Some refer to May as the unofficial start of summer. While many spend the month counting down the days until MDW, May is also a time to pause and celebrate motherhood. This year, the Jersey Shore is hosting countless events to show appreciation for all the moms and mother figures out there. We made a guide of 20 of our favorites, broken down into categories. Keep reading for a list of Mother’s Day activities and events at the Jersey Shore.
Photo Credit: John Posada
The Outdoorsy Mom
Island Beach State Park | 2401 Central Avenue, Seaside Park
Island Beach State Park is a preserved barrier island close to Seaside Heights’ beaches and boardwalks. It is the go-to spot for the mom who loves the outdoors since it has miles of dunes, sandy beaches, coastal forests, and tidal marshes. Island Beach State Park has an eight-mile main road with a shoulder area for biking, eight trails for hiking (each under one mile), and bird + wildlife viewing for an active Mother’s Day.
Mother’s Day Eco Trip with American Canoe Association | 801 7th Avenue, Asbury Park
The Mother’s Day Eco Trip begins at Asbury Park Boat Launch at 8AM and ends at 11AM on Mother’s Day. The morning includes a high-level paddle overview, and kayakers will paddle through Wanamassa and Interlaken. At the end, the tour returns to a semi-secret cove for breakfast. The tour is all-inclusive, but guests can bring their kayak if they’d like (just let ACA know at least 24 hours in advance).
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Sun Outdoors Mother’s Day Weekend | 491 US-9, Cape May
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Sun Outdoors is a family camping resort in Cape May. It has different lodging options like cottages, glamping tents, tiny houses, cabins, and a vineyard suite, all located in its 38-acre woodland setting. Sun Outdoors Cape May has amenities like a heated pool, playground, jumping pillow, and a camp store. In honor of Mother’s Day, Sun Outdoors will have themed events to treat all moms to fun + relaxation at the resort from May 9th through May 11th.
The Mom Who Loves Festivals + Music
Axelrod | 100 Grant Avenue, Deal
Photo Credit: John Posada
Axelrod is a performing arts center located in Deal. It has professionally staged musicals, concerts, and cultural programs. Its musical Rock of Ages is a story about the chase for fame, love, and rock n’ roll during the 1980s when Sunset Strip in California was where dreams came alive. Rock of Ages runs from May 2nd through May 18th, and there is a show at 3PM on Mother’s Day. Standard tickets start at $52, but there is a discount for students and large groups (for those with a big family).
Mother’s Day Music Festival at Boardwalk Hall | 2301 Boardwalk, Atlantic City
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Boardwalk Hall is a multi-purpose indoor arena in Atlantic City. The seaside arena has a history that stems back to 1929. It is now known for housing fun events like concerts, comedy acts, and festivals, making it a staple of the AC community. On May 10th at 7:00PM, Boardwalk Hall will host the Mother’s Day Music Festival, including an R+B lineup of Keith Sweat, Charlie Wilson, Jagged Edge, and Jon B. For anyone who wants to get mom tickets to the event, click here.
Wildwoods Spring Fling Festival | 3400 Pacific Avenue, Wildwood
Wildwood’s Spring Fling Festival takes place in downtown Wildwood at Byrne Plaza on Saturday, May 10th (the day before Mother’s Day). From 11AM to 7PM, mothers + their families can enjoy live music, food, crafts, and a beer garden. FYI: Wildwood’s Spring Fling Festival is a free event.
For the Mom Who Loves Shopping
Asbury Park Spring Bazaar at Convention Hall + Asbury Hotel | 1300 Ocean Avenue + 210 Fifth Avenue, Asbury Park
Asbury Park’s Spring Bazaar is happening on Mother’s Day weekend. The event is held at the Convention Hall on Saturday (May 10th) and Sunday (May 11th) from 12PM until 5PM; visitors can expect over 26 vendors selling gifts and goods. On Sunday, the bazaar will also occur in a second location, steps away at the Asbury Hotel, with over 30 vendors from 12PM until 5PM. Although there’s plenty of shopping, mom can also check out the flower bars, food + drinks, and photo walls available at both spots.
