For those lazy summer days when you’d rather relax than cook dinner from scratch or sit down in a restaurant, stock your fridge with freshly prepared takeout meals from one of our favorite local markets in the Belmar region of the Jersey Shore. Simply reheat in the oven or microwave and enjoy! Each of the markets listed below sells a variety of take-home meals, entrees, salads, sides, fresh Italian bread, pasta dishes, deli sandwiches, specialty items, and more. (Markets listed in order of proximity to our beach house vacation rental in Belmar.) 1. Drew's Market Spring Lake Heights Shopping Center 2407 Route 71 Spring Lake Heights, New Jersey 07762 732-974-9399 www.drewsmarket.com Drew's Market is popular among the locals for its takeout entrees, full-service deli, catering services, and in-house butcher. Drew's Market is very close to our Belmar rental, less than 10 minutes away by car. On August 1, 2023, a new owner, Chuck Grosso, took over the operations of Drew's Market. He plans to keep the traditional recipes and takeout offerings, but is planning some renovations to the store. In addition to daily hot and cold lunch specials, we shop at Drew's for dinner entrees, homemade soups, fresh Pastosa brand ravioli from Brooklyn, Boar's Head cold cuts, and Italian bread from New York City. Check out the wide selection of fresh meats, house-made Italian sausage, and Bell and Evans chicken. Belmar Beachcomber recommends: Chicken Diane, Pastosa ravioli, holiday pie (turkey pot pie with stuffing and cranberry sauce on top), balsamic marinade, shrimp salad, grilled turkey London broil, lobster bisque, chicken pot pies, stuffed rigatoni with sausage, and beef barley soup, cheesy garlic bread, to name a few of our favorites. 2. Joe Leone's 527 Washington Boulevard Sea Girt, New Jerse 08750 732-681-1036 www.joeleones.com Joe Leone's Italian Specialties celebrated its 20th year of business in 2017. Joe Leone's flagship location is located in Point Pleasant Beach, but the second location in Sea Girt is closer to our summer rental home in Belmar. Similar to Drew's Market, Joe Leone's offers catering, as well as a wide variety of gourmet takeout fare. You'll find seasonal menu items, homemade soups, made-to-order deli sandwiches, and a rotating roster of chef’s specials packed by the pound to takeout. The Sea Girt location of Joe Leone's offers grab-and-go fare -- prepared sandwiches, packaged foods, salads, soups, sauces, etc., conveniently packaged for takeout. If you're game for a short drive, the Pt. Pleasant Beach location of Joe Leone's Italian Specialties has a wide selection of imported gourmet foods and takeout prepared foods, homemade breads, fresh mozzarella, and cheese. It's a fun adventure for foodies! A third Joe Leone's location, the Centro Market at 113 Main Street in downtown Manasquan, New Jersey, opened in March 2022. Belmar Beachcomber recommends: Flounder Francaise, honey balsamic dressing, potato salad, semolina rolls, pasta fagioli soup, homemade rice pudding, stuffed breads, chicken cutlets, and the specials. RELATED : Where To Shop For Groceries Near Our Belmar Vacation Rental 3. Pastosa Ravioli 2410 Highway 35 Manasquan, New Jersey 732-722-8076 Website After discovering the Pastosa cheese ravioli at Drew's Market for several years ago, we were thrilled when Pastosa opened a market with their full product line nearby in Manasquan, New Jersey. The Manasquan location of Pastosa Ravioli is the second one at the Jersey Shore for this family-owned and operated Italian specialties market (Matawan being the first). Trust me: You will never eat grocery store ravioli after one bite of the fresh ravioli from Pastosa. Although the round cheese ravioli are my personal favorite, Pastosa's in Manasquan sells an unbelievable variety of ravioli flavors: chicken, crab, lobster, meat, broccoli rabe, artichoke, spinach, pumpkin, gorgonzola-walnut, sun-dried tomato, Tuscan style (stuffed with potatoes, leeks, and pancetta), and more. For those with special dietary needs, Pastosa also sells low-fat, gluten-free, and whole-wheat ravioli. The gourmet sandwiches here are hearty and served on semolina bread delivered fresh from Brooklyn and Staten Island. Shop here for prime cuts of meat, fresh Italian sausage, pasta sauces, fresh and frozen pasta, hot and cold prepared foods, Boar's Head cold cuts, traditional Italian desserts, and more. Belmar Beachcomber recommends: Fresh cheese ravioli, marinara, meat sauce, vodka sauce, focaccia pizzas, fresh Mozzarella, chicken soup, artichoke hearts with seasoned bread crumbs, tiramisu, marinated bean salad. Also