Belmar, New Jersey, is a classic beach town located just an hour’s drive from New York City and Philadelphia. Whether you are coming nearby for a summer weekend or making a full trip to explore what the Jersey Shore has to offer, let us dive in with what to do in Belmar, New Jersey!
10 Things to Do in Belmar
1. The Beach
Of course, the number one thing to do in Belmar is to hit the beach! It is a long, wide, and clean beach. There is plenty of space to enjoy the soft sand and spend some time swimming in the salty ocean.
Notes:
- The beach gets extremely busy in the summer, so make sure to get there early for parking and beach space. Late May and early September are the best times to come to Belmar, as it is still warm, but there are fewer crowds.
- You are required to have one beach badge per person to enter the beach. Most accommodations include the use of theirs; otherwise, you can purchase them online or at a kiosk near the beach. There are daily or seasonal options. Check out more information here.
- Belmar beaches are very family-friendly, there are lifeguards on duty, and there are restrooms and food options nearby.
2. Belmar Boardwalk
The Belmar boardwalk is a beautiful stretch of about a mile. It is perfect for runs or a casual walk. While walking the boardwalk, you will pass restrooms, drinking fountains, playgrounds, restaurants, small shops, and, of course, have a great view of the beach and ocean. Walking the boardwalk was my favorite thing to do in Belmar!
3. Eat
Of course, you will need to eat when you are in Belmar, so here are some options!
- Federici’s on 10th: Thin-crust pizza.
- Klein’s Fish Market & Waterside Café: Fresh seafood right by the Shark River Inlet
- Strollo’s Italian Ice: Refreshing Italian ice.
- Turnstile Coffee Roasters: For your caffeine fix.
- Playa Bowls: Refreshing smoothies and acai bowls.
4. Watersports on Shark River
If you want more than just soaking up the sun at the beach, try a few water activities on Shark River. Rental Shops will offer kayaking, paddleboarding, and jet skiing for hourly rentals or guided tours.
5. Parasailing
Along the lines of activities, try Parasailing! Get up in the air overlooking the ocean for a really fun activity.
6. Nightlife & Live Music
Belmar has a lively nightlife scene, especially in the summer. Head to Bar Anticipation (“Bar A”) or D’Jais for music and dancing. For something more laid-back, you can often find live music at smaller bars or catch live music at 10th Ave. Burrito Co.
7. Festivals & Events
Belmar has some fantastic summer events worth planning a trip around:
- Belmar Seafood Festival (June): Fresh seafood, live music, and family activities.
- Sandcastle Contest (July): See impressive sand sculptures take over the beach.
Belmar Pro Surf Contest (September): A major surf competition that draws impressive talent.
8. Point Pleasant
Although not in Belmar, it is worth mentioning that there are other towns nearby that are fun to visit. One being Point Pleasant, where you can explore their boardwalk with an amusement park and games. This makes for a very fun day or evening!
9. Workout Class
Another fun thing to do in Belmar is to take a workout class at The Rowdy Mermaid. This workout studio has heated classes that will make you sweat! Definitely not everyone’s favorite thing to do on vacation, but definitely fun for those who want to!
10. Whale Watcher
From spring through fall, Belmar is one of the best places on the Jersey Shore to spot humpback whales and dolphins. Check out the Jersey Shore Whale Watch to hop on a boat for the chance to see whales and dolphins.
Belmar is the perfect beach spot if you are looking for something on the Jersey Shore that is lively, but not chaotic, and is family-friendly. I can’t wait for you to explore what Belmar has to offer, and I hope these things to do in Belmar help make your trip amazing!
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