Belmar vs Seaside Heights: Party Beaches Compared
Two of the Jersey Shore's most famous party destinations attract young crowds and lively summer scenes. Belmar brings the Irish Riviera bar scene, while Seaside Heights delivers boardwalk chaos and infamous nightlife. Which party beach is right for you?
Quick Comparison
Notes
- Boardwalk: Seaside has the bigger boardwalk
- Bar Scene: Different party vibes
- Drive from NYC: Belmar is closer to North Jersey
- Crowd Vibe: Slightly different demographics
- Beach Quality: Belmar beaches are nicer
🏖️ Beaches
Belmar has clean, wide beaches with a relaxed day-drinking scene on certain blocks. The beaches are well-maintained with lifeguards. Seaside Heights beaches are busy and adjacent to the boardwalk action. Both require badges ($10 daily). Belmar wins on beach quality; Seaside on boardwalk access.
🎢 Activities & Attractions
Seaside Heights has Casino Pier with rides, games, and classic boardwalk attractions. The boardwalk runs for about a mile with endless entertainment. Belmar is more beach-focused during the day with the party scene kicking in at night. Seaside offers more daytime activities.
Tours & Activities
Book with free cancellation
Tours & Activities
Book with free cancellation
🍽️ Dining
Seaside Heights is about boardwalk food - pizza, sausage and peppers, fried everything. Belmar has a better restaurant scene with spots like Talula's and 10th Avenue Burrito. For quality dining, Belmar wins. For classic boardwalk fare, Seaside.
🏨 Accommodations
Seaside Heights has older motels and some vacation rentals. Belmar offers better hotels and share houses. For group rentals, both have options, but Belmar feels more upscale. Seaside is more budget-friendly but less polished.
🚗 Getting There
Belmar is about 1-1.5 hours from NYC via the Parkway, with NJ Transit access. Seaside Heights is 1.5-2 hours from NYC. Belmar's accessibility makes it popular for day trips and summer share houses.
The Verdict: Who Should Go Where?
Best for Families
Neither is ideal for families during summer weekends. Seaside has more kid-friendly boardwalk attractions; Belmar is more of an adult scene.
Best for Couples
Belmar offers a more mature party scene. Seaside Heights is rowdier.
Best for Budget
Seaside Heights is slightly cheaper for accommodations. Both have similar day costs.
Best for Nightlife
Both are excellent. Belmar for Bar A and D'Jais. Seaside for boardwalk bars and clubs.
Best for Foodies
Belmar has a significantly better restaurant scene.
🏆 Overall Verdict
Choose Belmar for a slightly more upscale party beach with better restaurants and easier NYC access. Choose Seaside Heights for classic boardwalk chaos and younger energy.
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Explore Belmar
Beach badges, attractions, dining, and complete guide to Belmar.
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Beach badges, attractions, dining, and complete guide to Seaside Heights.
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