Things To Do
in Point Pleasant
Point Pleasant, New Jersey is a classic Jersey Shore borough and riverfront community known for its laid-back beaches, family-friendly boardwalk culture, and access to both the Atlantic Ocean and Manasquan River. Summers bring lively boardwalk activity, seafood shacks, and a strong boating and fishing scene, while off-season the town is quiet and residential. The town combines seaside recreation with marshy estuaries and pine-barren natural areas, offering birding and paddling opportunities.
Its proximity to larger shore towns and the Garden State Parkway makes it a convenient base for exploring the Jersey coast and nearby New York–Philadelphia corridor.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Point Pleasant and settle into your accommodation. Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at a local diner to fuel your adventures ahead. Take a stroll along the picturesque Riverfront Park, enjoying views of the Ohio River.
Visit the Point Pleasant River Museum to learn about the town's maritime history and its connections to the river. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a nearby café, sampling some local favorites. Afterward, explore the historic downtown area, checking out boutique shops and artisan galleries.
Savor dinner at a waterfront restaurant, relishing fresh seafood and panoramic river views. Join a guided ghost tour to uncover the haunted tales of Point Pleasant and immerse yourself in local legends. End your night with drinks at a cozy bar, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.
Start your day with breakfast at a local bakery famous for its pastries and coffee. Afterward, head to the Mothman Museum, dedicated to the city's most famous creature, where you'll find intriguing exhibits and memorabilia. Take your time exploring the fascinating history and lore surrounding the Mothman.
Enjoy lunch at a diner known for its comfort food, experiencing the local cuisine. Afterward, embark on an outdoor adventure at Tu-Endie-Wei State Park, where you can hike scenic trails and enjoy the beautiful landscapes. Don't forget to capture photos of the iconic replica of the Mothman statue!
Have dinner at a local pizzeria, enjoying a casual atmosphere and delicious slices. After your meal, take a sunset cruise on the Ohio River, offering breathtaking views and a relaxing end to the day. Return to your accommodation for a restful night.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| ☕Coffee or small café drink | $3-5 |
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-20 |
| 🍺Beer at a bar | $6-10 |
| 🚕Short taxi or rideshare (within town) | $10-25 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (per night, seasonal) | $120-300 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Classic Jersey Shore atmosphere with family-friendly beaches and boardwalk activities
- Good access to boating, fishing, and estuary paddling
- Close to other popular shore towns and regional transport corridors
- Strong seasonal events and a relaxed, small-town vibe
- Very crowded and expensive during peak summer season
- Limited nightlife and services in the off-season
- Parking and traffic congestion on summer weekends
- Weather can be unpredictable during storm seasons
Places to Visit in Point Pleasant
Visit one of these nice places.
Classic boardwalk shots of sunset, beachgoers, arcades, and the boardwalk architecture—great for candid seaside photos.
Dramatic coastal and boat photographs at the inlet and rock jetties, especially at sunrise or during active surf.
Picturesque views of moored boats, reflections on calm water, and marshlands—good for golden hour and bird photography.
Wide beach, dune ridges, and natural marsh vistas provide serene landscape shots and wildlife opportunities.
Tree-lined streets and small-town architecture offer charming street photography and seasonal color in autumn.
Food in Point Pleasant
Point Pleasant Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Local seafood shacks serve fresh fried clams or clam strips; try them with tartar sauce and a side of fries at a waterfront stand or diner.
Must-Try!
Breaded and fried whitefish or haddock is a staple; look for sandwiches, platters, or combo baskets at boardwalk eateries and family restaurants.
Classic shore candy like saltwater taffy, funnel cake, and soft-serve ice cream are must-tries while walking the boardwalk.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal stands along the boardwalk offer fried seafood, hot dogs, ice cream, and carnival-style snacks—perfect for a casual, on-the-go meal.
Small fish markets and seafood counters in town sell fresh catches and prepared seafood to cook at home or take on a picnic.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Residents are generally friendly and informal—polite greetings and a relaxed demeanor go a long way. Small talk about the weather or the beach is common.
Follow posted beach rules (no glass, leash laws for dogs where applicable, and lifeguard flags). Clean up after yourself and respect local wildlife and dune protections.
Queue politely for boardwalk attractions and restaurants; driving can be slow in season—be patient, and don’t block driveways or private property when parking.
Safety
Tipping in Point Pleasant
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary in the U.S.: 15–20% at sit-down restaurants (20% for excellent service), $1–2 per drink at bars, 10–15% for taxis or rideshares, and $2–5 for hotel housekeeping per night. Many service workers rely on tips, so factor them into meal and service costs.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; contactless payments (Apple Pay/Google Pay) are common. Small vendors and boardwalk stands may prefer cash, so carry some bills for convenience.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Peak season with warm, humid weather, crowded beaches and boardwalks, and plenty of seasonal businesses open; book accommodation and parking early and expect traffic on weekends and holidays.
Quieter and more affordable with crisp air, migrating birds, pleasant afternoons for hiking and paddling, and occasional stormy seas—good time for photography and local festivals.
Off-season is quiet and peaceful with cold temperatures and fewer services; some restaurants and attractions may be closed, but it's a good time for low-cost stays and exploring parks without crowds.
Gradual warm-up brings blooming coastal flora, returning birdlife, and the opening of seasonal businesses—shoulder season offers a balance of mild weather and fewer tourists than summer.
Point Pleasant at Night
Hiking in Point Pleasant
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Barrier-island park with dune walks, beach trails, and opportunities to see coastal wildlife and pristine shorelines; ideal for long, scenic walks.
Pine-barrens trails with boardwalks, wildflowers, and shady forest paths—great for a quieter inland hike and seasonal birding.
Historic cranberry bogs and cedar swamp trails with interpretive signage and easy walking paths that highlight local ecology and history.
Extensive marsh and wetland areas with trails and observation points for migratory birds and coastal ecosystems—excellent for photographers and birdwatchers.
Airports
How to reach Point Pleasant by plane.
Approximately 45–60 minutes south by car; regional flights and rental cars available—useful for travelers heading to the southern Jersey Shore.
About 60–90 minutes north by car depending on traffic; largest nearby international airport with frequent domestic and international flights and good rental car and rail connections.
Around 90 minutes west by car; another major airport option with many domestic flights and connections by road.
Several smaller airports serve private and charter flights for regional access; commercial service is limited.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Families, local business owners, and retirees who live in the borough year-round and maintain community services and schools.
Tourists and vacationers who swell the population in summer—families, groups, and day-trippers from nearby cities.
Marina and charter operators, anglers, and recreational boaters who are active on the river and bay.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Surfing and bodyboarding are popular along the Atlantic-facing beaches; local breaks draw both beginners and experienced surfers.
Recreational inshore and offshore fishing are staples, with party boat charters and private boats targeting bass, fluke, and other local species.
Informal beach volleyball and sand sports are common during summer at public beach spots.
Local high school football, baseball, and lacrosse enjoy strong community support and are popular weekend activities.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Point Pleasant.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are available at cafés and many restaurants—look for salads, veggie burgers, pasta dishes, and grilled vegetable plates. Ask servers for substitutions and daily specials; farm-to-table spots in nearby towns often have better vegetarian offerings.
Vegan choices exist but are more limited than in larger cities; seek out cafés with plant-based menus or request modifications like swapping cheese and mayo for vegan alternatives when possible.
Many restaurants can accommodate gluten-free bread and pasta; inform staff of celiac needs to avoid cross-contamination. Seafood restaurants often have naturally gluten-free grilled options.