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Harvey Cedars, NJ

Welcome to Harvey Cedars, a beautiful beach town located on Long Beach Island in Ocean County, New Jersey. This picturesque destination is the perfect place for families, couples, and anyone looking for a relaxing and fun-filled vacation.

The beaches in Harvey Cedars are some of the most beautiful in the area, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing. The beaches are clean and well-maintained, and there are lifeguards on duty during the summer months. Families can enjoy building sandcastles and playing beach games while couples can take romantic walks on the beach.  For families, there are plenty of fun activities to enjoy. Children can fish at the local marina or take a fishing charter to catch a variety of fish such as striped bass, bluefish, and fluke. There are also nature walks where children can explore the local nature reserve trails, such as High Bar Harbor Nature Reserve, to spot birds and other wildlife, including dolphins and seals.

For those looking for a little adventure, Harvey Cedars offers a variety of water sports such as kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding. Visitors can rent water sports equipment to explore the Barnegat Bay, which is home to a variety of wildlife and bird species. Surfing is also popular in Harvey Cedars and visitors can take lessons or rent equipment to catch some waves at the local beaches.

Harvey Cedars is also a great place for shopping and dining. Visitors can explore the local shops and boutiques for souvenirs and unique items. The town is also home to a variety of restaurants that offer seafood and other local cuisines. For a fun evening out, visitors can indulge in a spa day at one of the local day spas or enjoy a movie night on the beach.

There are also several historical and cultural activities to enjoy in Harvey Cedars. Visitors can learn about the area's history and culture by visiting the LBI Historical Museum, the Barnegat Bay Decoy and Baymen's Museum, or the Surflight Theatre, which offers live performances such as plays, musicals and concerts.

Harvey Cedars is 2 miles from Beach Havan so you can also enjoy the Fantasy Island Amusement park and the Bay Village offers a miniature golf course and a petting zoo. Another great place to visit is the Beach Haven Lighthouse Museum, where you can learn about the history of the lighthouse and take a tour to the top. The Tucker's Island Lighthouse is another great spot to visit, where you can enjoy great views of the beach and the island.  The Beach Haven Farmer's Market is also a great place to visit, where you can buy fresh local produce, handmade crafts, and more. Enjoy a romantic dinner at one of the city's many seafood restaurants. Take a romantic boat ride or fishing trip from the Beach Haven Marina. 

 

From cozy cottages to spacious homes, we have something to fit every group's size and budget. Many of our rentals feature amenities like private pools, hot tubs, and even ocean views, so you can relax in style.  So come experience the best of the Jersey Shore in Harvey Cedars, a great romantic or family vacation destination. 

Harvey Cedars's 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.

Harvey Cedars' nearby attractions

  1. Harvey Cedars Shellfish Co: This restaurant is located in the heart of Harvey Cedars, it's known for its fresh seafood, particularly its shellfish. They have a variety of seafood options such as clams, oysters, and lobster. They also offer raw bar, cocktails and wine.

  2. The Tavern at Black Eyed Susans: This restaurant is located in the heart of Harvey Cedars, it's known for its casual atmosphere and delicious food. The menu includes a variety of seafood, sandwiches, and burgers. They also offer a selection of beer and wine.

  3. Surf City Fishery Co: This restaurant is a seafood market and restaurant. They offer a variety of seafood options, such as fish, shellfish, and crab cakes. They also offer a selection of prepared foods, such as chowders and soups.

  4. Black Eyed Susans: This restaurant is known for its casual atmosphere and delicious food. They offer a variety of seafood, sandwiches, and burgers. They also offer a selection of beer and wine.

  5. The 1690 Culinary Market: This restaurant is a market and café, they offer a variety of prepared foods, such as sandwiches, salads, and soups. They also offer a selection of fresh seafood, meats, and produce.

  6. Neptune Surfside Grill: This restaurant is located on the beach and offers a variety of seafood options, such as fish, shellfish, and crab cakes. They also offer a selection of sandwiches, burgers, and salads.

  7. Harvey Cedars Pizza Shack: This restaurant is known for its pizza and Italian cuisine. They offer a variety of pizza options, as well as pasta dishes and sandwiches. They also offer a selection of beer and wine.

