Atlantic City (Photo by Arya Dubey on Unsplash)
Summer on the Jersey Shore means sun, sand, and endless fun. Stretching over 140 miles, this coastal gem attracts people from all walks of life, eager to explore its lively beach towns, busy boardwalks, and stunning scenery. For kosher travelers, the Jersey Shore is a fantastic destination with plenty of kosher eateries, from steakhouses and cafes to donut shops and ice cream parlors. Some kosher establishments are open all year round, but many are open just for the season, adding a special touch to the summer experience.
The Jersey Shore is popular due to its close proximity to major cities like New York and Philadelphia, making it a convenient escape for city dwellers looking for a quick and refreshing getaway. This ease of access, combined with the charm of the Atlantic Ocean, quaint small towns, and various entertainment options, draws crowds throughout the summer.
However, with popularity comes some challenges. One big issue, especially on weekends, is traffic. Major highways like the Garden State Parkway often get congested as thousands of families head to the coast. Despite this, the Jersey Shore's mix of relaxation and excitement keeps visitors coming back year after year.
Two main areas stand out for kosher travelers: the Atlantic City area, including Ventnor and Margate, and the cluster of towns around Long Branch, Deal, Oakhurst, and Asbury Park. The Long Branch/Deal area has a wide range of kosher restaurants, making it easy to find delicious meals. In contrast, the Atlantic City area has fewer kosher options but still offers great beach fun and activities. Both destinations provide beautiful beaches and plenty of things to do, ensuring a worry-free vacation for those who keep kosher.
Let’s dive into what makes these spots perfect for a kosher summer getaway.
Beach in Ventnor City (Photographs in Carol M. Highsmith's America Project in the Carol M. Highsmith Archive, Library of Congress, Prints and Photographs Division)
Atlantic City, Ventnor, and Margate
Atlantic City, known for its casinos, iconic boardwalk, and nightlife, is a major draw for tourists. Ventnor and Margate, just a short drive away, offer a quieter, more family-friendly atmosphere while still providing easy access to Atlantic City’s attractions. These areas have become increasingly popular among kosher travelers, offering a blend of relaxation and entertainment.
The Kosher Scene
Ventnor and Margate have seen a rise in kosher dining options, making it easier for visitors to enjoy delicious meals without traveling far. Kosher food is available at local supermarkets, and Chabad offers Shabbat catering. New this year, Glatt kosher meat is available at Island Meat Market on Ventnor Ave every day, Fridays at the Chabad and Thursdays at Margate Farmers' Market. The Young Israel of Margate sells challahs on Fridays (orders must be placed by Wednesday). There are a few meat and dairy options for eating out during the week, ensuring that kosher travelers have convenient and tasty choices throughout their stay.
Finding daily and Shabbat minyanim is not a problem, with Chabad at the Shore located in Ventnor and local shuls in Atlantic City and Margate. Additionally, there is an eruv covering Margate, Ventnor, and Atlantic City (be sure to check the maps to make sure that you are covered).
Lucy the Elephant in Margate (Photo by Acroterion, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons)
Things to Do
- Atlantic City Boardwalk: Stroll down the famous boardwalk, enjoy the amusement rides, and indulge in some classic boardwalk treats (check for kosher options!).
- Beaches: Spend a day on the sandy shores of Ventnor or Margate, where you can swim, sunbathe, and even try some water sports.
- Lucy the Elephant: Visit this historic six-story elephant-shaped building in Margate, a quirky landmark perfect for a family photo.
- Casinos and Shows: While the casinos in Atlantic City are a major attraction, the city also offers a variety of live shows and performances suitable for all ages.
- Absecon Lighthouse: Climb to the top of New Jersey’s tallest lighthouse for a stunning view of the Atlantic City skyline and coastline.
- Atlantic City Aquarium: Explore marine life exhibits and enjoy interactive experiences at this family-friendly attraction.
- Storybook Land: Just a 20-minute drive from Atlantic City, this charming amusement park is perfect for families with young children, featuring fairy tale-themed rides and attractions.
Beach in Long Branch (Photographs in Carol M. Highsmith's America Project in the Carol M. Highsmith Archive, Library of Congress, Prints and Photographs Division)
Long Branch, Deal, Oakhurst, and Asbury Park
Moving north, the towns of Long Branch, Deal, Oakhurst, and Asbury Park provide another hotspot for kosher travelers. Long Branch is known for its beautiful beaches and Pier Village, a premier oceanfront destination with shops, restaurants, and entertainment. Deal and Oakhurst are home to vibrant Jewish communities, while Asbury Park combines historic charm with modern appeal.
The Kosher Scene
This area of the Jersey Shore boasts a thriving kosher scene with numerous dining options. Deal has an all-year-round Jewish community, offering a wide variety of kosher shops and restaurants, from dairy cafes to Chinese cuisine. Between Deal, Long Branch and Oakhurst, you can find steakhouses, pizza places, burger joints, acai bowl spots, juice bars, donut shops, ice cream parlors, and bakeries. There are a number of kosher options in the popular Pier Village along the boardwalk in Long Branch.
Many kosher establishments are seasonal and only open for the summer, especially those on the beach. However, the variety and availability of kosher food ensure that visitors can always find something to suit their tastes.
In addition to the dining options, there are plenty of local shuls offering minyanim. Chabad at the Shore in Long Branch runs a Shabbat minyan at Pier Village during the summer, providing a convenient option for travelers. There is also an eruv in the area, but it's important to check the map to see if you are covered.
With such a robust kosher infrastructure, the Jersey Shore is an ideal destination for those looking to enjoy a kosher vacation. Whether you're in Deal, Long Branch, or the surrounding towns, you'll find everything you need for a comfortable and enjoyable stay.
Asbury Park Boardwalk (Photo by Euthman, CC BY 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons)
Things to Do
- Pier Village: Enjoy a day at Pier Village in Long Branch, with its upscale shopping, oceanfront dining, and exciting events.
- Seven Presidents Oceanfront Park: A great spot for a beach day, with swimming, picnicking, and playgrounds for the kids.
- Asbury Park Boardwalk: Famous for its music scene, Asbury Park’s boardwalk offers eclectic shops, and live entertainment. Don’t miss the iconic Stone Pony, where many famous musicians have performed.
- Monmouth Park Racetrack: For a day of excitement, head to Monmouth Park in Oceanport for horse racing and family-friendly events.
- Silverball Retro Arcade: Step back in time and enjoy classic pinball and arcade games at this nostalgic venue in Asbury Park. Great rainy day activity.
- Asbury Splash Park: Perfect for families with young children, this splash park in Asbury Park offers fun water activities to cool off on a hot summer day.
Conclusion
The Jersey Shore offers a delightful blend of relaxation, adventure, and kosher-friendly amenities, making it an ideal summer destination for those who keep kosher. From the vibrant scene of Atlantic City, Ventnor, and Margate to the charming towns of Long Branch, Deal, Oakhurst, and Asbury Park, there's something for everyone. With beautiful beaches, a variety of activities, and plenty of kosher dining options—both seasonal and year-round—kosher travelers can enjoy a worry-free vacation. So pack your bags, bring your sunscreen, and get ready for an unforgettable kosher summer getaway on the Jersey Shore!
If you're looking for a change of scenery from the beach, why not head to the mountains next? Check out our comprehensive guide to a Kosher Summer Vacation in the Catskills for more incredible dining, accommodation, and activity options!
If you're looking for a change of scenery from the beach, why not head to the mountains next? Check out our comprehensive guide to a Kosher Summer Vacation in the Catskills for more incredible dining, accommodation, and activity options!