Hey, summer’s not quite over yet!  It sure still feels like it out there, and everyone knows the best time to enjoy the beach and boardwalk can be in September.  So why not make the most of it with a day trip to Point Pleasant?

Ah, Point Pleasant! The classic New Jersey boardwalk town…

A view of the beach from the boardwalk on a typical summer day:

For me, nothing says summer family fun like a trip to Point Pleasant.  From the beach to boardwalk games, rides, and attractions, it has it all.  Fortunately, it is a mere 45 minute ride away from our area (well, if you don’t hit any shore traffic!).  You can easily spend a family-friendly day frolicking on the expansive beach, and/or taking in the sights, sounds and tastes of the Boardwalk.

Point Pleasant and Jenkinson’s are practically synonymous.  Jenkinson’s Boardwalk comprises arcade, restaurants, bar/nightclub (“Jenks”), aquarium, and of course, beach access.   It has something for everyone!  My personal favorite memories are of playing endless games of skee-ball in the Jenkinson’s arcade, winning 5000 points and cashing in for a rubber spider or equally rich prize ?

If you have kids (or are a kid at heart) who like to ride, the best deal to be had is by going online to purchase two for one cards – usually run over Easter weekend at jenkinsons.com.  If you’re not that much of a planner (ahem, me), the website also runs all kinds of deals throughout the summer.  There are lots of rides for the littles, lots of variations on rides that go around in a circle, and sometimes also up and down ? Our favorite is the train:

A stop at Kohr’s is an absolute must.  You can treat yourself to their classic custard, as well as hard and soft ice cream.  All are delicious! And for those of you who deal with nut allergies (as we do), their soft serve vanilla and chocolate ice cream is safe (though we always ask).

For miniature golf, Castaway Cove cannot be beat.  Its fun pirate-ship theme features 2 courses, the Crows’ Nest and Shipwreck, that will hold the interest of even a 4 year old.  They usually have a deal $15 to play both courses.

Martell’s Tiki Bar is a super fun destination for party people (though definitely geared to the adult crowd). It’s billed as a “beachfront dance club”, with actual tiki bar, tables, and live music, and great ocean views.  Here you can while away the hours while partaking in the fun, fruity drinks.  After a while, you may find yourself realizing that “Jersey Shore” actually depicted real-life people.

There is also off-season fun to be had! Jenkinson’s Aquarium stays open year round, and if the weather isn’t too brutal, you can also walk along the boardwalk to enjoy treats from those vendors who stay open year-round.

Those are my highlights of Point Pleasant! What are yours?

This is the third and final post of this summer’s series of “Boroughs to Burbs…to the Beach!”.  I hope you’ve enjoyed it as much as I have!  Based on the great feedback I’ve received, I’m already planning another beach series for next summer..which is your favorite beach, or which beach would you like to know more about?

Add a comment and let us know!