Best Jersey Shore Towns for Foodies
12 towns across 4 counties
Best Jersey Shore Towns for Foodies
NJ Shore Guide
Beyond boardwalk pizza and funnel cakes lies a surprisingly sophisticated dining scene. These Jersey Shore towns have attracted talented chefs, embrace the BYOB culture that makes fine dining affordable, and celebrate the incredible fresh seafood landed daily at local docks. Come hungry.
🍽️ Foodie Towns
Atlantic City
atlantic County
America's Playground with Free Beaches
- ✓Free beaches - no badge required
- ✓NJ Transit accessible
- ✓115+ restaurants
Wildwood
cape may County
Free Beaches & Retro Fun
- ✓Free beaches - no badge required
- ✓NJ Transit accessible
- ✓64+ restaurants
Point Pleasant Beach
ocean County
Family Fun on the Boardwalk
- ✓NJ Transit accessible
- ✓58+ restaurants
Asbury Park
monmouth County
Where Music Meets the Sea
- ✓Affordable beach badges ($7/day)
- ✓NJ Transit accessible
- ✓57+ restaurants
Long Branch
monmouth County
Historic Resort Reborn
- ✓Affordable beach badges ($6/day)
- ✓NJ Transit accessible
- ✓56+ restaurants
Ocean City
cape may County
America's Greatest Family Resort
- ✓NJ Transit accessible
- ✓56+ restaurants
More Foodie Towns
Belmar
monmouth County
Something for Everyone
- ✓NJ Transit accessible
- ✓45+ restaurants
Cape May
cape may County
America's Original Seaside Resort
- ✓NJ Transit accessible
- ✓40+ restaurants
Sea Isle City
cape may County
Free Beach Wednesdays
- ✓NJ Transit accessible
- ✓26+ restaurants
Seaside Heights
ocean County
The Famous Jersey Shore Boardwalk
- ✓NJ Transit accessible
- ✓25+ restaurants
Somers Point
atlantic County
Gateway to the Shore & Back Bay Paradise
- ✓Free beaches - no badge required
- ✓NJ Transit accessible
Book Your Foodies Getaway
Find the perfect accommodation in these foodie towns.
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Planning Tips for Foodies Travelers
When to Visit
Peak summer (July-August) offers the full shore experience. For fewer crowds, visit in June or September when weather is still excellent.
How to Get There
11 of these towns are accessible via NJ Transit from NYC or Philadelphia. If driving, expect heavy traffic on summer Friday afternoons.
Beach Badges
3 of these towns have completely free beaches. Others require beach badges ($5-15/day). Weekly and seasonal badges offer savings for longer stays.
Local Tip
Many shore restaurants are BYOB—bring your own wine and save significantly on dinner. Ask about corkage fees when booking.