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Belmar, NJ

It's all in a name - Belmar means “beautiful sea” in Italian.  Belmar is a Monmouth County beach town both close to New York and Philadelphia.  Belmar is called the "Jewel of the Jersey Shore"!  Belmar is a picturesque seaside town that offers the perfect blend of natural beauty, history, and modern amenities.   The vibe in Belmar is lively and energetic, with a focus on enjoying the beach and outdoor activities. The town is known for its beautiful beaches, boardwalk, and downtown area. During the summer months, the town is bustling with tourists and vacationers, and there are many activities and events to enjoy, such as live music, festivals, and outdoor movies.

The boardwalk in Belmar is a popular spot for walking, jogging, and biking, and there are many restaurants and shops along the way. The downtown area is also a popular spot for dining, shopping, and entertainment. The town is also known for its nightlife and has a variety of bars and clubs for visitors to enjoy. Belmar also has a diverse community and it's a popular spot for LGBTQ visitors.

Whether you're looking for a relaxing beach vacation or an action-packed adventure.  It is known for its wide, clean beaches, boardwalk, and lively atmosphere. It is a great destination for families, as there are many activities and attractions for children. Additionally, the town has a variety of restaurants and shops, making it a convenient place to stay for a week or weekend getaway.  Belmar is also conveniently located close to other popular Jersey Shore towns such as Asbury Park, Point Pleasant Beach and Spring Lake, so you can make a day trip and explore the surrounding areas.

A vacation in Belmar Beach NJ offers a wide variety of activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy. The main attraction is the beach itself, which offers miles of sand and surf for swimming, sunbathing, and beach activities. The town also has a boardwalk which offers views of the ocean and a chance to see local marine life, including dolphins and seals. Visitors can also enjoy a variety of recreational activities, including fishing, boating, and water sports at the nearby Shark River Park and Shark River Marina.

 

Belmar has something to offer for everyone. The mile-long boardwalk has incredible panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean. The boardwalk and beach area is located on Ocean Avenue and runs from First to Twentieth Avenues, offers many interesting attractions, shops, and eateries along the 1-mile long boardwalk, as well as fun along the extensive stretch of beach.  Belmar has a reputation for being the Jersey Shore’s party destination.  It's a big location for 20 year old It doesn’t help those naysayers that its marina is home to New Jersey’s largest party boat fleet.  Apart from that whole scene, you have a town that’s been largely renovated since Hurricane Sandy, with a boardwalk more relaxed than those at Seaside or Wildwood. And the beach gets cleaned every morning, which makes for some really pristine sands… at least for a few magic hours.

Start your day with a refreshing swim in the Atlantic Ocean at one of Belmar's beautiful beaches. The town boasts several miles of clean and well-maintained beaches, making it a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, and other beach activities. Take a stroll on the iconic Belmar boardwalk, lined with shops, restaurants, and amusement rides. The boardwalk is perfect for a leisurely afternoon stroll or a lively night out.  For a taste of history, visit the Belmar Historical Society, which offers an in-depth look at the town's rich past, from its early days as a summer resort to its role in World War II.

Belmar's downtown area is a shopper's paradise, with a wide variety of shops, boutiques, and art galleries. The town also has a great selection of restaurants that serve everything from classic seafood to international cuisine. 

Overall, Belmar has a lively and energetic vibe, with a focus on enjoying the beach, outdoor activities, and nightlife in a festive and welcoming atmosphere. Belmar is the perfect destination for your next vacation.

Belmar Website and Social Media sites

Recommended Beach Supplies for vacation 

  • SPF Makeup and Lip Gloss:  When it comes to protecting your skin from the sun, it's important to look for makeup products that contain SPF to protect from the harmful effects of the sun:

  • Sunscreen: Protects your skin from harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays that can cause sunburn, skin damage, and skin cancer.  Read our Sunscreen Blog.

  • Paperbacks or Kindle Books:  Reading a book on vacation can help you relax by providing a mental escape from the stresses of everyday life

  • Sunglasses: Sunglasses protect your eyes from harmful UV rays and reduce glare, improving visual comfort and eye health.

  • Beach chairs: Provide a comfortable place to sit and relax while enjoying the sun and sand. They often come with features such as adjustable backrests and armrests.

  • Beach Umbrella: these can provide shade and shelter from the sun and wind.

