June 2023: Summer Shore Guide
Here at New Jersey Monthly, we love putting together our annual Shore Guide. It gives us the chance to bring the unique joys of the Jersey Shore to each and every one of you.
In this year’s June issue, you’ll discover everything you need to make your summer memorable. Food and drink recommendations? Check! Full day-trip itineraries? Check! A roundup of the coolest beach hotels, for those who don’t have a Shore house? Check!
We also put together a comprehensive list of what’s new—and worth checking out—down the Shore. And another must-read is our guide to coastal activities that have nothing to do with the beach—perfect for rainy or cloudy days!
GARDEN VARIETY
Meet the Creative Force Behind Asbury Park’s Transformative Art Scene
Known as the muse of Asbury Park, Jenn Hampton founded the Wooden Walls Project, which has grown to include ambitious installations and residencies.
Read moreNJ Boy, 11, Has Been Surfing Every Single Day For Almost 3 Years
Brigantine’s Carter Doorley is about to hit 1,095 straight days of catching waves.
Read moreHe’s Bringing a Secret Garden in Princeton Back to Life
Steve Hiltner, founder of Friends of Herrontown Woods, is working with local volunteers to lovingly restore a lost nature preserve.
Read moreMeet NJ’s First Female Deputy Fire Chief
Jersey City’s Constance Zappella, the state’s highest ranking female firefighter, talks rising through the ranks of a male-dominated profession.
Read moreCross-Shaped Pier Sparks Debate Among Ocean Grove Residents
Critics say the use of religious imagery should not be permitted on the public beach. Others view it as a symbol of perseverance and a blessing to the Shore.
Read moreMorris County Nonprofit Transforms Houses Into Homes
Interfaith Furnishings gives people in need light to illuminate their room, a rug beneath their feet, and a place to rest their head, says founder Maryjo Welch.
Read moreTrends We’re Loving: Scallops and Pastels
Embrace wavy designs and playful hues this season.
Read moreAt LBI’s Dune Market, a Shopkeeper Returns to Her Island Roots
Emily Raleigh’s Beach Haven shop is a serene celebration of coastal living.
Read moreHistoric Destinations to Explore at the Jersey Shore
Need a break from the beach? Consider visiting these storied spots.
Read moreFEATURES
Ex-FBI Chief James Comey Draws on Jersey Roots in New Crime Novel
Comey, who grew up in Allendale and later raised his children in Maplewood, has published his first mystery book, Central Park West.
Read more‘Let’s Keep Doo-Wop Alive’: Wildwoods Developers Invest in Vintage-Inspired Makeovers
Developers in the Wildwoods are renovating old motels and buildings while trying to embody the spirit of their unique, Doo-Wop stylings.
Read more24 Hours in Cape May: It’s Worth the Trip Every Time
Cape May is the final exit on the Garden State Parkway, but a visit should be first on your list.
Read more24 Hours in Asbury Park: A Guide to the Jersey Shore’s Coolest Town
With great art, music, food and drink, who cares if the ocean’s cold?
Read more24 Hours in Bradley Beach: A Hidden Gem at the Jersey Shore
Beautiful, quiet beaches accompany access to great restaurants and activities.
Read more24 Hours in Long Beach Island: Favorite Spots From a Sacred Family Tradition
An array of tried-and-true haunts honed over several years.
Read moreWhat’s New at the Jersey Shore for Summer 2023
Add some new places to your Shore to-do list this summer.
Read moreThe Jersey Shore’s Coolest Hotels
The best beach hot spots to soak up the sun, swim and stay over.
Read moreBeyond the Beach: 15 Fun and Unique Things to Do at the Jersey Shore
There’s more to the Shore than just surf and sand.
Read moreInside the Jersey Shore’s Unique Community of Tiny Houses
Ocean Beach III is a small seaside section of Toms River Township with a close-knit, “old-school, 1950s” feel.
Read more12 Summer Reads Starring New Jersey
Stay entertained at the beach, on the boat, by the pool or in your backyard.
Read moreNJ Author Receives Oprah’s Stamp of Approval
Oprah Winfrey chose Ann Napolitano’s latest book, Hello Beautiful, as her 100th book club selection.
Read moreJersey Lawyer Writes Middle-Grade Fiction in His Free Time
Joshua S. Levy says his latest book, The Jake Show, contains a story that will resonate with readers of all ages.
Read moreHOME & GARDEN
Reimagining a Three-Generation Retreat in Stone Harbor
This family gave their 1980s-era home a fresh start.
Read moreWHERE & WHEN
NJ’s North to Shore Festival Echoes SXSW Model—But Promises Jersey Flair All Its Own
The inaugural event, spanning Asbury Park, Atlantic City and Newark this June, will feature acts from Halsey to Santana to Southside Johnny.
Read moreEAT & DRINK
At IndeBlue in Cherry Hill, Classic and New Combine to Excellent Effect
From Brussels sprouts with coconut to Drums of Heaven wings, the modern Indian food takes you to new places but anchors you in engaging flavors.
Read moreFind Foods of All the Americas on Bergenline Avenue
Sweet or spicy, sit-down or grab-n-go, the variety of choices is matched by freshness.
Read moreMorris County Spot Serves Up Burgers, Fries and Some of the Best Hot Dogs Around
This casual, cash-only eatery—open March through November—has been around for more than two decades.
Read moreShareable Menu, Great Beer Selection on Tap at This Somerset Tavern
The industrial-style eatery offers something for everyone.
Read moreWildwood’s Only Brewery Boasts Great Eats, Too
MudHen Brewing Company lures hungry and thirsty visitors all year long.
Read moreHere’s to Watermelon Beer!
Juice or purée from summer’s biggest fruit adds a refreshing dimension to brews.
Read moreEXIT RAMP
What I Miss Most About Living in South Jersey
Not even the swaying palms of Florida can rival my memories of Burlington, Camden and Gloucester Counties.
Read more