Belmar, NJ, is one of those Jersey Shore towns that just gets it right. Whether you’re a local or a first-timer, this beachy spot is packed with personality and charm that extends way beyond its sandy shores. From iconic boardwalk strolls to epic summer festivals, Belmar always brings the good vibes. Here are five things this shore town is best known for:
The Beautiful Belmar Beach
Despite the recent uproar over beach access and the arrests of two surfers on the beach caught without beach badges, Belmar is a great town if you don’t get jammed up with some overzealous local policing.
Belmar’s beaches are the crown jewel of this town. Known for their wide, clean sands and family-friendly vibe, they’re a hotspot for both laid-back sunbathing and adrenaline-pumping water sports. Surfing? Yup. Paddleboarding? You bet. Even the boardwalk is packed with joggers and cyclists who know that Belmar’s shoreline is where it’s at.
Not to mention, the beach is fully accessible, with designated areas for surfing, fishing, and swimming. You’ll even find beach volleyball courts, because why not?
Belmar’s Legendary Seafood Festival
Let’s talk about food. Specifically, seafood. Every June, Belmar plays host to its world-renowned Belmar Seafood Festival, a feast that draws visitors from all over the country. Imagine rows and rows of food stalls offering everything from freshly shucked oysters to buttery lobster rolls.
This festival is a seafood lover’s dream. You’ll see locals and tourists alike flocking for crab cakes, shrimp skewers, and even some unexpected gourmet twists (lobster mac and cheese, anyone?). The vibe? Equal parts street fair and foodie paradise.
The St. Patrick’s Day Parade
Belmar might be a small town, but come March, it throws one of the biggest St. Patrick’s Day Parades in New Jersey. It’s an event that brings everyone out of hibernation and into the streets for a good old-fashioned celebration of Irish culture. We’re talking bagpipes, marching bands, floats, and a sea of green everywhere you look.
It’s more than just a parade—it’s a party. The local bars get in on the fun too, with plenty of live music and festive drinks to keep the energy high well into the night.
Fishing and Boating Adventures
If you’re into fishing or boating, Belmar is basically heaven. The Belmar Marina is one of the busiest on the Jersey Shore, offering everything from casual boat rentals to serious deep-sea fishing charters. It’s the kind of place where you can either relax on a boat with a cold drink or reel in a trophy-sized catch.
Belmar is also home to one of the largest party boat fleets in the state, making it easy to hop on a vessel for a fishing adventure or a scenic sunset cruise. Whether you’re after fluke, bluefish, or just a killer tan, this town has you covered.
A Thriving Nightlife Scene
After a long day at the beach, Belmar’s nightlife kicks into gear. From beachfront bars to cozy pubs, there’s no shortage of places to grab a drink and soak in the coastal atmosphere. D’Jais is probably the most famous spot—it’s been a Jersey Shore staple for decades and knows how to throw a party. Think live DJs, packed dance floors, and unbeatable ocean views.
For a more laid-back vibe, 10th Ave Burrito serves up a killer combo of Mexican food, live music, and cold margaritas. No matter your style, Belmar’s after-dark scene has something for everyone.
