In a recent look at some of the best beach towns down on the Jersey Shore, the Travel Channel listed Spring Lake as a top Shore town thanks to its gorgeous beaches, non-commercial boardwalk, and small town refinement.
Spring Lake is the quintessential old-world town with its Victorian oceanfront homes and mansions overlooking the Majestic Atlantic Ocean. Many people travel from New York, which is just 60 miles away, and rent a home for a weekend or a week or two. The best part is Spring Lake can be accessed by train from New York, making it good day trip as well.
A major landmark of Spring Lake is the Breakers Hotel, which first opened up in the late 1800s, during the beginning of the East Coast Gilded Age of uber-rich industrialists. It's still the only beachfront hotel in town and a popular place for hopeless romantics.
As mentioned, the non-commercial boardwalk is a big draw for people living in and visiting Spring Lake. It's the longest non-commercial boardwalk on the shore, measuring in at 1.5 miles along the Atlantic Ocean. Two large beach houses stand at either end, and each has a large saltwater pool inside. Keep in mind that from June to August, you need a badge to access the beach and beachhouses; however, use of the saltwater pools is limited to Spring Lake residents and their guests. Dogs are not allowed on the boardwalk at all, but they can hit the beach in the off-season.
Spring Lake boasts some good restaurants that are definitely worth checking out if you're there for a visit. While being on the pricey side, Whispers Restaurant is highly regarded among locals in town. It's Jersey Shore fine dining at its best with a menu featuring amazing dishes like roasted rack of lamb, grilled swordfish, filet mignon of beef, and lobster. During the summer, reservations are highly recommended. Another mouthwatering choice is The Mill, where you can enjoy waterfront dining. Seafood is the Mill's bread and butter with succulent dishes like pan-seared Atlantic Salmon, grilled Ahi tuna, and spice-seared Day Boat scallops.
A must if you're in Spring Lake is a trip to the Third Avenue Chocolate Shoppe. Artisan chocolatier Matt Magyar brings a fantastic assortment of sweet treats that draw people from all over the state. There is a vast selection of candy, and you can watch it being made right before your eyes. And they serve ice cream as well!
Part of Spring Lake's appeal is that it is adult-oriented and thus peaceful, making it a great place to recharge your batteries. And if you're looking to rent a summer or vacation home, you can check out this Spring Lake rentals page.
