Memorial Day at the Jersey Shore
The official start of summer
What's next at the Shore
The event calendar keeps going past the summer. These are the next dated events on it.
- The Wildwoods Holiday SpectacularDecember 5, 2026 · Wildwood
- First Night Ocean CityDecember 31, 2026 · Ocean City
- Wildwood Polar Bear PlungeJanuary 16, 2027 · Wildwood
- Polar Bear Plunge at Seaside HeightsFebruary 27, 2027 · Seaside Heights
- LBI Surf Fishing ClassicRunning now · August 29 – November 29, 2026 · Long Beach Island
- Cape May Holiday Preview Weekend & Physick Estate Tree LightingNovember 21, 2026 · Cape May
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 season's crowds arrive. Ocean City suits families, Wildwood has free beaches, Atlantic City adds casinos, and Cape May is the Victorian option.
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
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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
The kite festival in Wildwood (May 22-25) features international flyers and an 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
The Lobster House
Cape May
Waterfront seafood landmark
Knife & Fork Inn
Atlantic City
Historic fine dining since 1912
Manco & Manco
Ocean City
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
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Planning Your Memorial Day Getaway
Do's
- • 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
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Frequently Asked Questions
When is Memorial Day Weekend 2026?
Memorial Day 2026 falls on Monday, May 25. The holiday weekend runs from Saturday, May 23 through Monday, May 25, 2026.
Do I need a beach badge on Memorial Day Weekend?
Most Jersey Shore beaches begin requiring badges on Memorial Day Weekend. Wildwood beaches are always FREE. Check specific town policies as some beaches remain free through May.
What is open on Memorial Day Weekend?
Memorial Day marks the official start of summer. All boardwalk rides and attractions open, lifeguards are on duty at most beaches, and all seasonal restaurants begin full operations. It's the first weekend of the 'full shore experience.'
What is the weather like at the Jersey Shore on Memorial Day Weekend?
Memorial Day Weekend typically sees highs of 68-75°F with water temperatures around 60-62°F. Swimming is possible but the water is still cold. Pack layers for cooler evenings.
More Romance at the Shore
Staying overnight for Memorial Day?
Compare stays for your dates, then check the full price and cancellation terms before you book.
Choose your stay
Choose a place in Starlux Boutique Hotel, then check the room and full price for your dates.
Check dates, full price, room details and terms.
Compare the full price and cancellation terms
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Start Your Summer Right
Memorial Day Weekend kicks off the best season at the Jersey Shore.
Book Your Memorial Day Weekend Stay
Choose your stay
Choose a place in Jersey Shore, then check the room and full price for your dates.
Check dates, full price, room details and terms.
Compare the full price and cancellation terms
Some links may earn us a commission. Learn more
Some links may earn us a commission. Learn more