Try: ShopRite of Belmar 1732 State Route 35 Wall Township, New Jersey 07719 732-681-0900 The World-Class ShopRite supermarket at Route 35 and 18th Avenue in Wall Township, New Jersey, has an amazing prepared foods section! You'll find an expansive fresh salad bar, soup bar, sushi, Chinese food, BBQ ribs, submarine sandwiches, entrees and sides to go, rotisserie chicken, bake-at-home pizza, fresh pasta and sauces, and much more. Local Tip: Marked-down prepared foods and bakery items are sold daily at the front of the store by the checkout registers. Tom Bailey's Market 1323 3rd Avenue Spring Lake, New Jersey 07762 732-282-0920 Website Tom Bailey's West 2100 Highway 35 Sea Girt, New Jersey 848-469-8820 Website Whole Foods Prepared Foods 1933 State Road 35 Wall, NJ 07719 732-359-3400 Website 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 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 .

If you love music or music history, plan a visit to the world-famous Stone Pony in Asbury Park, New Jersey. In addition to local legends Bruce Springsteen, Steve Van Zandt and Southside Johnny, musicians of all genres have been rocking audiences at the Stone Pony since 1974. The Stone Pony is open year-round; however, shows at the outdoor Summer Stage take place between mid-May and Labor Day weekend. Tickets for Summer Stage shows are general admission (standing) and may be purchased on Ticketmaster. Wear comfortable shoes, dress for the weather, and be prepared to stand on blacktop in a large crowd of other concert-goers. You'll be able to watch the sunset behind the giant outdoor stage while you're enjoying the tunes. Go To Stone Pony Summer Stage 2023 Schedule>> Along the perimeter of the Stone Pony Summer Stage, you’ll find concession stands with beer, wine, hard seltzers, and snacks for sale. You can venture inside to get drinks at one of the air-conditioned bars or to use the bathroom if you don’t want to use the portable potties outside. Be aware that the indoors is usually just as jammed as the outside when there's a Summer Stage performance going on. RELATED: Day Trip Destination – Asbury Park Boardwalk Over the past several years, I’ve seen a few shows on the Stone Pony Summer Stage, including Willie Nelson and Almost Queen. If you like the music of Queen, I highly recommend the Almost Queen tribute band! The lead singer, Joseph Russo, is a native of Middletown, New Jersey. He embodies nearly every characteristic of the late Freddie Mercury, from his facial expressions and mannerisms, to his spot-on vocals and even Mercury's signature mustache. In fact, the entire band provides a realistic "almost Queen" experience! If you're coming to the the Stone Pony for a concert, you could plan your arrival a little early to enjoy a stroll along the Asbury Park Boardwalk and get something to eat at one of the nearby restaurants. The Asbury Park Boardwalk has plenty of food choices for all tastes and budgets — from fine Italian dining at Stella Marina, to giant pizzas at Maruca’s Tomato Pies, or craft cocktails and small plates at the ocean-front Watermark bar. Those are just a few options for you to consider. One of my favorite Asbury Park pizza restaurants, Porta, is about five-minute walk from the Stone Pony. Porta is a very popular spot before Summer Stage shows, so expect crowds there, too. LOCAL TIP: If you don’t like standing in large crowds, there’s another way to enjoy the music for free. Because the Summer Stage is an outdoor venue with a powerful sound system, you can hear the music from the Asbury Park Boardwalk. Even better, you can bring a chair or blanket and sit on the beach or set up on the lawn across from Ocean Avenue. I’ve even had friends with boats who dropped anchor in the waters around the Summer Stage vicinity, where the music washes over the waves. Stone Pony Summer Stage 2023 Schedule Saturday, July 22 Bouncing Souls with Bayside and 7 Seconds Thursday, July 27 The Ghost Inside and Underoath Friday, July 28 Louis Tomlinson Saturday, July 29 Orville Peck CANCELED Per Ticketmaster Website Sunday, July 30 Dark Star Orchestra Tuesday, August 1 Backseat Lover Wednesday, August 2 Alter Bridge Tuesday, August 8 Incubus Friday, August 18 War on Drugs Sunday, August 20 Pixies and Modest Mouse Friday, August 25 Gimme Gimme Disco Friday, September 1 Almost Queen Saturday, September 2 Southside Johnny and the Asbury Jukes Sunday, September 3 SiriusXM Presents Yacht Rock Revue - Reverse Sunset Tour The Stone Pony 913 Ocean Avenue Asbury Park, New Jersey 07712 732-502-0600 Website 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.

