Seaside Heights – In the early 1900’s some developers had the idea that Seaside Heights could become a top summer vacation spot. Fast forward 100 years with one look around it is easy to see that those developers were absolutely right. Today, Seaside Heights is a top family destination and offers something for just about everyone.
There are only 3100 year round residents in Seaside Heights. During the summer, however, that number explodes almost overnight. On any given day, there are between 30,000 and 40,000 visitors on the beaches and boardwalk of Seaside Heights.
Seaside Heights is only about half of a square mile in size, but there is a lot to do in that little area. It is located on the Barnegat Peninsula between Seaside Park and Ortley Beach. Accessible by a bridge, it is very easy to come and go from this very popular spot.
Some visitors come for a day, others for a week or two. For those coming from out of town, dozens of hotels and motels provide accommodations. Many Seaside Heights hotels are just step from the beach. Those on a budget can save a bit on lodging by choosing a hotel that a few blocks off of the beach. This still allows easy beach access without the premium on the water price. There are also private beach homes for rent.
Many of the available accommodations in Seaside Heights are pet friendly. The beaches, however, do not typically allow dogs during the peak season. There are nearby dog friendly beaches in other parts of the Jersey Shore, such as Cape May, if you want to get your four-legged friend a little water time.
There is a fee for beach access, but it is less expensive than some other parts of the Jersey Shore. A day pass is only $5 and season passes are between $30 and $35.
For many visitors, the beach is all they need to enjoy their vacation. Swimming, kayaking, fishing, sunning and people watching are examples of how they might spend their days. There are also excursions, such as dolphin watches and dinner cruises, that allow visitors to Seaside Heights to enjoy the ocean in a different way. There is a fee for beach access, but it is less expensive than some other parts of the Jersey Shore. A day pass is only $5 and season passes are between $30 and $35.
The boardwalk also provides endless entertainment options. There are amusement rides for all ages, games where visitors can win anything from a stuffed animal to a scooter and much more. The Haunted Manor is a popular boardwalk attraction. This was once the home of a sea captain named James Stillwalk. The story goes that he murdered those who worked for him and the ghosts of his victims live to this day in his former home.
The food on the boardwalk is fun and eclectic. Grab cotton candy, a hot dog or slice of pizza from one of the many stands or try what some say is the best cheesesteak in the state at Midway Steak House. For those who want to sit down for a meal, the Aztec Sandbar offers great seafood at great prices.
A trip to Seaside Heights would not be complete with a turn on the Skyride. Get a bird’s eye view of the beach and all of Seaside Heights.
Within a short drive of Seaside Heights are wonderful wineries. Make a day trip of visiting a few for wine tasting. There are also spas and state parks nearby.
Those who love the nightlife will certainly not be disappointed with the offerings at Seaside Heights. Seaside Height’s nightlife has been featured on MTV’s popular television show “Jersey Shore”. There are more than a dozen bars and clubs. During the summer, it almost looks as if there is a party going on right on the boardwalk.
While summer is by far the most popular time of year, there are events that take place at Seaside Heights throughout the year. Mardi Gras and the Seafood in Seaside Festival both take place in September. The Italian Street Fest is in October as is Arts and Crafts by the Sea. Seaside Heights also has a wonderful New Year’s Eve celebration called First Night.
During the summer, there are outdoor concerts that are free to visitors. There are also free movies shown on the stage by Hiering Avenue. Fireworks take place each Wednesday of the summer as well as July 4th and New Year’s Eve.
There truly is something for everyone at Seaside Heights. No matter what time of year you visit, there just might be something going on. Come during the summer to fully enjoy the beach, the boardwalk and all that Seaside Heights has to offer.