  8. Scojo's: This restaurant is known for its casual atmosphere and delicious food. They offer a variety of seafood, sandwiches, and burgers. They also offer a selection of beer and wine.

  9. The Beach House Restaurant: This restaurant is located on the beach and offers a variety of seafood options

  10. Long Beach Island: This 18-mile long island offers a variety of beaches, shops, and restaurants for visitors to enjoy.

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

  12. Barnegat Bay: Visitors can explore this bay by boat, kayak or canoe, which offers a variety of wildlife and bird species.

  13. High Bar Harbor Nature Reserve: This nature reserve offers hiking trails, bird watching, and opportunities to spot dolphins and seals.

  14. Harvey Cedars Marina: This marina offers boat rentals, fishing charters, and sunset cruises.

  15. Loveladies Harbor: This harbor offers a variety of water sports, such as jet skiing and paddle boarding.

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

  17. Bay Village: This historic village offers a variety of shops, restaurants, and a small beach.

  18. Fantasy Island Amusement Park: This amusement park offers a variety of rides, games, and attractions.

  19. Barnegat Bay Decoy and Baymen's Museum: This museum offers exhibits on the history of decoy carving and the area's baymen.

  20. LBI Fly International Kite Festival: This festival takes place annually and offers kite flying demonstrations and workshops.

  21. LBI Historical Museum: This museum offers exhibits on the history of Long Beach Island and the surrounding area.

  22. Beach Haven: This town offers a lively boardwalk, a variety of shops, and restaurants.

  23. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge: This refuge offers hiking trails, bird watching, and opportunities to spot other wildlife.

  24. The Surflight Theatre: This theater offers a variety of live performances, such as plays, musicals, and concerts.

  25. Jersey Shore Outlet Mall:  This Simon Property group mall has the top fashion outlets in an outside mall setting, about 45 minutes from LBI

Things to do in Harvey Cedars' Town, Beach, and Boardwalk

  1. Beach activities: Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing at the local beaches.

  2. Fishing: Visitors can fish at the local marina or take a fishing charter to catch a variety of fish such as striped bass, bluefish, and fluke.

  3. Boating: Visitors can rent boats, kayaks or canoes to explore the Barnegat Bay, which is home to a variety of wildlife and bird species.

  4. Hiking: Visitors can hike on the nature reserve trails, such as High Bar Harbor Nature Reserve, to spot birds and other wildlife, including dolphins and seals.

  5. Biking: Visitors can rent bikes to explore the local bike paths and trails.

  6. Surfing: Visitors can take lessons or rent equipment to catch some waves at the local beaches.

  7. Shopping: Visitors can explore the local shops and boutiques for souvenirs and unique items.

  8. Dining: Visitors can enjoy the local seafood and other cuisines at the restaurants in town.

  9. Day spa: Visitors can indulge in a spa day at one of the local day spas.

  10. Art galleries: Visitors can explore the local art galleries to view and purchase artworks.

  11. Wineries: Visitors can take a tour of one of the local wineries and taste the wines.

  12. Golf: Visitors can play golf at one of the local golf courses or country clubs.

  13. Bird watching: Visitors can spot a variety of bird species, such as osprey and egrets, in the area.

  14. Amusement park: Visitors can enjoy rides, games and attractions at the Fantasy Island Amusement Park.

  15. Historical and cultural activities: Visitors can learn about the area's history and culture by visiting the LBI Historical Museum, the Barnegat Bay Decoy and Baymen's Museum, or the Surflight Theatre, which offers live performances such as plays, musicals and concerts.

Romantic Things to do in Harvey Cedars

  1. Take a sunset stroll on the beach: Holding hands as the sun sets over the ocean is a romantic and timeless way to spend an evening.

  2. Have a picnic on the beach: Pack a romantic dinner for two and enjoy it on the beach as the sun sets.

  3. Take a romantic boat ride: Rent a boat or take a charter and enjoy the ocean views together.

  4. Go for a horse-drawn carriage ride: Take a romantic tour of the town in a horse-drawn carriage.

  5. Have a couples massage: Relax and rejuvenate together with a couples massage at a local spa.

  6. Take a wine tasting tour: Visit local wineries and sample some of the area's best wines.

  7. Have a romantic dinner at a fine-dining restaurant: Enjoy a candlelit dinner together at one of the island's many upscale restaurants.

