Things To Do
in Ocean Acres
Ocean Acres is a quiet residential community in Ocean County, New Jersey, near Manahawkin and Barnegat Bay. It serves as a gateway to the Jersey Shore, offering easy access to beaches, marshes, and wildlife preserves. The area has a relaxed, family-friendly vibe with a mix of homes, parks, and local shops.
Its proximity to major highways makes day trips to Atlantic City, Philadelphia, or New York feasible.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, savoring fresh pastries and coffee while taking in the charming atmosphere of the Historic Center. After breakfast, stroll through the cobblestone streets and visit the local boutiques, where you can find unique crafts and souvenirs. Take a moment to admire the historic architecture and perhaps snap a few photos of the picturesque surroundings.
After a morning of shopping, head to the local museum to learn about Ocean Acres' rich history and culture. Spend some time exploring the exhibits, which feature artifacts and stories from the region's past. For lunch, find a cozy bistro that offers farm-to-table dishes, allowing you to taste the local flavors.
As the sun begins to set, enjoy a guided walking tour of the Historic Center, where you can hear fascinating tales of the town's past. Following the tour, find a quaint restaurant for dinner, where you can indulge in fresh seafood and regional specialties. End the evening with a relaxing stroll along the waterfront, taking in the beautiful views of the harbor.
Kick off your day with a hearty breakfast at a beachside café, where you can enjoy ocean views while fueling up for a day of adventure. After breakfast, head to the beach to soak up the sun and try your hand at paddleboarding, which is perfect for both beginners and experienced enthusiasts. The gentle waves and warm sand make for an ideal setting to relax before diving into the water activities.
After a morning of paddling, take a break for lunch at a beachfront grill, where you can enjoy fresh seafood tacos and refreshing drinks. Post-lunch, join a guided snorkeling tour to explore the vibrant underwater world, teeming with colorful fish and marine life. This afternoon adventure will leave you with unforgettable memories and perhaps even some new friends from the ocean.
As the day winds down, find a comfortable spot on the beach to watch the sunset, with hues of orange and pink painting the sky. For dinner, visit a local seafood restaurant known for its catch of the day, enjoying the flavors of the ocean while listening to live music. Cap off the evening with a stroll along the shoreline, experiencing the soothing sound of waves crashing against the sand.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🏠One-bedroom apartment in suburb | $1,200-1,800 per month |
| 🚗Gasoline per gallon | $3.50-4.50 |
| 🧾Internet per month | $40-60 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $120-250 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Close proximity to multiple beaches and nature reserves
- Family-friendly atmosphere with plenty of outdoor activities
- Relatively good value for a Jersey Shore destination
- Accessible day trips to major cities within a couple of hours
- Seasonal crowds and higher weekend traffic in summer
- Limited nightlife within Ocean Acres itself
- Some services and attractions require travel to nearby towns
- Vulnerability to coastal weather and hurricane season
Places to Visit in Ocean Acres
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic lighthouse with panoramic views of the inlet and ocean; best at sunrise or sunset.
Expansive sandy shores and wind-sculpted dunes along the shoreline ideal for wide-angle coastal shots.
Wetlands, marshes, and woodlands with boardwalks and abundant wildlife—great forbirding and landscape photography.
Scenic bridge spans over Barnegat Bay offering sunset silhouettes and harbor activity.
Food in Ocean Acres
Ocean Acres Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Creamy chowder with local clams, often served with oyster crackers.
Must-Try!
Golden-crisp cakes made with local crab meat and a tangy remoulade.
Chilled lobster meat on a soft roll with butter or mayo, a Shore staple.
Seasonal, Eastern Shore-style crabs served with melted butter and lemon.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market near Manahawkin offering fresh produce, seafood, baked goods, and prepared foods.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Respect quiet hours in residential areas; follow posted parking rules and local ordinances.
Follow lifeguard instructions, respect wildlife areas, and avoid removing shells or disturbing habitat in protected zones.
Safety
Tipping in Ocean Acres
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, 15-20% gratuity is standard; tip bartenders and guides as appropriate; tip housekeeping in hotels.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; cash is handy for markets and small vendors; contactless payments are common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures with blooming coastal flora; migratory birds return, making it ideal for nature walks and early-season seafood markets.
Warm, humid days with peak beach activity and water sports; sun protection and hydration are essential; expect crowds on weekends.
Pleasant, cooler days and fewer crowds; great for biking, hiking, and enjoying off-peak rates at lodgings.
Cold and quiet with occasional coastal storms; indoor dining and fireside venues become focal points; plan for shorter daylight hours.
Ocean Acres at Night
Hiking in Ocean Acres
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Paved and natural trails around Barnegat Light offering ocean and marsh views.
Boardwalks and nature trails through marshes and woodlands—great for birdwatching.
Forest trails and scenic overlooks within a reasonable drive for longer hikes.
Airports
How to reach Ocean Acres by plane.
Approximately 40-60 miles south; convenient for regional flights and connections.
Approximately 60-80 miles west; major hub with national and international flights.
Approximately 85-100 miles north; major international hub.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many families reside in Ocean Acres with a strong emphasis on outdoor activities and practicality for summer rentals.
A sizeable influx of visitors and part-time residents during the warmer months.
Older residents who value a quieter coastal lifestyle and nearby healthcare access.
Growing multicultural presence with visitors and residents from varied backgrounds.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular along the Jersey Shore during warm months; local surf schools operate on LBI and nearby beaches.
Saltwater fishing in Barnegat Bay and inlets; charter boats available for day trips.
Kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and boat tours are common on the bay and coastal waters.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ocean Acres.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many seafood spots offer salads, veggie burgers, grilled vegetables, and dairy-free options; ask for customization when ordering.