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Bay Head, NJ

Welcome to Bay Head, New Jersey, a picturesque coastal town located on the Jersey Shore. Known for its charming Victorian architecture, pristine beaches, and an array of outdoor activities.  

 

The vibe in Bay Head is generally quiet and laid-back, with a focus on enjoying the beach and outdoor activities. The town is known for its beautiful beaches, Victorian architecture, and quiet tree-lined streets. The town is a popular destination for families, retirees, and second home owners.  Overall, Bay Head has a relaxed and upscale vibe, with a focus on enjoying the beach and outdoor activities in a tranquil and private setting.

Bay Head is a private beach community, and a membership is required for beach access. The town is also home to many large and luxurious houses, many of which are historic and well-maintained. There are also many opportunities for boating and fishing in the area. The downtown area has some nice shops and restaurants, but it's not as lively as some of the nearby towns, such as Point Pleasant Beach or Seaside Heights.

Start your day with a refreshing dip in the ocean at Bay Head Beach. Lifeguards are on duty during peak season, making it a safe and enjoyable experience for all. Once you've worked up an appetite, head to one of the many waterfront restaurants and indulge in delicious seafood or a classic Jersey Shore boardwalk treat.

Take a stroll down the main street and admire the beautifully preserved Victorian homes and buildings. The Bay Head Historical Society offers tours and exhibits that provide insight into the town's rich history. For those interested in architecture, a visit to the Bay Head Chapel by the Sea is a must. This stunning building, built in 1879, is an excellent example of Victorian Gothic architecture.

For the more active vacationer, Bay Head offers a variety of outdoor activities. Take a bike ride on the Henry Hudson Trail, a scenic path that runs along the coast. Or, rent a kayak or stand-up paddleboard and explore the tranquil waters of Barnegat Bay. Fishing enthusiasts can cast a line off the Bay Head Marina, where they can catch fluke, striped bass, and other local species.  The Bay Head Botanical Gardens is a tranquil oasis, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a romantic picnic. The gardens feature a wide variety of plants, including a beautiful rose garden and a Japanese garden.

For a unique experience, take a horse-drawn carriage ride through the town and enjoy the sights and sounds of Bay Head at a leisurely pace. And if you're looking for a romantic evening activity, take a sunset sailboat ride on Barnegat Bay. Bay Head offers something for everyone, and we hope you'll come and experience it for yourself.

 

With its charming atmosphere, beautiful beaches, and variety of activities, Bay Head is the perfect destination for your summer vacation.

Bay Heads 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.

Bay Heads' nearby attractions

  1. Visit Point Pleasant or Seaside Heights Boardwalk - a popular tourist destination featuring amusement parks, water parks, and many shops and restaurants, located a short drive from Bay Head.Barnegat Lighthouse State Park: This park offers panoramic views of the ocean, a historical lighthouse, and nature trails for hiking and bird watching.

  2. Island Beach State Park: This state park offers 10 miles of beach, dunes, and maritime forests for visitors to explore.

  3. Jenkinson's Boardwalk: This boardwalk offers a variety of activities such as an aquarium, arcade games, and amusement park rides.

  4. Mantoloking Bridge County Park: This park offers a fishing pier, picnic areas, and a playground.

  5. Bay Head and Point Pleasant Beach: These towns offer a variety of shops, restaurants, and a boardwalk.

  6. Sea Girt Lighthouse: This historical lighthouse offers tours and views of the ocean.

  7. Normandy Beach: This beach offers opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and fishing.

  8. Fishing Charters: Visitors can take a fishing charter to catch a variety of fish such as striped bass, bluefish, and fluke.

  9. The New Jersey Naval Museum: This museum offers exhibits on the state's naval history and artifacts.

  10. Asbury Park: This town offers a lively boardwalk, music venues, and a variety of restaurants and shops.

  11. Silver Lake Park: This park offers hiking trails, picnic areas, and a playground.

  12. Monmouth Battlefield State Park: This park offers hiking trails, historical exhibits, and a visitor center.

  13. The Allenwood General Store: This historic general store offers a variety of goods, including local produce, and is a great place to grab a bite to eat.

