Belmar Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, where to stay, what to eat, and how to get around in Belmar, New Jersey with this comprehensive travel guide.


Belmar, New Jersey is a charming seaside town located in the heart of Jersey Shore. With a lively atmosphere, beautiful beaches, and plenty of activities to enjoy, Belmar is an ideal vacation destination for families, couples, and solo travelers alike. In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll explore the top attractions, best places to stay, where to eat, and much more in Belmar, New Jersey.

Introduction to Belmar

With a population of over 6,000 residents, Belmar has a small-town feel that’s perfect for those who prefer a more relaxed pace than larger cities. The town is known for its beautiful beach and boardwalk, which attracts visitors from all over the world.

List of Places to Visit in Belmar

Belmar offers a range of attractions, from natural landscapes and outdoor adventures to cultural landmarks and historical sites. Here’s a list of the top places to visit in Belmar:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Belmar has a rich history that dates back to the early 1800s. Visitors can explore the town’s heritage through its historic landmarks and museums, including:

  • Belmar Historical Society: This museum offers a unique glimpse into the town’s history, including exhibits on the fishing industry, early settlers, and World War II.
  • Allaire State Park: Located just a few miles from Belmar, Allaire State Park is home to the historic village of Allaire, which was once a thriving iron-working community.
  • Jersey Shore Museum: This museum showcases the region’s natural and cultural history, with exhibits on everything from Native American artifacts to the Jersey Shore’s famous boardwalks.

Natural Attractions of Belmar: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Belmar is a nature lover’s paradise, with plenty of outdoor adventures and scenic landscapes to explore. Here are some of the top natural attractions in Belmar:

  • Belmar Beach and Boardwalk: The town’s picturesque beach is one of its biggest draws, with miles of sandy coastline and a lively boardwalk featuring restaurants, shops, and entertainment.
  • Shark River Park: This expansive park offers hiking and biking trails, fishing and boating opportunities, and picnic areas with stunning views of the river.
  • Belmar Marina: Visitors can take a scenic boat ride from this marina, which offers stunning views of the local coastline and wildlife.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Belmar

Visitors looking to explore Belmar’s natural landscapes can take advantage of its hiking and biking routes. Some of the top trails include:

  • Edgar Felix Bikeway: This 5-mile trail runs from Lake Como to Spring Lake, offering scenic views of the region’s natural landscapes.
  • Allaire State Park: The park’s hiking trails lead visitors through dense forests, past historic buildings, and down to the Manasquan River.
  • Shark River Park: This park features numerous hiking and biking trails, ranging from easy strolls to more challenging hikes through the woods.

Best Things to Do in Belmar: Activities and Tours

Belmar offers a range of activities and tours to suit every taste, from fishing and boating excursions to historical walking tours. Here are a few of the best things to do in Belmar:

  • Fishing and Boating: Visitors can rent a boat or join a fishing charter for an immersive experience along the local waterways.
  • Ghost Tour of Belmar: This tour takes visitors through the town’s historic landmarks, sharing spooky tales and legends along the way.
  • Belmar Parasail: Thrill-seekers can take a parasailing adventure, soaring high above the ocean for breathtaking views of the coast.

Week-Long Itinerary for Belmar

Day Activities
Day 1 Spend the day exploring Belmar Beach and Boardwalk, stopping for lunch at one of the many local eateries.
Day 2 Take a hiking or biking tour of the local parks, enjoying the scenic landscape and wildlife along the way.
Day 3 Join a fishing or boating excursion, soaking up the local culture and history of the region.
Day 4 Visit one of Belmar’s museums or historical landmarks to learn more about the town’s rich heritage.
Day 5 Take a ghost tour of Belmar for an eerie evening adventure, learning about the region’s spookiest legends.
Day 6 Sign up for a parasailing trip for breathtaking views of the coastline and a thrilling adventure.
Day 7 Spend the final day exploring more of the town’s top attractions, or simply relax and enjoy the local scene.

Food and Drink Scene of Belmar

Must-Try Dishes

Belmar offers a wide range of dining options, from casual seafood shacks to upscale restaurants. Here are a few of the must-try dishes in Belmar:

  • Lobster Roll: These iconic sandwiches are a staple of the local cuisine, featuring fresh lobster meat on a buttery roll.
  • Seafood Chowder: Rich and flavorful, this creamy soup is filled with fresh seafood and local ingredients.
  • Italian Subs: Belmar’s proximity to Italian markets means that the area is famous for its delicious Italian sandwiches.

Local Beverages

Belmar’s local craft beer scene is growing, with a range of breweries and taprooms that showcase the region’s best brews. Some of the top local beverage options include:

  • Carton Brewing: This local brewery offers a range of creative brews inspired by the region’s cultural heritage, including the famous Boat beer.
  • Beach Haus Brewery: Located just a few miles from Belmar, this brewery offers a wide range of classic and seasonal brews with a unique coastal flair.

