1 Day in Bradley Beach
Your perfect relaxed and affordable day trip
Bradley Beach is known for its relaxed and affordable, making it a perfect day trip destination from NYC, Philadelphia, or anywhere in New Jersey. This hour-by-hour itinerary will help you make the most of your visit, from beach and boardwalk walk in the morning to casual dinner on Main Street as the sun sets. Don't miss Beachfront gazebos - it's the iconic Bradley Beach experience.
Book Bradley Beach Activities
Skip the lines - book tours and attractions ahead of your visit
🌅 Morning
Early Arrival & Parking
Arrive early to secure parking in Bradley Beach. Most meters start at 8 or 9 AM, so early birds get the best spots near the beach.
💡 Tip: Bring quarters for meters or download the parking app
Coffee & Breakfast
Grab a coffee and light breakfast before hitting the beach. Bradley Beach has several excellent breakfast spots near the main beach area.
Beach and boardwalk walk
Start your Bradley Beach day with beach and boardwalk walk. This is when the beaches are least crowded and the morning light is perfect.
💡 Tip: Bradley Beach's affordable and low-key makes this a great morning activity
☀️ Afternoon
Lunch Break
Head to Vic's Italian Restaurant or one of Bradley Beach's other popular lunch spots. Beat the rush by arriving right at noon.
💡 Tip: Make reservations for popular restaurants, especially on weekends
Main Street browsing
Spend your afternoon with Main Street browsing. This is peak activity time in Bradley Beach.
Ice Cream or Snack Break
Cool down with ice cream or a refreshing drink. Bradley Beach has classic shore treats worth trying.
🌅 Evening
Casual dinner on Main Street
As the day winds down, enjoy casual dinner on Main Street. This is when Bradley Beach takes on a magical golden-hour glow.
Dinner
End your day with dinner at one of Bradley Beach's restaurants. Seafood is the obvious choice at the shore!
💡 Tip: Many restaurants have outdoor seating - ask for a table with a view
Evening Stroll or Departure
Take a final walk along the boardwalk or beach before heading home. Or linger longer if you have the energy!
Budget Breakdown
Practical Tips
📅 Best Day to Visit
Weekdays are less crowded and often have easier parking. If visiting on a weekend, arrive by 8 AM to secure parking.
🅿️ Parking
Street parking fills up fast in Bradley Beach. Look for municipal lots or use a parking app to find spots. Some areas have 2-hour limits, so check signs carefully.
🍽️ Food
Vic's Italian Restaurant is a local favorite, but reservations are recommended for dinner, especially on weekends. For a quick bite, try the boardwalk food stands.
👥 Crowds
Summer weekends are the busiest. For a more relaxed experience, visit in late May, early June, or September when the weather is still great but crowds are lighter.
What to Bring
🌧️ Rainy Day Alternatives
- •Visit local museums or galleries
- •Explore antique shops and boutiques
- •Catch a movie at a local theater
- •Indoor arcade games
- •Extended lunch at a cozy restaurant
Bradley Beach Day Trip FAQ
Tours & Activities
Book with free cancellation
Some links may earn us a commission. Learn more