  • Beach Cabana:  A beach cabana provides a beachgoer with a private and shaded area for relaxation, protection from the sun, and storage for personal items. 

  • Beach Towels:  Provides comfort, convenience, protection, and hygiene while laying on the beach or swimming at the beach.

  • Womans Swimwear and Mens Swimsuits: Bring multiple swimsuits so that you have a dry suit to change into after swimming.

  • Water shoes: To protect your feet while walking on the beach or in the water.

  • Lightweight Clothing: Jersey shore can be hot in the summer, so pack lightweight and breathable clothing. For Woman.  For Men.

  • Sweatshirt or hoodie, even though it gets hot in the day it can be cool at night with the ocean breezes. For Woman For Men.

  • Hat or Visor: A hat or visor on the beach is necessary to protect your face and head from harmful UV rays, reduce glare, and keep you cool and comfortable in the sun.  For WomanFor Men.

  • Cash and credit cards: Many beach towns have boardwalks with shops and restaurants that do not accept credit cards.  Other establishments like arenas and stadiums will not take cash.

  • Cooler: To store drinks and snacks to keep you hydrated and fueled up throughout the day.

  • Insect repellent: To protect against mosquitoes and other bugs.

  • Beach games and activities: Beach Games such as frisbee, beach volleyball or cornhole, can be fun and entertaining.

Belmar nearby attractions

  1. Belmar Beach: The town's main attraction, Belmar Beach is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and beach activities.

  2. Silver Lake Park: This park offers a variety of recreational activities, including a playground, fishing, boating, and hiking.

  3. Shark River Park: This park offers a variety of recreational activities, including hiking, fishing, and boating.

  4. Shark River Marina: This marina is a popular spot for fishing, boating, and water sports.

  5. Belmar Boardwalk: The boardwalk offers views of the ocean and a chance to see local marine life, including dolphins and seals.

  6. Belmar Fishing Club: The Belmar Fishing Club is a popular spot for fishing, offers fishing charters and is home to a variety of fish species.

  7. Spring Lake: A nearby town known for its Victorian architecture and 2 mile long beach.

  8. Asbury Park: This nearby town is known for its music scene, trendy restaurants and bars, and a lively boardwalk.

  9. Jenkinson's Aquarium: This aquarium features a variety of marine life, including sharks, sea turtles, and rays (10 minutes away)

  10. Point Pleasant Beach and boardwalk: This nearby town features an amusement park, aquarium, and arcades, as well as a variety of shops and restaurants.

  11. Manasquan Reservoir: This reservoir offers fishing, boating, and hiking trails, as well as picnic areas and playgrounds.

  12. Wall Township Speedway: This race track offers a variety of motorsports events and racing activities.

  13. Seaside Heights Boardwalk and Beach

  14. Island Beach State Park

  15. Cattus Island State Park

  16. Jersey Shore Premium Outlets (15 minutes away)

Things to do in Belmar Town, Beach, and Boardwalk

  1. Belmar, New Jersey offers a variety of activities and attractions for visitors. Some popular things to do include:

  2. Visiting the beach: Belmar is known for its wide, clean beaches, which are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and playing in the sand.

  3. Walking along the boardwalk: The boardwalk in Belmar is a popular spot for taking in the ocean views and people-watching. There are plenty of benches to sit on and enjoy the view, as well as a variety of shops and restaurants to explore.

  4. Fishing: Belmar has a number of fishing spots, both in the ocean and in the Shark River.

  5. Surfing: Belmar is a popular spot for surfers of all skill levels.

  6. Belmar Marina: Visitors can rent boats, kayaks, paddle boards, or take a chartered fishing trip from the marina

  7. Shark River Trail: For those who enjoy hiking and nature, the Shark River Trail is a great option. The trail offers a peaceful and scenic walk through a variety of habitats, including wetlands and woodlands.

  8. Visit the Belmar Arts Council: The Belmar Arts Council presents art exhibits, workshops, performances, and art projects for the community.

  9. Visit Silver Lake Park: the Park features the lake, playgrounds, picnic areas, ball fields, basketball courts, horseshoe pits, bocce courts, a fishing pier, and a fitness trail.

