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Ortley Beach, NJ

Welcome to Ortley Beach, New Jersey!   Ortley Beach is an unincorporated beach community under Toms River Township.  It is also known as South Dover Beach but the locals call it Ortley.   Known for its beautiful beaches and delicious seafood, Ortley Beach is the perfect destination for your next summer vacation.

One of the top things to do in Ortley Beach is to spend time at the beach. The town has several miles of pristine sandy beaches, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing. If you're feeling adventurous, you can also try your hand at surf fishing, kayaking, or stand-up paddleboarding.  The beach and community boardwalk are absolutely beautiful! 

For a dose of history, visit the Ortley Beach Historical Museum or take a walk through the historic area of Ortley Beach and admire the Victorian-era homes. This small museum showcases the history of the town, including artifacts and photographs from Ortley Beach's past as a popular summer vacation spot.  You can also travel less than a mile to see the Seaside Height Historical Museum which houses the old wooden merry-go-round.  

Shopping options in Ortley Beach include local boutiques, surf shops, and souvenir shops selling beach-themed items. For a unique shopping experience, check out the Ortley Beach Flea Market, held on weekends during the summer months.

When it comes to dining, Ortley Beach has a variety of options to suit every taste. From casual beachside eateries to upscale seafood restaurants, there's something for everyone. For a romantic dinner, check out one of the many seafood restaurants on the bay, offering stunning sunset views.


When it comes to outdoor activities, Ortley Beach offers plenty of options. The beach is the main attraction, with miles of soft sand and crystal-clear water. The boardwalk offers a great place to take a stroll, go for a bike ride, or simply enjoy the ocean views. The pier is also a popular spot, where visitors can try their hand at fishing or just enjoy the views of the back bays.  For those who like to explore nature, Ortley Beach is located near several state parks and nature preserves, such as Island Beach State Park and the Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge. These parks offer hiking, bird watching, and other outdoor activities. 

 

For families, Ortley Beach offers a variety of fun activities. There are plenty of activities for kids to do in Ortley Beach. The town has a number of playgrounds and parks, as well as a water park, mini-golf course, and an arcade. For a unique experience, take a trip to Jenkinson's Aquarium, located nearby in Point Pleasant Beach. There are several amusement parks and water parks nearby, such as Jenkinson's Boardwalk, Seaside Heights Casino Pier & Breakwater Beach. There are also several miniature golf courses, playgrounds, and Water parks in neighboring towns for kids to enjoy (one in nearby Seaside Heights and Seaside Park). Nearby attractions include Point Pleasant Beach, Seaside Heights, and Island Beach State Park. If you're looking for a day trip, visit the nearby towns of Toms River and Asbury Park.

 

Ortley Beach is perfect for couples looking for a romantic getaway. Take a leisurely stroll on the beach at sunset, or have a romantic dinner at one of the town's seafood restaurants, bike rides on the boardwalk, and boat rides on the back bays.  The social vibe in Ortley Beach is lively and friendly, with plenty of opportunities to socialize with other visitors and locals.  There are also many clubs, taverns, and bars in Ortley and the neighboring towns - an uber ride away.

 

The town hosts a number of annual events and festivals, including the Ortley Beach Seafood Festival, Ortley Beach Concert Series, and Ortley Beach Fireworks.  There are several parks right on the bay where you catch amazing sunsets, and in the summer they have concerts on the bay.

When it comes to food, Ortley Beach is known for its delicious seafood. Visitors can find a variety of seafood restaurants, such as Rivoli's Restaurant, Park Seafood Bar & Restaurant, and Crab's Claw Inn. These restaurants offer a wide variety of seafood dishes, from raw bar to fish and chips.  For those who prefer Italian cuisine, Ortley Beach has a few Italian restaurants, such as Tardi's Ristorante Italiano, Lavallette Trattoria & Pizzeria, and Caffe Italia. These restaurants offer homemade pasta dishes and traditional Italian cuisine. 

We hope you enjoy your visit to Ortley Beach and all it has to offer! Whether you're looking for a relaxing beach vacation or an action-packed adventure, there's something for everyone in this charming seaside town.

Ortley Beach 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.

Ortley Beach's nearby attractions

  1. Ortley Beach - a wide and clean beach with plenty of room to spread out and enjoy the sun and surf, patrolled by lifeguards.

  2. Ortley Boardwalk - a popular spot to take a leisurely stroll and enjoy the sights and sounds of the ocean, food vendors, souvenir shops, and arcades.

