Classic Weekend Getaway
The perfect 2-day Jersey Shore escape
A quintessential Jersey Shore weekend hitting all the highlights: beach time, boardwalk fun, fresh seafood, and stunning sunsets. Perfect for first-timers or anyone looking for a classic shore experience.
Perfect For
Estimated Cost
$500-800 for 2
$250-400 per person
Trip Highlights
- ✓Morning beach time at a classic shore town
- ✓Boardwalk stroll with funnel cake and games
- ✓Fresh seafood dinner with ocean views
- ✓Sunset cocktails on the beach
- ✓Mini golf or arcade games
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Arrival & Beach Day
Theme: Beach & Boardwalk
Point Pleasant Beach
🌅 Morning
Arrive and check into your accommodation
💡 Request early check-in if available, or drop bags and head to beach
Hit the beach
Point Pleasant Beach
Duration: 3 hours
💡 Arrive before 11am for best parking. Bring chairs, umbrella, and cooler.
☀️ Afternoon
Boardwalk lunch
Jenkinson's Boardwalk
💡 Try the fresh-cut boardwalk fries or a classic cheesesteak
Boardwalk games and attractions
Jenkinson's Boardwalk
Duration: 2 hours
💡 Get a game card for arcade games. Try the ring toss for a stuffed animal!
Return to hotel, freshen up
Duration: 1 hour
🌙 Evening
Sunset dinner
Blu at The Breakers
💡 Make reservations for sunset views. Fresh catch of the day recommended.
Evening boardwalk stroll
Jenkinson's Boardwalk
💡 Get soft serve ice cream and watch the rides light up
Day Tips
- • Download the beach badge app to save time
- • Bring a waterproof phone case for the beach
🌧️ Rainy Day Plan
If rainy: Spend afternoon at Jenkinson's Aquarium, then dinner at Wharfside Patio Bar (covered)
Explore & Depart
Theme: Breakfast, Beach & Farewell
Point Pleasant Beach / Asbury Park
🌅 Morning
Breakfast at a local spot
Tesoro Ristorante or Shore Good Eats
💡 Get there early on weekends to avoid the brunch rush
Final beach session
Duration: 2 hours
💡 Morning beach is less crowded and the sun is gentler
☀️ Afternoon
Check out and drive to Asbury Park
Duration: 25 min drive
💡 Drop bags at car, explore Asbury before heading home
Walk the Asbury Park boardwalk
Asbury Park
Duration: 1 hour
💡 Check out the murals, Convention Hall, and historic carousel building
Lunch and departure
Cookman Avenue, Asbury Park
💡 Grab lunch at Porta or Toast for great food before heading home
🌙 Evening
Head home
💡 Leave by 3pm to beat shore traffic. GSP can be slow on Sunday evenings.
Day Tips
- • Pack a cooler with snacks for the drive home
- • Fill up gas before getting on the Parkway
Where to Stay
The Breakers on the Ocean
Point Pleasant Beach
Beachfront hotel with pool, restaurant, and direct beach access
💡 Book 2-3 weeks ahead for summer weekends
Search Rentals in Point Pleasant Beach →Motel in Point Pleasant Beach
Point Pleasant Beach
Several budget-friendly motels on Arnold Ave, short walk to beach
💡 The Amethyst Beach Motel offers good value
Search Rentals in Point Pleasant Beach →Bnb in Bay Head (nearby)
Bay Head (nearby)
Charming B&Bs in historic Bay Head, 5 min drive
💡 Book early - Bay Head B&Bs fill up fast
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Packing List
- Beach chairs and umbrella
- Cooler with drinks and snacks
- Sunscreen SPF 30+
- Beach towels
- Cash for boardwalk ($50-100)
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Light layers for evening
Pro Tips
- 💡Arrive Friday evening to maximize beach time
- 💡Beach badges are required 9am-5pm at most beaches
- 💡The boardwalk is free - bring cash for games and food
- 💡Sunset at Point Pleasant is around 8:15pm in summer
- 💡Leave by 3pm Sunday to avoid Garden State Parkway traffic
Cost Breakdown
Accommodations
$150-250/night
Food
$80-120/day for 2
Activities
$50-100 total
Transportation
$20-50 parking
May Not Be Ideal For
- • Those seeking nightlife/club scene
- • Large groups (10+)
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