Top 10 Best Waterfront Dining Spots at the Jersey Shore

A Shore Thing: A Guide to the 10 Best Waterfront Dining Spots at the Jersey Shore

A trip to the Jersey Shore is a feast for the senses, and nothing complements the sound of crashing waves and the smell of salt air better than a delicious meal with a stunning water view. From lively oceanfront decks and elegant bayside restaurants to classic dockside crab shacks, New Jersey's coastline is brimming with fantastic waterfront dining options. Whether you're craving fresh seafood, a gourmet meal, or a casual cocktail at sunset, here is a guide to 10 of the best and most beloved waterfront dining spots at the Jersey Shore.

1. The Lobster House (Cape May, NJ)

• The Vibe: An iconic and sprawling seafood complex on the Cape May Harbor, The Lobster House is a true Jersey Shore institution. It's a must-visit for its classic maritime atmosphere.
• The View: Offers multiple waterfront experiences, from the main dining room overlooking the fishing fleet to the lively outdoor Schooner American, a historic sailing vessel turned cocktail bar right on the water.
• The Food: Famous for its incredibly fresh seafood, including lobster, steamed clams, and a fantastic raw bar.

2. Martell's Tiki Bar (Point Pleasant Beach, NJ)

• The Vibe: The ultimate summer party spot, Martell's Tiki Bar is a massive, energetic bar and restaurant located directly on the beach and extending over the ocean on its own pier.
• The View: Unobstructed, panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean. You can dine with your toes practically in the sand.
• The Food: Offers a diverse menu of classic pub fare, sushi, and seafood, but the main draw is the vibrant atmosphere, tropical drinks, and live music.

3. Beach Creek Oyster Bar & Grille (Wildwood, NJ)

• The Vibe: For a more upscale and romantic waterfront experience, Beach Creek is a top choice. It's known for its beautiful, tropical-inspired setting and stunning sunset views.
• The View: Situated on the bay side in Wildwood, it offers incredible, panoramic views of the water and marshes, especially at sunset.
• The Food: A creative and refined menu of fresh seafood, steaks, and inventive cocktails.

4. Bahrs Landing (Highlands, NJ)

• The Vibe: A historic landmark that has been serving seafood since 1917, Bahrs Landing is a classic, family-owned seafood restaurant with a down-to-earth, nautical feel.
• The View: Located at the gateway to the Jersey Shore, it offers fantastic views of Sandy Hook Bay and the Shrewsbury River.
• The Food: Renowned for its classic seafood preparations, from lobster and steamed crabs to fresh-shucked clams and oysters.

5. Rooney's Oceanfront Restaurant (Long Branch, NJ)

• The Vibe: An elegant yet comfortable restaurant situated right on the beach in Long Branch, Rooney's is a go-to for a special occasion meal with a view.
• The View: The dining room and outdoor patio offer spectacular, direct views of the Atlantic Ocean.
• The Food: An upscale menu focused on fresh seafood and classic American fare, including an acclaimed raw bar and Sunday brunch.

6. Parker's Garage & Oyster Saloon (Beach Haven, NJ)

• The Vibe: Located on the bay in Beach Haven, Parker's Garage is a chic, modern BYOB that pays homage to the history of Long Beach Island. It's set in a beautifully restored historic building.
• The View: Offers beautiful, serene views of Barnegat Bay, especially at sunset.
• The Food: A creative, seafood-focused menu that often features crudos, a fantastic raw bar, and inventive preparations of local fish.

7. The Wharfside (Point Pleasant Beach, NJ)

• The Vibe: A long-standing Point Pleasant institution, The Wharfside is a classic seafood restaurant and patio bar overlooking the Manasquan River.
• The View: Watch the fishing boats and yachts go by from their lively outdoor patio.
• The Food: A vast menu of traditional seafood favorites, from broiled platters and fried shrimp to sushi and a popular raw bar.

8. Two Mile Landing Restaurant & Crab House (Wildwood Crest, NJ)

• The Vibe: This expansive restaurant and marina offers two distinct dining adventures in one location with incredible back-bay views.
• The View: Perfect for catching a spectacular sunset over the Intracoastal Waterway.
• The Food: Enjoy a casual, paper-on-the-table feast at the Crab House or opt for a more elevated experience at the finer dining restaurant upstairs. Both guarantee boatside views and fresh seafood.

9. Latitudes on the River (Forked River, NJ)

• The Vibe: A vibrant and popular spot on the Forked River, Latitudes is known for its fun, tropical-themed atmosphere and live music.
• The View: A massive deck and tiki bar right on the water make it a prime summer destination for boaters and diners alike.
• The Food: A diverse menu of American fare, seafood, and creative cocktails.

10. 9th Ave Pier (Belmar, NJ)

• The Vibe: A casual, open-air bar and restaurant located right at the Belmar Marina on the Shark River.
• The View: Offers fantastic views of the marina and the Shark River bridge. It's a great spot to watch the boats and enjoy a relaxed, outdoor meal.
• The Food: Classic pub grub, seafood appetizers, and a great selection of summery cocktails.

From upscale oceanfront dining rooms to casual bayside crab shacks, the Jersey Shore offers a waterfront dining experience for every taste and occasion. These top-rated establishments not only serve delicious, fresh seafood and refreshing drinks but also provide the stunning views that make a meal "down the shore" a truly unforgettable experience.

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Joy Franklin
Food and Event Writer
My joy is aimed at food and foodie lovers. I enjoy covering trends, issues, and all things Philly.