It's no secret, most of us would like to stay in our own home as we age. Yet, sometimes our loved ones just need a little extra help to remain comfortable at home. That's where Always Best Care can help....we are dedicated to exceeding expectations....always.
They say that your golden years are the best years of your life. For most older Americans, that's how it should be - a time to relax, reflect, and live life in a familiar place. After all, senior citizens in the U.S. have worked tirelessly to build a better economy, serve their communities, and raise families.
However, as seniors grow older, completing daily tasks like showering and enjoying activities such as visiting the historic Ocean Grove Cross Pier gets harder without someone by their side. Unfortunately, many older Americans aren't able to rely on their adult children for help. The reality in today's world is that family members do not have the skills or time to dedicate to caring for their parents. That's where Always Best Care Senior Services comes in.
Our in-home care services are for people who prefer to stay at home as they grow older but need ongoing care that family or friends cannot provide. More and more older adults prefer to live far away from long-term, institutionalized facilities and closer to the place where they feel most comfortable - their home. Home care in Ocean Grove, NJ is a safe, effective way to give your loved ones the care they need when they need it the most.
Home Care Services
Service AreasSince 1996, Always Best Care has provided non-medical in-home care for seniors to help them maintain a healthy lifestyle as they get older. We are proud to have helped more than 25,000 seniors maintain higher levels of dignity and respect. We focus on providing seniors with the highest level of in-home care available so that they may live happily and independently.
Unlike some senior care companies, we genuinely want to be included in our clients' lives. We believe that personalized care is always the better option over a "one size fits all" approach. To make sure our senior clients receive the best care possible, we pair them with compassionate caregivers who understand their unique needs. That way, they may provide care accordingly without compromising their wellbeing.
The Always Best Care difference lies in life's little moments - where compassionate care and trustworthy experience come together to help seniors live a fruitful, healthy life. Whether you are an aging adult that can't quite keep up with life's daily tasks or the child of a senior who needs regular in-home services, Always Best Care is here to help.
“I just started using always best care for my dad The certified aids that came from”
“Such an amazing company with employees who truly care about their business and those they”
“It is a pleasure to work for someone that genuinely respects caregivers for the job”
“I am a current client of this provider I can’t begin to tell to you how”
“I cannot thank Always Best Care enough for helping us find an ideal Assisted Living”
“I am a current client of this provider Your manager is always nice and flexible, and”
“I am a current client of this provider We are very happy with Always Best Care.”
“I am a current client of this provider We have hired Always Best Care. We have”
“I am a current client of this provider We hired Always Best Care two weeks ago”
“I just started using always best care for my dad The certified aids that came from the agency were fantastic This situation is new for myself and my dad For having no complaints from my dad is a plus So ty again for such an easy transition for my dad Much appreciated Susan”
“Such an amazing company with employees who truly care about their business and those they take care of. Caretakers are top notch and customer service is great and they are available whenever you need them.”
“It is a pleasure to work for someone that genuinely respects caregivers for the job we do!”
“I am a current client of this provider I can’t begin to tell to you how pleased I am with Always Best Care. Not only have they placed the perfect caregiver with my mother they also take care of the billing and when I need to speak to a receptionist they are always available. Thank you!!”
“I cannot thank Always Best Care enough for helping us find an ideal Assisted Living Facility for my mother. We moved to the city a month ago and had little idea about the local senior living communities. I’d like to thank the highly experienced and knowledgeable caregivers of Always Best Care for helping our family during the difficult time.”
“I am a current client of this provider Your manager is always nice and flexible, and the caregivers are sweet and wonderful”
“I am a current client of this provider We are very happy with Always Best Care. They do 24hr care, and the caregiver is excellent. I would recommend them.”
“I am a current client of this provider We have hired Always Best Care. We have them for 5 to 6 weeks now. My mother practically does everything herself, but sometimes they might fix her her lunch, there might be a little bit of shopping, and they take her to her appointment. My mother is fine. The hours are fine. She got the hours that she requested. I know she is being billed on her credit card. They have been very helpful and very cooperative. The women always call back.”
