Seaside Park New Jersey: Travel Guide and Vacation Rentals

Seaside Park New Jersey

Seaside Park is a charming borough on the Jersey Shore of Ocean County, New Jersey, United States. It nestled on a barrier island between the scenic Barnegat Bay to the west and the Atlantic Ocean to the east. 

Unlike the vibrant nightlife of neighboring Seaside Heights in the North end, Seaside Park has more of a peaceful, family-friendly vibe. But don’t get it wrong. This oceanfront destination in the South end still has all the frills of its neighbor—think local restaurants and idyllic beaches—except for the late-night noise.

If Seaside Park is on your next Jersey Shore getaway list, here’s a list of restaurants, bars, and shops around the area you can choose from to make the most of your visit.

 

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Rental Managers in Seaside Park New Jersey

 

 

The Sawmill

Make a beeline for The Sawmill at 1807 Boardwalk for a combination of great food, a lively atmosphere, and a full-on boardwalk experience. It’s a staple boardwalk classic in Seaside Park for a reason. 

On top of all, their oversized pizza and mouthwatering pulled pork sandwich are to die for! They also have a surprisingly spacious setting with almost a dozen large TVs and a fully stocked bar, making it the ultimate spot for a top-notch bar experience, food, and drinks. 
Bum Rogers Crab House 
Don’t miss out on Seaside Park’s Bum Rogers Crab House at 2207 Central Avenue as well for another fun and beachy atmosphere. This local favorite serves amazingly fresh bites, especially their star player—crabs! 

They’re also known for its mouthwatering specialties like lobster, clams, oysters, and a variety of fish. Also, if you’re in the mood for a cold brew, you’re in luck! They have refreshing drinks available daily, making it hard to resist the temptation to linger and soak up the relaxed vibes at this laid-back hangout.

 

Crabby Rick’s Shore Shack

Crabby Rick’s Shore Shack also offers delectable seafood dishes. Though it’s a bit of a journey, being on Route 35, five miles north of Seaside Park, it’s a hidden gem that’s absolutely worth the drive. 

This unassuming roadside favorite in Normandy Beach consistently draws a crowd. Once you take a bite of their lobster roll or crab cake sandwich, you’ll quickly realize why. The freshness and deliciousness of the food are so outstanding that it lures diners from all over the Shore.

 

Charlie’s Homemade Ice Cream

Wrap up your beach day in the best way possible with a cup of ice cream from Charlie’s Homemade Ice Cream at 47 8th Ave. Despite its small size, this ice cream shop has drawn big crowds for 35 long years. 

Since opening in 1984, Charlie’s has crafted a devoted following among Seaside Park beachgoers. Locals and visitors alike adore its ice cream’s old-fashioned aesthetic and rich, creamy homemade goodness.

 

The Music Man Singing Ice Cream Shoppe

If you’re looking for a vacation dessert table, The Music Man Singing Ice Cream Shoppe is a must-try! Although it’s at 2305 Grand Central Ave. Lavallette, it only takes at least six minutes to get there from Seaside Park via NJ-35 S by car.

They’re pretty inclusive, offering options for every sweet-toothed. These include vegan, gluten-free, lactose-free, dairy-free, soy-free, fat-free, and cholesterol-free, to name a few. Still, note that flavors may change depending on the season and availability.

What’s more, their shows make their delicious ice cream even more delightful! They’re known for their vaudeville-style Nightly Broadway Cabaret. Performers move around the entire shop, singing directly to individual guests and even including them in the show. It’s definitely a unique and engaging experience for all ages.

 

Van Holten’s Chocolates & Sweet Shop

Another option for sweet-toothed is the Step into Van Holten’s Chocolates & Sweet Shop at 819 Boardwalk, a 5-minute drive from Seaside Park. It has been a popular specialty and gift shop since 1904. As you walk through their door, you’ll certainly feel the rich history of over a century embracing you.

Besides its classic ambiance, explore its wide array of chocolates, candies, dipped fruits, and freshly baked goods. Among others, Molasses Paddle Pops, Pecan Balls, and unique novelty sodas are great choices! 

They even specialize in popcorn, offering more than 60 flavors, including alehouse pretzel, fried and dill pickle, pineapple, buffalo mac ‘n cheese, and so much more! Don’t worry. They also have vegan, gluten-free, and sugar-free options to choose from.

 

Heavy Reel Brewing Company

For beer lovers, driving up to Heavy Reel Brewing Co. at 1520 Boulevard, Seaside Heights, is another 5-6-minute drive that’s definitely worth the effort, especially since it’s the sole brewery for miles around. It’s a go-to spot not only for flavorful brews but also for fun board games and a laid-back vibe. They’re very family-friendly, even for pups! 

Of course, this taproom boasts a diverse selection of rotating taps. They’re widely popular for their unique brews, including a key lime pie IPA,  peanut butter chocolate imperial stout, and a novel “pizza” beer—yes, beer brewed with actual pizza. It also offers local favorites, such as the Reel Claw and Japanese rice lager.

 

Final Thoughts

Seaside Park, NJ, offers a delightful variety of culinary experiences. From boardwalk bites to relaxing drinks, there’s certainly something for every palate. However, this list doesn’t cover them all. There’s always more to explore in the area, so continue discovering more local gems. Enjoy! 

Map of Seaside Park New Jersey