Surfers of all ages are getting amped for the 21st Belmar Pro surfing competition, which will take place September 8 to 10, 2023. The event is presented by Eastern Lines Surf Shop in Belmar, New Jersey, and sponsored by Playa Bowls. Participants in the Belmar Pro surfing competition will vie for top honors in seven divisions throughout the three-day event. The competition categories are: Fins Men's Open Playa Bowls Women's Open Creatures Master's Open Pacifico Longboard Open Joe’s Surf Shack Senior Men (45-54 as of January 1, 2023) Cecil Lear Legends (age 55+ as of January 1, 2023) Eastern Lines Legends Longboard (age 55+ as of January 1, 2023) Don Tarrant, owner of Eastern Lines and organizer of the legendary local surfing competition, has been involved with the Belmar Pro since its beginning in 2001. He and his partner, Scott Goodwin, "have worked very hard to improve the event through the years, both the infrastructure and attracting some of the best professional surfers in the world," he says. "Some of the countries generally represented are Brazil, Dominican Republic, Jamaica, Barbados, and Australia, as well as the U.S. East and West Coasts and Hawaii." RELATED: Belmar Business Spotlight - Eastern Lines Surf Shop "The Belmar Pro gives us the greatest opportunity to present world-class surfers with quality surf conditions," says Tarrant, who was inducted into the New Jersey Surfing Hall of Fame in May 2019. "I have heard over and over again: 'I didn't know the surf was this good in New Jersey.' Hopefully, these competitors will go home with great memories and stories of their time at the Jersey Shore. I also think it's the perfect time for locals to attend an event during local summer." RELATED: Belmar Vacation Bucket List - Summertime Surf School Registration for the Belmar Pro will begin June 1, 2022. The five competition categories are: men’s, women’s, longboard, masters, and legends. In addition to plenty of wave action, the Belmar Pro will include an outdoor marketplace on the sand with food, clothing, artists, and surf industry merchandise. Vendors representing several volunteer groups such as the Surfrider Foundation are also expected to participate. For more information, contact Eastern Lines at 732-681-6405 or visit www.belmarpro.com. SURFING FAMILIES: If you need a place to stay for the 2023 Belmar Pro, check out our two-bedroom beach house rental in Belmar. We have previously hosted Belmar Pro contestants from California and Barbados. Our home is conveniently located within a five-minute drive of the surfing beaches and can accommodate up to four people. Three-night minimum rental. Learn more at VacationInBelmar.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. RELATED: Visit Belmar, New Jersey

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.