  14. The Navesink Twin Lights: This historic lighthouse offers tours and views of the ocean.

  15. The Twin Lights Historical Society Museum: This museum offers exhibits on the history of the Navesink Twin Lights and the surrounding area.

  16. Six Flags Great Adventure and Safari: This amusement park offers a variety of roller coasters, water rides, and a safari drive-thru experience.

  17. Asbury Park Boardwalk: This boardwalk offers a variety of shops, restaurants, and a lively atmosphere. It is also home to the Stone Pony, a famous music venue.

  18. Monmouth Battlefield State Park: This park offers hiking trails, historical exhibits, and a visitor center, dedicated to the Battle of Monmouth that took place during the American Revolutionary War.

  19. Barnegat Lighthouse State Park: This park offers panoramic views of the ocean, a historical lighthouse, and nature trails for hiking and bird watching.

  20. Keansburg Amusement Park: This amusement park offers a variety of rides, games, and attractions, including a water park.

  21. Freehold Raceway Mall: This mall offers a variety of shops and restaurants, as well as a racetrack for horse racing.

  22. Jersey Shore Premium outlets: This outlet mall offers a variety of designer and brand name stores.

  23. Sandy Hook National Recreation Area: This national recreation area offers beaches, hiking trails, and historical sites, such as the Sandy Hook Lighthouse.

  24. Ocean Grove Boardwalk and Beach: This beach offers opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and fishing. The boardwalk offers a variety of shops and restaurants.

  25. Atlantic Highlands Marina: This marina offers charter fishing boats, sightseeing cruises, and a variety of water sports.

  26. Tuckerton Seaport and Baymen's Museum: This museum offers exhibits on the history of Tuckerton and the surrounding area, as well as a variety of boats and other maritime artifacts.

  27. Allaire State Park: This state park offers hiking trails, fishing, and a restored 19th-century ironworks village.

  28. The New Jersey Museum of Transportation: This museum offers exhibits on the state's transportation history and artifacts, including trains, buses, and trolleys.

Things to do in Bay Head's Town, Beach, and Boardwalk

  1. Visit the Bay Head Beach: Bay Head Beach is a perfect place for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing. The beach is also perfect for fishing and crabbing.

  2. Take a stroll along the Bay Head Promenade: The promenade offers stunning views of the ocean and a great place to relax, watch the sunset, or take a walk.

  3. Visit the Bay Head Yacht Club: The club is a great place to learn about boating and sailing, and to take sailing lessons. They also have a restaurant and bar on-site.

  4. Take a bike ride on the Henry Hudson Trail: The trail is a beautiful, scenic path that runs along the coast, perfect for biking or hiking.

  5. Visit the Bay Head Botanical Gardens: The gardens feature a wide variety of plants, including a beautiful rose garden and a Japanese garden, it's perfect for a leisurely stroll or a picnic.

  6. Go fishing at the Bay Head Marina: The marina is a popular spot for fishing, and it offers charter fishing trips.

  7. Visit the Bay Head Historical Society: The Society offers tours and exhibits that provide insight into the town's rich history.

  8. Take a sunset sailboat ride on Barnegat Bay: A romantic evening activity that offers beautiful views of the sunset.

  9. Visit the Bay Head Chapel by the Sea: This stunning building, built in 1879, is an excellent example of Victorian Gothic architecture.

  10. Take a walk along the Bay Head Nature Trail: The trail offers a serene environment and a chance to see local wildlife and plants.

  11. Visit the Bay Head Marina: The Marina offers a great place to watch the boats come in and out, and it's also a great place for fishing.

  12. Have a bonfire on the beach: A fun and unique way to spend an evening on the beach.

  13. Visit the Bay Head Art Gallery: The art gallery features works by local artists and it's a great place to find unique souvenirs.

