Hankins Park

Near Lavallette Beach, there are several excellent dining options. The Crabs Claw Inn is a seafood and steakhouse favorite, known for its casual atmosphere and extensive menu featuring crab cakes and oysters. Another popular spot is Meg's Grill, which serves delicious American breakfast and lunch dishes in a cozy setting. For those looking for Asian fusion cuisine, Ohana Grill offers upscale dining with sidewalk seating. Additionally, Channel Marker Cafe provides a casual dining experience with American fare, and Runners Seafood Restaurant and Market is a great choice for seafood lovers.

For accommodations near Lavallette Beach, visitors can choose from several convenient options. The Tradewinds Motor Lodge offers modest rooms with an outdoor pool and complimentary beach passes. The Boardwalk Hotel Charlee Beach Hotel & Beach House rentals provides beachfront lodging with a sundeck. The Lamplight Inn features straightforward rooms with a heated pool, while the Starlight Motel & Luxury Suites offers casual rooms and an outdoor pool.

Lavallette Beach offers several amenities to enhance visitor experience. Lifeguards are on duty, ensuring safety for swimmers. There are restrooms available, although they are not located directly on the boardwalk or beach; instead, they can be found at bayside beaches like Philadelphia Avenue. The beach allows dogs on leashes, making it pet-friendly. For activities, the beach provides ample space for sunbathing, playing beach sports, and collecting seashells.

The town also features a Centennial Gazebo and Gardens, which hosts community events like free movie nights during the summer. However, there are no showers or picnic areas directly on the beach. Visitors can rent equipment for activities like surfing or boating from local businesses.

Lavallette Beach is a haven for various activities. Swimming and surfing are popular pastimes, thanks to the beach's gentle waves. Fishing and boating are also common, with opportunities to rent equipment from local vendors. The beach is ideal for long walks and collecting seashells, making it a great spot for families and nature enthusiasts. Additionally, the nearby boardwalk is perfect for jogging or leisurely strolls, offering beautiful ocean views.

For those interested in exploring beyond the beach, Lavallette's bay side offers public beaches and scenic spots like the Centennial Gazebo and Gardens. The area is also rich in history, with landmarks like Hankins Island, which is named after a local boat builder.

Lavallette Beach and its surrounding areas offer some accessibility features. The beach itself does not have specific ramps or wheelchair-accessible paths directly onto the sand, but the boardwalk is generally accessible for walkers and joggers. Many local restaurants and hotels provide wheelchair-accessible entrances, restrooms, and seating areas, ensuring that visitors with disabilities can enjoy dining and lodging options in the area.

However, there are no specific wheelchair rentals available at the beach, so visitors may need to arrange for these services in advance. Overall, while there are some accessibility features, it is advisable for visitors with mobility needs to plan ahead and contact local businesses for specific accommodations.

Parking in Lavallette is generally accessible, with free street parking available throughout the town. However, during peak summer months, parking can become limited, especially near the beach. There are no large parking lots directly on the beach, but visitors can park along residential streets or use the limited parking areas near the boardwalk. It is advisable to arrive early to secure a spot, especially on weekends or during special events.

For those staying in local hotels or rentals, many offer on-site parking, which can be convenient for visitors who plan to explore the area extensively.

Lavallette has a rich history, dating back to its incorporation in 1887. It was named after Rear Admiral Elie A. F. La Vallette, whose son was one of the co-founders of the borough. The area was initially known as Squan Beach and developed slowly, with significant growth post-World War II. Charles Hankins, a local boat builder, played a significant role in the town's maritime history, building lifeguard boats used along the Jersey Shore.

The beach itself is famous for its soft sand and is a popular spot for collecting seashells. The town's non-commercial boardwalk is a unique feature, offering a peaceful environment for walkers and joggers. Lavallette has been featured in several movies, adding to its charm as a picturesque coastal town.

Lavallette and its surroundings offer several attractions beyond the beach. One notable spot is Hankins Island, known for its historical significance and the story of Charles Hankins, a renowned boat builder. The island is accessible by boat and offers a glimpse into the area's maritime past. Additionally, the nearby town of Seaside Heights features a famous boardwalk with amusement parks and entertainment options, making it a great day trip from Lavallette.

For nature lovers, the Barnegat Bay area provides opportunities for kayaking and exploring local wildlife. The town itself hosts community events like free movie nights at the Centennial Gazebo and Gardens, adding to its charm as a family-friendly destination.