One of our favorite places to visit for an afternoon outing is the Asbury Park Boardwalk in Asbury Park, New Jersey. We especially like to ride our bikes there from Belmar, enjoying the scenic route north along Ocean Avenue through Avon, Bradley Beach, and Ocean Grove. If biking is not your thing, no worries. The Asbury Park Boardwalk is only about 15 minutes from Belmar by car. Fun Things To Do On The Asbury Park Boardwalk There’s so much to do and see on the Asbury Park Boardwalk — where do we start? No trip to the boardwalk is complete without seeing the circa 1920s Convention Hall Grand Arcade, located at 1300 Ocean Avenue. Inside Convention Hall, you’ll find the Paramount Theater, another historic Asbury Park landmark, as well as an assortment of cute gift shops, Asbury Park Roastery, an oyster bar, and the Anchor’s Bend, an oceanfront bar and grill. Throughout the year, the Grand Arcade in Convention Hall hosts numerous special events, including the Asbury Park Beer Fest, Catsbury Park Cat Convention, Asbury Park Bazaar seasonal markets, and a festive Christmas tree lighting and holiday pop-up markets. RELATED : 8 Ways To Celebrate Summer In Belmar A few hundred yards from Convention Hall is the Silverball Museum Arcade at 1000 Ocean Avenue. Pay one admission fee (30 minutes, 60 minutes, half day, or full day) and enjoy unlimited play of your favorite arcade games, including Skee-Ball, pinball, air hockey, vintage video games, and more. The kids will also enjoy cooling off at Asbury Splash Park, 950 Ocean Avenue, and a game of mini golf at Asbury Eighteen, 1050 Ocean Avenue. A short walk from the Asbury Park Boardwalk, you will find two more local icons: the Stone Pony, 913 Ocean Avenue, and the Wonder Bar, 1213 Ocean Avenue. Since 1974, the Stone Pony has been a leading venue for live music, and its claim to fame is back-in-the-day performances by the young rising artist Bruce Springsteen (read more about Belmar’s giant guitar tribute to Bruce). In the summer months, the Stone Pony Summer Stage, 909 Ocean Avenue, provides a perfect setting for outdoor music under a sunset sky. RELATED : Area Attractions Near Belmar, NJ Where To Eat On The Asbury Park Boardwalk You have numerous choices for upscale, casual, and grab-and-go dining on the Asbury Park Boardwalk. At the 800 block of Ocean Avenue, you’ll find Stella Marina, a good choice for fine Italian dining with an ocean view; Cubacan, known for its fusion of Cuban and South American cuisine; and Watermark, a popular spot for signature cocktails (red sangria pictured below) and small plates. For boardwalk fare, your choices include Maruca’s Asbury Park, a spinoff of the popular Maruca’s Tomato Pies on the Seaside Heights boardwalk; MOGO Korean Fusion Tacos; the Iron Whale, which has a diverse menu of appetizers, salads, raw bar, and entrees; the Mayfair Boardwalk Grill; and more. Although not directly on the boardwalk, one of our favorite stops in Asbury Park is Porta Pizza, 911 Kingsley Street, which is a short walk west from the Stone Pony. Our go-tos here include the margherita and arugula pizzas with a side of freshly made ricotta cheese and sliced Italian bread. For your sweet tooth, try a towering ice cream creation at Coney Waffle, 803 Ocean Avenue (they also have a location on Ocean Avenue in Belmar); an ice pop or vegan soft serve at Betty’s Icebox, 1300 Ocean Avenue; or Ralph’s Italian Ice, Third Avenue Pavilion. RELATED : Favorite Restaurants In Belmar For Lunch And Light Bites A Note About Parking in Asbury Park If you plan to drive to Asbury Park from Belmar, we highly recommend that you take a cab or use a ride-sharing service. Because of its popularity among locals and tourists alike, parking in Asbury Park can be tricky, especially during peak summer season and on weekends. Public street parking is metered in Asbury Park, which means you must pay for parking between 9:00 a.m. and 2:00 a.m. seven days a week. If you do prefer to drive your own vehicle, download the Asbury PARK app , which allows you to enter your license plate and pay for parking remotely. 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 : Plan Your Vacation In 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.

