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Surf City, NJ

Welcome to Surf City, New Jersey! This charming seaside town is the perfect destination for a relaxing and exciting vacation.  The town is famous for its long stretches of white sandy beaches, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing. Whether you're a seasoned surfer or a first-time rider, you'll find the perfect waves here. The town also offers a variety of water sports such as paddleboarding, kayaking, and jet skiing.

If you're looking for a more relaxing experience, you can take a stroll along the boardwalk and enjoy the picturesque views of the Atlantic Ocean. You can also visit the local shops, restaurants, and bars that line the boardwalk. There's something for everyone in Surf City, from ice cream shops to fine dining to other activities.

For those who enjoy outdoor activities, Surf City offers a wide range of options. You can go fishing, hiking, and biking on the many trails in the area. You can also take a boat tour to explore the local wildlife, including dolphins and seals.

If you're traveling with children, there's plenty for them to do as well. There are amusement parks, mini-golf courses, and a water park nearby. For the more adventurous, there's also parasailing, and skydiving nearby.  Surf City is a popular destination for beachgoers, offering miles of pristine beaches and opportunities for surfing, sunbathing, and swimming. The town is also home to a number of parks, including Borough Park and Windward Beach Park, which offer picnic areas, playgrounds, and outdoor sports facilities.

Favorite places to visit: Some popular places to visit in Surf City include the Surflight Theatre, a local theater that offers live productions and concerts, and the Barnegat Lighthouse State Park, which features a historic lighthouse and scenic hiking trails.

History: Surf City has a rich history, having been a popular vacation destination since the late 19th century. The town is also home to several historic structures, including the old Surf City Hotel, which dates back to the 1800s.

Shopping: Surf City is home to a variety of shopping options, including local boutiques, souvenir shops, and gift shops. The town is also home to a number of specialty food stores, including gourmet food shops and ice cream shops.

Eating: Surf City offers a range of dining options, including casual cafes and restaurants, as well as upscale dining establishments. Some popular dining options in the town include the Sand Witch Cafe, the Lobster House, and the Tiki Bar and Restaurant.

Things children can do: Children can enjoy a number of activities in Surf City, including visiting the nearby Fantasy Island Amusement Park, playing in the town's parks, and swimming in the ocean.

Beaches: Surf City is home to several beautiful beaches, including Surf City Beach, Barnegat Light Beach, and Harvey Cedars Beach. Each beach offers its own unique features and opportunities for outdoor recreation.

Romantic and couples: Couples can enjoy a number of romantic activities in Surf City, including strolling along the beach at sunset, taking a romantic boat ride, or dining at one of the town's upscale restaurants.

Social vibe: Surf City is a relaxed, family-friendly beach town with a vibrant social scene. Visitors can enjoy a variety of community events, including festivals, concerts, and markets.  At night, the town comes alive with music, entertainment, and fireworks. You can catch a live band at one of the local bars or take in a show at the theater.

Nearby attractions: Some popular nearby attractions include the Barnegat Lighthouse State Park, the Fantasy Island Amusement Park, the Seaside Heights Boardwalk, the Jenkinson's Aquarium, the Ocean County Park, and the Long Beach Island Historical Museum.

Current events: Surf City hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including the Surf City Farmers Market, the Long Beach Island Seafood Festival, and the Surf City Art Walk. These events provide visitors with the opportunity to experience the town's rich culture and history, as well as its vibrant arts and entertainment scene.

No matter what you're looking for, Surf City has it all. Whether you want to relax on the beach, try new activities, or experience the local culture, you're sure to have a great time. Book your vacation today and discover all that Surf City has to offer!

Surf City 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.

Surf City's nearby attractions

  1. Barnegat Lighthouse State Park - A historic lighthouse and park that offers great views of the ocean, hiking trails, and a museum.

  2. Fantasy Island Amusement Park - An amusement park that features a variety of rides, games, and attractions for all ages.

  3. Jenkinson's Boardwalk - A popular boardwalk that features an aquarium, arcade games, rides, and mini-golf.

  4. Island Beach State Park - A natural preserve that offers miles of pristine beaches, hiking trails, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

  5. Long Beach Island - A popular beach destination that offers swimming, sunbathing, and a variety of water sports.

  6. Ocean County Park - A recreational area that features playgrounds, sports fields, and a variety of outdoor activities.

  7. Bay Village - A shopping and dining destination that features a variety of local shops and restaurants.

  8. Surflight Theatre - A historic theater that hosts a variety of plays, musicals, and concerts.

  9. Thundering Surf Water Park - A water park that features a variety of water rides, slides, and attractions.

  10. Tuckerton Seaport - A maritime museum and village that showcases the history and culture of the Jersey Shore.

  11. Viking Village - A historic fishing village that offers a variety of seafood restaurants, shops, and fishing charters.

  12. Atlantic City Casinos - A popular casino destination that offers gambling, entertainment, and dining options.

  13. Albert Music Hall - A historic music venue that hosts a variety of live music and performances.

  14. The LBI Museum - A museum that showcases the history of Long Beach Island and the surrounding area.

  15. The Fun Town Amusement Pier - An amusement park that features a variety of rides and attractions for all ages.

Things to do in Surf City Town, Beach, and Boardwalk

  1. Visit Barnegat Lighthouse State Park: Climb the 217 steps to the top of the lighthouse for a panoramic view of the island and the ocean.

