Pack your hair gel and finest Polo and get ready to pop your collar in the Jersey Shore this summer!
Kidding aside, one of MTV’s biggest hits isn’t quite an accurate portrayal of the so-called “Jersey Shore,” as reality TV isn’t so real after all, with scripted scenarios and fluffy dialogue.
If the way Snooki and The Situation depicted this side of New Jersey were entirely true, there’s no way it would be America’s trendiest destination.
Fist-pumping bass, all-night ragers, and awkward walk of shames each morning aren’t exactly a selling point to most as we all have to come to the conclusion the fountain of youth ceases to exist.
HomeToGo took a deep dive to reveal the trendiest destinations for July travel, and after reviewing their insightful report confirming a 372% surge, we at Travel Off Path have to say we agree.
That’s why we’re here to unveil Asbury Park, New Jersey as America’s trendiest beach getaway!
Move Over Atlantic City! Take A Gamble On Asbury Park This Summer
Ever been to Atlantic City? It’s a mixed bag of reviews, though most view the AC as the best alternative to Vegas…with a beach!
Lined with flashy casinos and an action-backed boardwalk, and yes, some run down areas much like “Sin City”, visitors who come need to have the right expectations to avoid disappointment.
While Atlantic City isn’t breaking visitor records per se, neither is Las Vegas who is actually struggling a bit in the tourism department and will probably continue on that trend since summer is scorching in the desert.
That being said, those looking to go all in on red or black or hoping for a lucky pull on the slots will likely opt for Atlantic City, which should see its fair share of crowds.
About an hour away lies Asbury Park, which offers a more eclectic, artsy, and vibrant vibe after a glow-up of its own fun boardwalk and downtown area — and a buzzing nightlife scene less chaotic than you probably imagine.
Plus, Pauly D is in his 40’s and would have to now yell out the “the Ubers here!”. Doesn’t have the same ring to it, does it?
My, how time time flies…
Asbury Park’s Surprising Attractions
To put the Jersey Shore’s vibes to bed, let’s dive into some of Asbury Park’s most surprising attractions, and none of them require beer bongs or untz unzting the night away.
As part of Asbury Park’s 2000s revitalization, you’ll find a beautiful townscape with landmarks like the Paramount Theatre and Convention Hall.
The revitalization has been a slow burn, not garnering much hype except for its gorgeous coast.
But there are plenty of things to do beyond endless beach days, and some are pretty off-the-wall:
- The Paranormal Museum: an ode to Jersey’s mysterious history, including lore of the Jersey Devil
- Silverball Museum Arcade: a nostalgic dedication to vintage pinball machines and classic arcade games (yes, you can play!)
- Asbury Lanes: an all-encompassing bowling, live music hall, and diner all in one setting
- Madam Marie’s Psychic Booth: A boardwalk psychic booth made famous by Jersey legend, Bruce Springsteen
The boardwalk is undoubtedly the heart of the action, including legendary stomping grounds like The Stone Pony, where Bon Jovi and Bruce Springsteen got their starts, and The Wonder Bar, a quirky venue known for live music and great eats.
Asbury Park’s Beaches: Don’t Forget Your Pass!
The one downside to visiting Asbury Park’s shores is that you will need to purchase a beach pass for the following dates:
- 6/16/25 through 9/1/25 (every day, including holidays)
Costs for the pass vary depending on age and seasonality:
Daily rates –
- Monday – Friday: $7
- Weekends (including holidays): $10
Seasonal rates –
- Adults: $70
- Seniors (62-plus; ID required): $20
- Teenagers (13 – 17): $20
- 12 and under: Free (guardians must be present)
- Active Military (and dependents): Free
- Retired Veterans, Disabled Veterans and Non-Active Veterans: Free
For what it’s worth, HomeToGo highlighted Asbury Park as an amazing July 4th destination. To view the fireworks schedule, click here.
Sam Sears
Sam, our Lead Writer & Journalist based in San Diego has visited 36 countries and written over 1000 articles with a focus on sharing his own travel experiences and shining a light on lesser-known gems.
The Travel Off Path Advantage: Your Travel Toolkit
SUBSCRIBE TO OUR LATEST POSTS
Enter your email address to subscribe to Travel Off Path’s latest breaking travel news, straight to your inbox.
Please visit:
Our Sponsor