, peoples’ lifestyles and situations may change, but we have had dogs surrendered to us in poor health, and sometimes we are unable to save them due to neglect." Michelle Fontanez and her family adopted their rescue, Rocky (pictured below), in December 2016 after agreeing to foster a puppy for MABR. Rocky was saved from abusive home, where he was kept in a crate and never allowed outside.​ "Once I got him, I said I was keeping him. My kids love him. He is the king," says Fontanez, who owns Surf's Up Candles in Belmar and Salty's Beach Bar in Lake Como. "Working with Cathy and her rescue group was a wonderful experience. I recommend them to everyone. They obviously have the best interest of these dogs at heart." "Adoptions like Rocky’s are our happiest days," Kittel says, "and Surf’s Up Candles has been a great supporter of our rescue, not only adopting a dog from us, but also donating candles for our raffle baskets. We also appreciate the support we receive from Purr-fect Partners Pet Grooming in Belmar, which hangs our posters and trimmed Monty's nails, and from The Wonder Bar in Asbury Park, which hosts our Bully Pallooza and Bully Bash fund-raisers every April and October." For more information about the Bully Bash, becoming a foster family or adopting a bulldog from MABR, please contact Cathy Kittell at 732-939-4445, or visit the MidAtlantic Bulldog Rescue website. Support MidAtlantic Bulldog Rescue during its Bully Palooza at The Wonder Bar in spring 2024. Proceeds from the $10.00 admission fee will be donated to the medical care of MABR bulldogs. The Wonder Bar is located at 1213 Ocean Avenue in Asbury Park, New Jersey. Dogs of any breed are welcome into the event — must be healthy, spayed/neutered, well-behaved, and leashed. For more information, call 732-939-4445. Photos and images courtesy of MidAtlantic Bulldog Rescue, Cathy Kittell, Mladen Scekic, and Michelle Fontanez. All written content © copyright by Christine Cardellino owner of www.VacationInBelmar.com and publisher of the award-winning Belmar Beachcomber Blog, a travel and tourism guide to 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. RELATED: Plan Your Vacation In Belmar, New Jersey

4 Reasons Why Shore Vacation Rentals Offer More Value Than B&Bs, Hotels, And Other Lodging When you’re looking for a place to stay for your summer vacation in Belmar, New Jersey, private homes for rent by owner (i.e., vacation rentals) are a great alternative to bed and breakfasts, motor lodges, and motels. At our Belmar beach house rental, for example, you get a whole two-bedroom house with a full kitchen, living room, and dining room for about the same price of a single room in a B&B, hotel, or inn. 1. Vacation rentals offer more space and privacy . Renting a whole house for your Jersey Shore vacation stay gives you more square footage to enjoy than a small guest room in other types of lodging. For example, at our Belmar vacation rental, you'll find: A modern kitchen with granite that has everything you need to prepare meals and cook on the grill. A sunny dining area adjoining the kitchen, with screen doors that slide open onto your own private deck. A comfortably furnished living room with flat-screen high-definition TV, DVD player, and selection of movies, games, and books. Two bedrooms furnished with antiques, each sleeping two people in beds (sheets included), and a flat-screen TV in the master bedroom. An updated, exceptionally clean bathroom with a full bathtub and shower, as well as built-in storage and a granite-topped vanity (bath towels included). A spacious deck with plenty of seating for dining and relaxing outside, along with gorgeous garden views. Free high-speed wireless internet. Central air conditioning and ceiling fans throughout. Weber grill with grilling tools. Outdoor shower tower for rinsing off after the beach. RELATED : Celebrate Summer In Belmar 2. Prepare your own meals and save on the cost of dining out . While B&Bs provide you with a morning meal or continental breakfast to start your day, you’re on your own for lunch, dinner, and snacks. The cost of dining out every night can quickly add up. When you rent a whole house, however, you'll have a full kitchen at your disposal for cooking meals. At our beach house rental, for example, you’ll find a spacious cook's kitchen and a Weber propane grill. Guests frequently compliment us on how well stocked our kitchen is. Our numerous kitchen amenities include: GE Profile gas range with convection oven Built-in microwave over the stove Dishwasher with detergent Keurig, drip coffee maker, French press, coffee bean grinder, and electric tea kettle Henckels knife block All-Clad stainless steel