Jersey Shore, NJ Weekend Vacation Getaway
Special Things
This BestWeekends Exclusive uncovers special things to see, do and experience that you won’t find in any guide book. Often they are only known to locals or people who have visited many times. These are things that will truly make your weekend special, things that will make you say, “remember when we…” long after the trip is over.
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Sunrise
If you are an early riser, stop at the 7-Eleven on Main Street in Manasquan for coffee (this is where the locals get their coffee, fresh all day) and a newspaper and then head on down Main Street to the beach. Turn right at the end onto 1st Ave and drive to the inlet. Park your car and walk up to the pavilion overlooking the beach and inlet. The sun will be splashing over the beach, fishing trawlers will be heading to sea and the surfers will be catching the first waves of the day. It’s peaceful, the air is fresh…a great way to start the day.
Picnic
Head to Center Food Market in Manasquan for your lunch and then Spirit of ’76 if you want some wine. Best choices for your picnic are; The Lake in Spring Lake. Rent a boat or canoe from Weekend Outfitters, paddle around the Lake and pull ashore under a shade tree for a leisurely lunch. The Manasquan Reservoir, Howell. This 5 mile nature preserve around the reservoir takes you through the woods and beside the water. Plenty of private spots for an intimate picnic. Fisherman’s Cove, Manasquan. Throw down a blanket, watch the boats go by and enjoy this protected nature preserve
Greetings From Asbury Park
Immortalized by Bruce Springsteen in his debut album, Asbury Park, NJ has
suffered from urban blight for many years. The once glamorous seaside
community was beset by political corruption, fleeing merchants and declining
property values.
I have fond memories of the town from growing up in the area. I saw the
Rolling Stones there at Convention Hall in 1968 (how old am I?). I took dates to
the Paramount Theatre where they piped in clouds as you were watching a movie
and my friends and I used to drive to Asbury for cardboard "containers" of beer
after the bars closed.
Thankfully there is a resurgence under way that while far from complete,
makes Asbury, once again a great place for an evening.
Recently, we did a cocktail and appetizer tour of the town that
was one of the most fun nights we've had in a while. We started at
Mattison Park, housed in an old bank building
and home to the most extensive martini list in town and they're only $5
at Happy Hour. Pizzas are also 1/2 price. They have what looks like a great
tapas menu. From there we stopped at Market in the Middle where
we had great raspberry Mojitos and delicious fried olives (chopped olives and cheese rolled in batter and
fried) that were unbelievable. On to Brickwall Tavern for edamame with sea salt and soy, super mini burgers and cajun seared shrimp with Parmesan grits. Finally to Carmine's for an order of
their incredible eggplant rollotini and pasta with a delicious bolognese sauce. Have a chat with a great bartender, Dave McAllister, before you leave.
For dinner, Taka is a hot Japanese BYOB, one of our
favorites Ole (see our Featured Restaurants) is in
the neighborhood, Moonstruck is the choice of many and the
Salt Water Beach Cafe up on the beach is getting lots of
buzz.
Water Taxi
Sample six restaurants on the Manasquan River by water taxi. Cocktails and appetizers at one, dinner at another and dessert at a third. Taxi stops every hour. Beer and soda served on board. $16 for the night. $20 on Saturday. No reservations required. Pick up taxi at Union Landing or River House in Brielle.
Chap who owns it is selling it at the end of the '07 summer. Who knows what will happen after that. Don't miss this!
Chap who owns it is selling it at the end of the '07 summer. Who knows what will happen after that. Don't miss this!
A Day at the Races
Late morning head to Pier Village on Ocean Avenue in Long Branch for lunch. Browse the wonderful little shops in the Village and have lunch at Avenue,
a delightful and elegant brasserie right on the ocean. Inside is
stylish with a sleek bar, high ceilings and a wonderful fireplace.
Outside on the deck the view is gorgeous. Excellent food, wonderful
wine list. After the track, head over to the Mix Lounge on Brighton Ave in Long Branch. Best martini selection around, great snacking food and a hip atmosphere.