Things to Do in Manasquan
New Jersey's Surf Capital. Discover beaches, attractions, dining, and local experiences.
2
Beaches
11
Restaurants
4
Must-See Spots
4/5
Family Rating
Don't Miss in Manasquan
Manasquan Inlet
Must Seebeach
NJ's most consistent surf break. Watch surfers or rent a board and join them.
Main Street
Must Seeshop
Charming downtown with independent shops, restaurants, and cafes.
Explore by Category
All Attractions
🏖️Beachs
Manasquan Inlet
NJ's most consistent surf break. Watch surfers or rent a board and join them.
🛍️Shopping
Main Street
Charming downtown with independent shops, restaurants, and cafes.
🎢Attractions
Algonquin Arts Theatre
Intimate performing arts venue with concerts, plays, and community events.
🍽️Restaurants
Squan Tavern
Local favorite for pizza, pasta, and casual Italian dining.
Beach Highlights
View all beaches →Manasquan Inlet Beach
The legendary surf spot where the Manasquan River meets the ocean. NJ's most consistent break draws surfers year-round. Jetty provides excellent wave formation.
Main Beach
Wide, clean beach along the center of town. Less intense than the Inlet but still with decent surf. Family-friendly atmosphere.
Manasquan Vibe
Primary Vibe
Surf Town
Family Friendly
4/5 Stars
Nightlife
2/5 Stars
Quietness
4/5 Stars
Manasquan is Best For
Events & Festivals
LADACIN Polar Bear Plunge
Mid-JanuaryManasquan charity plunge at Main Beach benefiting LADACIN Network services for residents with disabilities. Thousands participate annually, raising over $100,000 each year since 2008.
Mid-Winter Beach Run/Walk
Mid-FebruaryManasquan 2-mile beach run celebrating 20+ years. Course includes beach walkway and optional sand running, followed by party at Leggett's with free buffet. Popular winter tradition for locals and visitors.
Memorial Day Parade
Memorial DayManasquan Veterans Day parade honoring fallen service members. Organized by VFW Post 1838, the parade starts at 10:30am from the High School, proceeds down Main Street to Old Squan Plaza with wreath ceremony at 11am. Hundreds attend annually.
Ladies Night Out
May & AugustManasquan Main Street shopping event featuring boutiques, restaurants, and local merchants. Held spring and summer evenings 4-8pm, rain or shine. Organized by Chamber of Commerce.
Manasquan Farmers Market
June-August ThursdaysWeekly farmers market on Miller Preston Way featuring local produce, artisan goods, and specialty foods. Runs every Thursday 10am-3pm throughout summer. Sponsored by Manasquan Chamber of Commerce.
Manasquan Fireman's Fair
Late July - Early AugustManasquan Fireman's Fair is the principal annual fundraiser for Volunteer Engine Company #2. Five-day carnival at Mallard Park features rides, food, games, live music, and beer garden. Draws 30,000+ visitors. Rides $2 per ticket or $30 wristband per day.
July 4th Celebration
July 3rdManasquan Independence Day celebration with town-wide parade, bike decorating contest, beach concert by local bands, and fireworks launched from beachfront at dusk. Annual tradition draws thousands.
Manasquan Classic Longboard Contest
SeptemberManasquan's premier surfing competition requiring pre-1967 longboards. Organized by Manasquan Board Riders Club, this 25+ year tradition features multiple divisions for all ages and genders. Entry $35 includes T-shirt and post-contest buffet.