  8. Go stargazing: Take a blanket and lie on the beach to watch the stars together.

  9. Take a romantic bike ride: Rent bikes and explore the island together.

  10. Take a romantic walk on the boardwalk: Holding hands and taking a romantic walk on the boardwalk is a classic way to spend an evening.

  11. Go for a romantic hike: Take a hike on one of the nearby nature trails and enjoy the natural beauty of the island.

  12. Take a romantic cooking class: Learn to cook a new dish together at a local cooking class.

  13. Take a sunset sail: Enjoy the ocean views as the sun sets on a romantic sailboat ride.

  14. Have a bonfire on the beach: Spend the evening cuddled up together by a bonfire on the beach.

Things to do with Children in Harvey Cedars

  1. Beach activities: The beaches in Harvey Cedars are perfect for children, they can enjoy swimming, building sandcastles, and playing in the sand.

  2. Fishing: Fishing is a fun and interactive activity for children, they can learn about different types of fish, how to cast a line and the patience required to catch a fish.

  3. Nature walks: Children can explore the local nature reserve trails, such as High Bar Harbor Nature Reserve, to spot birds and other wildlife, including dolphins and seals. They can learn about the different animals and plants that live in the area.

  4. Ice Cream: Treating kids with an ice cream cone from one of the local ice cream parlor is always a fun way to make them happy, it's a sweet and delicious reward for them.

  5. Mini-golf: Mini-golf is a great way to get children outdoors and active, it's a fun and interactive activity that can be enjoyed by the whole family.

  6. Beach Library: Harvey Cedars has a Beach Library which is a great place to take children, they can borrow books and enjoy a quiet reading time.

  7. Bay Village: This historic village offers a variety of shops, restaurants, and a small beach, children can explore and learn about the history of the village and the surrounding area.

  8. Playground: Harvey Cedars has a playground for children to enjoy, it's a great way to let them burn off some energy.

  9. Kite flying: Kids can fly kites on the beach, it's a fun and simple activity that can be enjoyed by children of all ages.

  10. Water sports: Visitors can rent water sports equipment such as kayaks, paddleboards and canoes, it's a great way for children to learn about the bay, and have fun at the same time.

  11. Beach games: Children can play beach games such as frisbee, beach volleyball, and soccer, it's a fun way to spend a day on the beach.

  12. Movie night: Harvey Cedars has a movie night on the beach, it's a fun and unique way for families to spend an evening together.

  13. Lighthouse tours: Children can take a tour of the Barnegat Lighthouse, it's a fun and educational experience that will teach them about the history and importance of lighthouses.

  14. Boardwalk: Visitors can take a walk on the boardwalk, it's a fun way to explore the local shops and restaurants, and enjoy the ocean view.

  15. Amusement park: Fantasy Island Amusement Park offers a variety of rides, games, and attractions for children to enjoy.

Favorite Restaurants and Eateries in and around Harvey Cedars

  1. Surf City Fishery Co: This seafood market offers a wide selection of fresh fish and seafood, as well as prepared meals to take home. They also have a small café that serves fresh seafood sandwiches and other seafood dishes.

  2. La Spiaggia Restaurant: This Italian restaurant is known for its homemade pasta dishes, fresh seafood, and friendly service.

  3. Ship Bottom Shell Fish: This seafood market offers a variety of fresh shellfish and seafood, as well as prepared meals to take home.

  4. Raimondo's: This Italian restaurant offers a variety of homemade pasta dishes, fresh seafood, and wood-fired pizzas. They also have a small bar that serves a selection of craft beers and wines.

  5. Port Hole Cafe: This casual seafood restaurant offers a variety of seafood dishes, sandwiches and salads. They also have a small bar that serves a selection of beers and wines.

  6. The Arlington: This American restaurant offers a variety of dishes such as seafood, steak, chicken and vegetarian options. They also have a small bar that serves a selection of beers and wines.

