I grew up on the Jersey Shore and summered in Asbury Park. I have fond memories of going on camp trips to the Carousel House and the Palace Funhouse to name a few. Years later, this seaside town fell into a decline only to have a resurgence beginning in the early 2000’s.
Today, the town is in the midst of a major redevelopment with unique boutiques, cool restaurants – making it an overall great weekend get away.
Here are some of my favorite neighborhood gems:
Though I am a regular at Talula’s, which is hands down my favorite pizza on the Jersey Shore, I wasn’t that familiar with the town vibe so… a couple of weeks ago, I literally dragged my daughter to Cookman Avenue, the ‘it’ block of Asbury and discovered some great shops and eateries.
One of my favorite boutiques is Red Moon. They carry a highly curated selection of beauty products, unique accessories and fresh flowers. This boutique reminded me of Venice Beach.
Another cool store worth checking out is Glide Surf Co., a surf lifestyle store with hot looking surfboards, clothes to match and beach themed coffee table books.
I could have browsed for hours at Robert Legere‘s boutique on Cookman Ave. They carry an array of home accessories, books and furniture as well.
It felt good to walk into Words, a local bookshop which seems to be a rarity these days. I enjoyed speaking to the staff and received good recommendations for summer reading.
As mentioned, my favorite pizza is at Talula’s on Cookman Avenue. The freshest ingredients, organic and sustainable, this Brooklynesque restaurant is a must.
For breakfast and brunch, I hear Toast hits the spot – known for their pancakes.
For a taste of France on the Jersey Shore, check out Pascal & Sabine, a French brasserie.
For those looking to do a little more than shop and eat, check out two craft studios, The Pink Elephant and Hot Sand – also fun activities to do with the young ones.
Uncorked is more of an adult paint and sip studio. Can’t wait to try this one!
An obvious must is the expansive boardwalk along the Asbury Park beach. I suggest strolling along and checking out whatever fancies you – lots of cute boutiques and eateries.
I must mention the Storehouse boutique as my absolute favorite. Check out their selection of coffee table books, accessories, and clothing. Really adorable.
No visit to Asbury Park would be complete without stopping at The Stone Pony, an iconic club circa 1974 that boasts some famous names in music.
This summer time hot spot that Vogue named, “The Brooklyn of the Jersey Shore”, has much to offer for either a day trip or a weekend stay!
Enjoy!
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