NJShore Guide

Valentine's Day in Sea Bright

DRIFTHOUSE by celebrity chef David Burke anchors the Northern Shore's most romantic dining scene. Oceanfront fine dining, winter beach walks, and intimate escapes await.

DRIFTHOUSECelebrity Chef
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Feb 142026
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Valentines Day Weekend at a Glance

Fri-Sun

Feb 13-15, 2026

35-45Β°F

Average Temp

DRIFTHOUSE

Book Early

Barrier Beach

Scenic Setting

Why Sea Bright for Valentine's Day?

Sea Bright offers something rare on the Jersey Shore: upscale oceanfront dining without the crowds. DRIFTHOUSE by David Burke has transformed this barrier beach community into a culinary destination, with floor-to-ceiling ocean views and a fireplace lounge perfect for winter romance.

The Northern Shore's quiet charm is ideal for couples seeking intimacy over spectacle. Walk the beach at sunset with the ocean at your side, then warm up with craft cocktails and a tasting menu. Nearby Highlands and Rumson add more dining options for a romantic weekend.

πŸ’• Sample Romantic Weekend

Friday Evening

Check in at Ocean Place Resort (Long Branch) or a local rental. Sunset beach walk in Sea Bright. Dinner at DRIFTHOUSE - book the fireplace lounge.

Saturday

Brunch in Red Bank. Walk Sandy Hook beaches (less crowded). Late afternoon cocktails at Porcini (Highlands). Dinner at Sinner's Steakhouse.

Sunday

Coffee at a local spot. Final beach walk with views of NYC skyline. Brunch before heading home.

Romantic Restaurants

Reserve 2-3 weeks early for valentines day weekend. Many offer special prix-fixe menus.

DRIFTHOUSE by David Burke

$$$$

Contemporary American

Celebrity chef, oceanfront, fireplace lounge

Porcini

$$$

Italian

Highlands, intimate, beloved local spot

Sinner's Steakhouse

$$$$

Steakhouse

A Sinner's Love Affair specials

Inlet Cafe

$$

Seafood

Highlands waterfront

Off The Hook

$$

Seafood

Casual, fresh catch

Catch 19

$$$

Seafood

Nearby Red Bank

DRIFTHOUSE Experience

David Burke's oceanfront restaurant is the centerpiece of any Sea Bright Valentine's:

🍽️

Main Dining Room

Floor-to-ceiling ocean views

🍽️

Fireplace Lounge

Most romantic spot - reserve ahead

🍽️

Craft Cocktails

Creative bar program

🍽️

Tasting Menu

Seasonal multi-course experience

Book DRIFTHOUSE at least 2 weeks ahead for Valentine's weekend. Request fireplace lounge for maximum romance.

Romantic B&Bs & Hotels

Sea Bright's accommodations offer the perfect romantic retreat. Many offer special packages.

Ocean Place Resort

Long Branch

Full resort, spa, near Sea Bright

Sea Bright Beach Rentals

Local options

VRBO/Airbnb, ocean views

Molly Pitcher Inn

Red Bank

Historic waterfront

Bungalow Hotel

Long Branch

Boutique, modern

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Book Romantic Experiences

Romantic Activities

Evening
Dinner at DRIFTHOUSEβ€” Book fireplace lounge
Sunset
Winter Beach Walkβ€” Sea Bright beach, NYC skyline views
Day
Sandy Hook Beachesβ€” Quieter winter beaches
Afternoon
Red Bank Shoppingβ€” Boutiques and cafes

valentines day Weekend Tips

Book Early

  • β€’ DRIFTHOUSE: 2+ weeks ahead
  • β€’ Request fireplace lounge
  • β€’ Weekend rentals go fast
  • β€’ Consider weekday for easier reservations

The Area

  • β€’ Sea Bright is a barrier beach - scenic!
  • β€’ Highlands and Red Bank nearby for variety
  • β€’ Sandy Hook offers quiet winter walks
  • β€’ NYC skyline visible on clear days

Other Romantic Shore Getaways

Frequently Asked Questions

Oceanfront Romance Awaits πŸŒŠπŸ’•

Discover the Northern Shore's most romantic dining at DRIFTHOUSE and beyond.