  2. Enjoy the rides and attractions at Fantasy Island Amusement Park: With a variety of rides for all ages, this park is a fun destination for the whole family.

  3. Walk or bike the boardwalk: Enjoy the sights, sounds and smells of Jenkinson's Boardwalk, a classic seaside boardwalk with an amusement park, aquarium, food, and souvenirs.

  4. Take a dip in the ocean at Island Beach State Park: This natural preserve offers miles of pristine beaches and plenty of opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.

  5. Explore Long Beach Island: A popular beach destination that offers swimming, sunbathing, and a variety of water sports.

  6. Play a game of mini-golf: Jenkinson's Boardwalk features a full-size mini-golf course, that's fun for all ages.

  7. Visit the Tuckerton Seaport: This maritime museum and village showcases the history and culture of the Jersey Shore.

  8. Take a fishing charter: Viking Village offers several fishing charters that take you out to sea for a day of fishing.

  9. Take a day trip to Atlantic City: Enjoy the casinos, restaurants and nightlife of this popular casino destination.

  10. Visit the Albert Music Hall: This historic music venue hosts a variety of live music and performances throughout the year.

  11. Explore the LBI Museum: This museum showcases the history of Long Beach Island and the surrounding area.

  12. Enjoy the water rides at Thundering Surf Water Park: With a variety of water rides, slides, and attractions, this water park is a fun destination for the whole family.

  13. Visit the Fun Town Amusement Pier: This amusement park features a variety of rides and attractions for all ages.

  14. Take a sunset cruise: Take a boat ride to see the sunset over the ocean, with many options for different types of cruises.

  15. Go for a sunset beach walk: Take a walk along the beach at sunset to enjoy the beautiful colors of the sky as the sun sets over the ocean.

Romantic Things to do in Surf City

  1. Take a romantic sunset walk on the beach: Take a walk along the beach at sunset to enjoy the beautiful colors of the sky as the sun sets over the ocean.

  2. Take a romantic sunset sail: Take a sailboat ride and watch the sunset over the ocean with your loved one.

  3. Have a romantic picnic on the beach: Pack a basket with your favorite foods and enjoy a picnic on the beach with your loved one.

  4. Take a romantic horse-drawn carriage ride: Take a romantic horse-drawn carriage ride through the streets of Surf City.

  5. Have a romantic dinner at a waterfront restaurant: Enjoy a romantic dinner with a view of the ocean at one of Surf City's many waterfront restaurants.

  6. Take a romantic beach bonfire: Enjoy a romantic beach bonfire on the beach with your loved one.

  7. Take a romantic hot air balloon ride: Take a romantic hot air balloon ride over Surf City for a unique and unforgettable experience.

  8. Go for a romantic bike ride on the beach: Rent a bike for two and take a romantic ride on the beach.

  9. Take a romantic spa day: Treat your loved one to a romantic spa day at one of Surf City's many spa resorts.

  10. Have a romantic wine tasting experience: Enjoy a romantic wine tasting experience at one of Surf City's wineries.

  11. Take a romantic hike: Explore the natural beauty of Surf City on a romantic hike with your loved one.

  12. Take a romantic sunset cruise: Take a romantic sunset cruise on a boat and watch the sunset over the ocean with your loved one.

  13. Take a romantic gondola ride: Take a romantic gondola ride through the waterways of Surf City.

  14. Take a romantic hot air balloon ride over the beach: Take a romantic hot air balloon ride over the beach and enjoy the beautiful ocean views.

  15. Have a romantic getaway at a bed and breakfast: Book a romantic getaway at one of Surf City's bed and breakfasts for a weekend of relaxation and romance.

Things to do with Children in Surf City

  1. Visit Jenkinson's Aquarium: Explore the marine life and interact with sea creatures like sharks, rays and sea turtles at this popular aquarium.

  2. Play at Fantasy Island Amusement Park: With a variety of rides and attractions for all ages, this amusement park is a fun destination for families.

  3. Walk or bike the boardwalk: Enjoy the sights, sounds and smells of Jenkinson's Boardwalk, a classic seaside boardwalk with an amusement park, aquarium, food, and souvenirs.

  4. Visit the Tuckerton Seaport: This maritime museum and village showcases the history and culture of the Jersey Shore, with interactive exhibits and educational programs for children.

  5. Take a fishing charter: Viking Village offers several fishing charters that take you out to sea for a day of fishing, and it is a great way to have fun with children

  6. Play at the playgrounds of Ocean County Park: This recreational area features playgrounds and sports fields, making it a great place for families to enjoy some outdoor fun.

  7. Take a swim in the ocean: The beaches of Long Beach Island are great for swimming, sunbathing, and a variety of water sports.

  8. Play mini-golf: Jenkinson's Boardwalk features a full-size mini-golf course, that's fun for all ages.

  9. Visit the LBI Museum: This museum showcases the history of Long Beach Island and the surrounding area, with interactive exhibits and educational programs for children.

