Seaside Heights, New Jersey Travel Guide

Discover Seaside Heights: A vibrant beach town along the Jersey Shore with lively boardwalks, pristine beaches, and year-round events. Perfect for families, couples, and solo travelers.

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Seaside Heights

Seaside Heights, located along the Jersey Shore in New Jersey, is a vibrant beach town famed for its lively boardwalk, pristine beaches, and charming seaside attractions. Whether you're a sunbather, thrill-seeker, or foodie, Seaside Heights has something to offer for everyone. The iconic Seaside Heights Boardwalk stretches for miles and is home to classic amusement rides, arcades, and a variety of eateries. Try your luck at one of the many games of chance or enjoy a nostalgic ride on the historic carousel. The boardwalk is also a perfect place for an evening stroll, offering picturesque views of the Atlantic Ocean. Seaside Heights is not just about the beach and boardwalk. The town also hosts numerous events and festivals throughout the year, including the famous Polar Bear Plunge in the winter and exciting summer concerts. Visitors can also explore the nearby Island Beach State Park, a preserved barrier island offering opportunities for fishing, hiking, and bird watching. For those looking to experience the local cuisine, Seaside Heights boasts a variety of dining options, from casual beachside cafes to upscale seafood restaurants. Don't miss out on trying the local seafood delicacies, including fresh clams and crabs. Seaside Heights offers a perfect blend of relaxation and excitement, making it an ideal destination for families, couples, and solo travelers alike. With its welcoming atmosphere and diverse attractions, a visit to Seaside Heights is sure to create lasting memories.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Seaside Heights.

Visit during the off-season for a more peaceful experience and lower accommodation rates.
Parking can be limited during peak season, so consider arriving early or using public transportation.
Don't forget to bring sunscreen and beach gear, as the sun can be strong along the coast.
Check the local event calendar to make the most of your visit and enjoy seasonal festivals and concerts.
Explore nearby Island Beach State Park for a quieter beach experience and a chance to connect with nature.
Try the local seafood at one of the boardwalk's many restaurants for an authentic taste of the Jersey Shore.

Explore Seaside Heights: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Seaside Heights

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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Jenkinson's Aquarium

Discover a world of aquatic wonders at Jenkinson's Aquarium, a family-friendly attraction in Point Pleasant Beach, NJ, showcasing marine life and conservation efforts.

4.6

Barnegat Lighthouse State Park

Explore the historic Barnegat Lighthouse State Park, where maritime history meets breathtaking natural beauty along New Jersey's coastline.

4.8

Seaside Heights Beach

Discover the vibrant Seaside Heights Beach in New Jersey, where sun, sand, and fun come together for an unforgettable seaside experience.

4.5

Casino Pier & Breakwater Beach

Discover endless fun and excitement at Casino Pier & Breakwater Beach, the ultimate amusement destination in Seaside Heights, NJ, perfect for families and thrill-seekers alike.

4.5

Best landmarks in Seaside Heights

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Seaside Heights Beach

Discover the vibrant charm of Seaside Heights Beach, where sun-soaked sands meet thrilling attractions and unforgettable family memories await.

4.5

Casino Pier & Breakwater Beach

Experience endless fun and excitement at Casino Pier & Breakwater Beach - the ultimate amusement park in Seaside Heights, New Jersey.

4.5

The Sawmill

Discover the charm of American cuisine with a touch of Italian flair at The Sawmill, a family-friendly haven on Seaside Park's vibrant boardwalk.

4.4

Shore Store

Discover the charm of the Shore Store in Seaside Heights, NJ, where every souvenir tells a story of your unforgettable beach adventure.

4.3

Best restaurants in Seaside Heights

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The Sawmill

Discover The Sawmill - Seaside Park's premier family-friendly restaurant serving delicious American cuisine and fresh pizza on the boardwalk.

4.4

Bum Rogers Crab House & Tavern

Experience the best of coastal dining at Bum Rogers Crab House & Tavern, where fresh seafood meets casual elegance in Seaside Park.

4.2

Crabs Claw Inn

Experience the flavors of the Jersey Shore at Crabs Claw Inn - where seafood meets steak in a charming coastal setting.

