Town Guide: Seaside Heights
If you find yourself in Seaside Heights, you're probably looking to do one of a couple of things, depending on whether you have kids in tow or not. Made famous (or infamous) by MTV's Jersey Shore, it is a popular destination for young adults looking to hang out and families looking for something a little faster pace than surrounding areas.
There is obviously Seaside Park, the amusement park cum arcade cum waterpark. Budget conscious families should scan for deals and bulk packages. You can purchase a package that gets you 18 holes of miniature golf, access to the water park, and a round of go-karts for a reasonable price. Later in the season, there are "wristband days" where you can get do unlimited rides for a couple of hours.
The miniature golf course associated with that deal - Smuggler's Quay - offers both 18 and 36 hole options. There is another mini golf course in the proper park - Wacky Rooftop Golf. The former is much better and challenging, if that's what you're looking for.
If you're making a night of it at the boardwalk, there are several bars, restaurants, and food stands to keep you satiated. Historically, you would grab a hilariously oversized slice of greasy pizza and a Bud, both of which are still on offer at the Sawmill. Three Brothers From Italy does brisk trade. For something unique, you can go to Maruca's for a tomato pie, which is not that dissimilar from a regular pie, but they put the sauce in a pinwheel shape on top of the pie. Still cheese and tomatoes = good. You also have plenty of stands selling other proto-Italian American fare - like sausage and peppers, cheesesteaks, and zepoles.
But there are many different options beyond the traditional. Park Seafood gets a nod, especially for its soft shell crab sandwich, which was ranked #7 on this NJ.com list of best boardwalk foods. House of Empanadas also got a mention.
The Beach
Like other beaches in the area, you need a badge to access the Seaside Heights beach. Of course, you can admire it from afar on the boardwalk for free. For those only visiting, weekly badges are $50 and daily are $13.
Non-boardwalk ideas and fare
Let's be real - the boardwalk can be overwhelming. Fortunately, the greater Seaside Heights area has some great options beyond the wooden pathway.
Klee's Bar and Grill is great for pub food and watching sports. Seaside Social House aims to serve artisanal pizzas and "provide an elevated, creative hang out where you can enjoy quality food while still wearing your flip flops."
Or cool off from the hot sun and enjoy a cold craft beer at Heavy Reel Brewing Company.
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