Romantic Things to do in Bay Head

  1. Take a sunset walk on the beach

  2. Have a picnic on the beach

  3. Take a romantic boat ride

  4. Visit the Bay Head Historical Society

  5. Take a horse-drawn carriage ride

  6. Have dinner at a waterfront restaurant

  7. Take a romantic bike ride on the Henry Hudson Trail

  8. Visit the Bay Head Yacht Club

  9. Take a romantic stroll through the Bay Head Botanical Gardens

  10. Visit the Bay Head Chapel by the Sea

  11. Take a romantic walk along the Bay Head Nature Trail

  12. Go for a romantic swim in the ocean

  13. Have a bonfire on the beach

  14. Take a romantic sailboat ride on Barnegat Bay

  15. Visit the Bay Head Marina and watch the boats come in and out.

Things to do with Children in Bay Head

  1. Visit the Bay Head Beach: The beach is perfect for children to swim, play in the sand, and build sandcastles. Lifeguards are on duty during peak season, making it a safe and enjoyable experience for children.

  2. Play at the Bay Head playground: The playground features a wide variety of equipment suitable for children of all ages, including swings, slides, and monkey bars.

  3. Take a bike ride on the Henry Hudson Trail: The trail is perfect for families and it offers a scenic path that runs along the coast.

  4. Visit the Bay Head Botanical Gardens: The gardens offer a great place for children to explore and learn about different plants and flowers.

  5. Go fishing at the Bay Head Marina: Fishing is a fun activity for children and the marina offers charter fishing trips.

  6. Take a horse-drawn carriage ride through the town: The carriage ride is a unique and fun way for children to see the town and enjoy the sights and sounds of Bay Head.

  7. Visit the Bay Head Historical Society: The Society offers exhibits and tours that provide insight into the town's history, and it's a great way for children to learn about the history of Bay Head.

  8. Take a walk along the Bay Head Nature Trail: The trail offers a serene environment and a chance for children to see local wildlife and plants.

  9. Visit the Bay Head Marina: The Marina offers a great place for children to watch the boats come in and out and it's also a great place for fishing.

  10. Have a bonfire on the beach: A fun and unique way for children to spend an evening on the beach.

  11. Visit the Bay Head Art Gallery: The art gallery features works by local artists and it's a great place for children to find unique souvenirs.

  12. Take a sunset sailboat ride on Barnegat Bay: A fun and exciting way for children to see the sunset.

  13. Visit the Bay Head Chapel by the Sea: The Chapel is a great place for children to learn about Victorian Gothic architecture.

  14. Go for a swim in the ocean: Bay Head Beach offers a great place for children to swim and have fun.

  15. Have a picnic on the beach: A fun and unique way to spend a day with family and enjoy the beautiful scenery of Bay Head.

Favorite Restaurants and Eateries in and around Bay Head

  1. Theresa's South: This casual seafood restaurant is known for its delicious seafood dishes, and it has a cozy and friendly atmosphere.

  2. Grenville Hotel & Restaurant: This upscale hotel and restaurant is known for its elegant dining room and its delicious American cuisine.

  3. Charlie's of Bay Head: This casual restaurant is known for its casual atmosphere and its delicious seafood dishes.

  4. Playa Bowls: This trendy restaurant serves acai bowls, smoothies, and other healthy options.

  5. The Grenville Restaurant: This upscale restaurant is known for its elegant atmosphere and its delicious American cuisine.

  6. Scarborough Fair Restaurant: This casual restaurant is known for its delicious seafood dishes and its friendly atmosphere.

  7. Pizza Express: This casual restaurant is known for its delicious pizza and casual atmosphere.

  8. Dune Grass Cafe: This casual restaurant is known for its casual atmosphere and its delicious seafood dishes.

  9. Burkes Market: This market offers a wide variety of fresh produce, seafood, and other food items.

  10. Bay Head Cheese Shop & Bottles Too: This shop is known for its wide selection of gourmet cheeses and wine.

  11. Four Winds Restaurant: This casual seafood restaurant is known for its delicious seafood dishes and its friendly atmosphere.

  12. Red's Lobster Pot Restaurant: This casual seafood restaurant is known for its delicious seafood dishes and its casual atmosphere.