The BYOB dining options in Belmar, New Jersey, have expanded with the opening of F Street Social Craft Pizza and Kitchen at 1002 Main Street (next to Flames Brazilian Steakhouse). The restaurant's name pays homage to the early days of Belmar's downtown business district, when Main Street was originally known as F Street. 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. RELATED: More Belmar Dining Stories In addition to traditional Margherita pizzas and white pies, the signature pizzas at F Street Social include options such as Berg's Pastrami Reuben pie; pepperoni with imported hot honey drizzle; Garden State primavera; buffalo chicken; Grandma pie; vodka-sauce pizza with add-on chicken or shrimp; zesty arugula; pesto pie; chicken or eggplant Parmesan pizza; and plain pizza with ala carte toppings (pepperoni, sausage, mushrooms, peppers, onions, extra cheese, pineapple, ham, bacon, meatballs, chicken, jalapenos). My first visit to F Street Social was for a late lunch/early dinner with a friend. I ordered the crock of Guinness French onion soup and the garlic shrimp appetizer. My friend chose the grilled chicken sandwich, which had arugula, roasted red peppers, fresh Mozzarella, and balsamic glaze, with a side of hand-cut French fries. We both enjoyed our meals, and I will be going back soon with some other friends to celebrate upcoming birthdays. F Street Social has a front dining room with tables along the wall and high-top seating in the middle of the space. The room is framed with a large garage door that opens to Main Street for outside dining when the weather is nice. The restaurant also has a spacious party room that can be booked for private events, as well as first-come, first-served counter seating at the bar adjacent to the main dining space. Dinner reservations are recommended, and food may be ordered for takeout. F Street Social Craft Pizza BYOB 1002 Main Street Belmar, New Jersey 07719 732-934-2378 www.fstsocial.com RELATED: Area Attractions Near 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. 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.

The votes are in, and the Borough of Belmar, New Jersey, has been ranked No. 8 in USA Today's "10 Best Beaches in the Northeast" 2023 Reader's Choice Awards. Belmar was ranked along with beaches in Cape May, Island Beach State Park, Ocean City, and Sandy Hook, New Jersey, in the USA Today voting contest, which also ranked beach towns in Delaware, Maryland, Rhode Island, and Massachusetts. According to www.VacationInBelmar.com, "The coastal community of Belmar, New Jersey, is a jewel of the Jersey Shore. Visitors and residents alike love Belmar for its top-rated beaches and its small-town charm. Our town takes great pride in providing family-friendly amenities, along with a clean, smoke-free beach and boardwalk. Belmar, in Monmouth County, is easy to reach via Exit 98 of the Garden State Parkway, between the nearby towns of Spring Lake, Avon By The Sea, Ocean Grove, and Bradley Beach. We're about 15 minutes from Asbury Park and about an hour from Bucks County, Pennsylvania, via I-195 East." RELATED: Visitor Guide To Beach Tags, Parking And More In addition to clean, staffed restrooms, the Belmar beachfront is equipped with pirate-themed playgrounds, places to fill your water bottle and charge your cell phone, and touch-free foot showers for rinsing off. Belmar also has ADA-accessible beaches equipped with blue mobility mats. These hard-surface beach-access ramps are designed for people who use wheelchairs or walking aids, and families coming to the beach with strollers, wagons and beach carts. In 2014, Belmar was the first New Jersey shore town to ban smoking on the beach. Smoking is prohibited on the entire beach and boardwalk at all times. The surfing beaches in Belmar, New Jersey, are located at 17th and 18th Avenues. In addition, Summertime Surf School offers surfing camps for kids and group or private surfing lessons for adults and organizations at 3rd Avenue beach in Belmar. Boogie boards may be used at 7th Avenue, 14th Avenue, and 20th Avenue. Popular beachfront events in Belmar include the New Jersey Sandcastle Contest in July and the Belmar Pro surfing competition in September. The three-day New Jersey Seafood Festival is held every May across from the Belmar boardwalk at Silver Lake Park. RELATED: More Belmar Beach Stories 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.

