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Mantoloking, NJ

Welcome to Mantoloking, NJ, the perfect destination for your summer vacation! Nestled on the Jersey Shore, Mantoloking offers miles of white sandy beaches, clear blue waters, and endless opportunities for fun and adventure.  It is the perfect vacation destination for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.

One of the most popular attractions in Mantoloking is the beach. Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and playing in the waves. The beach also offers a variety of water sports, including jet skiing, parasailing, and stand-up paddleboarding. Beach umbrellas, chairs, and kayaks are available for rent.  The Mantoloking Beach Club, the Mantoloking Yacht Club, and the Mantoloking Bridge Club are all popular spots for visitors to spend a day at the beach. Visitors can also take a sunset cruise on a sailboat or motorboat, or rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore Barnegat Bay.

 

For those looking for more adventure, Mantoloking offers a variety of outdoor activities. Go for a hike in Island Beach State Park, where you can spot a variety of wildlife and take in stunning views of the ocean. Or, take a bike ride on the Barnegat Bay Island Trail, a scenic trail that winds through wetlands and woodlands.  Mantoloking offers a variety of children-friendly activities. The Point Pleasant and the Seaside Heights boardwalk features an amusement park, with rides, games, and a Ferris wheel. There is also a miniature golf course and an indoor water park, where kids can cool off and have fun. 

Mantoloking also has a rich history that visitors can explore. The Mantoloking Historical Society Museum, located in the town's historic train station, is a must-see for history buffs. The museum features exhibits on the town's history, including artifacts and photographs from the town's early days as a seaside resort.

The town also offers a variety of dining options, from casual beachside eateries to fine-dining restaurants. Visitors can enjoy fresh seafood, Italian, and American cuisine. After dinner, take a stroll on the boardwalk, where you can find a variety of shops, including beachwear, souvenirs, and ice cream parlors. Shoppers will also find plenty to keep them busy in Mantoloking. The town's main street is home to a variety of unique shops and boutiques, offering everything from clothing and accessories to home decor and gifts. Visitors can also find some great deals at the Mantoloking Flea Market, which is held on the weekends.

Eating is always a great pleasure in Mantoloking, with a variety of restaurants and cafes to choose from. Visitors can enjoy fresh seafood at one of the town's many seafood restaurants, such as the Mantoloking Seafood Restaurant, or grab a slice of pizza at one of the local pizzerias. For those looking for a more upscale dining experience, there are also several fine dining restaurants in town.

In terms of current events, Mantoloking has a variety of events throughout the year. The annual Mantoloking Day is a popular event, featuring a parade, live music, and a variety of food and crafts vendors. Visitors can also enjoy live music at the Mantoloking Summer Concert Series, held every Friday evening in the summer.

Overall, Mantoloking, NJ offers a perfect vacation destination for those looking for a relaxing beach getaway, with plenty of activities, history, shopping, eating, and events to enjoy.

Mantolokings 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.

Mantoloking's 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 Mantoloking.  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. Visit 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 Mantoloking's Town, Beach, and Boardwalk

  1. Beachcombing: Mantoloking has a beautiful stretch of beach that is perfect for beachcombing, sunbathing, and swimming.

  2. Fishing: The Mantoloking Bridge County Park offers a fishing pier and the surrounding waters are popular for catching striped bass, bluefish, and fluke.

  3. Kayaking and Canoeing: Visitors can rent kayaks and canoes to explore Barnegat Bay, which is home to a variety of wildlife and bird species.

  4. Surfing: Mantoloking is known for its surfing, and visitors can take lessons or rent equipment to catch some waves.

  5. Biking: Mantoloking offers bike paths and trails for visitors to explore the area.

  6. Boat tours: Visitors can take boat tours to see the area's lighthouses and explore Barnegat Bay.

  7. Tennis: Mantoloking has public tennis courts available for visitors to use.

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

  9. Bird watching: Mantoloking is home to a variety of bird species, such as osprey and egrets, that can be observed in the area.

  10. Hiking: The area has several hiking trails through the nature preserves and state parks.

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

  12. Dining: Mantoloking has a variety of restaurants offering seafood and other local cuisines.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Romantic Things to do in Mantoloking 

  1. Take a sunset walk on the beach - Holding hands and watching the sunset over the ocean is a romantic and peaceful way to end the day.

  2. Have a picnic on the beach - Pack a basket with your favorite foods and drinks, and enjoy a romantic meal while taking in the ocean views.

  3. Take a boat ride on the bay - Enjoy the serenity of the water and the beautiful scenery while cuddling up with your significant other.

  4. Have a couples' spa day - Relax and unwind with a couples' massage or other spa treatment at one of Mantoloken's luxury spas.

  5. Take a hot air balloon ride - Experience the thrill of floating above the earth while holding hands with your loved one.

  6. Have a romantic dinner on the beach - Many restaurants in Mantoloken offer beachfront dining with romantic settings and delicious cuisine.