  7. Salt Kitchen & Bar: This seafood restaurant offers a variety of seafood dishes, sandwiches, and salads. They also have a small bar that serves a selection of beers and wines.

  8. Mystic Meat & Seafood Market: This seafood market offers a wide selection of fresh fish and seafood, as well as prepared meals to take home.

  9. Gregory's: This Italian restaurant offers a variety of homemade pasta dishes, fresh seafood, and wood-fired pizzas. They also have a small bar that serves a selection of craft beers and wines.

  10. Dune 18 Restaurant: This American restaurant offers a variety of dishes such as seafood, steak, chicken and vegetarian options. They also have a small bar that serves a selection of beers and wines.

  11. Bageleddi's: This casual bagel shop serves a variety of bagel sandwiches, pastries, and coffee.

  12. Russo's Italian Restaurant: This Italian restaurant offers a variety of homemade pasta dishes, fresh seafood, and wood-fired pizzas. They also have a small bar that serves a selection of craft beers and wines.

  13. Speakeasy Pizzeria & Restaurant: This pizzeria serves a variety of pizza, sandwiches, and salads. They also have a small bar that serves a selection of beers and wines.

  14. Zen Sushi Asian Cuisine: This Japanese restaurant serves a variety of sushi, sashimi, and other Japanese dishes.

  15. Shore Good Donuts Inc: This doughnut shop serves a variety of doughnuts, coffee and pastries.

  16. Gateway Restaurant: This American restaurant offers a variety of dishes such as seafood, steak, chicken and vegetarian options. They also have a small bar that serves a selection of beers and wines.

  17. The Local Market & Kitchen: This café and market offers a variety of sandwiches, salads, soups and artisanal products.

  18. Jayson's Pancake House: This casual pancake house serves a variety of pancakes, waffles, and other breakfast dishes.

  19. L B I Pancake House: This casual pancake house serves a variety of pancakes, waffles, and other breakfast dishes.

  20. Greenhouse Cafe: This café serves a variety of sandwiches, soups, and salads.

  21. Ravioli & More: This Italian restaurant offers a variety of homemade pasta dishes, fresh seafood, and wood-fired pizzas.

  22. Dark Star Cafe: This casual café serves a variety of sandwiches, soups, and salads.

  23. Dunkin': This is a popular chain donut and coffee shop, they serve a variety of donuts, breakfast sandwiches and beverages.

  24. A Little Bite of Italy: This Italian restaurant offers a variety of traditional Italian dishes such as pasta, pizza, and seafood.

  25. Surf Taco Coastal Cuisine: This casual restaurant serves a variety of Mexican-inspired dishes such as tacos, burritos, and quesadillas.

  26. Vincents Chair Caning: This shop specializes in chair caning and furniture repair.

  27. The Big Dipper: This ice cream shop serves a variety of ice cream flavors and toppings.

  28. Side Door Donuts & Coffee: This donut shop serves a variety of donuts, coffee, and other breakfast items.

  29. Biggy's Beach Grill: This casual restaurant serves a variety of American dishes such as burgers, sandwiches, and salads.

  30. Maristella's Luncheonette: This casual café serves a variety of sandwiches, soups, and salads.

  31. Joey's Pizza: This pizzeria serves a variety of pizza, sandwiches, and salads.

  32. Gateway Lounge & Liquors: This bar serves a variety of beers, wines, and cocktails.

  33. Old Causeway: This seafood restaurant is known for its fresh seafood dishes and extensive raw bar selection. They also have a bar that serves a variety of beers and wines.

  34. Little Sumo's: This casual sushi restaurant serves a variety of sushi rolls, sashimi, and other Japanese dishes.

  35. Northside Bar & Grille: This casual restaurant serves a variety of American dishes such as burgers, sandwiches, and salads. They also have a bar that serves a variety of beers and wines.

  36. Blue Claw Seafood Market: This seafood market offers a wide selection of fresh fish and seafood, as well as prepared meals to take home.

  37. New Eatery Lic: This is a casual restaurant that serves a variety of dishes, such as seafood, steak, chicken and vegetarian options.

