Things to Do in Point Pleasant New Jersey: Which Are the Best?
Believe it or not, the tourism industry in Point Pleasant Beach dates back to the late 1800s. Located in New Jersey’s Ocean County district, Point Pleasant Beach is perhaps better known for its mile-long boardwalk than for its beach. This special area of New Jersey gets extremely crowded in the summertime as families from all around New England come to enjoy the carnival rides, arcade games, and seafood restaurants that dot the iconic Jenkinson’s Boardwalk. If you’re thinking about taking a trip to this marvelous beach and boardwalk, then please keep reading this article. Below, we’ll tell you all the best things to do in Point Pleasant Beach NJ.
Best Things to Do in Point Pleasant Beach NJ
1. Jenkinson’s Boardwalk
As mentioned above, the main attraction in Point Pleasant Beach is the boardwalk. Don’t believe us? Well then, just check out what TripAdvisor reviewers have to say about it. This family friendly boardwalk extends from Manasquan Inlet to New Jersey Avenue. Most of the games, restaurants, and amusement rides are located in the central area called Jenkinson’s Boardwalk.
There’s a section of Jenkinson’s Boardwalk for kids of all ages. In addition to a dedicated “Kiddie Rides” area, there are also batting cages, a miniature golf course, and even a few nightclubs for young adults. Definitely take a walk around this area at nighttime when all the lights are on.
Also, walk down Walter Street to hear a local Sinatra buff blast some of “Ole Blue Eyes’” greatest tunes. Just be aware, the boardwalk gets extremely crowded on weekends, especially after school gets out. You can park nearby in either private lots or a municipal lot for a small fee.
2. Point Pleasant Beach
Point Pleasant Beach comes in at number two on our list of “Best Things to Do in Point Pleasant Beach NJ.” Point Pleasant Beach is composed of both a public access beach to the south and various private beaches. You can get to the public access beach at Ocean Avenue near the Dunes Motel. The private area of Point Pleasant Beach, on the other hand, is located further north and is called Bradshaw Beach. Although many youngsters try to get a good surf session in at Point Pleasant Beach, the conditions here aren’t ideal for surfing. You can, of course, swim or just lounge on your beach towel here.
3. Jenkinson’s Aquarium
Next on our list of ” Best Things to Do in Point Pleasant Beach NJ” is Jenkinson’s Aquarium. As you could guess from the name, this aquarium is in the central area of Point Pleasant Beach’s boardwalk. Opened in 1991, the aquarium still packs in tons of tourists interested in learning more about the mysteries of marine life. The major exhibits include Atlantic sharks, penguins, and sting rays. Be sure to look up the feeding times before visiting. The aquarium also hosts many special events throughout the year, so take a look at their official calendar before your visit. Jenkinson’s Aquarium is at 300 Ocean Avenue.
4. Get Out Your Fishing Gear
Fishermen and women will find plenty of things to do in Point Pleasant Beach NJ. The main reason there’s such an abundance of fish in this area is because the Jersey Shore is right at the intersection of the Delaware River Flow and the Hudson River Flow.
The number one spot for fishing in Point Pleasant is the Manasquan Inlet (aka “The Wall”). The area is so popular for its game fish that there’s a bait shop and parking lot there. There are also dozens of charter fishing boats offering exceptional tours. Visit the following link to contact the dozens of charter boat captains in the area.
5. Dine at Spectacular Italian and Seafood Restaurants
Foodies will find a great selection of authentic Italian and fresh seafood restaurants all along Point Pleasant Beach. Some of the best reviewed high-end restaurants here include Joe Leone’s Italian Specialties, The Poached Pear Bistro, and Prime 13.
If you don’t feel like splurging at an expensive restaurant, don’t worry. There are plenty of cheaper eats with tasty dishes in the area. Definitely try a famous slice of pizza at Joey Tomato’s and some exceptional seafood at the beloved Food Shack. No matter where you go to eat, your tummy will be satisfied at Point Pleasant Beach…trust us.
6. Take a Day Trip Near Point Pleasant
One of the greatest things about Point Pleasant Beach is its close proximity to other world-class attractions. You could actually use Point Pleasant Beach as a home base for exploring New York City or Atlantic City. Indeed, many people opt to take a romantic river cruise along the New York Harbor for an unforgettable dining experience.
A few other nearby attractions visitors have a hard time resisting include the Six Flags Great Adventure theme park, the historic Allaire State Park, and “party central” Seaside Heights. Definitely plan a day trip to at least one of these fabulous tourist attractions if you’re staying in Point Pleasant Beach for a few days.
How To Get To Point Pleasant Beach
Anyone who’s flying into Point Pleasant Beach will end up at one of two airports: Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) or Atlantic City International Airport (ACY). Both of these airports are about a one-hour drive from Point Pleasant depending on traffic.
As you probably already know, EWR is close to NYC. To get from EWR to Point Pleasant Beach, you’ll need to travel south on the Garden State Parkway till you reach Exit 98. From there, you’ll follow Route 34 South to Route 35 South and go over a bridge. You should soon see Arnold Avenue on your right. Follow Arnold Avenue till you reach Point Pleasant Beach.
People traveling from ACY will have to travel up U.S. 9 N/Garden State Parkway. After paying a toll, keep left towards Cedarbridge Avenue. You will see Cedarbridge Avenue on your right. Take this exit and stay on Cedarbridge Avenue for about 150 feet. Then turn left onto NJ-70 E and right NJ-88 E. You should see Cincinnati Avenue on your left. Stay on Cincinnati Avenue till you reach Point Pleasant Beach.
Summing Up
Hopefully, this “Best Things To Do In Point Pleasant Beach NJ” article piqued your interest in the region. Although it’s relatively unknown to people outside the mid-Atlantic, Point Pleasant Beach is an incredible destination for tourists visiting better known attractions like Atlantic City or Six Flags Great Adventure. But, Point Pleasant Beach shouldn’t be just a pit-stop on your voyage through the east coast. There are so many things to do in Point Pleasant Beach NJ, especially on the boardwalk. Go ahead, take a few days to relax, play some carnival games, and enjoy quality time with your family at this spectacular NJ beach.
Images: depositphotos.com.
