Belmar vs Asbury Park: Which Monmouth County Beach Town?
Two Monmouth County favorites just 10 minutes apart. Belmar is the classic summer beach party town with famous bars, while Asbury Park has transformed into a cultural hub with live music, restaurants, and LGBTQ+ welcoming vibes.
Quick Comparison
Notes
- Bars/Nightlife: Different vibes
- Music Scene: Asbury is the music destination
- LGBTQ+ Friendly: Asbury is a major LGBTQ+ destination
🏖️ Beaches
Both have quality beaches with train access. Belmar's mile-long beach gets packed on summer weekends with the bar crowd. Asbury's beaches are backed by the boardwalk with restaurants and the iconic Convention Hall.
🎢 Activities & Attractions
Belmar is beach-and-bars focused—spend the day on the sand, the night at Bar Anticipation or D'Jais. Asbury Park offers murals, vintage shopping, the Stone Pony for concerts, and a thriving restaurant/bar scene.
Tours & Activities
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Tours & Activities
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🍽️ Dining
Belmar has beach bars with food and casual shore dining. Asbury Park has a much more developed food scene with Cookman Avenue restaurants, brunch spots, and upscale casual options. Asbury wins for foodies.
🏨 Accommodations
Both have a mix of motels and Airbnbs. Asbury Park has The Asbury hotel, a boutique option. Belmar caters more to the summer rental crowd. Both are affordable compared to southern shore towns.
🚗 Getting There
Both accessible via NJ Transit North Jersey Coast Line from NYC Penn Station (about 1.5 hours). Perfect for car-free day trips or weekends.
The Verdict: Who Should Go Where?
Best for Families
Neither is ideal for young families. Belmar has a party reputation; Asbury is better for families with older kids interested in music/culture.
Best for Couples
Asbury Park for couples who love food, music, and culture. Belmar for couples who want a classic beach party weekend.
Best for Budget
Similar costs. Both affordable by NJ shore standards. Asbury has cheaper badges.
Best for Nightlife
Both are excellent—Belmar for beach bar energy, Asbury for live music and diverse bar scene.
Best for Foodies
Asbury Park has a significantly better restaurant scene.
🏆 Overall Verdict
Belmar for classic Jersey Shore beach parties. Asbury Park for culture, music, great food, and diversity.
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