Where to Stay in Belmar: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Belmar offers a range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious seaside resorts. Here are a few of the top places to stay in Belmar:

  • The Inn at the Shore: This charming hotel offers comfortable rooms with ocean views and easy access to the beach and boardwalk.
  • The Atlantic View Inn: Located just a block from the beach, this historic inn offers spacious suites with private bathrooms and stunning views of the coast.
  • Belmar Motor Lodge: This budget-friendly motel offers comfortable rooms at affordable rates, with easy access to all of the town’s top attractions.

What to Buy in Belmar: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Belmar’s independent shops and boutiques offer a range of unique souvenirs and local products to take home. Here are a few of the top items to buy in Belmar:

  • Beach-themed decor: From sea glass and seashells to driftwood and sand dollars, Belmar’s beaches offer a range of treasures to take home.
  • Surf gear: Belmar is known for its surf culture, with many local shops offering surfing and beach gear for visitors.
  • Local art: Several galleries and studios in town offer a range of local art, from traditional paintings to modern sculpture.

Local Culture and Customs of Belmar

Belmar’s laid-back lifestyle and rich cultural heritage make it a unique destination for travelers. Visitors can enjoy the local customs and traditions through its top attractions and events, including:

  • The Belmar St. Patrick’s Day Parade: This annual event draws thousands of visitors to town for a day full of festive fun and celebration.
  • The Belmar Arts Council: This organization offers a range of events and exhibitions featuring local artists and performers throughout the year.
  • The Belmar Beach Music Festival: This annual festival brings together local musicians and performers for a night of fun and entertainment on the beach.

Best Time to Visit Belmar

Belmar is a year-round destination, with each season offering a unique experience. The summer months are the most popular, with warm weather and lively crowds at the beach and boardwalk. Spring and fall offer milder weather and fewer crowds, making it a great time to explore the town’s natural landscapes and cultural landmarks. Winter in Belmar is quiet and peaceful, with many shops and restaurants closed for the season, but visitors can still enjoy the beauty of the winter beach and cozy up in one of the area’s hotels or guesthouses.

Do’s and Don’ts of Belmar

Do:

  • Do explore the local beaches, hiking trails, and natural landscapes to fully experience the beauty of the region.
  • Do try the local seafood and craft beer, which highlight the region’s unique culinary scene.
  • Do respect the local community and culture, and be courteous to fellow visitors.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or damage the local environment, and be sure to follow all local rules and regulations.
  • Don’t underestimate the power of the ocean, and always be aware of the risks associated with swimming or boating.
  • Don’t engage in disruptive or rude behavior, and always be respectful of local customs and traditions.

Safety and Health

Safety in Belmar

Belmar is generally a safe destination for travelers, with a low crime rate and friendly local community. However, visitors should still take basic safety precautions, such as locking doors and windows in their accommodations, avoiding isolated areas after dark, and being aware of their surroundings at all times.

Health in Belmar

Belmar’s healthcare facilities are generally top-notch, with several hospitals and clinics located within a short drive of the town. Visitors should take basic health precautions, such as staying hydrated, wearing sunscreen to protect against the sun’s rays, and taking care of any pre-existing medical conditions while on vacation.

Getting to Belmar: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Belmar

Belmar is located within easy driving distance of several major airports, including:

  • Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR)
  • Philadelphia International Airport (PHL)
  • John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK)

Bus Stations Near Belmar

Several bus stations are located within a short drive of Belmar, including:

  • New Jersey Transit Bus Station in Asbury Park, NJ
  • Academy Bus Station in Neptune, NJ

Other Options

Other transportation options include renting a car or taking a taxi or ride-share service, such as Uber or Lyft.

How to Get Around in Belmar

Visitors can easily move around Belmar and the surrounding area by walking, biking, or driving. The town is relatively small, and most of the top attractions are within easy walking or biking distance of each other. For those looking to venture further afield, renting a car or taking a taxi or ride-share service is the best option.

Where to Go Next from Belmar: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Belmar is located within easy driving distance of several top destinations in New Jersey, including:

  • Asbury Park: This historic seaside town features a range of top attractions, including the Asbury Park Boardwalk and Convention Hall.
  • Monmouth County Park System: This expansive park system offers a range of natural landscapes and outdoor adventures, including hiking trails, fishing opportunities, and picnic areas.
  • Spring Lake: This charming seaside town features beautiful beaches, quaint shops, and historic landmarks.

Conclusion

Belmar, New Jersey offers a range of attractions, activities, and experiences to suit every traveler’s taste. With a vibrant beach culture, natural landscapes, and cultural landmarks, Belmar is a must-visit destination for those looking to experience the best of Jersey Shore. We hope this comprehensive travel guide has been helpful in planning your trip to Belmar, and that you enjoy all the town has to offer.