Point Pleasant BeachorBelmar
Day trip from NYC/North Jersey
Point Pleasant vs Belmar: Best North Jersey Shore Day Trip?
Two of the most accessible Jersey Shore destinations from NYC and North Jersey, Point Pleasant Beach and Belmar offer different flavors of the classic shore experience. Point Pleasant brings boardwalk fun while Belmar offers a more laid-back beach town vibe.
Quick Comparison
Notes
- NJ Transit Access: Belmar has direct train access
- Bar Scene: Belmar has more bar options
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Beaches
Both towns have excellent beaches requiring daily badges—$13 in Point Pleasant Beach, $12 in Belmar. Point Pleasant Beach's beaches are adjacent to Jenkinson's Boardwalk, making it easy to combine beach time with attractions. Belmar's mile-long beach is wider and often less crowded, with a more relaxed atmosphere.
Activities & Attractions
Point Pleasant Beach centers on Jenkinson's: the boardwalk has rides, an aquarium, arcade games, and mini golf. Families who want more than a beach day have plenty to do. Belmar is beach-focused with less commercial development, though it has boat rentals on the Shark River and fishing opportunities.
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Dining
Point Pleasant Beach dining revolves around Jenkinson's and the boardwalk—expect typical boardwalk fare plus some sit-down restaurants. Belmar has more diverse dining with beach bars like Bar Anticipation and restaurants along Main Street. Both offer casual beach town food.
Accommodations
Both are popular for day trips rather than overnight stays, but each has motels and vacation rentals. Point Pleasant Beach has more family-oriented lodging. Belmar has options popular with the bar scene crowd.
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Getting There
Belmar wins for transit access—NJ Transit's North Jersey Coast Line stops right in town, a short walk from the beach. Point Pleasant Beach requires a bus transfer or driving. Both are about 1-1.5 hours from NYC by car.
The Verdict: Who Should Go Where?
Best for Families
Point Pleasant Beach wins for families with Jenkinson's aquarium, rides, and boardwalk entertainment.
Best for Couples
Belmar offers a more relaxed beach day with better bar options for evening.
Best for Budget
Similar costs. Belmar saves money on parking and gas if you take NJ Transit.
Best for Nightlife
Belmar has more nightlife options with bars like Bar Anticipation and D'Jais.
Best for Foodies
Neither is a culinary destination. Both offer decent casual dining.
Overall Verdict
Point Pleasant Beach for families and those wanting boardwalk attractions. Belmar for a laid-back beach day with bar scene access and easy train access.
Vacation Rentals in Either Town
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Point Pleasant Beach vs Belmar FAQs
Can I take the train to Point Pleasant Beach?
Not directly to the beach. The NJ Transit train goes to Point Pleasant but not Point Pleasant Beach. You'd need a bus transfer. Belmar has a train station within walking distance of the beach.
Which is better for a day trip from NYC?
Belmar is easier by public transit with direct train access. Point Pleasant Beach is better if you're driving and want boardwalk activities. Both are about the same distance by car.
Which has better nightlife?
Belmar has more bar options including the famous Bar Anticipation and D'Jais. Point Pleasant Beach has Jenkinson's nightclub but fewer overall options.