pots and pans, cooking utensils, and grilling tools Dishes, flatware, Pyrex, and a variety of glassware Toaster and toaster oven Blender, stick blender, and hand mixer Cuisinart panini press/griddle Slow cooker Sponges, dish towels, and dish soap Basic pantry items: S&P, food wraps and foil, trash bags, and cleaning supplies RELATED : What's For Dinner? Favorite Gourmet Takeout Markets Near Our Rental 3. Enjoy extra amenities and conveniences at a beach house rental . In addition to all the homelike amenities we provide, our vacation rental comes with Belmar beach tags, beach chairs, a beach umbrella, boogie boards, sand toys, a beach wagon, and a wheeled beach cart. Upon request, we also can provide coolers and yoga mats. In addition, while many inns prefer adult guests only, our Belmar vacation has numerous family-friendly amenities for your convenience if you’re traveling with little ones: A Graco pack and play Feeding seat Lightweight fold-up stroller Diaper-changing pad Bjorn baby bathtub and potty seat Portable beach play yard Safety gate for the deck stairs Sand toys and boogie boards RELATED : Fun Things For Families To Do On Vacation In The Belmar Area 3. Personalized service and attention to detail . At our Belmar vacation rental, the owner is easily accessible to answer questions, provide directions or restaurant recommendations, or assist with anything you need during your stay. We also have a comprehensive guest book that provides helpful information about our home, local grocery stores , seasonal summer events , and more. In addition, we provide a variety of restaurant menus and tourism brochures for area attractions. RELATED : Read Our Five-Star Reviews RELATED : Dining In Belmar 4. Get more value for a longer stay . One major difference between vacation rentals and other types of lodging and accommodations at the Jersey Shore is the required minimum stay. While inns and hotels might be more suitable for a night or two, renting a whole house can be more economical if you are planning a one- or two-week summer vacation, or if you are looking for a partial-week stay of three nights or more. Find out more about renting our shore house in Belmar, New Jersey. Summer rentals near Spring Lake, Ocean Grove, Bradley Beach, and Avon by the Sea RELATED: View photo gallery See details of our home features and amenities Check current availability and rates Learn more about vacationing in Belmar Contact owner with any questions Like our Facebook page RELATED : More Family Travel Stories On The Belmar Beachcomber Blog 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.

Spike’s Fish Market & Restaurant in Point Pleasant Beach, New Jersey, is a casual, old-school seafood shanty that's been serving the Jersey Shore for 97 years. Situated alongside the Manasquan River, near the Queen Mary party boat dock, Spike’s Fish Market & Restaurant has a cozy indoor dining room with a corner raw bar, as well as outdoor dining on a heated patio. If you want to cook your fresh catch at home instead of enjoying a sit-down restaurant meal, the seafood market at Spike’s has you covered. From live lobsters and clams, to fresh fish and crab legs, you’ll find a delicious variety of off-the-boat seafood for sale at Spike’s. During a dinner outing at Spike’s this past summer, I savored the slamming New England clam chowder, which is some of the best I've ever eaten. Do yourself a favor and size up to the bowl for an extra dollar ($8.95/bowl vs. $7.95/mug). You can always take home the leftovers if you don’t want to fill up on the whole bowl -- and you'll definitely want to save room for the seafood feast to come after appetizers and the soup course. RELATED: Area Attractions – Fresh Fish Markets RELATED: Recipe – Garlic Clams On The Grill For my entrée, I chose the broiled stuffed shrimp ($25.95), a portion of six shrimp with a side of steamed vegetables and a small house salad. My dinner companion ordered the broiled seafood combination platter ($24.95), which had succulent shrimp, scallops, clams and flounder, alongside a baked potato with butter and sour cream. Nothing is ever fried at Spike’s. Spike’s in Point Pleasant is BYOB. The restaurant is open year-round, seven days a week, with takeout available (call in your order first). The restaurant opens for lunch at 11:30 a.m. daily. Reservations are not accepted, so be prepared to wait upwards of 30 minutes or more for a table during peak summer season. The seafood market inside the restaurant opens at 9:00 a.m. daily. Spike’s Fish Market & Restaurant 415 Broadway Point Pleasant Beach, New Jersey 08742-2615 732-295-9400 BYOB Website 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.