  10. Take a ride on the Fun Town Amusement Pier: This amusement park features a variety of rides and attractions for all ages.

  11. Visit the Thundering Surf Water Park: With a variety of water rides, slides, and attractions, this water park is a fun destination for families.

  12. Visit the Albert Music Hall: This historic music venue hosts a variety of live music and performances throughout the year, and some events are child-friendly

  13. Take a sunset cruise: Take a boat ride to see the sunset over the ocean, with many options for different types of cruises, and some of them are family-friendly.

  14. Go for a beach walk: Take a walk along the beach and explore the natural beauty of Surf City.

  15. Enjoy a family-friendly movie at the drive-in theater: Take the kids to the drive-in theater to enjoy a family-friendly movie under the stars.

Favorite Restaurants and Eateries in and around Surf City

  1. Scojo's is a restaurant in Surf City, NJ that specializes in seafood and American cuisine.

  2. Surf City Fishery Co is a seafood market and restaurant in Surf City, NJ that offers a variety of fresh fish and seafood dishes.

  3. Yellowfin LBI is a restaurant in Surf City, NJ that specializes in seafood and sushi.

  4. Sandbox Cafe Surf City is a restaurant in Surf City, NJ that offers a casual dining experience with a menu featuring sandwiches, salads, and smoothies.

  5. Lex Mex is a restaurant in Surf City, NJ that specializes in Mexican cuisine.

  6. New Eatery LIC is a restaurant in Surf City, NJ that offers a variety of American and international dishes.

  7. Blue Claw Seafood Market is a seafood market in Surf City, NJ that offers a variety of fresh fish and seafood.

  8. Northside Bar & Grille is a restaurant and bar in Surf City, NJ that offers a casual dining experience with a menu featuring American cuisine and a wide selection of beers and cocktails.

  9. Little Sumo's is a restaurant in Surf City, NJ that specializes in Japanese cuisine, specifically sushi and hibachi.

  10. Howard's Seafood Restaurant is a restaurant in Surf City, NJ that specializes in seafood dishes.

  11. How You Brewin Internet Cafe is a cafe in Surf City, NJ that offers a variety of coffee, tea and pastries.

  12. Wally Mitchell's Luncheonette is a restaurant in Surf City, NJ that offers a casual dining experience with a menu featuring sandwiches, salads, and breakfast items.

  13. Panzone's Pizza is a pizza restaurant in Surf City, NJ that offers a variety of pizza pies and Italian dishes.

  14. Surf City Pizza is a pizza restaurant in Surf City, NJ that offers a variety of pizza pies and Italian dishes.

  15. Market is a restaurant in Surf City, NJ that offers a variety of American and international dishes.

  16. Casillas Jayson is a restaurant in Surf City, NJ that offers a variety of American and international dishes.

  17. Coastal Coffee is a cafe in Surf City, NJ that offers a variety of coffee, tea and pastries.

  18. Plate is a restaurant in Surf City, NJ that offers a variety of American and international dishes.

  19. Incredibowls is a restaurant in Surf City, NJ that offers a variety of bowls, such as acai bowls, poke bowls and smoothie bowls.

  20. Incredibowls is a restaurant in Surf City, NJ that offers a variety of bowls, such as acai bowls, poke bowls and smoothie bowls.

  21. Fella's-Broadway Pizza is a pizza restaurant in Surf City, NJ that offers a variety of pizza pies and Italian dishes.

  22. Surf City Hotel is a hotel in Surf City, NJ that also offers a restaurant and bar.

  23. Mud City Crab House is a restaurant in Surf City, NJ that specializes in seafood, with a focus on crab dishes.

  24. Exit 63 Seafood Corner is a seafood market in Surf City, NJ that offers a variety of fresh fish and seafood.

  25. La Spiaggia Restaurant is a restaurant in Surf City, NJ that specializes in seafood and Italian cuisine.

  26. Ship Bottom Shell Fish is a seafood market in Surf City, NJ that offers a variety of fresh fish and seafood.

  27. Daddy O Restaurant & Hotel is a hotel and restaurant in Surf City, NJ that offers a variety of American and international dishes.

  28. Joey's Pizza & Pasta is a restaurant in Surf City, NJ that specializes in pizza and Italian dishes.

  29. Harvey Cedars Shellfish Co is a seafood market in Surf City, NJ that specializes in fresh, local shellfish. They offer a variety of products such as clams, oysters, and crab meat.

  30. Raimondo's is a restaurant in Surf City, NJ that offers a variety of Italian dishes, including pasta, pizza, and seafood. They also have a selection of wines and cocktails.

History of Surf City 

  • Surf City is a borough located in Ocean 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 for its location on the Atlantic Ocean, and its popularity as a destination for surfers.

  • In the late 1800s, Surf City 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, Surf City 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, Surf City 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. Surf City is particularly well-known for its beaches, and it's a popular spot for swimming, surfing, and sunbathing.

Local Churches

  • United Church of Surf City

701 N Central Ave · (609) 361-0891​​

  • St. Thomas of Villanova Church  Catholic

Long Beach Blvd · (609) 494-8861

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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