During your vacation in Belmar, New Jersey, you'll find a wide range of activities and events for family members of all ages to enjoy. Here are some of the fun things to do in Belmar when you're looking to spend quality time together: Mini golf Parasailing Whale watching Head boat and charter fishing Sunset cruise Ice cream outing NJ Sandcastle Contest Movies on the beach 1. 18 Holes Of Mini Golf 905 Highway 35 at the Belmar Marina Belmar, New Jersey 732-749-3800 9thavepier.com/mini-golf/ No Jersey Shore vacation is complete without a game or two of miniature golf. The 9th Ave. Pier restaurant operates the mini golf course at the Belmar Marina. Play every day (weather permitting) from noon to 10 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 waterfront setting. RELATED: Mini Golf With A Water View - 3 Scenic Spots RELATED: Dining With A Water View In Belmar 2. Family Fishing Trip Belmar Marina 905 Highway 35 Belmar, New Jersey 732-681-2266 When the kids tire of the beach (is that even possible?), family fishing trips are a fun change of pace during your summer vacation in Belmar. The Belmar Marina is home to one of New Jersey's largest fleet of fishing head boats (party boats) and private fishing charters. In addition to half- and full-day fishing outings, some boats also offer sunset cruises. Each boat is independently owned and operated, so contact each vessel directly for pricing and ticket information (link below). RELATED: Best Fishing Party Boats And Charters At The Belmar Marina 3. Belmar Whale Watching Tours Set sail aboard the Miss Belmar Princess or the Royal Miss Belmar for a Jersey Shore Whale Watching Tour. 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. In addition to humpback whales, it's common to see dolphins, stingrays and even some sharks during the excursion. For the 2023 season, you may book either a two-hour or a three-hour whale-watching tour. Prices are as follows: Miss Belmar Princess Two-Hour Whale Tour Adults (Ages 13-61): $50.00 Seniors (Ages 62+): $45.00 Children (Up to age 12): $35.00 Royal Miss Belmar Three-Hour Whale Tour Adults (Ages 13 and over): $65.00 Children (Up to age 12): $45.00 (No senior rate) Both boats sail from the Belmar Marina, 905 Route 35, Belmar, New Jersey 07719. Guests are asked to arrive at the boat at least 30 minutes before departure time. Bring your own food and beverages. Gift certificates are also available for purchase. Call 732-681-6866 for more information or visit the Miss Belmar Princess website to book online. RELATED: Grab A Selfie At The Giant Bruce Springsteen Guitar RELATED: Fresh Catch With the Jersey Shore Lobster Brothers 4. Parasailing Adventures And Banana Boat Rides Belmar Parasail 608 River Road (parking area) Belmar, New Jersey 732-681-8359 www.belmarparasail.com You'll never forget your first parasailing adventure 500 feet above the Atlantic Ocean! Parasailing is a fun family activity that does not require any previous experience or special equipment. You take off and land gently on the boat. Current prices are $80.00. per person, $72.00 for college students with valid school ID (ages 18-23 only), and $72.00 for active-duty military with valid military ID. Observers on the boat are $40.00 per person, subject to availability. Each parasailing excursion is 1.5 hours. Also try their banana boat rides for a fun spin around the ocean waves. Belmar Parasail is located on the L Dock at Belmar Marina in ParkMobile Zone 58104. RELATED: 7 Ways To Enjoy The Water In Belmar 5. Sunset Cruise We’ve seen some amazing sunsets out at sea, facing the Jersey coastline from a boat a few miles offshore in the Atlantic Ocean. The Ocean Explorer and Golden Eagle are two locally operated commercial fishing boats at the Belmar Marina that offer sunset fishing charters. RELATED: Best Spots To Watch The Sunset In Belmar 6. Ice Cream Outing One of our favorite ice cream shops, Niki Maccanico's, is a five-minute walk from our beach house rental in Belmar. All of the ice cream at Niki's is homemade and hand-scooped. You'll find Niki's on 13th Avenue and Main Street, across from the Belmar Post Office. Mint chocolate chip is a personal favorite, along with the chocolate peanut butter swirl. Another popular sweet spot in Belmar is Coney Waffle, located at 803 Ocean Avenue, across from the beach (next to Playa Bowls). Coney Waffle is known for its cannoli waffles and its ,belly-busting