Emlen Physick Estate Mother’s Day Craft + Collectibles Show | 1048 Washington Street, Cape May
Emlen Physick Estate is a Victorian house museum in Cape May. The estate is hosting an outdoor craft show on May 10th from 10AM until 4PM. At Emblen Physick Estate, Moms can browse crafts and collectibles of vendors and crafters throughout the Northeast.
Mother’s Day Brunch + Market at Whitechapel Projects | 15 2nd Avenue, Long Branch
Photo Credit: Whitechapel Projects
Whitechapel Projects is a restaurant and versatile event venue located in Long Branch. It hosts a Mother’s Day Brunch + Market on Sunday, May 11th, from 12PM until 5PM. JSG recommends starting with brunch at the restaurant and then checking out the market with artisan vendors; expect mom to be able to browse and shop for candles, jewelry, clothes, home goods, and more. There will also be a DJ, a photo wall, and an opportunity to sign up for a workshop.
Pier Village | 50 Chelsea Avenue, Long Branch
Pier Village is an oceanfront mixed-use community surrounding Long Branch’s beach and boardwalk. It’s a good location for moms who like to shop since it is a hub for many boutiques and storefronts. Pier Village has a mix of shops selling items like beach essentials, pet treats, jewelry, and books. The ocean view also makes it a pretty setting for shopping on Mother’s Day.
The Animal Lover Mom
Jersey Shore Whale Watching Tours | 905 NJ-35, Belmar
Jersey Shore Whale Watching Tours is a whale and dolphin sighting experience in Belmar. The experience is family-friendly and includes sailing on its 120-foot boat. If customers do not spot whales, the business provides the next visit for free. On Mother’s Day, there is a whale-watching tour at 12:30PM or 1PM or a dolphin/whale/shark tour at 9:30AM, all meeting at Belmar Marina. FYI: Outside drinks + food are allowed, so JSG recommends bringing a cooler with mom’s favorite snacks.
Monmouth Park | 175 Oceanport Avenue, Oceanport
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Monmouth Park is an American racetrack in Oceanport. Mother’s Day @ The Track event features free admission + flowers for all moms. The races begin at 12:50PM on May 11th. There will be family-friendly activities throughout the day in the picnic area. FYI: Coolers and BYO are only allowed in the picnic area.
NJ Audubon’s World Series Of Birding | 1045 Beach Avenue, Cape May
NJ Audubon’s Word Series of Birding is happening the day before Mother’s Day, on May 10th. Participants + teams tally as many different species of birds by sound or sight that they can find in Cape May County; the point of the competition is to raise money and awareness for bird and habitat conservation. On Sunday (May 11th), there is an awards brunch at The Grand Hotel of Cape May.
The Mom Who Has Young Kids or Wants to Be a Kid for the Day
Jenkinson’s Boardwalk | 300 Ocean Avenue, Point Pleasant Beach
Jenkinson’s Boardwalk is on Point Pleasant’s beach. On Sunday, May 11th, starting at noon, moms receive free admission, with a paying child, to the Fun House, Ride Park, and Aquarium. The free admission also includes mini golf and the adventure lookout ropes course.
Jersey Shore Pirates | 281 Princeton Avenue, Brick Township
Jersey Shore Pirates is a pirate-themed adventure on the Metedeconk River in Brick. The experience involves learning the rules of the ship, which is named Sea Gypsy II, and studying the treasure map and secret message in a bottle; plus, everyone on board works together to defeat an enemy pirate. FYI: It’s Mother’s Day Special, available on Sunday, May 11th includes a free ticket for mom or grandma with a purchase of a full-price ticket.
Playland’s Castaway Cove | 1020 Boardwalk, Ocean City
Playland’s Castaway Cove is an amusement park in Ocean City. Playlands has fun rides for the family, go-karts, and mini golf. After taking a stroll on Ocean City’s Boardwalk, moms can take advantage of Playland’s Mother’s Day deal, allowing all moms to ride free all day.