  10. Go Parasailing or Banana boating at Belmont Parasail and go Wail watching with Jersey Shore Wail Watch

  11. Play mini golf at 2 courses 

  12. Go Surfing

  13. Day Drink at D'Jais or Bar Anticipation 

  14. Visit the Jersey Shore Premium outlets

  15. Go shopping or grab Lunch/Dinner in downtown Belmar 

  16. See a NJ Blueclaw minor league baseball game

  17. Go to a retro Arcade to play 1980's games at Goplay Arcade

  18. Try a local craft beer at Beach Haus Brewery

  19. Bring the kids to Maclearie Park on the Bay

Romantic Things to do in Belmar​

  1. Take a romantic walk along the Belmar beach during sunset.

  2. Enjoy a romantic dinner at one of the city's many seafood restaurants.

  3. Take a romantic boat ride or fishing trip from the Belmar Marina.

  4. Visit the Silver Lake Park - for a scenic walk and great views of the lake.

  5. Visit the Belmar Arts Council - for contemporary art exhibitions and performances.

  6. Visit the Belmar Boardwalk - for a romantic walk and views of the ocean and beach.

  7. Take a romantic bike ride on the scenic pathways of the city.

  8. Take a romantic stroll through the city's historic downtown, admiring the Victorian architecture and unique shops.

  9. Visit the Belmar Historical Society - for a look at the city's history and culture.

  10. Take a romantic hike through the nearby Shark River Park.

  11. Take a couples spa day at one of the city's spas

  12. Take a romantic carriage ride through the city.

Things to do with Children in Belmar

  1. Visit Belmar Beach - enjoy the sand and surf, build sandcastles and splash in the water.

  2. Visit Silver Lake Park - for a scenic walk and great views of the lake.

  3. Visit the Belmar Boardwalk - for a walk and views of the ocean and beach.

  4. Visit the Belmar Arts Council - for family-friendly art exhibitions and performances.

  5. Visit the Belmar Historical Society - for a look at the city's history and culture.

  6. Take a boat ride or fishing trip from the Belmar Marina.

  7. Visit the Belmar Farmer's Market - for fresh local produce, handmade crafts, and more.

  8. Visit the nearby Shark River Park - for a hike and nature observation.

  9. Visit the Belmar Community Center - for indoor activities like swimming or ice-skating

  10. Visit the Belmar Library for storytelling and children's events.

  11. Visit the Belmar Playground - for a variety of playground equipment and games.

  12. Visit Belmar's fishing fleet - where you can learn about the local fishing industry and see the boats and equipment.

 

Favorite Restaurants and Eateries in Belmar 

  1. Belmar, New Jersey is home to a variety of restaurants, bars, and taverns, offering a range of cuisines and atmospheres. Some popular options include:

  2. 10th Ave Burrito: Known for its delicious Mexican food, and lively atmosphere, this spot is popular with both locals and visitors.

  3. Brandl: This upscale restaurant offers a menu of classic American fare, with a focus on seafood.

  4. D'Jais Bar & Grill: This is a popular spot for both locals and visitors, known for its lively atmosphere, live music and events, and classic American menu.

  5. Marina Grille: This casual waterfront spot is known for its great views of the Shark River and its seafood menu.

  6. The Beach Haus Brewery: A popular spot for craft beer lovers, Beach Haus Brewery offers a variety of beers brewed from their own brewery, as well as a menu of pub-style food.

  7. The Whitechapel Projects: This speakeasy-style bar offers a variety of creative cocktails and a cozy atmosphere.

  8. The Anchor Tavern: This is a classic American tavern known for its casual atmosphere, friendly staff, and great food and drinks.

  9. These are just a few examples, and Belmar has many more options to offer depending on what you're looking for. It's best to do some research and check out reviews before

  10. Brandl: This upscale restaurant serves contemporary American cuisine and is known for its farm-to-table focus and extensive wine list.

  11. Sirena Ristorante: This Italian restaurant is known for its homemade pasta and seafood dishes.

  12. The Inn at Lake Como: This intimate restaurant serves a variety of contemporary American dishes and is known for its romantic atmosphere.

  13. The Saltwater Cafe: This waterfront restaurant is known for its seafood and American fare, as well as its outdoor seating area with views of the ocean.

  14. The Eating Room: This farm-to-table restaurant serves contemporary American cuisine.

  15. The Crab's Claw Inn: This casual seafood restaurant is known for its crab cakes and raw bar, as well as its outdoor seating area.