Whether you’re a fiber enthusiast who enjoys knitting and crocheting, or you like to visit with friendly farm animals, you’ll certainly enjoy an afternoon outing to Arrow Acres Alpaca Farm in Wall Township, New Jersey. The family-owned farmstead, a short drive from our beach house rental in Belmar, sits on 16 wooded acres off New Bedford Road. The owners, Don and Dee Sherman, run the farm and retail store, known as The Coop, with help from their grown daughters and grandchildren — three generations in all. During our recent visit on a crisp, sunny Saturday, Don introduced us to his family’s herd of Huacaya alpacas. They gently took baby carrots through the fence and nibbled on hay while our small tour group took turns snapping photos of the adorable animals. RELATED: Explore The Belmar Treasure Trail About Alpacas According to the Alpaca Owners Association, “Alpacas (vicugña pacos) are members of the Camelid family and are a domesticated species of the South American camelid. Camelids originated in North America over 40 million years ago. Camels migrated east via the Bering Strait and llamas migrated to South America. Today, there are five recognized camelids breeds: camels, llamas, guanacos, alpacas, and vicunas. They vary by size and purpose, some being used primarily as pack animals and others valued for their fiber.” Alpacas live an average of 20 years and are considered livestock animals. They are sociable creatures and do best living in a herd with at least two other alpacas. Males and females are usually kept in separate fields to keep harmony in the herd. At Arrow Acres Farm, the alpacas are sheared every spring, before the summer heat sets in. Their fleece is processed and spun into the softest yarn, which then can be knitted and crocheted into socks, scarves, collar wraps, gloves, blankets, and other apparel. Alpaca fleece comes in various colors, from silver and rose gray, to black, white, brown, and beige. The spun yarn can be used in its natural hue or hand-dyed to create unique color combinations. Alpaca yarn is hypoallergenic, highly resistant to water, and lighter than wool yarn. Arrow Acres alpaca yarn may be purchased in person at The Coop or via their Etsy shop. Visiting The Farm Although Arrow Acres does not charge an admission fee for tours, donations to the alpacas' “carrot fund” are greatly appreciated. In addition to offering tours and operating their farm store, Arrow Acres Alpaca Farm offers knitting and crocheting lessons. Classes are taught by one of the Sherman’s daughters, Leanne, and are tailored for beginners, as well as those with more knitting experience. RELATED: Belmar Honey – How Sweet It Is The Sherman family also exhibits their alpacas in national and regional competitions, including the North American Alpaca Show and the New York Sheep and Wool Festival. For those who enjoy reading, two of the Sherman's daughters hold cocktail hour book club meetings every month via Zoom. The farm and store are open most weekends in the fall, winter and spring, but closed to the public after Memorial Day. They reopen on the last weekend in September to celebrate National Alpaca Farm Days. (NOTE: The farm is closed the weekend of October 15 and 16, but will reopen the following weekend.) Did You Know? Wall Township has two alpaca farms! Edel Haus Alpaca Farm, at 2660 Allaire Road, is open year-round and has a modest admission fee of $2.00 for children and $5.00 for adults. Next door, you’ll also find Allaire Lavender Farm, which is an offshoot of Princeton Lavender Farm in Mercer County, New Jersey. Arrow Acres Alpaca Farm 2021 Bentz Road Wall, New Jersey 07719 732-861-1385 www.arrowacresfarm.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.

