There is something magical about summer in Monmouth County.
Maybe it’s the salty air coming off the ocean. Maybe it’s the long evenings spent dining outdoors with friends. Or maybe it’s the fact that within a few miles, you can spend the morning at the beach, the afternoon shopping in a charming downtown, and the evening listening to live music under the stars.
As someone who lives, works, and raises my family here, I can confidently say there is no better place to spend the summer. Whether you’re a longtime resident or considering making Monmouth County your home, here are some of my favorite spots to soak up everything summer has to offer.
Red Bank: The Heart of Summer Fun
If you haven’t experienced Broadwalk yet, make this the year you do.
Each summer, a portion of Broad Street shuts down to traffic and transforms into a pedestrian-friendly outdoor destination. Bistro lights are strung overhead, outdoor dining expands into the street, live music fills the air, and the entire downtown takes on an energy that feels straight out of a vacation town.
It’s one of the reasons so many people are drawn to Red Bank.
Start your evening with dinner at The Bistro, a local favorite known for its lively atmosphere and incredible food. Looking for cocktails and rooftop vibes? Head to Street Kitchen Pub and order the Aperol Spritz Tower. Trust me on this one.
Need a little retail therapy? Stop by Amanda Jean Boutique for some of the cutest summer looks around.
Before heading home, grab dessert at Scoop and Scootery, a newer addition to downtown that has quickly become a favorite for creative ice cream creations and summer treats.
Between the restaurants, shops, live entertainment, and walkability, Broadwalk has become one of the best ways to spend a summer evening in Monmouth County.
Sea Bright: The Ultimate Beach Town Day
When people ask me where to spend a true Jersey Shore summer day, Sea Bright is always near the top of my list.
For the ultimate adults-only beach day, Donovan’s Reef is hard to beat. Picture your feet in the sand, a cold drink in hand, good music playing, and the ocean just steps away. It’s one of those places that instantly puts you in vacation mode.
If you’re looking for a casual lunch or happy hour, Woody’s Ocean Grille is a must. Grab an Orange Crush, sit outside, and enjoy the waterfront atmosphere.
Start your day at Alice’s Kitchen for breakfast. The food is fantastic, the portions are generous, and it feels like one of those classic local spots that everyone loves.
For those looking to get out on the water, Lucky Dog Surf Co. offers surf lessons, rentals, and all the gear you need to embrace the beach lifestyle.
Sea Bright manages to feel laid back and energetic all at the same time, which is exactly why so many people fall in love with it.
Asbury Park: Where Culture Meets the Coast
No Monmouth County summer guide would be complete without Asbury Park.
The boardwalk alone offers enough activities to fill an entire day.
Families can enjoy mini golf, splash around in the splash pad, stroll the boardwalk, or spend time at the Silverball Retro Arcade, where classic pinball machines and arcade games bring out everyone’s inner kid.
When you’re ready for a break, head to AP Rooftop for incredible ocean views, cocktails, and one of the best vantage points along the Jersey Shore.
As the sun begins to set, grab dinner and explore the constantly evolving restaurant scene. Be sure to stop by the newly re-opened Brickwall Tavern, a local favorite that has returned to the excitement of downtown Asbury Park.
Live music lovers have endless options, but Summer Stage is always a highlight, bringing incredible performances to the waterfront throughout the season.
Asbury Park has a way of blending beach town charm with city energy, making every visit feel unique.
Why We Love It Here
One of the things I hear most from buyers relocating to Monmouth County is that they had no idea how much there was to do.
In a single weekend, you can enjoy world-class beaches, vibrant downtowns, incredible restaurants, live music, boutique shopping, outdoor recreation, and a strong sense of community.
It’s one of the reasons I believe Monmouth County continues to be one of the most desirable places to live in New Jersey.
Summer simply puts all of those qualities on full display.
At the end of the day, living by design isn’t just about the home you live in. It’s about creating a lifestyle you love.
Living by Design
Whether you’re enjoying Broadwalk in Red Bank, spending the day on the beach in Sea Bright, or catching live music in Asbury Park, Monmouth County offers countless opportunities to make the most of every season.
And summer just might be the best one of all.
Realtor Stacey Donadio 