Top 5 Family-Friendly Jersey Shore Towns for an Unforgettable Vacation

So you know you are reading about the Jersey Shore. But if you’re expecting a write-up on Snooki and the rest of the MTV gang, or a Bruce Springsteen expose, think again. No, we’re talking family vacation: 127 miles of New Jersey coastline flirting with the choppy Atlantic.

Discover the family-friendly Jersey Shore towns perfect for building sandcastles, strolling along charming boardwalks, and making memories that last a lifetime.

From quaint seaside villages to bustling beach resorts, there’s a Jersey Shore destination for every family’s vacation style. And of course, check out this list of Jersey Shore-line celebrities so you’re ready to get some selfies when the moment arrives!

1. Asbury Park: a Jersey Shore Gem Packed with Art & Music

Photo: stoneponyonline

Asbury Park is a great spot to begin your summer Jersey Shore family vacation. Colorful and alive with the arts, this humble town is the ideal place for music and literature lovers. Just make sure you save some time to relax on the beach. 

A must-visit in Asbury Park is the Stone Pony, a historic music venue just across the breezy waterfront. Opened in 1974, the Stone Pony is best known for being the place where Bruce Springsteen made his claim to fame.

Today, the Stone Pony is a popular stop for many performers, making it a must for any music fan. 

There’s also the Silverball Pinball Museum, perfect for the gamer in the group. With over 6,000 pinball machines manufactured between 1933 and 1979, the museum is a classic look at gaming.

For a more literary experience, plan a trip to the Stephen Crane House. Author of “The Red Badge of Courage,” Crane spent much of his short life in Asbury Park. Today, the house is a popular venue for literary, film, musical, and other cultural programs.

Family Friendly Hotels in Asbury Park

Looking for a place to stay in Asbury Park? There are a number of local bed and breakfasts. Plus, your family might want to try hotels, including Mikell’s Big House. For a great stay, we recommend the Asbury Ocean Beach Inn. This lovely location is only three blocks away from the Asbury Boardwalk and the beach. Amenities include bicycle rentals for families looking to tour the town and a complimentary beach pass complete with towels and beach chairs.

On your way from Asbury Park to Ocean City, be sure to check out Seaside Heights and Island Beach State Park (roughly 45 minutes and 25 miles south of Asbury Park). Located between Seaside Park and Barnegat Inlet, this 9-mile stretch of beach is one of the few areas of the Jersey Shore that is untouched by developers. A great stop for families looking for a quiet piece of nature by the sea. 

For more information on Seaside Heights and Island Beach Park, please read “A Weekend At The Jersey Shore.”

2. Ocean City, New Jersey, “America’s Greatest Family Resort”

Ocean City, New Jersey (2 hours and about 100 miles south of Asbury Park) is working hard to live up to its claim as “America’s Greatest Family Resort.” With a 2.5-mile-long boardwalk and 8 miles of beach, this barrier island’s charm continues to draw families by the score throughout the summer.

The boardwalk is certainly a big attraction and reflects the feeling of Jersey Shore boardwalks from years past. In the early morning hours, the boardwalk is relatively calm and peaceful.

But, as the day progresses, the boardwalk becomes engulfed by families traveling down the shoreline. Bikes, surreys, and even strollers can be rented at various locations close to the boardwalk.

Ocean City also boasts a Music Pier right on the boardwalk where special events are held throughout the summer. For more information, please see the city’s website, OceanCityCamber.com.

When dining out in Ocean City, you’ll find plenty of options for great, affordable food. What you won’t find is alcohol: Ocean City is a “dry” town. You won’t find a drink in restaurants. Whatever you buy yourself cannot be consumed in public or at the beach. Locals say this tradition dates back to the 19th century when several religious families lived here.

Other fun family specialties include a Night in Venice boat parade, antique car show, art shows, miniature golf tournament, and a farmers market featuring the best Jersey corn and tomatoes you will ever taste!

Fun Hotels for Vacations with Kids in Ocean City

Ocean City also offers families plenty of overnight options when picking a place to spend the night. Here, families can choose to rent a condo or a beach house, stay at a local campground, book a night at one of the many hotels and motels in the area, or stay at a charming B&B. 

For families traveling with pets, the Ocean City Mansion is a definite must. With seven uniquely decorated guest suites and two apartments, this B&B is a pet-friendly bit of luxury. Plus, it’s just a five block walk from the beach.

If you’re looking to stay closer to the boardwalk, The Plymouth Inn is a great choice. Just one block away from the beach, this B&B gives families instant access to some of the best beaches in New Jersey. 

3. Avalon, New Jersey — Great Amusement Parks

Photo: moreyspiers

A New Jersey shoreline favorite of ours is the town of Avalon (30 minutes and 15 miles south of Ocean City.) This more upscale destination features clean beaches, natural dunes, and a small, well-maintained boardwalk. 