“I am a current client of this provider We hired Always Best Care two weeks ago for my mom. The woman comes in three days a week to assist my mother with doing the wash, keeping the house picked up, and just talking to her. She’s wonderful. We interviewed several people, and there was just something about the way they were organized in their presentation and their follow up. that impressed us. They were a level above the other ones that we spoke to. They really listen to you about your needs and work very hard to match the caregiver up with what you’re looking for. We were very impressed with them.”
Home is where the heart is. While that saying can sound a tad cliche, it is especially true for many seniors living in America. When given a choice, older adults most often prefer to grow older at home. An AARP study found that three out of four adults over the age of 50 want to stay in their homes and communities as they age.
When you begin to think about why, it makes sense. Home offers a sense of security, comfort, and familiarity.
The truth is, as we age, we begin to rely on others for help. When a family is too busy or lives too far away to fulfill this role, in-home senior care is often the best solution. Home care services allow seniors to enjoy personal independence while also receiving trustworthy assistance from a trained caregiver.
At Always Best Care, we offer a comprehensive range of home care services to help seniors stay healthy while they get the help they need to remain independent. As your senior loved one gets older, giving them the gift of senior care is one of the best ways to show your love, even if you live far away.
To give our senior clients the best care possible, we offer a full spectrum of in-home care services:
If your senior loved one has specific care needs, our personal care services are a great choice to consider. Personal care includes the standard caregiving duties associated with companion care and includes help with tasks such as dressing and grooming. Personal care can also help individuals with chronic conditions like diabetes.
Common personal care services include assistance with:
Sometimes, seniors need helpful reminders to maintain a high quality of life at home. If you or your senior has trouble with everyday tasks like cooking, our home helper services will be very beneficial.
Common home helper care services include assistance with:
Using this kind of care is a fantastic way to make life easier for you or your senior loved one. At Always Best Care, our talented caregivers often fill the role of a companion for seniors. That way, older adults can enjoy their favorite local activities, such as visiting Ocean Path Park with friends while also receiving the care they need daily or weekly.
Common companionship services include:
According to AARP, more than 53 million adults living in the U.S. provide care to someone over 50 years old. Unfortunately, these caregivers experience stress, exhaustion, and even depression. Our respite care services help family caregivers address urgent obligations, spend time with their children, and enjoy nearby activities. Perhaps more importantly, respite care gives family members time to recharge and regroup. Taking personal time to de-stress reduces the risk of caregiver burnout. So, if you've always wanted to eat at the local SeaGrass Restaurant or visit The Great Auditorium, don't feel bad. Doing so is great for both you and your loved one.
At the end of the day, our goal is to become a valuable part of your senior's daily routine. That way, we may help give them the highest quality of life possible. We know that staying at home is important for your loved one, and we are here to help make sure that is possible.
If you have been on the fence about non-medical home care, there has never been a better time than now to give your senior the care, assistance, and companionship they deserve.
Always Best Care in-home services are for older adults who prefer to stay at home but need ongoing care that friends and family cannot provide. In-home care is a safe, effective way for seniors to age gracefully in a familiar place and live independent, non-institutionalized lives. The benefits of non-medical home care are numerous. Here are just a few reasons to consider senior care services from Always Best Care:
According to AARP, 9 out of 10 seniors prefer to age in place within the comfort of their own home. With in-home care, seniors have a way to stay at home, receive the care they need, and maintain a sense of independence, improving overall wellness.
If you or a member of your family have assumed the role of caregiver for your senior loved one, you know how stressful the job can be. Between caregiver burnout and constant worry, being a family caregiver is hard. In-home care relieves your burden and gives you peace of mind knowing that your older family member is in expert hands.
Unlike nursing homes, where the staff and residents rotate frequently, seniors can foster new friendships and build bonds with their caregiver. Seniors who socialize on a regular basis are often happier, which fosters positivity and leads to increased wellbeing.
No two seniors need the same kind of in-home care assistance. That is why each of our Care Plans is tailored to meet our client's individual needs. We offer plans that cover everything from light housekeeping to more involved duties like transportation to doctor's appointments. Our Care Coordinators will work closely with you to develop a personalized plan to ensure your senior's needs are exceeded.
