NJShore Guide

Best Rooftop Bars at the Jersey Shore

Sip cocktails with ocean views. The best rooftop bars from Atlantic City to Asbury Park for sunset drinks and summer vibes.

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Rooftop Bars at the Jersey Shore

Nothing beats sipping a cocktail while watching the sun set over the ocean. The Jersey Shore has developed an impressive rooftop bar scene, from Atlantic City's casino towers to trendy spots in Asbury Park.

The best rooftop bars combine stunning views with quality cocktails and a lively atmosphere. Many feature live DJs, fire pits, and Instagram-worthy decor that makes every visit feel special.

Summer weekends are prime time for rooftops, but shoulder season (May-June, September-October) often offers the best combination of great weather and manageable crowds.

Atlantic City

Casino tower rooftops

#1 Pick

HQ2 Nightclub & Beachclub

Atlantic Cityβ€’Ocean Resort
$$$

Premier rooftop pool club with ocean views and celebrity DJs.

🍸 Try: Signature Cocktails
Pool clubCelebrity DJsOcean viewsVIP experience
πŸŒ… Rooftop Views
#2 Pick

Villain & Saint

Atlantic Cityβ€’Tropicana
$$

Stylish rooftop lounge with skyline views and creative cocktails.

🍸 Try: Craft Cocktails
Skyline viewsCraft cocktailsTrendy vibeDJ nights
πŸŒ… Rooftop Views
#3 Pick

The Deck at Golden Nugget

Atlantic Cityβ€’Golden Nugget
$$

Relaxed pool deck with marina views and casual vibes.

🍸 Try: Frozen Drinks
Pool accessMarina viewsCasual vibeDay parties
πŸŒ… Rooftop Views

Borgata Beer Garden

Atlantic Cityβ€’Borgata
$$

Outdoor beer garden with fire pits and games.

🍸 Try: Craft Beers
Fire pitsGamesCraft beerCasual
πŸŒ… Rooftop Views

Monmouth County

Asbury Park scene

#1 Pick

The Rooftop at Asbury Ocean Club

Asbury Parkβ€’Boardwalk
$$$

Upscale rooftop with panoramic ocean views and elevated cocktails.

🍸 Try: Ocean View Cocktails
Panoramic viewsUpscale vibeHotel rooftopSunset spot
πŸŒ… Rooftop Views
#2 Pick

Porta

Asbury Parkβ€’Downtown
$$

Hip pizza joint with rooftop bar and garden vibes.

🍸 Try: Wood-Fired Pizza
Rooftop gardenPizzaTrendy crowdLocal favorite
πŸŒ… Rooftop Views
#3 Pick

Johnny Mac House of Spirits

Asbury Parkβ€’Boardwalk
$$

Multi-level boardwalk bar with rooftop deck and ocean views.

🍸 Try: Beach Drinks
Boardwalk locationOcean viewsMultiple barsParty vibe
πŸŒ… Rooftop Views

Langosta Lounge

Asbury Parkβ€’Boardwalk
$$

Beachfront spot with rooftop views and Latin-fusion menu.

🍸 Try: Lobster Tacos
BeachfrontLatin vibesTacosSunset views
πŸŒ… Rooftop Views

Ocean County

LBI elevated spots

#1 Pick

The Chicken or the Egg

Beach Havenβ€’Bay Avenue
$$

LBI institution with rooftop deck and sunset views.

🍸 Try: Wings
LBI legendRooftop deckWingsCasual vibe
πŸŒ… Rooftop Views
#2 Pick

Gateway Playhouse Bar

somers-pointβ€’Bay Avenue
$$

Elevated deck with beautiful bay sunset views.

🍸 Try: Bay Views
Bay viewsSunsetsLive musicCasual
πŸŒ… Rooftop Views

Cape May County

Victorian charm elevated

#1 Pick

Harry's Ocean Bar & Grille

Cape Mayβ€’Beach & Decatur
$$

Elevated deck at Congress Hall with ocean and sunset views.

🍸 Try: Sunset Cocktails
Congress HallOcean viewsHistoric settingUpscale casual
πŸŒ… Rooftop Views
#2 Pick

Rusty Nail

Cape Mayβ€’Beach Drive
$$

Classic Cape May beach bar with elevated deck seating.

🍸 Try: Beach Cocktails
Beach locationLive musicClassic barSunsets
πŸŒ… Rooftop Views

Rooftop Bar Tips

πŸŒ…

Arrive for Sunset

The best rooftop experience is during golden hour. Arrive 30-60 minutes before sunset to get a good spot.

πŸ“±

Make Reservations

Popular rooftops fill up fast on weekends. Book ahead or arrive early to avoid waiting.

πŸ‘—

Dress the Part

Most rooftop bars have a smart casual dress code. Skip the flip-flops and beach cover-ups.

🌀️

Check the Weather

Rooftop bars may close or limit capacity in bad weather. Check conditions before heading out.

FAQ

What is the dress code at rooftop bars?

Most rooftop bars have a smart casual dress code. Avoid swimwear, flip-flops, and athletic wear. Some upscale spots may require closed-toe shoes for men.

Do rooftop bars require reservations?

Many rooftop bars accept walk-ins, but reservations are recommended for sunset time and weekends. VIP and cabana experiences typically require booking.

Are rooftop bars kid-friendly?

Most rooftop bars are 21+ only, especially after certain hours. Some allow families during early dinner hoursβ€”call ahead to confirm policies.

What happens if it rains?

Some rooftops have retractable covers or move inside during rain. Others may close. Check with the venue about their weather policy.

What is the best time to visit a rooftop bar?

Arrive 30-60 minutes before sunset for the best experience. You'll get a seat, watch the sunset, and stay for the evening scene.

Are rooftop bars expensive?

Rooftop cocktails typically cost $14-20. Budget-friendly options include happy hour specials and beer-focused spots.

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