4.3

Spicy Cantina

Experience vibrant Mexican cuisine at Spicy Cantina in Seaside Heights – where every meal is a celebration by the beach.

4.0

Best bars in Seaside Heights

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The Sawmill

Experience the best of American and Italian cuisine at The Sawmill, a family-friendly restaurant on the Seaside Park boardwalk.

4.4

Bum Rogers Crab House & Tavern

Discover the taste of the sea at Bum Rogers Crab House & Tavern, a charming pub in Seaside Park offering fresh crab dishes and a lively atmosphere.

4.2

Spicy Cantina

Discover the vibrant atmosphere and authentic Mexican flavors at Spicy Cantina, the perfect seaside dining experience in Seaside Heights.

4.0

Beachcomber Bar & Grill

Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Beachcomber Bar & Grill, where delicious cuisine meets stunning ocean views in Seaside Heights.

4.3

Best nightclubs in Seaside Heights

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Beachcomber Bar & Grill

Experience the vibrant atmosphere and delicious cuisine at Beachcomber Bar & Grill in Seaside Heights, NJ - your ultimate seaside dining destination.

4.3

Klee's Bar & Grill

Discover the vibrant flavors of Klee's Bar & Grill in Seaside Heights, where delicious grilled favorites meet a lively bar atmosphere.

4.5

Hooks Bar & Grill

Experience the vibrant flavors of Hooks Bar & Grill, where delicious American cuisine meets live music in Seaside Heights.

4.4

JR's Ocean Bar & Grill

Experience the best of seaside dining at JR's Ocean Bar & Grill, where fresh flavors and ocean views meet for an unforgettable meal.

4.1

Best shops in Seaside Heights

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Shore Store

Explore the Shore Store in Seaside Heights for unique NJ souvenirs that capture the spirit of beach life and local culture.

4.3

ACME Markets

Experience the local flavors at ACME Markets, your go-to grocery store in Seaside Heights for fresh produce, baked goods, and more.

4.1

Ocean Seven Body Piercing and Henna Tattoos

Discover unique body piercings and beautiful henna tattoos at Ocean Seven in Seaside Heights, a must-visit for creative expression by the beach.

4.9

Shore Store Body Piercing

Discover the artistry of body piercing at Shore Store Body Piercing in Seaside Heights, NJ, where safety meets self-expression.

5.0

Explore Seaside Heights on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Seaside Heights, mapped for you.

Seaside Heights Essentials

Seaside Heights is easily accessible via several modes of transportation. The nearest major airport is Newark Liberty International Airport, located approximately 60 miles away. From the airport, you can rent a car or take a shuttle service directly to Seaside Heights. For those driving, the town is located off the Garden State Parkway and is well-connected by Route 37. Alternatively, NJ Transit offers bus services to Seaside Heights from various parts of New Jersey.
Once in Seaside Heights, getting around is convenient. The town is relatively small, making walking a viable option for most destinations. For longer distances, local taxis and rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are readily available. During the summer months, a shuttle service operates along the boardwalk and main streets, providing an easy way to hop around town. Bicycles and scooters can also be rented from various shops for a more leisurely way to explore.
The official currency in Seaside Heights, like the rest of the United States, is the US Dollar (USD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted at most hotels, restaurants, and shops. However, it is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments, food vendors, and beach services. ATMs are plentiful throughout the town, especially near the boardwalk and major tourist spots.
Seaside Heights is generally a safe destination for tourists, but it's always important to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas and keep an eye on your personal belongings in crowded places, such as the boardwalk. While there are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, staying vigilant and aware of your surroundings is always recommended.
In case of an emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. The town has local police and fire departments, as well as medical facilities to address emergencies. The nearest hospital is Community Medical Center in Toms River, just a short drive away. It's also wise to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are several pharmacies in town where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.
Fashion: Do dress comfortably and casually, especially for beach activities. Swimsuits are appropriate on the beach but not in town. Religion: Respect local customs and traditions, though the area is not particularly religious. Public Transport: Do use the local shuttle service during peak seasons for convenience. Don't forget to validate your ticket. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'Hello' or 'Hi.' A smile can go a long way. Eating & Drinking: Do try local seafood and boardwalk treats. Don't forget to tip your servers, as it is customary in the United States.
To experience Seaside Heights like a local, take a stroll along the boardwalk early in the morning when it is less crowded. Visit local diners and seafood shacks for authentic meals. Engage with locals, who are generally friendly and eager to share tips about the best spots to visit. Don't miss out on the weekly events and festivals that often take place during the summer months, offering a glimpse into the community's vibrant culture.

