Long Branch Beach(Pier Village)

Long Branch offers a diverse range of dining options, catering to various tastes and preferences. One of the top choices is Rooney's Oceanfront Restaurant, known for its seafood and stunning ocean views. Another popular spot is McLoone's Pier House, which offers upscale-casual American dining with a focus on seafood. For Italian cuisine, Sirena Ristorante provides a chic setting with floor-to-ceiling windows offering ocean views. Additionally, Turning Point of Long Branch is a stylish spot for breakfast and sandwiches, while Avenue Long Branch offers French dining with a raw bar and extensive wine list.

For accommodations, Long Branch offers several excellent options. The Ocean Place Resort & Spa is a stylish hotel featuring a spa and sea-view dining, along with indoor and outdoor pools. The Wave Resort provides polished quarters with ocean views, an outdoor pool, and a spa. Another choice is the Bungalow Hotel, a chic beach retreat with modern rooms and kitchenettes, plus a nightclub for evening entertainment.

Long Branch Beach offers a variety of amenities to enhance visitor experiences. Restrooms are available at several locations, including Laird Street and the Great Lawn. Showers are also accessible for rinsing off after a swim. The beach features picnic areas where families can enjoy meals together. Additionally, there are shops nearby where visitors can rent beach equipment or purchase essentials like sunblock and beach toys.

Pier Village adds to the amenities with its array of shops, cafes, and restaurants, providing everything needed for a comfortable beach day. The area also includes a 7-Eleven for quick snacks and drinks.

Long Branch Beach offers a range of activities for all ages. Swimming and sunbathing are popular pastimes, while the nearby surf shops provide opportunities for surfing lessons. Visitors can also enjoy strolling or jogging along the boardwalk, which is pet-friendly. For families, building sandcastles and playing beach volleyball are favorite activities. The area hosts various events throughout the year, including live music performances and festivals.

The beach is also a great spot for kayaking or paddleboarding, with calm waters suitable for beginners. During the summer months, lifeguards are on duty to ensure safety.

Long Branch Beach offers several accessibility features to ensure that all visitors can enjoy the area. There are six wheelchair-accessible locations, including sand ramps and wooden ramps, providing easy access to the beach. Additionally, surf chairs and water wheelchairs are available for those with mobility impairments. Restrooms at locations like Laird Street and the Great Lawn are also wheelchair-accessible, ensuring that everyone can comfortably use the facilities.

Parking in Long Branch can be challenging, especially during peak season. There are several parking options available, including street parking and city-owned lots. The fee for parking is typically $3 per hour, with some garages offering full-day parking for a higher fee. Visitors often find themselves circling to find a spot, so patience is advised. It's also worth noting that beach passes are required, costing $5 per adult on weekdays and $7 on weekends and holidays.

For those planning to stay longer, it might be more economical to park in one of the city's garages or lots, even though they can be more expensive. The proximity to the beach varies depending on the parking location, but most spots are within walking distance.

Long Branch has a rich history as a resort town, once attracting U.S. presidents like Ulysses S. Grant and Woodrow Wilson. It was also the inspiration for the famous Long Branch Saloon in Dodge City, Kansas. The area has undergone significant redevelopment, transforming it into the vibrant beach town it is today.

Long Branch is also known for its stunning sunrises, making it a popular spot for early risers. The beach itself is well-maintained and clean, providing a perfect setting for family vacations or romantic getaways.

Long Branch is surrounded by several attractions that make it a compelling destination. The nearby Seven Presidents Oceanfront Park is a must-visit, named after the U.S. presidents who have visited the area. The park offers beautiful ocean views and is perfect for picnics or leisurely walks. Additionally, the historic Pier Village is a major draw, with its shops, restaurants, and lively atmosphere.

For those interested in exploring beyond the beach, Long Branch is close to other Jersey Shore towns like Asbury Park and Point Pleasant, each offering their own unique attractions and experiences.