Ocean Grove NJ | Seaside Search

Ocean Grove, NJ is a charming seaside town located on the Jersey Shore. With its Victorian architecture, beautiful beaches, and vibrant community, it's the perfect destination for a relaxing and rejuvenating vacation.

One of the top activities in Ocean Grove is enjoying the beach. The town's beach is a designated "quiet beach," making it the perfect spot for families, couples, and anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of more crowded beaches. Visitors can also take a stroll down the boardwalk, which offers stunning ocean views and plenty of opportunities for people-watching.

Another popular activity in Ocean Grove is visiting the town's historic tents. These colorful, canvas tents line the streets of Ocean Grove and serve as a reminder of the town's history as a Methodist camp meeting community. Visitors can take a tour of the tents and learn more about their unique history and architecture.

Shopping in Ocean Grove is a delightful experience, with a mix of local and boutique shops, as well as a variety of antique stores. Visitors can find anything from handmade crafts and local artisanal products to vintage clothing and home decor. One of the most popular shops is Tent City Outfitters, which sells a wide variety of outdoor gear, clothing, and souvenirs.

Ocean Grove is also known for its delicious dining options. Visitors can find everything from casual beachside seafood shacks to more upscale restaurants. The town's many ice cream parlors and candy shops are also popular with visitors of all ages. The local favorites are The Ocean View Restaurant and The White House Sub Shop.

For families traveling with children, Ocean Grove has plenty of activities to keep kids entertained. The town's playground and splash park are always popular, as are the mini-golf courses and arcades that line the boardwalk. Children can also take part in the many free events and activities that are offered by the Ocean Grove Camp Meeting Association, including arts and crafts workshops, nature walks, and children's theater performances.

Ocean Grove is a perfect destination for romantic getaways too. Couples can take a sunset stroll on the beach, have a romantic dinner at one of the town's many seafood restaurants, or enjoy a horse-drawn carriage ride through the streets. There's also the historic Great Auditorium, which hosts a variety of musical and theatrical performances throughout the year.

The vibe in Ocean Grove is welcoming, friendly, and laid-back. The town's residents and visitors are a mix of young and old, families, and couples, and everyone is friendly and welcoming. The town is also known for its strong sense of community and volunteerism, and visitors are encouraged to get involved with local organizations and events.

Ocean Grove is also conveniently located near many other popular Jersey Shore destinations. Visitors can take a day trip to nearby towns like Asbury Park, Point Pleasant Beach, or Long Branch, or take a short drive to Atlantic City for a day of gambling and entertainment.

Currently, in Ocean Grove, events like the Ocean Grove Summer Concert Series, The New Jersey Sandcastle Contest, The Annual Ocean Grove Antique Car Show and The Annual Ocean Grove Chili Cook-Off are popular among visitors. These events offer a great way to experience the local culture and community while enjoying some fun, entertainment, and delicious food.

Overall, Ocean Grove, NJ is the perfect destination for a relaxing and rejuvenating vacation, with plenty of activities, delicious dining options, and a friendly and welcoming community. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly vacation, a romantic getaway, or just a chance to get away from it all, Ocean Grove has something for everyone.

Ocean Grove 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 Woman. For 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.

