Asbury Park is Making a Comeback

Our family just got back from a beach weekend and we had an amazing time. We decided on Asbury Park, NJ because we wanted a clean beach close by, with activities for toddlers and not too crowded so we can relax on the beach. We picked the right place since it is only about 1hr 45mins away with a little traffic and since it is still being rebuilt it wasn't too crowded. My family has spent many a summer in Wildwood NJ and that area gets very crowded and is best suited for older kids who can enjoy the rides and young adults who like to party. This beach in NJ was right on the money and it had lots to offer from toddlers to tweens. There is a playground right on the beach and a great sprinkler park on the boardwalk along with miniature golf, a museum arcade and yummy ice cream.

We had lots of fun playing on the sand and everyone we encountered was very nice. The water was refreshing and clean (except for after the rainstorm - and then it had some leaves and large waves - to be expected). It is such a short trip from NYC that I was surprised that it wasn't a mad-house. In town there are some great restaurants and bars, very Gay friendly, and a few art and home decor shops. My only complaint was that there wasn't much choice in hotels near the boardwalk and The Berkeley Oceanfront left much to be desired in cleanliness but had plenty of space to pack a large family into.

If you have time you must visit the very nearby town of Ocean Grove. It has gorgeous old Victorian houses and many have been turned into Bed and Breakfasts' or Inns. The beach is beautiful along the boardwalk here as well, and just a couple of blocks down Main Ave there is an adorable row of shops and an amazing Ice Cream Shoppe called Nagle's Apothecary Cafe. After ice cream you can head to the Cards and Gifts store across the street and get some cute toys and beach souvenirs that won't break the bank. Skip the shops on the boardwalk that are way overpriced.

While visiting the beach area why not head into town for some glassblowing. Hot Sand has a great glassblowing studio where you can see a demonstration or even get involved. They have great items for kids to make as keepsakes and would make a great gift for the holidays. We didn't get a chance to partake but we definitely be in there next visit. I really wanted to make a mold of my son's hand to have as a paperweight.

As we were leaving they were setting up a carnival which I'm sure would have been a lot of fun. With the live music, history, artsy folks and great restaurants we totally recommend it and will be returning soon.