When is the best time to visit Seaside Heights?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Seaside Heights

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Seaside Heights. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloHey
  [hey]
- GoodbyeSee ya
  [see ya]
- YesYeah
  [yeah]
- NoNah
  [nah]
- Please/You're welcomeSure thing
  [sure thing]
- Thank youThanks
  [thanks]
- Excuse me/SorryPardon me
  [pardon me]
- How are you?How you doin'?
  [how you doin']
- Fine. And you?Good. You?
  [good. you?]
- Do you speak English?You speak English?
  [you speak English?]
- I don't understandI don't get it
  [i don't get it]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseLet me see the menu, please
  [let me see the menu, please]
- I don't eat meatI don't eat meat
  [i don't eat meat]
- Cheers!Cheers!
  [cheers!]
- I would like to pay, pleaseI'll pay now, please
  [i'll pay now, please]
- Help!Help!
  [help!]
- Go away!Get lost!
  [get lost!]
- Call the Police!Call the cops!
  [call the cops!]
- Call a doctor!Get a doctor!
  [get a doctor!]
- I'm lostI'm lost
  [i'm lost]
- I'm illI'm sick
  [i'm sick]
- I'd like to buy...I wanna buy...
  [i wanna buy...]
- I'm just lookingJust browsing
  [just browsing]
- How much is it?How much?
  [how much?]
- That's too expensiveToo pricey
  [too pricey]
- Can you lower the price?Can you do better?
  [can you do better?]
- What time is it?What time is it?
  [what time is it?]
- It's one o'clockIt's one
  [it's one]
- Half past (10)Half past ten
  [half past ten]
- MorningMorning
  [morning]
- AfternoonAfternoon
  [afternoon]
- EveningEvening
  [evening]
- YesterdayYesterday
  [yesterday]
- TodayToday
  [today]
- TomorrowTomorrow
  [tomorrow]
- 1One
  [one]
- 2Two
  [two]
- 3Three
  [three]
- 4Four
  [four]
- 5Five
  [five]
- 6Six
  [six]
- 7Seven
  [seven]
- 8Eight
  [eight]
- 9Nine
  [nine]
- 10Ten
  [ten]
- Where's a/the...?Where's the...?
  [where's the...?]
- What's the address?Address?
  [address?]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Show me (on the map)?
  [show me (on the map)?]
- When's the next (bus)?Next (bus)?
  [next (bus)?]
- A ticket (to ....)A ticket (to ....)
  [a ticket (to ....)]

History of Seaside Heights

Seaside Heights, located on the Barnegat Peninsula in Ocean County, New Jersey, began as a small, unincorporated area with sparse development. The region's natural beauty and proximity to the Atlantic Ocean made it an attractive location for settlers and businesses in the early 20th century.
Seaside Heights was officially incorporated as a borough in 1913. This period marked the beginning of significant growth and development in the area, with the establishment of boardwalks, piers, and various attractions that would shape its identity as a popular resort destination.
One of the most iconic features of Seaside Heights is its boardwalk, which began construction in the early 20th century. The boardwalk quickly became a central hub for entertainment, featuring amusement rides, games, and food stands. It has undergone numerous expansions and renovations over the decades, solidifying its status as a cultural landmark.
In October 2012, Hurricane Sandy caused extensive damage to Seaside Heights, including its famous boardwalk and many local businesses. The storm's impact was devastating, but it also spurred a remarkable recovery and rebuilding effort that showcased the community's resilience and determination.
Just a year after Hurricane Sandy, Seaside Heights faced another tragedy when a massive fire broke out on the boardwalk in September 2013. The fire destroyed several blocks of businesses and attractions. This event led to further rebuilding and revitalization efforts, with new structures and attractions emerging from the ashes.
Today, Seaside Heights is a vibrant destination known for its lively boardwalk, beautiful beaches, and diverse attractions. The community has embraced both its rich history and modern amenities, making it a beloved spot for visitors and residents alike.