Day trips to New York City are a fun excursion during your vacation in Belmar, New Jersey, especially you are visiting from outside the tri-state region. Although you can easily get to New York from the Belmar train station, you might want to level-up your Big Apple adventure with a leisurely cruise on the Seastreak ferry. Seastreak offers weekday and weekend service to two points in Manhattan, New York, via their ferry terminals in Atlantic Highlands and Highlands, New Jersey. These departure points are about a 45-minute drive north from our beach house rental in Belmar. Park your car at the ferry terminal, board the boat, and sit back and relax while you meander up the Hudson River into New York Harbor. Along the way, you’ll pass beautiful scenery and notable landmarks, including the Statue of Liberty and the Manhattan skyline. Depending on your day trip itinerary, you can disembark the ferry at either Pier 11/Wall Street or East 35th Street in Manhattan, and then venture out to explore the city. If you wish to tour the Statue of Liberty, you’ll need to book a separate ferry from Battery Park to Ellis Island. Battery Park ferries to Ellis Island are within a short walk of the Seastreak port at Pier 11/Wall Street. RELATED : Outdoor Dining With A Water View In Belmar In addition to their popular Manhattan cruises, Seastreak offers service from Monmouth County, New Jersey, to other points of interest along the northeastern coast, including Nantucket and Martha's Vineyard, Massachusetts. Seastreak also offers special summer events and excursions, such as whale-watching trips from the Highlands port to the waters off Sandy Hook, New Jersey; July 4th fireworks cruises from Highlands to the East River in New York; and sunset sight-seeing cruises from Highlands to Manhattan. In the fall, two of my favorite Seastreak adventures are the foliage and football cruises to the U.S. Military Academy in West Point, New York. Although the foliage and football trips are offered individually, if you time it right, you can book a West Point football cruise in mid to late October — when fall foliage peaks along the Hudson River — the best of both adventures for one ticket price! The photos below show the ferry docked at West Point and an Army football game in Richie Stadium. Riding on the Seastreak ferry is comfortable and convenient. There’s plentiful indoor, climate-controlled seating and satellite TVs. Seating options include rows of seats in the middle of the cabin (similar to airplane seating) and booth tables along the cabin windows. The booths seat four people each. Outside, there’s additional seating on an open-air upper deck. The deck is a great place to take in the expansive views of the water and scenery. You can bring your own food on board, and the ferry has a full-service bar that serves adult beverages as well as non-alcoholic drinks and packaged pretzels, chips, and other snacks. The ferry also has restrooms. RELATED : Area Attractions – Belmar, New Jersey Seastreak encourages guests to arrive at least 30 minutes prior to departure to allow sufficient time to park and buy tickets. Free parking is available at both the Highlands and Atlantic Highlands terminals. No matter which Seastreak departure point you choose, seeing the sights of New York City from the water is one vacation memory you’ll treasure for a lifetime. Seastreak Ferry Terminal at Atlantic Highlands 2 Simon Lake Drive Atlantic Highlands, New Jersey 07716 Seastreak Ferry Terminal at Highlands 326 Shore Drive Highlands, New Jersey 07732 1-800-BOATRIDE (1-800-262-8743) www.seastreak.com 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 . 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.

