Best Things to Do in Spring Lake, NJ
Spring Lake earns its nickname – the Jewel of the Jersey Shore – not because it has the most to do, but because everything it does offer is genuinely excellent. There’s no boardwalk noise, no carnival energy. Just two miles of pristine beach, a beautiful lake, a legitimately great dining and shopping scene, and Victorian architecture that makes the whole town feel like it was designed by someone with real taste.
Walk the Lake
Spring Lake itself – the namesake body of water in the center of town – is one of the most peaceful spots on the Jersey Shore. Walking the perimeter takes about 30-40 minutes and is genuinely one of the best things you can do here. Tree-lined, quiet, with the kind of light that makes you want to slow down.
Spend a Morning on Third Avenue
The shopping street in Spring Lake is genuinely worth a few hours. No chain stores, no parking meters, no tourist junk. Faherty, Noon Designs, Whimsicality, Third Avenue Chocolate Shoppe, Artisan Spirit – you’ll find something worth buying. Walk it end to end before it gets busy.
Divine Park
A well-designed park with wooden bridges, shaded green spaces, and a playground. Better than it sounds on paper. A good option if you have kids or just want somewhere to sit with good coffee before the beach.
The Spring Lake Historical Society
For context on what you’re looking at when you walk the Victorian streets. The town has a rich history as a Gilded Age resort destination and the Historical Society tells it well. Worth 45 minutes if you’re curious.
Rent Bikes
Spring Lake is exceptionally bikeable. Flat, quiet streets, beautiful scenery. Renting bikes and riding through the neighborhood is one of the most enjoyable ways to spend a morning here.
Sea Girt Lighthouse
Just a few minutes from Spring Lake, the Sea Girt Lighthouse is a picturesque 1896 lighthouse that gives tours on select weekends. Worth checking the schedule before your trip.
Eat Well
Spring Lake has a dining scene that punches above its size. Whispers for fine dining. Spring Lake Seafood for a seafood lunch. St. Stephen’s Green for a casual evening. Marigold for a slow breakfast. The food here is actually good, not just shore-town good.
Day Trips From Spring Lake
- Asbury Park – 10 minutes north. Music, murals, boardwalk energy, and the Stone Pony.
- Belmar – 5 minutes. Larger beach, great for a full beach day with more activity.
- Point Pleasant Beach – 15 minutes south. Boardwalk, family activities, Jenkinson’s.
- Manasquan – 10 minutes. Surfer town with a great inlet beach and a good local bar scene.
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