How long is the drive from Philadelphia to Belmar?

The drive from Philadelphia to Belmar takes approximately 1hr 25min without traffic. Weekend summer traffic can add 30-60 minutes, so plan accordingly and leave early.

Is Belmar a good day trip from Philadelphia?

Yes! Belmar is a popular day trip destination. Leave by 8-9 AM to maximize your beach time, and plan to head home by 7-8 PM to avoid late traffic.

What should I bring for a day trip to Belmar?

Bring sunscreen, beach towels, a cooler with snacks/drinks, cash for parking and beach badges, comfortable shoes for walking, and layers for the evening drive home.

Do I need beach badges in Belmar?

Most Jersey Shore beaches require daily badges ($8-12) during summer months. Some beaches like Wildwood are free. Check in advance and bring cash.

Day Trip to Belmar

From Philadelphia • 1hr 25min drive

1hr 25minDrive Time

5Activities

monmouthCounty

Belmar makes an excellent day trip from Philadelphia—just 1hr 25min on the Garden State Parkway. Known for its beach party vibe, Belmar offers beaches, dining, and activities that make it worth the drive.

Getting to Belmar from Philadelphia

🚗

car

1hr 25min

Take the Garden State Parkway. Weekend traffic can add 30-60 minutes—leave early or late evening.

💡 E-ZPass strongly recommended for toll plazas

🚌

bus

46min

NJ Transit bus service available. Routes: 317, 830.

💰 $10-20 one way

Doing Belmar without your own car?

The train and bus get you to town. A one-day rental from Philadelphia gets you to the beaches the schedules skip.

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Things to Do in Belmar

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Your Belmar Day Trip Itinerary

☀️ Morning

8:00 AM

Depart

Leave early to beat traffic and maximize beach time

10:00 AM

Arrive in Belmar

Find parking and get oriented

10:30 AM

Beach time

Claim your spot on the beach

⏱️ 2 hours

🏖️ Afternoon

12:30 PM

Lunch

Grab a casual lunch at a local spot

2:00 PM

Explore

Walk the boardwalk or downtown area

⏱️ 2 hours

4:00 PM

Late beach or activity

Another swim or try a local attraction

🌅 Evening

6:00 PM

Early dinner

Eat before the drive home to avoid rush

7:30 PM

Head home

Depart to avoid late-night traffic

Top Things to Do in Belmar

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D'Jais

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Bar A (Bar Anticipation)

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NJ Sandcastle Contest

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9th Avenue Pier

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Beach Haus Brewery

Where to Eat in Belmar

Spring Lake Wall Sandwiches

Sonny's Grille

Shep's Sandwiches

Sharky's Ocean Bar & Grill

Practical Information

Parking

Metered parking east of Ocean Ave. Free parking west of Ocean Ave (fills early).

Budget

$50-100 per person including gas, tolls, parking, food, and activities. Beach badges typically $8-12/day if required.

Day Trip Tips

Leave early to beat traffic and secure parking
Bring cash for beach badges and parking meters
Pack a cooler with snacks and drinks to save money
Check weather forecast—rain ruins a day trip
Download Google Maps offline in case of spotty cell service

Turn Your Day Trip into a Weekend

Falling in love with Belmar? Turn your day trip into a weekend getaway. Hotels and rentals book fast in summer—reserve ahead.

Popular hotels:

Saltwater Inn BelmarMayfair HotelThe Inn at the Shore

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Belmar Day Trip FAQ

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