In Avalon, families are given plenty of opportunities to practice their swing at many full-sized and mini golf courses. Morey’s Piers and Beachfront Water Parks is also a great getaway. Here, families can look forward to a full day of thrills and excitement at the amusement park that was rated the third-best seaside amusement park in the world. 

4. Wildwood, New Jersey — Dolphin Sightings off the Jersey Coast

Photo: thundercatdolphinwatch

A stone’s throw away from Avalon (20 minutes and 11 miles, to be exact), busier Wildwood has options for every generation in the family. Souvenir shop along the two-mile boardwalk. Spend a day at the boardwalk’s water park. Even, take a slow relaxing ride on a pontoon boat. 

For some outdoor fun, we recommend booking a whale or dolphin-watching excursion on one of Wildwood’s many sightseeing boats. For a more relaxing cruise, Starlight Fleet is a good choice. Here, each tour is led by an experienced biologist and educator. Touch tanks are also available on the ship, allowing passengers to have a first-hand look at some of the Atlantic’s best wildlife. 

For a more thrill-seeking aquatic excursion, try a trip on the Thunder Cat, a high-speed boat that takes you racing after the dolphins and the waves. 

“Top Gun: Maverick” fans must check out the Naval Air Station’s Wildwood Aviation Museum. Here, families get a close look at all things aviation. The museum also sports plenty of interactive displays for kids, making it a great activity for when the skies get a little dark.

Hotels in Avalon and Wildwood, on the Family-Friendly Jersey Shore

Like many towns along the Jersey Shore, Wildwood and Avalon have plenty of hotels and motels right on the oceanfront.

The group famed for Morey’s Pier in Avalon even has several hotels in Wildwood! With prices that fit every budget, you’ll have no problem booking easy accommodations in either town. 

5. Cape May, New Jersey – The Historic Jersey Shore

Photo: capemaymac

Picturesque Victorian-style homes, quiet lanes, and family recreation go hand in hand in Cape May. The southernmost coastal resort is just 20 minutes and 10 miles south of Wildwood. Discover the outdoors!

Between April and November (summer months are peak season), whale watchers embark to view whales and dolphins feeding in the coastal waters. For a “seafaring safari,” be sure to book a trip with the Cape May Whale Watch and Research Center. Kids ages 6 and under ride free when accompanied by a parent, and reduced rates are available for kids ages 7 to 12. 

The Nature Center of Cape May is another great stop for outdoor excursions. During the summer, families can enjoy the local flower scene by taking one of the nine backyard garden butterfly tours offered by the center in July, August, and September.

History Abounds in this Family-Friendly Jersey Shore Town

This beautiful seaside getaway falls just below the Mason-Dixon Line at the southern tip of the state. There is plenty of history here to entertain kids on rainy days or sunny ones.

The Emlen Physick Estate is a fun historic stop. It’s Cape May’s only Victorian house tour, with a fabulous carriage house gallery, tearoom, and mansion. Join guided tours that are truly worthyour time. Be sure to check out their website for specialty events going on throughout the year.

Combination tours are also available in conjunction with the Cape May historical district. These joint tours last roughly 2 hours and explore both the historic streets of Cape May and the Emlen Physic Estate. 

Other historic sites include the WWII Lookout Tower (Fire Control Tower No. 23) Museum and Memorial and the 1859 Cape May Lighthouse. Public visits are allowed at each of these locations. For more information, see Victorian Cape May, New Jersey’s website. 

Cape May, New Jersey Family Hotels

Photo: carrollvillahotel

If you’re looking for somewhere equally historic to stay, be sure to book a room at the Carroll Villa Hotel, located right in the heart of Cape May’s historic district. Built-in 1882, the Carroll Villa Hotel is now a national landmark hotel that has won many awards for both its hotel and its in-house restaurant, the Mad Batter.

The rooms are elegantly decorated and peppered with Victorian whimsy. Portable cribs are available in certain rooms for guests traveling with little ones. Guests should also note that, while parking is free at the Carroll Villa Hotel, the parking is not directly on the premises. With their stay, guests are given access to the Bank Street Parking Lot (3 blocks away, a roughly 5 to 7-minute walk through the scenic downtown). 

Other great family-friendly hotels in Cape May are part of the Cape Resorts Group. And if you’re ready for a deep dive into Cape May, please read our insider’s look at Cape May’s many family attractions.

So you think you know the Jersey Shore?

As you can see, the Jersey Shore is much more than a TV show.

To ensure the most accurate information about attractions, events, and accommodations, it’s recommended to visit the official websites or social media pages of the mentioned locations and businesses. These sources usually have the latest updates on hours, prices, special events, and any changes in policies or offerings

Photos courtesy of The Stone Pony, Gillian’s Wonderland Pier, Morey’s Piers and Beachfront Water Parks, Starlight Fleet, The Naval Air Station’s Wildwood Aviation Museum, The Emlen Physick Estate, and http://www.davestravelcorner.com/.

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