  7. Take a sunset sailboat ride - Watch the sunset over the Bay while cuddling up with your partner on a sailboat.

  8. Go stargazing on the beach - Lie on the beach and gaze up at the stars, holding hands and sharing romantic thoughts.

  9. Go for a romantic bike ride - Take a leisurely bike ride along the beach or through the town, holding hands and enjoying each other's company.

  10. Take a romantic walk on the boardwalk - Take a leisurely stroll along the boardwalk, holding hands and taking in the sights and sounds of the ocean.

  11. Have a romantic bonfire on the beach - Build a bonfire on the beach, cuddle up with your loved one, and enjoy the warmth and ambiance of the fire.

  12. Take a romantic sunset cruise - Enjoy a romantic sunset cruise on a boat, sipping champagne and taking in the beautiful views of the ocean.

  13. Go for a romantic hike in Island Beach State Park - Take a romantic hike through the park, enjoying the beautiful scenery and each other's company.

  14. Have a romantic candlelit dinner - Enjoy a romantic candlelit dinner at one of Mantoloken's fine dining restaurants, with delicious food and an intimate atmosphere.

Things to do with Children in Mantoloking

  1. Play on the beach - Kids can build sandcastles, swim in the ocean, and play in the waves for hours of fun in the sun.

  2. Visit the amusement park on the boardwalk - The amusement park offers a variety of rides, games, and a Ferris wheel, providing endless entertainment for kids.

  3. Go mini-golfing - The miniature golf course offers a fun and challenging way for kids to enjoy the outdoors.

  4. Visit the water park - The indoor water park offers a variety of water slides and a lazy river, providing hours of fun and relief from the summer heat.

  5. Take a bike ride on the Barnegat Bay Island Trail - Kids will enjoy the scenic trail that winds through wetlands and woodlands, and have fun exploring the nature.

  6. Go fishing - Kids can try their hand at fishing in the bay, and maybe even catch something they can take home and show off.

  7. Visit the aquarium - The aquarium offers a chance for kids to learn about marine life and see a variety of fish, sharks and sea turtles up close.

  8. Go for a hike in Island Beach State Park - Kids will enjoy exploring the park and spotting a variety of wildlife.

  9. Visit the Science Center - The Science Center offers a variety of interactive exhibits and hands-on activities that teach kids about different scientific concepts.

  10. Have a picnic in the park - Pack a picnic lunch and enjoy a meal together in the park, playing games and enjoying the outdoors.

  11. Go to the movies - Take a break from the sun and catch a kid-friendly movie at the local theater.

  12. Play video games - Many arcades in town offer a variety of video games and redemption games that will keep kids entertained for hours.

  13. Visit the ice cream parlor - Treat kids to a sweet treat at the local ice cream parlor.

  14. Go to the candy store - Kids will love browsing the selection of candy and picking out their favorite treats.

  15. Visit the library - The local library offers a variety of programs and activities, including story time, that will keep kids entertained and help them learn.

Favorite Restaurants and Eateries in and around Lavallette

  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 Mantoloking : 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 Mantoloking 

  • Mantoloking is a borough located on the Jersey Shore in Ocean County, New Jersey. The area was originally inhabited by the Lenni Lenape Native Americans, and later by European settlers in the late 17th and early 18th centuries.

  • During the 18th century, the area was primarily used for farming and fishing. In the late 19th century, the town began to develop as a summer resort destination for wealthy families from New York City and Philadelphia. In 1884, the first hotel, the Mantoloking Inn, was built, and by the early 20th century, several more hotels and boarding houses had been constructed.

  • In the 1920s, the town experienced a building boom as wealthy families began to build grand summer homes along the oceanfront. Many of these homes were designed by prominent architects of the day and were built in a variety of architectural styles, including Victorian, Colonial, and Mediterranean.

  • During World War II, Mantoloking was used as a training ground for the U.S. Coast Guard, and many of the summer homes were converted to barracks and officers' quarters. After the war, the town returned to its role as a summer resort destination, and many of the homes were converted back to private residences.

  • In the 1950s and 1960s, the town experienced another building boom, as developers built large numbers of summer homes and cottages along the bay. By the 1970s, Mantoloking had become a popular destination for families and retirees, and the population began to grow year-round.

  • In 2012, the town was hit hard by Hurricane Sandy, which caused severe damage to many of the homes and businesses along the oceanfront. Since then, the town has undergone a rebuilding and recovery effort, with many of the homes and businesses being restored or rebuilt. Today, Mantoloking is a popular destination for visitors looking for a relaxing and scenic vacation spot, as well as a desirable place to live and raise a family, with a strong sense of community, low crime rate, and a peaceful environment.

Local Churches

  • St Simon-by-the Sea

1332 Ocean Ave Mantoloking NJ  Episcopal​

  • 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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