For a staycation, vacation, or even a quick day trip, there are plenty of great choices along the Jersey Shore. Long Branch
welcomes travelers near and far to come and explore all it has, including a beautiful coastline, charming shops, and delicious restaurants. Read on for our full guide of things to do if traveling to Long Branch, New Jersey.
Getting There
Packing up and going to the shore is one of the joys of summertime in New Jersey. However, shore traffic can deter you from hitting the road altogether. If you plan to go for the weekend and can skip out of the office early Friday afternoon, do it. You will likely beat a majority of the southbound traffic before rush hour takes its toll. If you are heading out Saturday or Sunday morning, you’ll want to leave super early and grab a coffee on the go. Aiming to get to the beach before 9AM will almost guarantee a smooth ride to Long Branch’s Exit 105.
Things to Do
Pier Village
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If you combined the shops and eateries of Washington Street in Hoboken with the soothing sounds of the ocean, you would get Pier Village. This is one of the premier beach spots in Long Branch because there are options for anything summer-related. Grab brunch at an NJ favorite, The Turning Point with friends to kick off your day or dinner with a view at McCloone’s Pier House.
If you are looking for something to do during the day, head to Le Club Avenue for frozen drinks and great music with the sand between your toes all day long. To get the best outfits for summer, Pier Village has you covered here as well. Small clothing boutiques and accessory stores line the Long Branch Boardwalk giving you a chance to rack up those credit card points. Other summer classics like Stewart’s Root Beer, Playa Bowl, and Luke’s Lobster are here as well for a quick bite between working on your tan.
Monmouth Park Racetrack
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Technically in Oceanport, New Jersey, the racetrack is just up RT-36 from the beaches of Long Branch. Enjoy fun for all ages watching the horses race throughout the day. You can place your bets for a gambling thrill or just soak up the sun. Check out the website for their various events like their annual Wine & Chocolate Festival, Ladies Day, or the BBQ & Craft Beer Festival.
Read More: A Jersey Shore Getaway Itinerary to Cape May
Where to Stay
Ocean Place Resort & Spa | 1 Ocean Boulevard, Long Branch
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When you live in Hudson County, sometimes going to the Jersey Shore doesn’t really seem like a true vacation. But, the Ocean Place Resort & Spa will change your mind about those feelings quickly. This is a true resort that will make you feel like you just stepped off an airplane and onto a tropical island — complete with luxury accommodations, palm trees, and breathtaking views. While at the resort, choose from their extensive spa menu to pamper yourself with a facial, massage, or a body wrap.
Where to Eat
Amy’s | 444 Ocean Boulevard North
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Omelets on omelets — that’s what you can expect when you go to Amy’s. With over 200 options, on just their omelet menu, this restaurant has something for even the pickiest of eaters. Choose from over half a dozen different menu sections to narrow down your choices based on what you’re craving that day. In addition to their massive breakfast menu, they have a wide variety of lunch and dinner options including their famous baby back ribs and ciabatta sandwiches.
Rooney’s Oceanfront Restaurant | 100 Ocean Avenue North
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Rooney’s has been a Jersey classic for over 20 years. Most of the dishes have a seafood component. Try the crab cakes that tie a traditional boardwalk treat with a taste of the Atlantic Ocean or the Lobster Mac-A-Rooney — an oceanic twist on the crowd favorite, mac and cheese. With warm weather upon us, guests can also enjoy the outdoor bar.
Bonus Things to Do
Summer Festivals
It’s not summertime without a festival of some sort to celebrate the warm weather, good food, and great friends. Long Branch keeps the festivals coming all summer long with opportunities to gather together and enjoy the Garden State. The Jazz & Blues Festival happens every August and is a Long Branch hit. Watch various jazz bands take the stage throughout the day and then enjoy fireworks at the end of the evening.
See More: A Jersey Shore Getaway to Ocean Grove
Parks & Recreation
Long Branch offers plenty of open outdoor spaces to take advantage of during the summer. Ride a bike, scooter, or rollerblades down the boardwalk during sunrise for optimal views. Seven Presidents Park is equipped with jungle gyms, a skatepark, and open land perfect for a picnic.