  16. The Beach Haus Brewery: This brewery and restaurant serve a variety of American fare and craft beers.

  17. The 10th Ave. Burrito Company: This casual spot is known for its Mexican cuisine, specifically its burritos.

  18. The Boathouse Bar & Grill: This waterfront restaurant is known for its seafood and American cuisine, as well as its outdoor seating area with views of the river.

  19. Kayas Kitchen: A casual family-friendly restaurant that serves a variety of American and seafood dishes, as well as sandwiches and burgers.

  20. Scarborough Fair Restaurant: A casual seafood restaurant that serves a variety of fresh fish and shellfish dishes, as well as sandwiches and salads.

  21. Ragin Cajun: A casual Cajun-inspired restaurant that serves a variety of seafood, meat and rice dishes, as well as sandwiches and salads.

  22. La Dolce Vita: A casual Italian restaurant that serves a variety of pasta, seafood and meat dishes.

  23. Brandl: A fine dining restaurant that serves contemporary American cuisine with a focus on locally-sourced ingredients.

  24. Pete and Elda's Bar/Carmine's Pizzeria: A casual pizza parlor that serves a variety of pizza, subs, and salads.

  25. Waves On Main: A casual seafood restaurant that serves a variety of fresh fish and shellfish dishes, as well as sandwiches and salads.

  26. Jade Garden: A casual Asian-inspired restaurant that serves a variety of sushi and seafood dishes, as well as noodles and rice dishes.

  27. New China Kitchen: A casual Chinese restaurant that serves a variety of Chinese dishes and seafood.

  28. Flames Brazilian Steakhouse: A casual steakhouse that serves a variety of meat dishes, as well as sandwiches and salads.

  29. Hooked Cafe: A casual seafood restaurant that serves a variety of fresh fish and shellfish dishes, as well as sandwiches and salads.

  30. Comfi Belmar: A casual family-friendly restaurant that serves a variety of American and seafood dishes, as well as sandwiches and burgers.

  31. Klein's Fish Market and Waterside Cafe: A seafood market and restaurant that sells fresh seafood and also serves a variety of seafood dishes, sandwiches, and salads.

  32. Joe's Surf Shack: A casual seafood restaurant that serves a variety of fresh fish and shellfish dishes, as well as sandwiches and salads.

  33. Italian Delight: A casual Italian restaurant that serves a variety of pasta, seafood, and meat dishes.

  34. Rivers Edge Cafe: A casual family-friendly restaurant that serves a variety of American and seafood dishes, as well as sandwiches and burgers.

  35. Sonny's Grille: A casual family-friendly restaurant that serves a variety of American and seafood dishes, as well as sandwiches and burgers.

  36. Jake's Downtown: A casual family-friendly restaurant that serves a variety of American and seafood dishes, as well as sandwiches and burgers.

  37. Main Street Donuts: A casual donut shop that serves a variety of fresh donuts and pastries.

  38. Steak Stand: A casual steakhouse that serves a variety of meat dishes, as well as sandwiches and salads.

  39. King Chef: A casual Chinese restaurant that serves a variety of Chinese dishes and seafood.

  40. Doughboys: A casual seafood restaurant that serves a variety of fresh fish and shellfish dishes, as well as sandwiches and salads.

  41. Playa Bowls: A casual café that serves a variety of smoothie bowls and acai bowls.

  42. Perkins Restaurant & Bakery: A casual family-friendly restaurant that serves a variety of American and seafood dishes, as well as sandwiches and burgers.

  43. Keep On Eating Char-Broil: A casual BBQ restaurant that serves a variety of meat dishes, as well as sandwiches and salads.

  44. Mamaluke's Pizzaria: A casual pizza parlor that serves a variety of pizza, subs, and salads.

  45. La Terrazza: A casual Italian restaurant that serves a variety of pasta, seafood and meat dishes.

  46. D'Jais Bar - Nightclub & Restaurant: A casual bar and nightclub that serves a variety of American and seafood dishes, as well as sandwiches and burgers.

  47. Mr Shrimp: A casual seafood restaurant that serves a variety of fresh fish and shellfish dishes, as well as sandwiches and salads.

  48. Federico's Pizza & Restaurant: A casual pizza parlor that serves a variety of pizza, subs, and salads.

  49. Jersey Shore BBQ: A casual BBQ restaurant that serves a variety of grilled meats and sides.

  50. Eat At Eddy's: A casual seafood restaurant that serves a variety of fresh fish and shellfish dishes, as well as sandwiches and salads.

