If you’re thinking about heading to the beach but don’t want the crowds, Sea Bright is one of those small shore towns that feels like you’ve stumbled on a secluded oasis, tucked away from the rest of the shore. Indeed, it’s home to eight private beach clubs (in its prime, there were 20 lining the beach), but you don’t need to be a member to enjoy the beauty and low-key charm of the gorgeous white sand beaches with lots of spots to have a sundowner cocktail and meal across the street along the Shrewsbury River. But what makes Sea Bright unique is the library with ocean views located at the Beach Pavilion, where kids can duck in for an off-sand break and find a beach read. Read on for more about this special barrier island community, just a few miles beyond the Sandy Hook Gateway. (featured photo credit: istock/Wirestock)
Things To Do In Sea Bright, New Jersey
Hit the beach
Tucked away on a narrow strip between the ocean and Shrewsbury River, Sea Bright beaches are never more than steps away from the water on both sides, where you can catch sunrise views on the ocean side and sunsets on the river. There are members-only beach clubs, but don’t let that deter you—Sea Bright Municipal Beach off Ocean Ave offers public access and a soaring pavilion with public restrooms, outdoor showers, and an office to buy badges. For a quieter beach that feels more under the radar (and like a private beach club without the amenities), head down further along Ocean Ave for Anchorage Beach, where surfers and residents set up towels, giving it a locals-only feel and relaxed vibe for families looking for a less crowded scene.
Find a book to read on the sand
If you love a beach read, then you can (literally) get one on the beach at the JW Ross Library & Cultural Center located in the Pavilion on Ocean Avenue. Even if you’re a day tripper, you can stop by the library and browse the books and local artist exhibits that line the walls. Kids will adore the sea-themed children’s section and reading corners, where they can take a break if it’s a hot or windy day on the sand. And while they browse, you can park your phone at the cyber bar and peruse the latest beach reads. And before you go back to the beach, spend a few moments on the oceanfront deck lounging in a comfy chair, while watching the sailboats and waves in the distance. Also, take a look at their events calendar, with library classes for littles and Movies on the Beach on Wednesdays at dusk in July and August.
Sea Bright is a barrier island with sandy beaches, restaurants, a hotel, and a library on the beach (hint: it’s in the pavilion with the blue roof). Photo Credit: istock/DenisTangneyJr
Dine with water views all around
Sea Bright is a solid beach town, but while the beaches are the draw, so are the restaurants with water views. If you’re craving fresh seafood with a side of Atlantic views, Eventide Grille is a laid-back gem perched on the river—grab a crab cake sandwich and watch boats drift by. Woody’s Ocean Grille is a local favorite with delish fish tacos, and kid faves like mac and cheese and burgers. For a beachfront restaurant that delivers food and waves crashing in the background (a rarity on the Jersey shore), the oceanfront Drifthouse by David Burke has fresh cascading seafood towers of lobster, clams, and oysters with imaginative tiki bar cocktails that provide the quintessential sip while watching the sun go down.
What to know before you go
Keep an eye on their Facebook page, since Sea Bright hosts events for children, adults, and families in season. There are children’s reading programs in the library, yoga and Zumba in the Community Center, and a Farmer’s Market too. In May, enjoy three days of the Fireman’s Fair, or in July and August, you can enjoy Bands on the Beach for free. Parking in Sea Bright is available through municipal beach parking with payment at the kiosks and limited street parking. Thinking of spending more time? Check into the oceanfront retreat, the BeachWalk at Sea Bright, with a laid-back vibe, water-view rooms, a private beach area, a seasonal outdoor pool, a private dock, and live music on weekends.
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