Ocean Grove's nearby attractions

The Ocean Grove Camp Meeting Association Tent: This historic tent is a unique attraction in Ocean Grove, and it serves as a symbol of the city's religious heritage. The tent is open for tours during the summer months and it's a great place to learn about the history of the city.
The Ocean Grove Historic District: The historic district is home to many Victorian-style homes that have been beautifully restored, and it's a great place to take a walk and admire the architecture.
Ocean Grove Beach: The beach is one of the main attractions in Ocean Grove, and it's a great place to relax, swim, sunbathe, and play in the sand and surf.
Ocean Grove Lake: The lake is a great place to take a walk, go fishing or rent a boat or paddle boat. It also offers a great spot for bird watching and it's a peaceful place to relax.
The Ocean Grove Museum: The museum offers exhibits and artifacts that tell the story of Ocean Grove's history, and it's a great place to learn about the city's past.
The Ocean Grove Library: The library provides a variety of programs and activities for all ages, including storytimes, arts and crafts, and book clubs.
The Ocean Grove Bowling and Bathing Pavilion: The pavilion offers a variety of activities, including bowling, batting cages, and an arcade. It's a great place to spend an afternoon with the family.
The Ocean Grove Auditorium: The auditorium offers a variety of programs and performances, including music, theater, and comedy. It's a great place to catch a show or a concert.
The Ocean Grove Nature Center: The nature center offers a variety of educational programs and activities, including nature walks and bird watching. It's a great place to learn about the local flora and fauna.
The Ocean Grove Gazebo: The gazebo is a great place to relax and listen to music, perfect for enjoying a summer evening.
The Ocean Grove Historical Society: The Society offers a variety of programs and activities for all ages, including history lessons and walking tours of the city.
The Ocean Grove Farmer's Market: The market offers a variety of fresh fruits, vegetables, and other goods, perfect for picking up some local produce.
The Ocean Grove Playground: A playground is a great place for children to play and have fun, with plenty of equipment to enjoy.
The Ocean Grove Cottage Museum: The cottage museum offers a glimpse into life in the early days of Ocean Grove, and is open for tours during the summer months.
The Asbury Park Boardwalk: The Asbury Park Boardwalk is a great place to stroll, with plenty of shops, games, and food stands to explore. It's a great place to enjoy a summer evening, and it's located just few minutes' drive from Ocean Grove.

Things to do in Ocean Grove's Town, Beach, and Boardwalk

Visit the Asbury Park Boardwalk: The Asbury Park Boardwalk is a great place to stroll, with plenty of shops, games, and food stands to explore.
Visit Ocean Grove Beach: The beach is perfect for relaxing and having fun, with plenty of space for swimming, sunbathing, and playing in the sand and surf.
Visit the Ocean Grove Camp Meeting Association Tent: This historic tent is a great place to learn about the history of Ocean Grove, and the tent is open for tours during the summer months.
Visit the Ocean Grove Historic District: Take a walk through the historic district and admire the Victorian-style architecture, many of which are now restored and open for tours.
Visit Ocean Grove Lake: A lake is a great place for a walk, fishing or renting a boat or paddle boat.
Visit the Ocean Grove Museum: The museum offers exhibits and artifacts that tell the story of Ocean Grove's history, perfect for learning about the city's past.
Visit the Ocean Grove Library: The library provides a variety of programs and activities for all ages, including storytimes, arts and crafts, and book clubs.
Visit the Ocean Grove Bowling and Bathing Pavilion: The pavilion offers a variety of activities, including bowling, batting cages, and an arcade.
Visit the Ocean Grove Auditorium: The auditorium offers a variety of programs and performances, including music, theater, and comedy.
Visit the Ocean Grove Nature Center: The nature center offers a variety of educational programs and activities, including nature walks and bird watching.
Visit the Ocean Grove Gazebo: The gazebo is a great place to relax and listen to music, perfect for enjoying a summer evening.
Visit the Ocean Grove Historical Society: The Society offers a variety of programs and activities for all ages, including history lessons and walking tours of the city.
Visit the Ocean Grove Farmer's Market: The market offers a variety of fresh fruits, vegetables, and other goods, perfect for picking up some local produce.
Visit the Ocean Grove Playground: A playground is a great place for children to play and have fun, with plenty of equipment to enjoy.
Visit the Ocean Grove Cottage Museum: The cottage museum offers a glimpse into life in the early days of Ocean Grove and is open for tours during the summer months.