Although Belmar, New Jersey, is well known for its top-rated beach and boardwalk, our town also has a diverse downtown business community that is not to be missed. Along Main Street and beyond, shop and dine local in the gift shops, retail stores, restaurants, and other establishments that are waiting to serve you in our friendly small town by the sea. Where To Shop In Belmar, NJ Go treasure hunting in Belmar’s specialty shops to find the perfect keepsake of your summer vacation, something new to wear, beach-themed home décor, or a souvenir for someone special. The shopkeepers and restaurant owners in Belmar are hard-working, dedicated, and passionate about what they do. When you shop and dine local during your vacation in Belmar, you are supporting not only family-owned and woman-owned small businesses, but also the artisans, fishermen, growers, employees, and entrepreneurial spirits who contribute to the Belmar business community. Below is a small sample of the fabulous finds that await! RELATED: Shopping In Belmar, NJ Click a photo to scroll through the gallery. Pictured above are a few of the year-round shops and businesses in Belmar, New Jersey (from left to right): Surf's Up Candle, the Paperback Exchange, Lofidelic Record Shop, Nourished by Nature Organic Juice Bar, Atomic Vintage Clothing, Center Square Thrift Shop, Midnight Candle Company, Beckman's On the Beach (AKA Belmar Shirts), Eastern Lines Surf Shop, and Sutra Brow and Lash Bar. Where To Eat in Belmar, NJ You’ll find a wide selection of places to eat breakfast, lunch, dinner — and everything in between — in Belmar, New Jersey. Our town has it all, from cozy cafés and casual eateries, to gourmet sandwich shops, sweet shops, fine-dining restaurants, a Brazilian steak house, Mexican restaurants, and more. Whether you’re craving fresh seafood, ice cream, a romantic dinner for two, elegant afternoon tea, or happy hour bites, Belmar's dining scene has something to satisfy every appetite. Most of the restaurants in Belmar are open year-round, and many offer delivery service if you don't feel like going out. Some also are BYOB if you wish to bring a bottle of wine (or have one delivered) to enjoy at dinner. RELATED: Dining In Belmar, NJ Click a photo to scroll through the gallery. Pictured above (from left to right): Marina Grille, F Street Social Craft Pizza and Kitchen, Comfi of Belmar, Mr. Greek Mediterranean Cuisine, La Dolce Vita Italian Restaurant, El Rey Mexican restaurant, Federici's Italian restauant (Fed's On 10th), Klein's Seafood restaurant, Sweet Tease Tea Room, Main Street Donuts, Ragin Cajun, and Caffe Di Famiglia coffee and dessert shop. More Fun Things To Do In Belmar, NJ Main Street Belmar has a retro games arcade, yoga and wellness centers, massage therapy studios, and salons offering hair, nail, and eyebrow services. In addition to these local businesses, downtown Belmar and the beachfront are popular gathering spots for special events and festivals throughout the year, including: Belmar "Dine and Discover" Restaurant Tour – Held the second Sunday in March at nearly 40 restaurants, cafes, and casual eateries throughout town. Presented by the Belmar Tourism Commission. Belmar-Lake Como St. Patrick's Day Parade – Held the first Sunday in March along Main Street. Read more. New Jersey Seafood Festival – Seafood truck festival at the Belmar beachfront, held every May. Read more. Friday Night Concert Series – Free performances by local musicians on Friday evenings in Pyanoe Plaza (Main Street and 9th Avenue). Read more. New Jersey Sandcastle Contest – A popular July event on 18th Avenue beach in Belmar. Read more. Belmar San Gennaro Festival – Held the third weekend in September (two weekends after Labor Day), in Pyanoe Plaza. Read more. RELATED: Area Attractions - Belmar And Beyond RELATED: Events In The Belmar Area 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 new to read while sunning on Belmar beach, stop by one of the Little Free Library boxes in Pyanoe Plaza, on Ocean Avenue, or in a nearby neighborhood. There, you’ll find a diverse selection of paperbacks and hardcover books – yours to take