ice cream concoctions, including custom milk shakes and towering waffle cones overflowing with your choice of candy and cookie toppings. In March 2022, Coney Waffle expanded into downtown Belmar with its new Coney Waffle Ice Cream Cakery. The shop sells giant cookies, creamy fudge, and other sweets. Also within walking distance of our beach house rental is Rudy's On Main, where you'll find all-natural Italian ice and crème ice, along with gourmet fudge, churros, giant soft pretzels, and more. In nearby Spring Lake, the vanilla ice cream at Hoffman's Ice Cream is a family favorite, in addition to the all-vanilla saucers with rainbow jimmies. RELATED: Favorite Fudge Shops RELATED: Playa Bowls - Two Locations On The Belmar Beachfront 7. New Jersey Sandcastle Contest July 14, 2023 18th Avenue beach Belmar, New Jersey The annual New Jersey Sandcastle Contest is a wonderful family-friendly event. It draws thousands of competitors and spectators to Belmar's 18th Avenue beach to compete for top honors in several judging categories for kids, adults, and camps/youth groups. Read more about this year's event. RELATED: Events In Belmar, New Jersey 8. Movies On Belmar Beach July 5 through August 30, 2023 7th Avenue Beach Bring your beach chairs to 7th Avenue beach for free movie night in Belmar, New Jersey, starting Thursday, July 5, 2023. Movies start at dusk, but it's best to get there earlier to get a good spot in the front of the big screen on the sand. 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.

The Belmar Environmental Commission has partnered with the Belmar Arts Center, the Belmar Historical Society, and the Belmar Public Library to relaunch the Belmar Treasure Trail, a self-paced walking tour of noteworthy points of interest in the borough. The tour has expanded from 30 to 50 destinations that showcase the environmental, art, and historical treasures of Belmar. Each is identified on an interactive online map and accompanying podcast. According to Belmar Councilman Tom Brennan, Borough liaison to the Belmar Environmental Commission, the podcast episodes “are filled with fun, fascinating, and some little-known facts about our wonderful town.” The walking tour is divided into two routes, totaling nearly seven miles in all. The Main Street-Shark River Area route covers the first 27 stops and takes about two hours of leisurely walking to complete (four miles). The Ocean Avenue route is just under three miles in length (about 1.5 hours of walking) and covers stops 28 through 50. Newly updated signage at the 50 points of interest includes QR codes, which provide easy access via any mobile device to the narration that describes the site being visited. The original Belmar Treasure Trail was developed in 2011. Unfortunately, when Superstorm Sandy struck the New Jersey coast in 2012, many destinations along the trail, along with most of the signage, suffered extensive damage. The project to revive the Belmar Treasure Trail was undertaken in 2022 as part of the Borough’s 150th anniversary celebration. RELATED : Belmar Celebrates 150th Anniversary RELATED : Grab A Selfie At The Giant Bruce Springsteen Guitar In addition to Councilman Brennan and his wife, former Councilwoman Merry Brennan, the Belmar Treasure Trail podcast series is narrated by: Belmar Beach Patrol Director Harry Harsin; Belmar Historical Society President Spencer Heulitt; Lake Como Borough Administrator Andrew Huisman; Belmar Environmental Commission Chair Ed Lippincott; Belmar resident Dave Taylor, who also narrated part of the original Treasure Trail script; Belmar Mayor Mark Walsifer; and Belmar Elementary School Principal Sarah Wilton. “This has been a true group effort,” said Councilman Brennan. “The Belmar Environmental Commission has talked for years about rebuilding the Treasure Trail. Celebrating Belmar’s sesquicentennial gave us the push to begin the year-long effort to revise and renew.” RELATED : Belmar Honey - How Sweet It Is RELATED : Find A Free Little Library In Belmar Download the podcast from the iTunes Store . Alternately, you may scan the QR code on each sign or call 732-749-7323 from any point along the tour to hear the recording. Visit www.belmartreasuretrail.com for more information. 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 . Belmar Treasure Trail map credit: www.belmartreasuretrail.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.