Dan Zarrow’s Top 15 Things to See and Do in Point Pleasant Beach, NJ

New Jersey is home to countless day trips, recreation areas, and staycation destinations.  And I am thrilled to highlight some of my favorites, as part of a special series brought to you by the New Jersey Division of Travel and Tourism.

This month, we just have to celebrate summertime at the Jersey Shore.

There are dozens of NJ beach towns that will have you dreaming of salt air and sea gulls, funnel cakes and ice cream cones. Point Pleasant Beach is extra-special, as the attractions extend well beyond the surf, sand, and boards. The options are surprisingly substantial and diverse, especially considering the borough is less than two square miles in area, with a year-round population of under 5,000.

Beach

Yes, you have to pay for a beach badge to access one of Point's five oceanside beaches.  Yes, you have to find parking, which can be a challenge during peak season.  But once all that is settled, you're ready to relax for the day.  The three largest beaches in town - Jenkinson's, Martell's, and Risden's - have bathhouse facilities with changing rooms and restrooms.  The beaches are wide and easily accessible, and lifeguards are plentiful and well-trained.

Boardwalk

Boardwalk amusements in Point Pleasant Beach are synonymous with Jenkinson's. They now feature over 50 rides, featuring thrills and chills for all ages. Plus, classic boardwalk games, four arcades, and a mysterious "7D" dark ride. Along the way, you'll find food stands and shops of all kinds. The Sweet Shop is ready to satisfy any sweet tooth.

Fun House

I have to specially highlight my all-time favorite attraction at Jenkinson's Boardwalk, the Fun House. When it came to amusement rides, I was quite the chicken as a kid.  But fun houses always excited me, and this is one of the best anywhere. Featuring a mirror maze, optical illusions, spinning tunnels, and other surprises.

Aquarium

One unique attraction within the Jenkinson's complex is the ever-popular aquarium.  Their mission is to "promote awareness of [marine] animals, their habitats and conservation." It is the perfect size for families to stop by for an hour and enjoy. The 58,000 main tank contains colorful fish, fierce sharks, and graceful stingrays. The African penguins, Lucy the seal, and upstairs touch tank are also favorites. I especially love the focus on New Jersey native species within the aquarium exhibits.

Walking to the End

For a more subdued atmosphere, walk north along the Boardwalk, beyond the noise of the rides and the Pavillion. The boardwalk extends for about a half-mile to the Manasquan Inlet. And my wife insists that walking "down to the end" is a must-do during every trip to Point Pleasant Beach. You'll pass elegant and eclectic beach houses. Then watch the fishing boats coming to/from the ocean. You can even gawk at beachgoers across the way in Manasquan. The fence along the inlet used to be a special place to attach a "love lock" in honor of someone special. But as of 2020, the borough outlawed the tradition, citing maintenance costs and environmental concerns.

Tug of War

One of the best charity events in New Jersey takes place every year along the Manasquan Inlet: Tug of War!  The inlet is closed to boat traffic for a day, as teams on the Point Pleasant Beach and Manasquan compete for the coveted Winners' Cup. All proceeds are split between the recreation departments of the two host towns.

Mini Golf

Putt-putting is another classic Jersey Shore activity. And Point Pleasant Beach is home to two miniature golf courses, each with a fun theme. Castaway Cove is a highly-themed, multi-level course, nestled right in the middle of the boardwalk attractions area. Lighthouse Point is the quieter option, located a little further south along Ocean Ave

Restaurants

Your dining options in Point Pleasant Beach extend well beyond fried food and pizza, of course. Martell's Tiki Bar is right on the boardwalk, an immensely popular place to drink, eat, and be entertained.  A bit farther inland - on the other side of Route 35 - you'll find a number of more serene, more elegant dining experiences, including Spano's Ristorante Italiano and Poached Pear Bistro.

Antiques

Practically every Jersey Shore town has eclectic shopping options, and PPB is no exception.  Antique lovers and collectors could spend hours browsing the shops along Arnold Ave, Bay Ave, and Trenton Ave.  Check out Point Pleasant Antique Emporium, Point Pavilion Antique Centre, and Canvas House Antiques for your next special buy.

Uncle Vinnie's Comedy Club

Away from the bright lights of the boardwalk, nightlife in Point Pleasant Beach is somewhat limited. But Uncle Vinnie's Comedy Club is ready to make you laugh, featuring top-notch talent appearing multiple nights a week.  They have "Dinner & Show" packages available, or enjoy your comedy a la carte with show ticket and minimum food purchase.

The River Belle

It's not exclusive to Point Pleasant Beach, but it is a one-of-a-kind experience. The River Queen is a paddle-wheel boat, offering cruises along the Manasquan River, Point Pleasant Canal, and Barnegat Bay.  They offer regular sightseeing cruises, along with dinners and other special events.  They sail out of nearby Brielle, New Jersey, and their cruise calendar is full of sailing options through Labor Day Weekend.

Parasailing

Speaking of sailing, how about soaring 500 feet over the ocean waves with a friend or two?  You have probably seen parasailers reaching those death-defying heights above the beach.  Why not give it a try? Point Pleasant Parasail is open six days a week (weather-permitting).  Apparently you only get a little wet from spray, and don't takeoff from or land in the ocean.  Sounds like an ultimate thrill for those brave enough to fly.

Gull Island County Park

Despite the name, Point Pleasant Beach is not only about "beachy" activities. Gull Island is a county conservation area - literally an island in the Manasquan River, not accessible by foot. But across the way is a small park that offers areas for picnicking, fishing, and launching a canoe/kayak. For those interested in fishing, that area along the Manasquan River has a slew of marinas offering boat rentals and charters.

Festival of the Sea

A great way to experience Point Pleasant Beach, without the craziness of summer Shore traffic, will be the 45th Annual Festival of the Sea coming up in September.  Sponsored by the Point Pleasant Beach Chamber of Commerce, the event will feature vendors, live music, games, food, and family activities.

NJ Transit

It is worth noting that Point Pleasant Beach has its own train station, the next-to-last stop along the NJ Transit North Jersey Coast line. It's a five-block, fifteen-minute walk from the station to the beach, straight down the sidewalks and crosswalks of Central Ave.  So if you're coming from North Jersey and traveling light, the train could be a great way to beat Parkway traffic and parking fees.  Direct train access is a distinct "plus" for Point Pleasant Beach, compared to similar "amusement boardwalk" towns in New Jersey like Seaside Heights, Ocean City, and Wildwood.

Ready to explore Point Pleasant Beach, NJ for yourself? Plan your trip today at VisitNJ.org and discover all of the must-see attractions and exciting adventures waiting for you!