free of charge. You're also welcome to drop your surplus books in one of the hand-crafted boxes, as the Little Library is also intended to serve as a community book exchange. “Take a book. Share a book,” is the Little Free Library motto. According to the Little Free Library website, “Our mission is to be a catalyst for building community, inspiring readers, and expanding book access for all through a global network of volunteer-led Little Free Libraries. Our vision is a Little Free Library in every community and a book for every reader. We believe all people are empowered when the opportunity to discover a personally relevant book to read is not limited by time, space, or privilege.” The first Little Free Library was constructed in 2009 by Hudson, Wisconsin, resident Todd Bol as a tribute to his teacher mother. Over the years, Little Free Library has grown into a global nonprofit organization with over 125,000 library boxes in more than countries. Over 42 million books are exchanged and shared annually. “My little library has ‘PEACE’ in many languages, surrounded by the sun, the moon, the stars in the sky,” says Belmar resident Merry Brennan, who is a Belmar Free Little Library steward on 11th Avenue. “It's a message that brings smiles to the many tourists who stop to borrow a book on their way to the beach in the summer and to dozens of kids who walk by on their way to school the rest of the year. I've even gotten little notes of thanks from some of my returning visitors!” RELATED: Belmar Business Spotlight – The Paperback Exchange In March 2022, Little Free Library launched a mobile app to help visitors find registered library boxes in their area via an interactive Google map. The app has some pretty neat features in addition to the map locator, such as the ability to “check in” at your library stops and keep a list of Little Libraries that you have visited. You also can add Little Libraries to your “favorites” list and leave messages for the Little Library stewards that maintain the book-sharing boxes under their care. The steward of the Little Free Library at 32216th Avenue shares her motivation for getting involved: "I'm a bibliophile and have shared my love of books in various ways, often purposely leaving a book behind in random cities and countries. A Little Free Library has been on my bucket list for many years. This year, a dear friend, handcrafted a Little Library as my birthday/Christmas present. We live in a small New Jersey beach town and our house is on an often-traveled path to the beach. I hope to encourage beach reading with our library. It will contain books for adults and children. Please visit." Download the app from Google Play or the Apple App Store. Visit the Little Free Library website for more information or to learn more about registering your own Little Library. RELATED: Area Attractions In Belmar Little Free Library Locations Around Belmar 5th Avenue Free Little Library Ocean Avenue and 5th Avenue in front of Taylor Pavilion Merry Brennan’s Little Free Library 404 11th Avenue Belmar, New Jersey 07719 Bella’s Little Free Library 1103 E Street Belmar, New Jersey 07719 Starfish Library 207 16th Avenue Belmar, New Jersey 07719 16th Avenue Little Free Library 322 16th Avenue Belmar, New Jersey 07719 16th and Ocean Avenues Little Free Library Ocean Avenue and 16th Avenue Beach Belmar, New Jersey 07719 Pyanoe Plaza Little Free Library Downtown Belmar at 9th Avenue (near Brandl Restaurant) Belmar, New Jersey 07719 10th Avenue Little Free Library Ocean Avenue and 10th Avenue (near Howard Rowland Pavilion) Belmar, New Jersey 07719 Belmar Marina Free Little Library Located at the South Comfort Station Maclearie Park Free Little Library Near the tennis courts 12th Avenue Free Little Library 12th Avenue and Main Street near the War Memorials Candide’s Garden Little Free Library 513 18th Avenue Lake Como, New Jersey 07719 Debi’s Little Free Library Ocean Avenue an Lincoln Avenue Avon by the Sea, New Jersey Fran Torra Memorial Library Atlantic Avenue Spring Lake, New Jersey Bradley Beach Little Free Library 511 Fourth Avenue Bradley Beach, New Jersey Lisa Luke Little Free Library 2 Ocean Avenue Sea Girt, New Jersey Troop 33 Little Free Library 2539 Belmar Boulevard Wall, New Jersey 07719 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. RELATED: Visit Belmar, New Jersey

