Ocean Grove and Asbury Park are special places to us -- equal parts beach town charm, music history and laid-back Jersey Shore energy. We hope you're able to carve out some time to explore and enjoy the area while you're here.
If the weather cooperates, spending time on the beach is a must. And if it doesn't? Well...this is the home of Bruce Springsteen and the E-Street Band, so there is no shortage of places to eat, drink and wander.
Below are a few of our favorites, but you really can't go wrong spending time exploring Cookman Ave or strolling the Asbury Park Boardwalk.
A classic Ocean Grove stop and the perfect post-beach (or post-dinner) treat. Day's serves up old-school scoops with seriously good flavors - and the salted caramel pretzel is a must-order.
If you're craving great sushi, Taka is a must - - a favorite in Asbury Park for a reason. You can't really go wrong, but the Jun San and Firecracker roll paired with the Spicy Rosarita is our favorite. Plus maybe some Junmai Sake!
A local favorite that is awesome for both brunch and pizza. Perfect for fueling a day of exploring or recovering from the night before.
A quintessential Asbury Park spot, the Wonder Bar is a lively bar, grill, a music venue that perfectly captures the Jersey Shore.
One of the most iconic music venues in the country right here in Asbury Park!
If you're in Asbury Park and appreciate great photography or music history, a stop at Danny Clinch's Transparent Gallery is well worth it. A New Jersey native whose work has been featured on album covers and who has captured legends from Bruce Springsteen to Johnny Cash and Tupac.
Pro tip: check their schedule - the space sometimes hosts intimate live performances and events.
September can be an excellent time for fishing at the Jersey Shore. Depending on the year, we may even catch the striped bass migration moving along the coast right around our wedding weekend - making it a great excuse to get out on the water!
If you're looking for a more personalized experience, Shark River Marina offers fantastic private charters with experienced captains who know the waters well. Prefer a bigger group outing? There are also larger boat options like the Miss Belmar, which is perfect for an easy fishing trip with less planning.
Or, if you prefer to keep things simple, you can always bring your own rod and try your luck fishing right from the beach.
If the weather doesn't cooperate, a great bowling alley in the heart of Asbury Park.