The Foodie Mom
THE GOAT by David Burke | 1411 NJ-36, Union Beach
THE GOAT by David Burke is an upscale American restaurant in Union Beach. THE GOAT has a three-course brunch menu from 11AM until 3PM on Mother’s Day. JSG’s pick for an appetizer is the garlic knots; as for the main plate, we like the steak + eggs option, and for dessert, it’s the key lime pie. For the moms who don’t enjoy brunch, THE GOAT is open for an a la carte dinner on May 11th from 4PM until 8PM.
ICONA Avalon | 7849 Dune Drive, Avalon
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ICONA is a luxury hotel in Avalon with oceanfront views. ICONA is hosting a Mother’s Day brunch on May 11th from 11AM until 3PM. The brunch is taking place in the resort’s Seaglass Ballroom; moms can expect breakfast choices like pancakes, bacon, and eggs, along with dinner-time entrees, a carving station, and an assortment of desserts. Reservations are required; book one here. FYI: If you want to treat Mom to stay overnight, ICONO has rooms for Sunday night into Monday for $99.
Mother’s Day Brunch at LBI National Golf + Resort | 99 Golf View Drive, Little Egg Harbor Township
LBI National is a golf resort located in Little Egg Harbor. It’s Mother’s Day Brunch, running from 10:30AM until 4PM on May 11th. JSG‘s favorite buffet options are the omelet station, baked mac and cheese, and cinnamon french toast. To book a reservation, click here.
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Sinner’s Steakhouse | 20 Inlet Drive, Point Pleasant Beach
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Sinner’s Steakhouse faces the Manasquan Inlet in Point Pleasant Beach. Its menu features burgers, a raw bar, steaks + chops, and seafood options. Sinner’s announced reservations for Mother’s Day are available and booked here. The steakhouse will have its standard menu and specials; all mothers will receive a complimentary flower.
A Guide to Wildfire Resources at the Jersey Shore
A fast-moving wildfire erupted on Tuesday, April 22nd, 2025, in Ocean County, New Jersey, rapidly expanding to over 11,500 acres within a day. Mandatory evacuation orders were in effect in the areas of Ocean, Lacey, and Barnegat townships as Lieutenant Governor Tanesha Way declared a State of Emergency. As situations like these develop, it remains crucial for residents to stay informed about safety measures, evacuation routes, and available resources. Please bookmark this page for future reference, and read on for wildfire resources at the Jersey Shore.
Latest Updates on the Jones Road Wildfire
As of 5:30PM on Thursday, April 24th, the 15,200-acre Jones Road Wildfire is currently 50% contained, per the New Jersey Forest Fire Service on X. NJ-based businesses Eat Clean Bro and Caliber Construction are providing meals to to first responders battling the wildfire.
Per the Ocean County Prosecutor's Office, 19-year-old Ocean Township resident Joseph Kling was arrested and charged with aggravated arson and arson in connection with the wildfire. An improperly extinguished bonfire was found to be the cause, with further investigation revealing that Kling was the individual responsible for setting wooden pallets on fire and then leaving the area without the fire being fully extinguished.
Wildfires at the Jersey Shore
At the Jersey Shore, several towns and areas are at a higher risk for wildfires due to the presence of forests, dense vegetation, and dry conditions, particularly from mid-March through May. During this period, trees and underbrush are still in the process of leafing out, humidity levels tend to be low, and windy conditions are frequent. These factors create an environment where forested areas, especially in the Pinelands of southern New Jersey, dry out rapidly. The region’s sandy, porous soil doesn't hold moisture well, which further accelerates drying and raises the risk of wildfires, sometimes just hours after a rainfall.
