The beach can be fun, but sometimes it’s nice to take a break from the sun and the sand and do something else. There is plenty to do, especially for those who have not reached the legal drinking age. Keep reading for a complete list of fun things to do at the Jersey Shore for those who are under 21.
Asbury Park Live Summer Concert Series | 1st Avenue Greenspace, Asbury Park
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Every Wednesday from 7PM – 10PM, join Asbury Park Music Foundation presented by MOGO Korean Fusion Tacos. Check the website for the performing artists, with opening music each week by The Lakehouse students.
Read More: 14 Free New Jersey Beaches Worth Visiting
Barnacle Bills | 1968 Route 35 North, Ortley Beach
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This one-stop shop to do some golfing, dining, or gaming is such a fun way to spend an afternoon out of the beach heat. The Barnacle Bill’s Giant is an iconic sight that guests see both from the street, as well as the 9th hole of the mini golf. After dominating the green, head to the Barrier Grill for some ice cream and other fare.
Barnegat Drive-In Movie Series | 200 Bengal Boulevard, Barnegat
Every few weeks there are different movies starting at dusk. Check the website for the most updated information about which movies are being shown.
Beach Haven Water Sports | 2702 Long Beach Boulevard, Long Beach
Jet skiing is an adventure or thing to do with friends or that special someone. Sea-doo rentals are for up to 3 people and last anywhere from 30 minutes to 60 minutes long. This place also does pontoon boats, paddle boards, and kayaking rentals if that’s the move.
Boardwalk | Multiple Locations
The Jersey Shore is known for many things, but perhaps the most popular attractions are the different boardwalks. Head to Jenkinson’s Boardwalk in Point Pleasant for a classic experience of rides and games, and make sure to check out the aquarium. The Asbury Park boardwalk is just a short walk from the iconic Stone Pony, the house that Bruce built. There are plenty of games and activities, as well as great restaurants to try. While there are plenty of different boardwalks to visit, the 38-block-long Wildwood boardwalk is a must-visit. All of the boardwalks have great views of the water at every step.
Cape May Revolution Rail Co. | 609 Lafayette Street, Cape May (behind the Welcome Center)
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Old railroad tracks may seem like just a relic from the past, but Revolution Rail Co. has turned these into tracks for riders to enjoy the scenery from a rail bike. They have rides all over the U.S. in New Jersey, New York, Maine, and Colorado. This ride in particular takes visitors along the edge of a nature preserve for a 4-mile out-and-back riding experience. Make sure to bring water because this experience lasts around 1.5 hours.
Fireworks at Dark | 300 Ocean Avenue North, Point Pleasant Beach
Fireworks and summer go together like apple pie and the Fourth of July. Jenkinson’s Boardwalk hosts Thursday fireworks all summer long. Shows start at 9PM weather permitting. Make sure to check out the social media pages for updates on events.
Hot Sand | 550 Cookman Avenue #103, Asbury Park
We all find beautiful glass pieces at local flea markets or boutique shops from time to time, but it would be so fun to make a piece yourself. That is exactly what you can do at Hot Sand, According to the website, it’s New Jersey’s first public-access glassblowing studio. Guests choose the type of glass they want to create including vases, ornaments, eggs, and more.
Island Beach State Park Nature Programs | 2401 Central Avenue, Seaside Park
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Island Beach State Park is more than just a sandy beach to visit, it also has many different programs for visitors of all ages from paddle boarding to hiking, there is something for everyone. Every Monday at 4:30 pm there is an adult surfing class. While attendees can bring their own surfboards, the lifeguards and Park Naturalists have rash guards and foam boards. The event is $25 per person and is 18+.
Lighthouses | Multiple Locations
According to the Coast Guard, there have been 34 lighthouses along the shores of New Jersey, with the oldest operating lighthouse being the Sandy Hook Lighthouse at the northern end of the Sandy Hook State Park. Make it a fun day to explore all the historic sites of Sandy Hook. Farther south is Barnegat Lighthouse, which gives views of Island Beach State Park, Barnegat Bay, and Long Beach Island. Make the fun trip up the 217 steps to the top!
Pedals + Paddles | 1200 Route NJ-35, Seaside Heights
When just enjoying the water at the beach isn’t adventurous enough, head to Pedals and Paddles for water toy rentals. From kayaks or paddle boards to water trikes or pedal boats. For those who have their own boats, there is a boat ramp access, too.
Pirate Island Golf | Multiple Jersey Shore Locations
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Mini golf is fun with friends, as a romantic date night, or with the whole family. Pirate Island Golf is no exception, with its three locations in Ocean City, Avalon, and Sea Isle. Make sure to bring your game face, because the courses are 18 holes through different obstacles including waterfalls, bridges, and pirate ships.
Playland’s Castaway Cove Seaside Go-Kart Speedway | 1020 Boardwalk, Ocean City
Playland’s Castaway Cove is a whole amusement park, but the go-karts really make for a good night. The go-karts are two-seaters and the ride is around an oval track for endless fun. For families, make sure riders are 36 inches tall to get in the kart and 56 inches to ride alone. Once the race is over, make sure to check out the arcade, rides, or mini golf.
Seaside Sailing | 12 Lake Drive, Island Heights
Sailing can either be an adventure or a relaxing few hours on the water. With Seaside Sailing, Captain Mike and Captain Diane take guests on two-to-three-hour cruises in the Barnegat Bay area at different times of the day. The private charters differ in price, but the memories are all fantastic. A charter makes for a nice family outing, a memorable celebration, or a romantic night on the water.
The Music Man Singing Ice Cream Shoppe | 2305 Grand Central Avenue, Lavallette
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Ice cream in the summertime is always a treat, but customers of The Music Man Singing Ice Cream Shoppe are in for a great night to top it off with an interactive performance of songs and show tunes from the waiters and waitresses. Guests who order ice cream get the show for free. The Asbury Park Girl recommends the Brioche Ice Cream Sandwich or the Fudge Fondue which can be shared for two.
The Poached Pear | 816 Arnold Avenue, Point Pleasant Beach
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The Poached Pear may not be right on the water, but the menu is reason enough to visit. It’ll be hard to pick the dishes for dinner (or lunch), but The Asbury Park Girl recommends the grilled filet mignon and the pear pizzetta.
See More: Things to Do in Avon-by-the-Sea, New Jersey | Jersey Shore Getaway
Yoga Bohemia | Multiple Locations
At Yoga Bohemia, the early bird catches the worm, and the early beach bum catches inner peace. This studio offers 100 classes a week including morning sessions on the beach. For those seeking a little more adventure, the group offers stand-up paddleboard classes that put yogis right on the water. If the beach and paddleboard aren’t enough, classes are also offered at three different studio locations including North Beach, Surf City, and Bay Village. Single classes start at $22, and monthly options are available at $150.