Always Best Care offers a full array of care options for patients at all levels of health. With our trusted elderly care services, your loved one will receive the level of care necessary for them to enjoy the highest possible quality of life.
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While it's true that some seniors have complicated medical needs that prevent them from staying at home, aging in place is often the best arrangement for seniors and their families. With a trusted caregiver, seniors have the opportunity to live with a sense of dignity and do so as they see fit - something that is unavailable to many older people today.
In-home care makes it possible for millions of seniors to age in place every year. Rather than moving to a strange nursing home, seniors have the chance to stay at home where they feel the happiest and most comfortable.
How much does a senior's home truly mean to them?
A study published by the American Society on Aging found that more than half of seniors say their home's emotional value means more than how much their home is worth in monetary value. It stands to reason, then, that a senior's home is where they want to grow old.
With the help of elderly care in Ocean Grove, NJ, seniors don't have to age in a sterilized care facility. Instead, they can age gracefully in the place they want to be most: their home. In contrast, seniors who move to a long-term care facility must adapt to new environments, new people, and new systems that the facility implements. At this stage in life, this kind of drastic change can be more harmful than helpful.
Institutional care facilities like nursing homes often put large groups of people together to live in one location. On any given day, dozens of staff members and caregivers run in and out of these facilities. Being around so many new people in a relatively small living environment can be dangerous for a seniors' health and wellbeing. When you consider that thousands of seniors passed away in nursing homes during the COVID-19 pandemic, opting for in-home care is often a safer, healthier choice for seniors.
Aging in place has been shown to improve seniors' quality of life, which helps boost physical health and also helps insulate them from viral and bacterial risks found in elderly living facilities.
For many seniors, the ability to live independently with assistance from a caregiver is a priceless option. With in-home care, seniors experience a higher level of independence and freedom - much more so than in other settings like a nursing home. When a senior has the chance to age in place, they get to live life on their own terms, inside the house that they helped make into a home. More independence means more control over their personal lives, too, which leads to increased levels of fulfillment, happiness, and personal gratification. Over time, these positive feelings can manifest into a healthier, longer life.
More independence, a healthier life, and increased comfort are only a few benefits of aging in place. You have to take into consideration the role of cost and convenience. Simply put, it's usually easier and more affordable to help seniors age in place than it is to move them into an institutional care facility. According to the US Department of Housing and Urban Development, seniors who age in the comfort of their homes can save thousands of dollars per month.
In-home care services from Always Best Care, for instance, are often less expensive than long-term solutions, which can cost upwards of six figures per year. To make matters worse, many residential care facilities are reluctant to accept long-term care insurance and other types of payment assistance.
With Always Best Care's home care services, seniors and their families have a greater level of control over their care plans. In-home care gives seniors the chance to form a bond with a trusted caregiver and also receive unmatched care that is catered to their needs. In long-term care facilities, seniors and their loved ones have much less control over their care plan and have less of a say in who provides their care.
In-home care is a valuable resource that empowers seniors to age in place on their own terms. However, a big concern for many families and their loved ones is how much in-home care costs. If you're worried that in-home care is too expensive, you may be pleasantly surprised to learn that it is one of the most affordable senior care arrangements available.
Typically, hiring an Always Best Care in-home caregiver for a few hours a week is more affordable than sending your loved one to a long-term care facility. This is true even for seniors with more complex care needs.
At Always Best Care, we will work closely with you and your family to develop a Care Plan that not only meets your care needs, but your budget requirements, too. Once we discover the level of care that you or your senior need, we develop an in-home care plan that you can afford.
In addition to our flexible care options, families should also consider the following resources to help offset potential home care costs:
When you or your senior loved one needs assistance managing daily tasks at home, finding a qualified caregiver can be challenging. It takes a special kind of person to provide reliable care for your senior loved one. However, a caregiver's role involves more than meal preparation and medication reminders. Many seniors rely on their caregivers for companionship, too.
