Point Pleasant Beach

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For family-friendly beachside fun, it’s hard to beat Point Pleasant Beach. The expansive beach is kept crystal clean and the Boardwalk is great for kids (or just kids at heart) with more than two dozen rides along with games of chance, some of the most competitive miniature golf at the beach and Jenkinson’s Aquarium.

All of the required indulgences are offered along the mile-long Boardwalk, including waffles and ice cream, sausage and peppers, popcorn and cotton candy. There are numerous other dining opportunities, from on-the-go to full-service dining.

Off the Boardwalk, there’s year-round entertainment and dining centered along Arnold Ave., with choices including Uncle Vinnie’s Comedy Club and Europa South restaurant for Portuguese cuisine.

And if it’s not beach weather, don’t despair: Point Pleasant Beach is also an antiquers’ delight. Both Bay and Arnold avenues have a number of spots to hunt for hidden treasures and the Antique Emporium offers 100 dealers conveniently located under one roof.

Don’t miss:

• Casual dining at Martell’s Tiki Bar on the Boardwalk (with premium beachside seating) and Jenkinson’s Pavilion (expansive ocean views)

• Festival of the Sea, a massive street fair held every September that's in its fourth decade, with many, many special events

Local secret: Less expected than standard Boardwalk fare, but just as entertaining, is Jenkinson’s Aquarium. With everything from alligators to sharks, penguins to seals and even a touch tank for curious hands, this is the perfect place to get out of the sun and up close and personal with sea creatures big and small.

Point Pleasant Beach STORIES