  13. Fratello's Restaurant: This casual Italian restaurant is known for its delicious pasta dishes and casual atmosphere.

  14. The Shrimp Box: This casual seafood restaurant is known for its delicious seafood dishes and its casual atmosphere.

  15. Harpoon Willy's: This casual seafood restaurant is known for its delicious seafood dishes and its casual atmosphere.

  16. Shipwreck Point: This casual seafood restaurant is known for its delicious seafood dishes and its casual atmosphere.

  17. Shipwreck Grill: This casual seafood restaurant is known for its delicious seafood dishes and its casual atmosphere.

  18. Simko's Grill: This casual seafood restaurant is known for its delicious seafood dishes and its casual atmosphere.

  19. Rella's: This casual seafood restaurant is known for its delicious seafood dishes and its casual atmosphere.

  20. Squan Tavern: This casual restaurant is known for its casual atmosphere and its delicious American cuisine.

  21. Joe Leone's: This casual seafood restaurant is known for its delicious seafood dishes and its casual atmosphere.

  22. Spikes Fish Market: This market offers a wide variety of fresh seafood.

  23. Mariners Cove: This casual seafood restaurant is known for its delicious seafood dishes and its casual atmosphere.

  24. John & Elaine's Restaurant: This casual seafood restaurant is known for its delicious seafood dishes and its casual atmosphere.

  25. Due Amici: This casual Italian restaurant is known for its delicious pasta dishes and casual atmosphere.

  26. Riverside Cafe: This casual restaurant is known for its casual atmosphere and its delicious American cuisine.

  27. Woodchucks BBQ: This casual restaurant is known for its delicious BBQ dishes and casual atmosphere.

  28. Brick Diner: This casual diner-style restaurant is known for its classic American diner fare and casual atmosphere.

  29. Via Veneto: This casual Italian restaurant is known for its delicious pasta dishes and casual atmosphere.

  30. Lubrano's Trattoria: This casual Italian restaurant is known for its delicious pasta dishes and casual atmosphere.

History of Bay Head

  • Bay Head, New Jersey is a small coastal town located on the Jersey Shore. The town was originally settled in the mid-19th century as a summer resort for wealthy families from New York City and Philadelphia. The town's popularity as a vacation destination grew rapidly, and by the late 19th century, Bay Head had become a popular destination for the wealthy elite.

  • One of the most notable figures in Bay Head's history is William A. Newell, a prominent businessman and philanthropist who played a significant role in the development of the town. Newell, along with a group of investors, purchased a large tract of land in Bay Head in 1869. They then built a hotel, the Bay Head House, which served as the center of social and recreational activities in the town. Newell also helped to build the town's first church, the Bay Head Chapel by the Sea, and he donated land for the construction of the Bay Head Yacht Club.

  • Another important figure in Bay Head's history is Charles S. Osborne, a wealthy businessman from New York City, who purchased a large tract of land in Bay Head in 1881. Osborne developed the land into a residential community, and he built several large Victorian homes, which still stand today. Osborne's development of the town helped to establish Bay Head as a fashionable summer resort for the wealthy.

  • During the early 20th century, Bay Head's popularity as a summer resort began to decline. However, the town's residents banded together to form the Bay Head Improvement Association, which was dedicated to preserving and promoting the town's unique Victorian architecture and natural beauty. The association was successful in preserving many of Bay Head's historic buildings, and it helped to establish the town as a National Historic District.

  • Bay Head's fortunes began to change again in the 1960s and 1970s, when the town experienced a resurgence in popularity as a summer resort. Today, Bay Head is a popular destination for tourists, and it is known for its charming Victorian architecture, beautiful beaches, and an array of outdoor activities. The town has also been able to preserve its historic character, and it is considered one of the most well-preserved Victorian seaside resorts in the country.

Local Churches

  • All Saints Episcopal Church

500 Lake Ave Bay Head NJ  Episcopal

  • Bay Head Chapel Manse

442 Main Ave Bay Head NJ  Non-Denominational

  • Bay Head Saint Paul's United Methodist Church

423 Lake Ave Bay Head NJ  United Methodist

  • Sacred Heart Parish

751 Main Ave Bay Head 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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