Our companion care services give seniors the chance to socialize in a safe environment and engage in activities at home. These important efforts boost morale and provide much-needed relief from repetitive daily routines. A one-on-one, engaging conversation can sharpen seniors' minds and give them something in which to be excited.
At Always Best Care, we only hire care providers that we would trust to care for our own loved ones. Our senior caregivers in Ocean Grove, NJ understand how important it is to listen and communicate with their seniors. A seemingly small interaction, like a short hug goodbye, can make a major difference in a senior's day. Instead of battling against feelings of isolation, seniors begin to look forward to seeing their caregiver each week.
Understanding the nuances of senior care is just one of the reasons why our care providers are so great at their job.
Unlike some senior care companies, our caregivers must undergo extensive training before they work for Always Best Care. In addition, our caregivers receive ongoing training throughout the year. This training ensures that their standard of care matches up to the high standards we've come to expect. During this training, they will brush up on their communication skills, safety awareness, and symptom spotting. That way, your loved one receives the highest level of non-medical home care from day one.
While it's true that many seniors prefer to age at home, sometimes in-home care isn't the best fit. For those seniors and their families, choosing an assisted living facility makes more sense. Unfortunately, finding the optimal care facility is easier said than done in today's day and age. That's when Always Best Care's assisted living referral services begin to make a lot of sense.
Assisted living is a form of housing intended for seniors who require varying degrees of medical and personal attention. Accommodations may include single rooms, apartments, or shared living arrangements. Assisted living communities are typically designed to resemble a home-like environment and are physically constructed to encourage the independence of residents.
At assisted living communities, seniors receive help with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and eating. They may also benefit from coordination of services with outside healthcare providers, and monitoring of resident activities to ensure their health, safety, and well-being. Caregivers who work at assisted living communities can also provide medication administration and personal care services for older adults.
Other services offered within assisted living communities can include some or all of the following:
At Always Best Care, our representatives can match your senior's emotional, physical, and financial needs with viable assisted living communities nearby. Results are based on comparative data, so you can select the best choice for you or your loved one.
Always Best Care works closely with local senior living communities to gain valuable knowledge that we then use to help seniors and their loved ones make informed decisions. This information can include basic care and rent, resident availability, and services provided. Because Always Best Care is compensated by these communities, we provide senior living referral services at no extra cost to you.
Some of the most popular assisted living communities to consider in our area include the following:
For many seniors, moving into a senior living community revolves around how and when they want to make a transition to more involved care. Some seniors are more proactive about transitioning to independent living. Others choose to remain home until their care needs or other requirements are satisfied. Remember - our staff is here to help. Contact our office today to learn more about assisted living communities and how we can find a facility that exceeds your expectations.
The first step in getting quality in-home care starts with a personal consultation with an experienced Always Best Care Care Coordinator. This initial consultation is crucial for our team to learn more about you or your elderly loved one to discover the level of care required. Topics of this consultation typically include:
A discussion of your needs and how our trained caregivers can offer assistance in the most effective way
A draft of your care plan, which includes highly detailed notes and a framework for the care that you or your senior will receive
Discuss payment options and help coordinate billing with your insurance provider
Our caregivers are trained to spot changes that clients exhibit, like mental and physical decline. As your trusted senior care company, we will constantly assess and update your Care Plan to meet any new emotional, intellectual, physical, and emotional needs.
If you have never considered in-home care before, we understand that you and your family may have concerns about your Care Plan and its Care Coordinator. To help give you peace of mind, know that every team member and caregiver must undergo comprehensive training before being assigned to a Care Plan.
At the end of the day, we only hire the best of the best at Always Best Care. Whether you need home care in Ocean Grove, NJ 24-hours a day or only need a respite for a couple of hours, we are here to serve you.
When you're ready, we encourage you to contact your local Always Best Care representative to set up a Care Consultation. Our Care Coordinators would be happy to meet with you in person to get to know you better, discuss your needs, and help put together a personalized Care Plan specific to your needs.
Advisories--None at this time.At the ShoreCurrent conditions and forecast as of Thu morningRip Current RiskLowWaves1 - 2 feetWindsFrom the Southwest5 - 10 mph (Gust 13 mph)4 - 9 knots (Gust 11 knots)Ocean Temperature63° - 67°(Normal 60° - 67°)Air Temperature71° - 87°Sunrise/Sunset5:27am - 8:23pm...