  51. Cielito Lindo: A casual Mexican restaurant that serves a variety of traditional Mexican dishes and seafood.

  52. Reye's Pizza: A casual pizza parlor that serves a variety of pizza, subs, and salads.

  53. Triple Green: A casual café that serves a variety of healthy and organic food options.

  54. Stay Gold Cafe & Lounge: A casual café and lounge that serves a variety of sandwiches, salads, and drinks.

  55. Acropolis Cafe Restaurant: A casual Mediterranean restaurant that serves a variety of Mediterranean dishes, as well as sandwiches and salads.

  56. Kotta Sushi Asian: A casual sushi restaurant that serves a variety of sushi and Asian dishes.

  57. Valente's Italian Deli: A casual Italian deli that serves a variety of sandwiches, salads, and pasta dishes.

  58. Adcica Restaurant: A casual Mediterranean restaurant that serves a variety of Mediterranean dishes, as well as sandwiches and salads.

  59. Wall Country Kitchen: A casual American restaurant that serves a variety of American and seafood dishes, as well as sandwiches and burgers.

  60. Surf Taco:  A casual Mexican restaurant that serves a variety of traditional Mexican dishes and seafood.

  61. Dunkin': A casual café that serves a variety of donuts, sandwiches, and drinks.

  62. Joe's Bagel and Grill: A casual café that serves a variety of sandwiches and bagels.

  63. Jimmy's Place: A casual seafood restaurant that serves a variety of fresh fish and shellfish dishes, as well as sandwiches and salads.

  64. Playa Bowls: A casual café that serves a variety of smoothie bowls and acai bowls.

  65. Wright Taste: A casual café that serves a variety of sandwiches, salads, and drinks.

  66. Corner Bagelry and Delicatessen: A casual café that serves a variety of sandwiches, salads, and bagels.

  67. Belmar Bagels: A casual café that serves a variety of sandwiches and bagels.

  68. Bella Buddha: A casual café that serves a variety of sandwiches

History of Belmar

  • Belmar is a borough located in Monmouth County, New Jersey. The area has a rich history dating back to the 1800s when it was first settled by European settlers. The borough was named after the "sea and lake" (in Spanish "mar y lago") that surrounds it.

  • In the late 1800s, Belmar began to attract visitors as a seaside resort. A number of large hotels were built, and the population of the town began to grow. The town's development was aided by the expansion of the railroad in the area, which made it more accessible for people to travel to the town. The town also became a popular spot for fishing, with many fishing clubs and boat clubs formed.

  • During the 1920s, Belmar experienced a decline in popularity as a vacation spot, as people began to prefer car trips and the rise of air-conditioning made it less necessary to escape the heat of the city. However, in recent years, the town has seen a resurgence in popularity as a vacation spot and has become a popular destination for families, beach-goers, and outdoor enthusiasts.

  • Today, Belmar is a small town known for its beaches, parks, and outdoor activities. The town also has a strong sense of community, with events and festivals taking place throughout the year. The town is also known for its boardwalk, which is a popular spot for visitors and residents. The town also has a number of restaurants, shops, and other small businesses. Belmar is also known for its lively nightlife, and it's a popular spot for fishing and boating. The town has a marina, several boat launch sites, and several sailing clubs. The town also has a strong surf culture, as it's one of the most consistent surf spots on the East Coast.

Local Churches

410 9th Ave Belmar NJ  Baptist​

  • Saint Rose Roman Catholic Church

607 7th Ave Belmar NJ Roman Catholic​

  • West Belmar United Methodist Church

  • First Presbyterian Church

600 9th Ave Belmar NJ Presbyterian

  • First United Methodist Church of Belmar

701 D St Belmar NJ United Methodist

  • Mount Olive Baptist Church

703 17th Ave Belmar NJ Baptist

  • The Grace Tabernacle

2014 Main St Belmar NJ Non-Denominational

  • St Rose Parish

603 7th Ave Belmar NJ Roman Catholic

  • St Rose Roman Catholic Church

607 7th Ave Belmar NJ Roman Catholic

  • ​Belmar Presbyterian Church

We hope this summary page helps you with your summer vacation, summer rental, and search for a vacation home.  Whether you stay at a hotel, a condo, an apartment or a rental home the Jersey shore is for you! 

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