Miniature golf is a game that everyone of all ages can enjoy, and when you’re vacationing in Belmar, New Jersey, you have your pick of three nearby putt-putt courses with a water view. Where to play mini golf with a water view: Recommendations from Belmar Beachcomber Blog 1. 9th Avenue Pier Mini Golf 905 Route 35 Belmar, New Jersey 732-749-3800 9thavepier.com/mini-golf/ The 9th Ave. Pier restaurant operates the mini golf course at the Belmar Marina. Play every day (weather permitting) from noon to 10:00 p.m. Prices are $7.00 per person, or $5.00 for kids under age 10. After your game, head over to 9th Ave. Pier or to the Marina Grille for a bite to eat in a gorgeous setting overlooking the picturesque Shark River. RELATED : Marina Grille – 12,000 Square Feet Of “Wow” At The Belmar Marina RELATED : Dine With A Water View At These 5 Belmar Restaurants 2. Shipwreck Island Miniature Golf 800 Ocean Avenue Bradley Beach, New Jersey 732-774-2937 https://bradleybeachminigolf.com/ Shipwreck Island Mini Golf is located right on the Bradley Beach boardwalk, so you’ll enjoy ocean views while playing 18 holes in the summer sun. The course is open daily from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. RELATED : Places We Love - DelPonte's Bakery In Bradley Beach RELATED : Best Places To Play Skee-Ball In The Belmar Area 3. Asbury Eighteen Miniature Golf 1050 Ocean Avenue Asbury Park, New Jersey 732-897-6538 www.asburyparkamusements.com/ Asbury Eighteen is another great oceanfront mini golf course within a short drive of our Belmar beach house rental. The nearby Asbury Splash Park is also fun for the kids, and when everyone gets hungry, you’ll find plenty of dining choices on the Asbury Park Boardwalk. RELATED : Day Trip Destination – Asbury Park Boardwalk RELATED : Area Attractions In Belmar And Beyond Other Popular Spots For Mini Golf At The Jersey Shore Some other places to play mini golf with a water view include: Lighthouse Point Mini Golf at Jenkinson’s Boardwalk 300 Ocean Avenue Point Pleasant Beach, New Jersey 08742 732-892-0600 https://jenkinsons.com/explore/mini-golf/ Castaway Cove Mini Golf at Jenkinson’s Boardwalk 300 Ocean Avenue Point Pleasant Beach, New Jersey 732-892-0600 https://jenkinsons.com/explore/mini-golf/ No water views here, but you will see horses instead: Bluegrass Mini Golf at Monmouth Park Racetrack 175 Oceanport Avenue Oceanport, NJ 07757 Enter at 200 Port-Au-Peck Avenue 732-587-8062 www.bluegrassminigolf.com Seasonal Hours May through SeptemberKids under age 4 play for free!   RELATED : Day Trip Destination – Monmouth Park Racetrack 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 .

Calling all Bruce Springsteen fans! Grab your selfie stick and stop by the Belmar Public Library for a photo opportunity like no other. On the library lawn, at the corner of 10th Avenue and E Street, you’ll find an eight-foot-tall replica of Springsteen’s famous Fender Esquire guitar. The commemorative guitar display was created for the Belmar Tourism Commission by local artist Bob Mataranglo to honor The Boss's Jersey Shore roots. In the early 1970s, Bruce Springsteen and the E Street band used to practice at 1105 E Street in Belmar, the childhood home of the band’s original keyboard player, David Sancious. Before leaving the band in 1974 to pursue a solo recording career, Sancious played on Springsteen’s first two albums, ''Greetings From Asbury Park, N.J.'' and ''The Wild, the Innocent & the E Street Shuffle.'' RELATED: Area Attractions Near Belmar, NJ The cover image on Springsteen’s blockbuster “Born to Run” album, which was released by Columbia records in 1975, served as the artist's inspiration for the 150-pound plywood and stainless steel sculpture. The piece took about three months from start to finish, according to news reports. Belmar Public Library 517 10th Avenue Belmar, New Jersey 07719 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.