Memorial Day at the Jersey Shore
The official start of summer
Summer Officially Begins
Memorial Day Weekend marks the official start of summer at the Jersey Shore. Boardwalks come alive with all rides and attractions open, beaches are fully staffed with lifeguards, and the shore transforms into the summer paradise that draws millions of visitors each year. Whether you're looking for family fun in Ocean City, free beaches in Wildwood, casino excitement in Atlantic City, or Victorian elegance in Cape May - the Jersey Shore has your perfect Memorial Day destination.
Romantic Destinations
Wildwood
Free Beaches & Boardwalk Fun
Retro family fun
Ocean City
America's Greatest Family Resort
Classic family vacation
Atlantic City
Beach Ball Drop & Casino Fun
Glamorous getaway
Cape May
Victorian Elegance
Sophisticated charm
Long Beach Island
Island Summer Vibes
Relaxed island escape
Asbury Park
Music & Beach Culture
Hip coastal culture
Romantic Activities
Hit the Beach
Beaches are fully staffed with lifeguards. Most towns require beach badges starting this weekend.
Boardwalk Fun
All rides and attractions open for the season. Morey's Piers, Steel Pier, and Fantasy Island in full operation.
Kite Festival
North America's largest kite festival in Wildwood (May 22-25) features world-class flyers and illuminated night fly.
Fishing Season
LBI Spring Derby and Grand Slam tournaments. Striped bass running strong. Charter boats fully booked.
Live Music
Stone Pony Summer Stage, boardwalk entertainment, and jazz in Cape May. Music everywhere.
Seasonal Dining
All seasonal restaurants officially open. Outdoor patios, waterfront dining, and boardwalk favorites.
Parades & Festivals
Memorial Day parades in Spring Lake, Ocean City, Point Pleasant. Bradley Beach Festival and AC Beach Ball Drop.
Romantic Restaurants
Book reservations early - these spots fill up fast for Memorial Day:
The Lobster House
Cape May
Waterfront seafood landmark
Knife & Fork Inn
Atlantic City
Historic fine dining since 1912
Manco & Manco
Ocean City
Legendary boardwalk pizza
Owen's Pub
Wildwood
Classic shore bar and grill
Pascal & Sabine
Asbury Park
French bistro elegance
The Engleside Inn
Beach Haven
LBI waterfront dining
Porta
Asbury Park
Wood-fired pizza with outdoor seating
The Mad Batter
Cape May
Victorian breakfast and brunch
Planning Your Memorial Day Getaway
Do's
- • Book accommodations 2-3 months in advance
- • Purchase beach badges online before arrival
- • Make dinner reservations for popular restaurants
- • Arrive Friday early to beat traffic
- • Check event schedules for parades and fireworks
- • Bring layers - evenings can still be cool
Don'ts
- • Don't expect to find last-minute lodging
- • Don't leave Sunday evening - traffic is brutal
- • Don't skip the kite festival in Wildwood
- • Don't forget sunscreen - spring sun can burn
- • Don't underestimate parking challenges
Romantic Accommodations
Book your Memorial Day getaway
From Victorian B&Bs with fireplaces to luxurious casino suites, find the perfect romantic retreat. Memorial Day weekend is the busiest winter weekend - book early!
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More Romance at the Shore
Start Your Summer Right
Memorial Day Weekend kicks off the best season at the Jersey Shore. Book early and secure your spot for the official start of summer.