  3. Water sports - bike rentals, paddleboard rentals, kayak rentals, and fishing charter boats available for rent

  4. Ortley fishing pier - for those who prefer to fish from the shore.

  5. Playground - playground on the beach for children

  6. Mini-golf and water park - for children

  7. Ortley Library - offers a variety of programs and events for children throughout the summer months.

  8. Dining and shopping - from casual seafood restaurants and ice cream shops to fine dining and boutique shops.

  9. Accommodations - from budget-friendly motels and hotels to luxurious beachfront rentals and resorts

  10. Point Pleasant Beach Boardwalk - a popular tourist destination featuring an amusement park, aquarium, and many shops and restaurants, located a short drive from Ortley.

  11. Jenkinson's Aquarium - located in Point Pleasant Beach, offers visitors a chance to see a variety of marine life up close.

  12. Island Beach State Park - a natural barrier island with miles of unspoiled beaches, nature trails, fishing, and more, located a short drive from Ortley.

  13. Barnegat Lighthouse - a popular tourist destination and historic lighthouse located a short drive from Ortley.

  14. Toms River - a picturesque town located along the Toms River, offering a variety of shops, restaurants, and other attractions.

  15. Seaside Heights Boardwalk - a popular tourist destination featuring an amusement park, water park, and many shops and restaurants, located a short drive from Ortley Beach.

  16. Casino Pier and the breakwater beach water park in Seaside heights.

Things to do in Ortley's Town, Beach, and Boardwalk

  1. Visit the beach and enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and building sandcastles.

  2. Take a bike ride on the boardwalk or bike trails.

  3. Explore the city's historic pier and try fishing.

  4. Visit the nearby state parks and nature preserves for hiking and outdoor activities.

  5. Take a dolphin or whale watching tour.

  6. Visit the nearby amusement parks and water parks for fun and entertainment.

  7. Play mini-golf at one of the city's miniature golf courses

  8. Visit playgrounds in the city

  9. Take a kayak or paddle boat trip in the back bays

  10. Have a picnic on the beach or in one of the city's parks

  11. Rent a beach house or vacation rental and spend a weekend in the city

  12. Attend a concert or show at the local performance venue

  13. Visit the nearby aquarium and science centers

  14. Take a guided tour of the local wineries or breweries

  15. Take a day trip to the nearby Point Pleasant Beach, Asbury Park, or Atlantic City for more summer activities.

Romantic Things to do in Lavalette

  1. Take a romantic sunset stroll on the beach and watch the waves together.

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

  3. Take a romantic bike ride on the boardwalk or bike trails.

  4. Enjoy a romantic boat ride on the back bays.

  5. Take a romantic day trip to nearby Point Pleasant Beach, Asbury Park, or Atlantic City.

  6. Have a romantic picnic on the beach or in one of the city's parks.

  7. Rent a beach house or vacation rental and spend a weekend in the city.

  8. Take a romantic walk through the historic areas of the city and admire the old Victorian-era homes.

  9. Enjoy a romantic concert or show at the local performance venue.

  10. Take a romantic guided tour of the local wineries or breweries.

  11. Enjoy a romantic spa day at a local spa.

  12. Take a romantic day trip to nearby lighthouses or historic sites.

  13. Rent a kayak or paddle boat and explore the back bays together.

  14. Note: The above suggestions are a general list, and some of the activities may have limited access during the

Things to do with Children in Lavalette 

  1. Visit the beach and enjoy swimming, building sandcastles, and playing beach games.

  2. Take a walk on the boardwalk and see the ocean view

  3. Visit the nearby playgrounds and parks with age-appropriate equipment.

  4. Visit the nearby ice cream shops and enjoy a treat.

  5. Take a trip to the nearby sprayground and cool off.

  6. Visit the nearby library for children's reading programs and storytime.

  7. Attend a children's concert or show at the local performance venue.

  8. Take a trip to the nearby zoo or animal sanctuary and learn about different animals.

  9. Visit the nearby museums and historical sites with interactive exhibits and activities for children.

  10. Take a day trip to the nearby Point Pleasant Beach, Asbury Park, or Atlantic City for more fun activities.

  11. Join a summer camp or sports program in the area.

  12. Attend a children's cooking class or baking class at a local cooking school.

  13. Visit a nearby farm or pick your own fruit farm.

  14. Go on a picnic at the nearby parks

  15. Have fun with games, arts and crafts, and other activities at a nearby recreational center.

Favorite Restaurants and Eateries in and around Ortley

  1. Rivoli's Restaurant: A family-owned Italian restaurant known for its homemade pasta dishes and traditional Italian cuisine.

  2. Rockafellas: A casual restaurant and bar known for its pizza, sandwiches, and live music.

  3. Pier House Restaurant: A seafood restaurant located on the boardwalk, known for its fresh seafood and ocean views.

  4. Park Seafood Bar & Restaurant: A seafood restaurant known for its raw bar and selection of fresh seafood.

  5. Crab's Claw Inn: A seafood restaurant known for its crab dishes, live music, and outdoor seating.

  6. Beachcomber Bar & Grill: A casual beachfront restaurant known for its sandwiches, burgers, and cocktails.

  7. Tardi's Ristorante Italiano: An Italian restaurant known for its homemade pasta dishes and traditional Italian cuisine.