Romantic Things to do in Ocean Grove

Take a sunset walk on the beach: Ocean Grove has a beautiful beach that stretches for miles, and taking a walk along the beach as the sun sets can be a very romantic experience.
Have a romantic dinner at a waterfront restaurant: Ocean Grove has several restaurants with waterfront views, where you can enjoy a romantic dinner while watching the sunset over the water.
Take a horse-drawn carriage ride: Take a romantic carriage ride through the streets of Ocean Grove and enjoy the sights and sounds of the city.
Rent a beach house: Rent a beach house for a weekend getaway and spend the days relaxing on the deck, enjoying the ocean view.
Take a bike ride: Rent a bike and take a ride through the quiet streets of Ocean Grove, enjoying the Victorian-style architecture and the ocean views.
Visit the Ocean Grove Tent: The Tent is a historic landmark and is open for tours during the summer months. It's a great place to learn about the history of the city and it can be a romantic experience to share with your partner
Take a leisurely stroll through the historic district: Take a stroll through the historic district and admire the Victorian-style architecture, many of which are now restored and open for tours.
Take a trip to the Ocean Grove Lake: The lake is a great place for a romantic stroll, and it's a great spot for bird watching or fishing.
Visit the Ocean Grove Museum: The museum offers exhibits and artifacts that tell the story of Ocean Grove's history, it can be a romantic experience to learn together about the city's past.
Take a romantic sunset sail: Take a sunset sail and enjoy the beautiful views of the coast and the ocean.
Visit the Ocean Grove Nature Center: The nature center offers a variety of educational programs and activities, including nature walks and bird watching.
Take a romantic horseback ride on the beach: Take a romantic horseback ride on the beach and enjoy the beautiful ocean views.
Visit the Ocean Grove Farmer's Market: The market offers a variety of fresh fruits, vegetables, and other goods, perfect for a romantic shopping experience together.
Take a romantic sunset walk on the boardwalk in Asbury Park: Take a romantic sunset walk on the Asbury Park Boardwalk, enjoy the sights and sounds of the city, and the ocean views.
Rent a kayak or paddle boat: Explore the waterways of Ocean Grove by kayak or paddle boat, and enjoy the beautiful views of the coast and the ocean.

Things to do with Children in Ocean Grove

Visit the Asbury Park Boardwalk: The Asbury Park Boardwalk is a great place for families to stroll and take in the sights and sounds of the city.
Visit Ocean Grove Beach: The beach is perfect for families to relax and have fun, with plenty of space for children to play in the sand and surf.
Visit the Ocean Grove Camp Meeting Association Tent: This historic tent is a great place to learn about the history of Ocean Grove, and the tent is open for tours during the summer months.
Visit the Ocean Grove Historic District: Take a walk through the historic district and admire the Victorian-style architecture, many of which are now restored and open for tours.
Visit Ocean Grove Lake: The lake is a great place to take a walk, go fishing or rent a boat or paddle boat.
Visit the Ocean Grove Museum: The museum offers exhibits and artifacts that tell the story of Ocean Grove's history, perfect for children to learn about the city's past.
Visit the Ocean Grove Library: The library provides a variety of programs and activities for children, including storytimes, arts and crafts, and book clubs.
Visit the Ocean Grove Bowling and Bathing Pavilion: The pavilion offers a variety of activities for children, including bowling, batting cages, and an arcade.
Visit the Ocean Grove Auditorium: The auditorium offers a variety of programs and performances, including music, theater, and comedy, perfect for families to enjoy together.
Visit the Ocean Grove Nature Center: The nature center offers a variety of educational programs and activities for children, including nature walks and bird watching.
Visit the Ocean Grove Gazebo: The gazebo is a great place to relax and listen to music, perfect for families to enjoy together.
Visit the Ocean Grove Historical Society: The Society offers a variety of programs and activities for children, including history lessons and walking tours of the city.
Visit the Ocean Grove Farmer's Market: The market offers a variety of fresh fruits, vegetables, and other goods, perfect for families to shop together.
Visit the Ocean Grove Playground: A playground is a great place for children to play and have fun, with plenty of equipment to enjoy.
Visit the Ocean Grove Cottage Museum: The cottage museum offers a glimpse into life in the early days of Ocean Grove and is open for tours during the summer months.
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Favorite Restaurants and Eateries in and around Ocean Grove

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History of Ocean Grove NJ

Ocean Grove is a borough located in Monmouth County, New Jersey. The area has a rich history dating back to the 1800s when it was founded as a religious camp meeting ground by the Wesleyan Methodist Church. The camp meeting ground was established in 1869, and it attracted thousands of visitors every summer. The camp meeting ground also became a center of community life, with many social and cultural activities taking place there.
In the late 1800s, Ocean Grove 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, Ocean Grove 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, Ocean Grove is a small town known for its Victorian architecture, 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. The town is also known for its religious heritage, as it's still home to many of the historic camp meeting buildings, chapels and the Great Auditorium, which still host religious services and events.

Local Churches

Saint Pauls United Methodist Church

80 Embury Ave Ocean Grove NJ United Methodist

We hope this summary page helps you with your summer vacation, summer rentals, 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!

Ocean Grove, NJ

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