  38. Lex Mex: This casual Mexican restaurant serves a variety of traditional Mexican dishes such as tacos, burritos, and enchiladas.

  39. Anthony's Trattoria: This Italian restaurant offers a variety of homemade pasta dishes, fresh seafood, and wood-fired pizzas. They also have a small bar that serves a selection of craft beers and wines.

  40. Bisque Restaurant: This seafood restaurant serves a variety of seafood dishes, sandwiches, and salads. They also have a small bar that serves a selection of beers and wines.

  41. The Tavern at Black Eyed Susans: This casual restaurant serves a variety of American dishes such as burgers, sandwiches, and salads. They also have a bar that serves a variety of beers and wines.

  42. Smokin Chicks Got Wood BBQ: This casual BBQ restaurant serves a variety of BBQ dishes such as ribs, pulled pork, and brisket.

  43. Mc Seafood Mkt: This seafood market offers a wide selection of fresh fish and seafood, as well as prepared meals to take home.

  44. The Dutchmans: This casual seafood restaurant serves a variety of seafood dishes, sandwiches, and salads. They also have a small bar that serves a selection of beers and wines.

  45. How You Brewin Internet Cafe: This café serves a variety of coffee and tea drinks, sandwiches and pastries. They also provide internet service and a small seating area.

  46. Wally Mitchell's Luncheonette: This casual café serves a variety of sandwiches, soups, and salads.

  47. Panzone's Pizza: This pizzeria serves a variety of pizza, sandwiches, and salads.

  48. Surf City Pizza: This pizzeria serves a variety of pizza, sandwiches, and salads.

  49. Shore Fire Grille: This casual restaurant serves a variety of American dishes such as burgers, sandwiches, and salads. They also have a bar that serves a variety of beers and wines. They also have a small seating area where they can enjoy live music and special events.

  50. The Octopus's Garden: This seafood restaurant is known for its fresh seafood dishes, including raw bar selection and sushi. They also have a bar that serves a variety of beers, wines and craft cocktails. The atmosphere is casual and elegant, with a focus on ocean-inspired decor. The restaurant has a cozy outdoor seating area with fire pits, perfect for enjoying a meal or a drink on a nice evening.

Harvey Cedars History

  • Harvey Cedars is a small borough located on Long Beach Island in Ocean County, New Jersey. The history of Harvey Cedars dates back to the 1700s, when the Lenni-Lenape Native Americans lived in the area. In the early 1800s, the island was mostly used for farming, fishing and hunting.

  • In the late 1800s, Harvey Cedars began to develop as a summer resort. The first hotel, the Harvey Cedars Hotel, was built in 1869 by Captain Stephen L. Smith. The hotel was followed by the construction of several more hotels, boarding houses, and cottages.

  • In the early 1900s, Harvey Cedars became a popular vacation spot for wealthy families from Philadelphia and New York City. Many of these families built large Victorian-style homes on the island.

  • During the 1920s, Harvey Cedars was incorporated as a borough. The development of the automobile made it easier for people to travel to Long Beach Island, and the island's population began to grow.

  • In the 1930s, the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) built a seawall to protect the island from storms. The CCC also built the dunes and planted beach grass to help stabilize the sand.

  • During World War II, the island was used as a training ground for the US Coast Guard. After the war, many of the large Victorian homes were torn down and replaced with smaller, more modern homes.

  • In the 1960s and 1970s, Harvey Cedars and Long Beach Island experienced a building boom. Many new homes and condominiums were built on the island.

  • Some of the notable names in the history of Harvey Cedars are Captain Stephen L. Smith, who built the first hotel in 1869, and the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) who built the seawall and dunes to protect the island from storms in the 1930s.

  • Today, Harvey Cedars is a popular vacation spot for families and continue to attract visitors with its beautiful beaches, natural beauty, and recreational activities.

Local Churches

  • Holy Innocents Church

Marine Beach Haven NJ Episcopal

  • Island Baptist Church

215 3rd St Beach Haven NJ Baptist

  • St Francis of Assisi Parish Brant Beach

4700 Long Beach Blvd Beach Haven NJ Roman Catholic

  • Beach Haven Kynett

127 Centre St Beach Haven 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! 

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