The latest update to The Best Jersey Shore Bars by the Beach is written by Lindsay Podolak.
After a long day out in the sun, sand and surf, a refreshing co*cktail can be just what the lifeguard ordered. But, with salty hair and limited clothing, it can feel just a bit awkward entering a restaurant. Fortunately, when it comes to the Jersey Shore, there are plenty of bars by the beach where sandy toes and salty skin are welcome.
We’ve put together a list that will ensure you never have to leave the beach chair too far behind. In fact, these Jersey Shore bars by the beach mean you’re just a few steps to an ice-cold aperitif. It’ll help you forget about that sunburn on your back, we promise.
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The Anchor’s Bend
Location: Asbury Park
Details: Located in “the coolest town in America,” The Anchor’s Bend – located in historic Convention Hall – could arguably be awarded “coolest beach bar in America.” A beach oasis sits just steps from your towel. We can assure you, the co*cktails are plentiful. Come sit at the picnic tables and relax long after the overhead string lights replace the sun’s rays. It’s quite literally a no shirt, no shoes, no problem scenario.
Why I like it: Entertainment ranges from live music to comedy open mic nights. There’s always something fun happening at The Anchor’s Bend.
More Info: Visit theanchorsbend.com or call 732-455-8500.
Labrador Lounge
Location: Normandy Beach
Details: Ok, we’re kind of cheating here, but we can’t help but want to hang out at Labrador Lounge (especially after a visit to the dog beach with your best friend). This local, friendly restaurant happens to be a BYOB, so just be sure to leave some brews in your cooler. Think of it as a “make your own happy hour!” The lounge is open all year long, typically offering seasonal specials that change with the weather.
Why I like it: The beauty of a BYOB establishment is twofold. It’s cheaper than buying drinks at a bar, plus you get to bring whatever alcohol you desire.
More Info: Visit www.labradorlounge.com or call 732-830-5770.
Engleside Inn
Location: Beach Haven
Details: When it’s time for a drink, trade in the beach for “The Sand Bar.” With no need to get your feet wet, or leave your beach set up out of site, this outdoor beach bar will make everyone pretty happy. At Engleside Inn, you can relax with your toes in the sand on one of the Adirondack chairs both before and after you’re done with the beach for the day. In addition to The Sand Bar, Engleside also offers lodging, dining options and a sushi bar.
Why I like it: Lively music, a casual atmosphere and a children’s menu make The Sand Bar entirely kid-friendly, so don’t hesitate to bring the whole family.
More Info: Visit www.engleside.com or call 609-492-1251.
Tiki Bar at The Driftwood
Location: Sea Bright
Details: If you’ve ever wondered what it was like to be a member of a beach club, the Tiki Bar at The Driftwood should give you a pretty good idea. Even if you’ve spent your day at the beach napping on a blanket instead of lounging in a cabana; you’ll feel pretty good about everything after looking at the 180 degrees of clear oceanfront views offered here. The Tiki Bar is only open to members during the summer; but during the off-season, it’s fully enclosed, heated and open to the public.
Why I like it: Members-only means not too many people around while you’re sipping a co*cktail and enjoying all the beach, pool and live music that The Driftwood has to offer.
More Info: Visit www.driftwoodcc.comor call 732-842-0297.
D’Jais Belmar
Location: Belmar
Details: Yes, D’Jais may be known for their all night, after hours parties and dance clubs; but it’s also a relaxed place to take a break from the sun. Just across Ocean Blvd., you’ll find a number of outdoor tables great for sitting and people watching – no fist pumping necessary. D’Jais has been around since 1959, hosting an eclectic range of music seven nights a week. They also have weekly events, including a game night on Tuesdays where you can play a variety of video games on a 10′ (that’s 120”) screen.
Why I like it: Happy hour starts early at D’Jais. On Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, drink specials go from 11:00 am to 9:00 pm, so you can keep the party going all day.
More Info: Visit www.djais.com or call 732-681-5055.
Rooney’s Oceanfront Restaurant
Location: Long Branch
Details: Just down the boardwalk from bustling Pier Village is Rooney’s, an outdoor bar that’s hard to beat; especially when you take into account their happy hour and live music. Once the cool ocean breezes hit you, you’ll be happy you sat at one of the many bar stools. (A plus when it gets crowded – because it does.) With a mantra like “It’s a big ocean, someone has to embrace it,” you can be sure that the staff at Rooney’s will be more than welcoming.
Why I like it: Clams, oysters, jerk wings, shrimp tacos…you won’t leave Rooney’s hungry, that’s for sure!
More Info: Visit www.rooneysocean.com or call 732-870-1200.
The Rusty Nail
Location: Cape May
Details: Sand, fire pits, comfortable chairs, umbrellas and drinks… What else could you ask for from a beach bar? Chill enough for adults, but fun enough for kids (and dogs too), the Rusty Nail offers ocean breezes (big blue is just across the street) and ridiculously delicious food that raises the bar for, well, bars. Kids’ meals come on a souvenir Beach Shack Frisbee; so the whole family has a fun post-meal activity to help burn off those end-of-the-day calories.
Why I like it: Finding it hard to tear yourself away from the beach? Grab a quick drink and then order your meal to go. The Rusty Nail will pack up your beach blanket comfort food so you can have a picnic feast in the sand.
More Info: Visit www.caperesorts.comor call 609-884-0017.
Hero (Top) Feature Image: © Mpc92 / Adobe Stock
Additional Images (in Order) Courtesy:
The Anchor’s Bend / Facebook
Labrador Lounge / Facebook
Engleside Inn / Facebook
Driftwood Tiki Bar / Facebook
D’Jais / Instagram
Rooney’s / Melissa Beveridge
The Rusty Nail / Facebook (via Peach and Port)
