Long Branch

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When you ask what’s new at the Jersey Shore, the answer will most likely involve Long Branch. Long a popular spot for surf, sun and shore fun, the town, with its cutting-edge residential beachside condos and restaurants at Pier Village, has created a buzz all along the northern shore.

Although it’s one of the ritziest spots at the beach, with Avenue (an upscale restaurant), Avenue Nuit nightclub and Le Club beach club, there’s plenty to do even if you don’t have deep pockets.

During the summer, there are free weekly outdoor concerts and movies under the stars and year 'round historic sites, parks, shops and restaurants that offer something for every interest.

One special spot is Seven Presidents Oceanfront Park, named for the U.S. presidents who vacationed here. The park comprises 38 acres and offers an ocean beach, swimming, fishing, boating, volleyball plus a boardwalk.

Don’t miss:

• The Wind Mill (200 Ocean Ave.) for the best fries in the state, according the readers of NJ Monthly Magazine

• Oceanfest, one of the largest July 4 celebration in the state

• Relaxing at Ocean Place Resort and Spa

History: Long Branch has a long history as a resort town, attracting an elite crowd of movers and shakers as early as the late 1700s. Even Mary Lincoln was a guest. The neighborhood of Elberon is where you’ll find the historic Church of Presidents, where all seven presidents who visited Long Branch spent time, now the home of the Long Branch Historical Society.