The Ultimate Guide to a Weekend Getaway at the Jersey Shore with Kids

Forget what you may recall from the popular MTV series, the Jersey Shore is a great family beach destination. There are two wonderful kid-friendly beaches on the real New Jersey coast where my family spent many a summer vacation.

Whether you like the quiet of Island Beach State Park, the lively boardwalk scene at Seaside Heights, or would enjoy a combination of the two, the Jersey shoreline along the Atlantic is a classic destination for East Coast families from Philadelphia to Hartford and points in between.

And after all the exposure on reality TV, the Shore is looking good — some might say better than ever.

Quiet Island Beach State Park

Island Beach State Park is located on the southern tip of the central shore area in Ocean County. Tucked between Seaside Park and Barnegat Inlet, the 9-mile stretch of beach is one of the only areas of the New Jersey shore that remains mostly untouched by developers. The park is separated into three sections: the northern and southern parts are “natural areas” and the central part is the recreation area. A bird and wildlife sanctuary, as well as a great place for fishing (striped bass and bluefish), Island Beach State Park is perfect for the outdoor, nature-loving family.

Portions of the beach are designated for surfing and scuba diving. Surf fishing is very popular. Walk the self-guided nature trails, each under a mile in length and toddler-friendly. Other activities include canoeing, horseback riding, a five-mile bike path, and a bird blind (a camouflaged bird-watching area) to observe the osprey.

Lifeguards are on duty daily during the summer season, ensuring the safety of swimmers. Take advantage of the beach’s modern bathhouses with bathrooms and changing areas, outdoor showers, and accessible ramps. Please note that while access to the beach itself is free, there are parking fees. From Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend, parking fees are nominal for local residents and a bit more for visitors. In the off-season, parking is even less. Plus, you can always bike to the beach for free and enjoy a car-free day.

Also, be sure to bring a picnic, because Island Beach has no restaurants. Relax. This beach remains one of the most unspoiled, quiet, and secluded beaches for a restful vacation or day trip.

Lively Casino Pier in Seaside Heights, Jersey Shore

If you want a little more action, Seaside Heights, a 10-minute drive north of Island Beach, provides countless attractions and plenty of noise. Stroll the fun-filled Seaside Heights Boardwalk, which has been widened over time to include even more fried foods, colorful rides, and midway games. Don’t miss the fun on Casino Pier which is sure to entertain kids of all ages. And something very cool: the Retrocade Classic Video Game Arcade is a magnet for parents.

The Casino Pier and Breakwater Beach Water Park is a newer version of the same traditional Jersey Shore fun. Enjoy the waterfront pier, carousel, and dozens of rides. Breakwater Beach Water Park’s large wave pool is a favorite; life jackets are available in various sizes for less confident swimmers. For the adventurous, dive into the water park’s twisting waterslides that travel at fast speeds. Climb up Salem’s Scream, a 50-foot-tall Aqua drop where the “floor” falls out from under you as you plunge into a waterslide. Luckily for grandparents, there is a soft play area designed especially for toddlers. After you dry off, stick around for the nightly magic show.

Beach & Evening Fun on the Jersey Shore

The Seaside Heights gold sand beach is always busy unless you come early in the day. Mostly, there are visitors who come to catch the best surfing waves in New Jersey, locals with beach cottages, and Jersey families who come to play in the sun. Plan for the newly reopened 2021 season. Beach fees are $9 per person daily, though kids under 12 and active and retired military personnel (and dependents) are free. Check the beach website for special discounts, senior pricing, weekly passes, and information about hot private showers. Lifeguards are on duty daily.

For a fun and casual family dining experience, try a classic — The Sawmill Cafe. Located in nearby Seaside Park, this restaurant has a huge menu with something for everyone, from pizza and burgers to seafood and pasta. They also have a large outdoor deck with views of the ocean. The atmosphere is lively, and the portions are generous, making it a great choice for families.

Take advantage of the town’s entertainment almost nightly in July and August. The Seaside Heights events calendar features live music, outdoor movies, and fireworks shows. Much of it is free. Older kids may even learn something from the history talks, sponsored by the Seaside Heights Historical Society, done by costumed reenactors in the Carousel Pavilion. Look out for Family Fun Days and special kids activities.

Rainy Day Activities at the Jersey Shore

• Explore museums: The Naval Air Station Wildwood Aviation Museum offers an exciting peek into history. For hands-on learning, the Jersey Shore Children’s Museum provides interactive fun.
• Visit an aquarium: Dive into the underwater world at Jenkinson’s Aquarium in Point Pleasant Beach.
• Catch a movie or a show: There are plenty of indoor theaters sprinkled throughout the Jersey Shore towns.
• Get creative: Embrace a rainy day and seek out pottery studios where the whole family can make souvenirs.

Tips for a Budget-Friendly Jersey Shore Weekend

• Consider off-season travel: Prices tend to be lower outside the peak summer months.
• Look for free activities: Beaches are always free, and many towns host free concerts or events on boardwalks.
• Pack your meals: Prepare picnic lunches or snacks to avoid eating out for every meal.
• Rent a house or condo: This can be more affordable than hotels, especially if you’re splitting the cost with another family.

Trip Planning Details for a Jersey Shore Vacation Beach Vacation

Do stay the night and try both beaches. There are a few vintage motel options accessible from either beach, as well as newer lodging options and Airbnbs.

Read up online about the Drifting Sands Oceanfront Hotel and the Sunburst Motel which are frequently recommended. The Charlroy Motel, today run by grandchildren of the original owners when it was the Charlroy Manor, offers a family suite, which can accommodate seven people with two bedrooms (one with bunks), two bathrooms, a living room with sofa bed, and a kitchenette.

The Reeds at Shelter Haven, much newer, is a pretty, contemporary choice in Stone Harbor. Check out this elegant, luxury boutique hotel for breathtaking seaside views and sunsets on the bay. No matter where you stay, get beach passes to avoid the lines and save your time to check out the latest along the shore.

Author Gianina Portfolio grew up spending summers at the Jersey Shore and still enjoys returning for family reunions.

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