For Live + Local Wildfire Updates
WILDFIRE UPDATE: Jones Road Wildfire - Ocean & Lacey Townships, Ocean County
SIZE & CONTAINMENT
15,200 acres
50% contained pic.twitter.com/zmDxwP7l1w— New Jersey Forest Fire Service (@njdepforestfire) April 24, 2025
In the event of a major wildfire or a complex smaller fire, the New Jersey Forest Fire Service will provide real-time updates on its Facebook and X accounts. These posts will share critical details such as the fire’s size, containment progress, road closures, evacuation notices, and the types of resources involved in the response. Each update will also include an estimated time for the next expected post.
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More live social media resources:
- @njdepforestfire — the official account for the New Jersey Forest Fire Service
- @ReadyNJ — the official account of the New Jersey Office of Emergency Management, NJ Task Force One (NJ-TF1), + NJ All-Hazards Incident Management Team
- @NewJerseyDEP — the official account for the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP)
- @NJRedCross — the official account of the American Red Cross New Jersey Region
- @JCP_L — the official account of Jersey Central Power + Light, reporting power outages + emergencies
Wildfire Risk + Prevention
Information about wildfire risks and mitigation is critical for people who live within or next to forested areas. Through advanced planning, increased awareness, and readiness, Jersey Shore residents can contribute to the solution for managing and reducing wildland fire risks.
- The New Jersey Wildfire Risk Assessment Portal brings together data and resources to help residents, community leaders, and fire professionals take proactive steps to reduce wildfire risk around their homes and throughout their communities. Residents can improve their home's resiliency in the face of wildfire using the tools provided on the assessment portal to learn how and why to prepare.
- Firewise’s How To Prepare Your Home fact sheet provides insights and instructions on vegetation management, fire-resistive construction, and things residents can do to be better prepared for wildfires.
- The Eastern US Plant Selector Tool helps wildland-urban property owners choose plants that reduce wildfire risk.
- The Ready, Set, Go! Action Guide provides tips and tools needed to prepare for a wildland fire threat, aids in situational awareness for when a fire starts, and notes to leave early when instructed to do so.
- NJ Fire Danger Dashboard — information Hub for fire danger ratings and burning restrictions for the entire state of New Jersey.
- The Home Ignition Zone Checklist provides steps to protect homes from embers and radiant heat.
The American Red Cross recommends that every family have an emergency supply kit long before a wildland fire or other emergency occurs. An emergency supply kit includes a supply of water, non-perishable food, a First aid kit and sanitation supplies, a flashlight, batteries, keys, credit cards, cash, checks, eyeglasses, contact lenses, prescriptions, and medications, important family documents, and contact numbers, including insurance documents, and personal electronic devices and chargers.
Evacuation Preparation
Do not wait to be advised to leave if there is a possible threat to your home or evacuation route.
Leave early enough to avoid being caught in fire, smoke, or road congestion. The New Jersey Forest Fire Service recommends dressing in clothing (long sleeves and pants) made from natural fibers (such as cotton) and having goggles and a dry bandana or particle mask handy during an evacuation.
If possible, prepare homes before evacuating. Close windows and doors, move furniture away from windows, remove any outdoor furniture or flammable materials, and fill bathtubs, sinks, and containers with water for emergency use.
Red Cross New Jersey will share temporary shelter locations that open due to mandatory evacuation orders.
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What To Do During A Wildfire
- Stay informed by local officials and listen for updates on the fire's progression, evacuation orders, and air quality alerts.
- Avoiding or minimizing exposure to smoke is crucial, as it can be harmful to health even when not near flames. Wearing an N95 mask or bandana can help protect you from inhaling smoke and ash.
- When indoors, remain inside and keep windows and doors closed. Prevent smoke from entering the home by sealing vents, chimneys, and any openings.
- If time permits, move any furniture, firewood, or other flammable materials away from homes to reduce the fire risk.
- Wildfires can change direction quickly, especially with shifting winds. Be prepared to adjust plans as necessary and stay in communication with family and neighbors. Check on elderly neighbors or those who might need assistance + offer help in preparing to evacuate or getting to safety.