  8. Lavallette Trattoria & Pizzeria: A family-owned Italian restaurant known for its pizza and homemade pasta dishes.

  9. Caffe Italia: An Italian café known for its coffee, pastries, and gelato.

  10. Ohana Grill: A casual restaurant known for its Hawaiian-inspired dishes and tropical drinks.

  11. Meg's Grill: A casual restaurant known for its burgers, sandwiches, and milkshakes.

  12. The Bay View Cafe: A casual café known for its breakfast dishes and sandwiches.

  13. Hemingways: A casual seafood restaurant known for its raw bar and outdoor seating.

  14. Kokomo's Restaurant: A casual restaurant known for its seafood and tropical drinks.

  15. Mia's Pizza 37: A casual pizzeria known for its homemade pizza and calzones.

  16. Nino's Italian Restaurant: A family-owned Italian restaurant known for its homemade pasta dishes and traditional Italian cuisine.

  17. Al Modo Mio: An Italian restaurant known for its homemade pasta dishes and traditional Italian cuisine.

  18. Mamma Lucia's Pizza & Grill: A casual pizzeria and grill known for its homemade pizza, calzones, and sandwiches.

  19. The Oven Italian Restaurant & Pizza: A casual pizzeria and Italian restaurant known for its homemade pizza and pasta dishes.

  20. Ob-Co's Donuts: A local donut shop known for its fresh and delicious donuts.

  21. Golden Taste Chinese Food: A Chinese restaurant known for its traditional Chinese dishes and fast service.

  22. Jersey Shore Diner: A classic American diner known for its breakfast dishes, sandwiches, and milkshakes.

  23. Ebby's Cafe Alfresco: A casual café known for its outdoor seating and coffee drinks.

  24. Il Giardinello Beach Grille Restaurant: A Mediterranean restaurant known for its seafood dishes and outdoor seating.

  25. Palace Sushi & Hibachi: A Japanese restaurant known for its sushi and hibachi dishes.

  26. Dragon Chinese Kitchen: A Chinese restaurant known for its traditional Chinese dishes and fast service.

  27. Ortley Seafood Market: A seafood market known for its fresh seafood and seafood take-out dishes.

  28. Shore Slice Pizza & Grill: A casual pizzeria and grill known for its homemade pizza and sandwiches.

  29. Spicy: A casual Mexican restaurant on Seaside Height boardwalk with Ocean Views and great margaritas known for its classic Mexican dishes and good service.

  30. PJ's Place: A casual restaurant known for its seafood dishes and tropical drinks.

History of Ortley

  • Ortley Beach is a small oceanfront community located in Toms River, New Jersey.  It is also known as South Dover Beach.  The history of Ortley Beach dates back to the late 1800s and early 1900s when it was known as a summer resort area for people from nearby cities like Newark and New York City.

  • In the early 1900s, Ortley Beach began to attract a growing number of visitors who were looking for a summer getaway. Many of them built small bungalows along the beach, which eventually led to the development of a small community.

  • During the 1920s and 1930s, Ortley Beach continued to grow as a popular summer destination. A number of hotels, boarding houses, and amusement parks were built along the beach, making it a popular spot for families looking for a fun summer vacation.

  • In the 1940s and 1950s, Ortley Beach experienced a period of growth and development. Many of the small bungalows were replaced with larger, more permanent homes, and the community continued to attract more visitors each summer.

  • In the 1960s and 1970s, Ortley Beach began to decline as a summer destination. Many of the hotels and boarding houses were closed, and the amusement parks were shut down. The community became primarily a summer community for residents.

  • In recent years, Ortley Beach has experienced a resurgence as a popular destination for summer vacations. The beach and boardwalk were rebuilt, and new homes and businesses were built in the area. However, the area suffered severe damage during superstorm Sandy in 2012, which caused significant damage to the community.

  • Today, Ortley Beach is a popular summer destination, particularly for residents of Toms River and nearby communities. The area is known for its beautiful beaches, delicious seafood, and fun-filled activities.

Local Churches

  • Our Lady-Perpetual Help Church

100 Grant Ave Seaside Heights NJ

  • St Elisabeth's Chapel

7 3rd Ave Seaside Heights NJ

1801 Grand Central Ave Lavallette NJ  Evangelical Lutheran in America

  • St Bonaventure Parish

30 Schoolhouse Rd Whiting NJ  Roman Catholic

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! 

 

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