FilmOneFest
Atlantic Highlands Marina
732-737-7160; filmonefest.org
The Atlantic Highlands One-Minute International Film Festival rolls into its fifth summer, 7 to 10 pm, July 20. The short films will be projected onto a giant outdoor screen. Many of this year’s films highlight the struggle of rebuilding in the wake of Hurricane Sandy. Rain venue is the Charles Hess Parish Center on South Avenue.
Bayshore Waterfront Park
719 Port Monmouth Road, Port Monmouth
732-787-3033
monmouthcountyparks.com
There’s lots of room to stretch out in this 227-acre park with peaceful picnic areas, beaches and views of the New York skyline.
Captain John’s Fishing & Cruising
American Legion Drive, Keyport
732-462-1506; captainjohnsfishing.com
The Captain John charter vessel goes after fluke every summer morning on the Raritan Bay. Special events include annual cruises to Red Bank (July 3) and Manhattan (July 4) for an unrivaled view of the fireworks displays.
Henry Hudson Trail
Parking areas: 20 Gerard Avenue, Matawan; 214 Wilson Avenue, Union Beach; 2 Alberta Avenue, North Middletown; 947 Route 36, Trail Activity Center, Atlantic Highlands
monmouthcountyparks.com
Part of the Monmouth County Park System, this 12-mile paved hiking and biking trail starts inland at Aberdeen and links the Bayshore towns all the way to Highlands. (Note: The section from Atlantic Highlands Marina to the border of Highlands at Popamora Point is closed indefinitely due to Sandy.) Follow signs and precautions.
Keansburg Amusement Park and Runaway Rapids Waterpark
275 Beachway Avenue, Keansburg
732-495-1400
keansburgamusementpark.com
While these adjacent parks sustained heavy damage in Hurricane Sandy, both will be fully operational for the 2013 season. Ride a rollercoaster, swirl down a waterslide or race your friends on FastTrax Go-Karts. If thrill rides and arcade games aren’t your thing, head to the fishing pier, where adults can drop a line for $8, kids $5.
Twin Lights
Lighthouse Road, Highlands
732-872-1814; twinlightslighthouse.com
The 150-year-old decommissioned lighthouse commands a bluff above Highlands, providing a spectacular view across Sandy Hook Bay and Raritan Bay. Climb to the top of the stone towers and visit the museum for free.
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