Point Pleasant BeachorManasquan
Inlet neighbors
Point Pleasant vs Manasquan: Boardwalk or Surf Town?
Separated by the Manasquan Inlet, these neighbors offer different experiences. Point Pleasant Beach has the family-friendly Jenkinson's boardwalk, while Manasquan is known for its inlet surf break and quiet family atmosphere.
Quick Comparison
Notes
- Surfing: Manasquan Inlet is famous
Advertisement
Beaches
Point Pleasant Beach has nice beaches adjacent to the boardwalk, often crowded. Manasquan beaches are popular with locals and surfers, generally less crowded with a more relaxed vibe.
Activities & Attractions
Point Pleasant has Jenkinson's Boardwalk with rides, games, and the aquarium—great for kids. Manasquan is famous for surfing at the inlet, one of the best breaks on the East Coast. Otherwise, Manasquan is quiet.
Advertisement
Dining
Point Pleasant has boardwalk food and several good restaurants. Manasquan has a cute downtown with family restaurants. Neither is a foodie destination.
Accommodations
Point Pleasant has motels near the boardwalk. Manasquan is more residential with vacation rentals. Both are popular day-trip destinations from NYC and North Jersey.
Choose your stay
Check Point Pleasant Beach staysCompare the full price and cancellation terms
Some links may earn us a commission. Learn more
Choose your stay
Check Manasquan staysCompare the full price and cancellation terms
Some links may earn us a commission. Learn more
Getting There
Both about 1-1.5 hours from NYC. Point Pleasant Beach has NJ Transit train service (North Jersey Coast Line). Manasquan requires driving or connecting from the train.
The Verdict: Who Should Go Where?
Best for Families
Point Pleasant Beach for families with young kids who want boardwalk activities. Manasquan for families who prefer a quiet beach day.
Best for Couples
Manasquan for couples seeking a peaceful beach day. Point Pleasant if you want boardwalk strolls.
Best for Budget
Manasquan's season badge is $95 with no daily option; Point Pleasant charges $13 a day. Point Pleasant activities can add up.
Best for Nightlife
Neither is known for nightlife. Belmar is nearby for bars.
Best for Foodies
Neither is a food destination. Standard shore fare in both.
Overall Verdict
Point Pleasant Beach for family entertainment. Manasquan for surfing and a quieter beach experience.
Vacation Rentals in Either Town
Some links may earn us a commission. Learn more
Explore Point Pleasant Beach
Explore Manasquan
Point Pleasant Beach vs Manasquan FAQs
Is Manasquan good for surfing?
Yes! Manasquan Inlet is one of the most famous surf spots on the East Coast. The jetty creates consistent waves that attract surfers from across the region, especially in fall and winter.
Can you walk between Point Pleasant and Manasquan?
Not directly—they're separated by the Manasquan Inlet. You'd need to drive around via Route 35 or take a boat. They're about 10 minutes apart by car.
Is Jenkinson's boardwalk worth visiting?
For families with kids, yes! It has rides, games, mini golf, the aquarium, and classic boardwalk food. It's smaller than Ocean City or Wildwood, so it works as a day trip.