Lavallette is a charming, family-friendly beach town that has it all. Shopping, dining at local restaurants, and spending a day at its accompanying beach are just one of the many things to do in this beloved beach town at the Jersey Shore. Read on for things to do if heading or planning a trip to Lavallette, New Jersey.
History + Facts
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Established in 1887, Lavallette is a borough in Ocean County, located on the Barnegat Peninsula. Although mainly a summer community, with a population of about 2,000 residents, it is definitely a destination that is worth visiting. Lavallette is only one square mile, but this charming seaside community is still jam-packed with activities for all ages. It’s also conveniently located tucked between two other popular shore towns, Point Pleasant Beach and Seaside Heights.
Lavallette was named after Elie A. F. La Vallette, one of the first rear admirals appointed in the United States Navy when President Abraham Lincoln created the rank in 1862. He was also the father of Albert T. Lavallette, co-founder of the borough.
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Unfortunately, Hurricane Sandy hit Lavallette and the entire peninsula very hard in 2012 and many establishments were destroyed. It’s taken years to fully recover, but the area has bounced back — we’re so happy that it did.
Where to Stay
Beautiful vacation homes are available to rent anywhere from a week to the entire summer. There are many realtors in the area to help you find your perfect summer oasis, but be sure to look in advance, as rentals can be booked up to a year in advance. VRBO has been growing in popularity for renting in this area. There are also different local real estate companies to check out, like Lavallette Beach House Summer Rentals, Ocean Beach Sales + Rentals, Schlosser Real Estate, and more. You can also look in The Local Girl real estate directory here.
There are also a few newly renovated motels such as Starlight Motel & Luxury Suites, Lamplight Motel, Tradewinds Motor Lodge, which usually have availability for shorter trips and weekend stays.
What to Do
Lavallette Beach
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Windswept sand dunes separate magnificent beachfront houses from the shimmering white sand and sparkling sea. Whether you’re looking to relax and lay low or have a more active day, there are always people enjoying a little bit of everything. From surfers to skimboarders, to people playing beach volleyball, to children building sand castles, and of course, to readers and loungers, there are always people soaking up the sun.
Lavallette Bay
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Just a few blocks west of the beach lies the bay, with a sand ‘beach’ that is perfect for little ones. This part of town is a little quieter and more serene and offers a few long docks for fishing and crabbing. You will also find vacationers kayaking, boating, jet skiing, and paddleboarding on the calm water. West Point Island is also worth exploring, where you’ll discover beautiful waterfront mansions, including one that was home to actor Joe Pesci for many years. (Fun fact: it recently sold for its $6.5 million asking price — more than seven times what he paid for it!)
*The beach and bay are protected by lifeguards from 10AM- 5PM on weekdays and until 6PM on holidays and weekends — and both require a beach badge for entry.
Lavallette Boardwalk
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The Lavallette Boardwalk is an awesome way to get those steps in. Not to be confused with your typical shore boardwalk with arcade games, the Lavallette boardwalk is a mile-long stretch of boards that acts as an entryway to the beach. At any time of the day, there are runners, walkers, and bikers alike, exercising while admiring the beautiful beachfront houses. The town also hosts an annual Breast Cancer Walk on the boardwalk on the first Saturday of August. It raises money and awareness through The Tone Foundation and the American Cancer Society.
