Jenna Giustino 
Mah Jongg is having a moment. The tile-based game of skill, strategy, and luck has gained popularity nationwide, so of course, its presence is lively at the Jersey Shore. Whether you’re looking for open-play, a league, or beginner-friendly instruction, we’ve compiled a list of locations you can visit for a quality Mah Jongg game by the beach. Read on for our guide to Mah Jongg at the Jersey Shore.
About
While it’s very trendy in 2026, Mah Jongg’s origins date back to the mid-to-late 19th century in China. Mah Jongg evolved from older card and domino games, becoming popular in urban centers like Shanghai by the 1800s. It gained international fame in the early 20th century when Joseph Babcock brought Mah Jongg to the West (with adapted rules).
The Mah Jongg we’ve come to love today is known as a tile-based game that some compare to rummy. It’s usually played with a group of four (so yes, friends are welcome) to form what is called ‘winning hands.’
Over the years, there have been variations of the Mah Jongg game, such as American Mahjongg, which features a yearly card, jokers, and, of course, the “Charleston” tile exchange. There’s also the Chinese Mahjongg, which brings back its traditional patterns, and for those who need some alone gameplay, the Mahjongg Solitaire gives you the option to play a single-player puzzle, matching tiles to clear the board.
The strategy? Understand the suits (Bamboo, Dots, Characters) and honor tiles (Winds, Dragons), and smart tile passing. From there, aim for sets like Pungs (three of a kind) or Kongs (four of a kind).
The goal? Complete a hand.
Read More: Where to Get Crafty at the Jersey Shore
Where to Play
Biase Center | 719 Main Street, Bradley Beach
The Biase Center is in Bradley Beach. Every Friday from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM, there’s Mah Jongg open play — bring your own set or use one of theirs (FYI, you must have your own cards). All levels are welcome. For more details, click here or call 732-776-2999.
Holmdel Mah Jongg Club at Monmouth County Library | 101 Crawfords Corner Road, Suite 2110, Holmdel
The Holmdel Mah Jongg Club meets at the Holmdel Library. The library provides players with the tables and Mah Jongg sets; seating goes in order of arrival. The club is open to experienced participants, as there is no instructor present. The max capacity is 20 people, and the club meets on Thursdays from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM. To get all the details, click here.
Lavallette (Ocean County Library Upper Shores Branch) | 112 Jersey City Avenue, Lavallette
Ocean County Library: Upper Shores Branch is in Lavallette. The library runs Mah Jongg Mondays, featuring open play from 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM. The games take place in its Upper Shores meeting room – for more information, visit its website here.
Let’s Play Mahjong | Jersey Shore
Let’s Play Mahjong hosts events, classes, and learning leagues at the Jersey Shore. Let’s Play Mahjong has something for everyone, featuring beginner-to-advanced leagues, classes covering 101-level to advanced strategies, and even game nights. To get more information, sign up for its weekly email here to select the right fit for your Mah Jongg experience.
Magical Mah Jong | Jersey Shore
The Magical Mah Jong host is Elise Merril, whose services include beginner-friendly instruction through her Lessons 101, 102, and 103. Plus, Elise provides interactive guided play sessions to refine strategies. To learn more about pricing and availability, click here.
Ocean County Library | Multiple Branches, Ocean County
Ocean County Library hosts many Mah Jongg events throughout its various branches. From beginners to advanced players, all are invited to play its various Mah Jong games. To see the options, click here.
Old Bridge Public Library | 1 Old Bridge Plaza, Old Bridge
Old Bridge Public Library has a weekly Mah Jongg club, which meets on Wednesdays at 10:00 AM. No booking ahead is necessary, and the club is fun + social. JSG recommends finding out more information by clicking here.
The Jokers of Mah Jong | Long Beach Island
The Jokers of Mah Jong are a group of LBI girlfriends who enjoy playing Mah Jongg. The group often adds wine, sunsets, and food to the mix, plus good conversation. Games with The Jokers of Mah Jong are relaxed, so feel free to take your time while playing (ask questions, etc.). JSG recommends joining its Facebook group here.
West Long Branch Community Center | 116 Locust Ave, West Long Branch
West Long Branch Community hosts Mah Jongg games every Wednesday from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM. The center welcomes players of all levels – whether seasoned or beginner (there’s always someone there willing to teach new players). The games take place in the Van Brunt Room (if you have your own Mah Jongg set, bring it). Registration is free. To do so, click here.
Woman’s Club of Asbury Park | 57 Wickapecko Drive, Ocean
Women’s Club of Asbury Park is a non-profit organization based in Ocean Township. It hosts open play every Monday from 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM. The organization recommends BYO Mah Jongg cards and sets, and donations to WCAP are appreciated.
See More: Where + How to Play Mahjong in Montclair
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