--None at this time.
Current conditions and forecast as of Thu morning
| Rip Current Risk | Low |
|---|---|
| Waves | 1 - 2 feet |
| Winds | From the Southwest5 - 10 mph (Gust 13 mph)4 - 9 knots (Gust 11 knots) |
| Ocean Temperature | 63° - 67°(Normal 60° - 67°) |
| Air Temperature | 71° - 87° |
| Sunrise/Sunset | 5:27am - 8:23pm |
| UV Index | 8 (Very High) |
| SANDY HOOKSandy Hook Bay | LowThu 10:27a | HighThu 4:37p | LowThu 11:04p | HighFri 4:50a | |
| LONG BRANCHAtlantic Ocean | LowThu 9:51a | HighThu 4:11p | LowThu 10:28p | HighFri 4:24a | |
| MANASQUAN INLETAtlantic Ocean | LowThu 10:03a | HighThu 4:25p | LowThu 10:40p | HighFri 4:38a | |
| SEASIDE HEIGHTSAtlantic Ocean | LowThu 9:55a | HighThu 4:07p | LowThu 10:32p | HighFri 4:20a | |
| SEASIDE PARKBarnegat Bay | HighThu 7:37a | LowThu 2:32p | HighThu 8:17p | LowFri 3:09a | |
| BARNEGAT INLETBarnegat Bay | LowThu 10:28a | HighThu 4:43p | LowThu 11:01p | HighFri 4:52a | |
| MANAHAWKIN BRIDGEManahawkin Bay | HighThu 6:44a | LowThu 2:06p | HighThu 7:24p | LowFri 2:43a | |
| LITTLE EGG INLETGreat Bay | LowThu 10:53a | HighThu 5:25p | LowThu 11:30p | HighFri 5:35a | |
| ATLANTIC CITYAtlantic Ocean | LowThu 10:05a | HighThu 4:28p | LowThu 10:42p | HighFri 4:37a | |
| OCEAN DRIVE BRIDGETownsends Inlet | LowThu 10:19a | HighThu 4:46p | LowThu 10:58p | HighFri 4:55a | |
| WILDWOOD CRESTAtlantic Ocean | LowThu 10:11a | HighThu 4:49p | LowThu 10:53p | HighFri 4:58a | |
| CAPE MAYDelaware Bay | LowThu 11:03a | HighThu 5:33p | LowThu 11:43p | HighFri 5:45a |
From the National Weather Service, Mt. Holly
THU: SW winds 5 to 10 kt, becoming S 10 to 15 kt with gusts up to 20 kt in the afternoon. Seas 2 to 3 ft. Wave Detail: SE 2 ft at 7 seconds.
THU NIGHT: SW winds 10 to 15 kt with gusts up to 20 kt, diminishing to 5 to 10 kt after midnight. Seas 2 to 3 ft. Wave Detail: SE 3 ft at 7 seconds.
FRI: SW winds 5 to 10 kt. Seas 2 to 3 ft. Wave Detail: S 2 ft at 5 seconds and E 2 ft at 8 seconds.
FRI NIGHT: S winds 5 to 10 kt. Seas 2 to 4 ft. Wave Detail: S 4 ft at 8 seconds and S 2 ft at 5 seconds.
SAT: S winds 5 to 10 kt. Seas around 4 ft. Wave Detail: SE 4 ft at 8 seconds and E 1 foot at 8 seconds. A chance of showers.
SAT NIGHT: S winds 5 to 10 kt, becoming SW after midnight. Seas 3 to 4 ft. A chance of showers.
SUN: E winds around 5 kt. Seas 3 to 4 ft. A chance of showers.
SUN NIGHT: SW winds around 5 kt. Seas 3 to 4 ft. A chance of showers early in the evening.
MON: S winds 5 to 10 kt. Seas 2 to 3 ft.
MON NIGHT: S winds 5 to 10 kt. Seas 2 to 3 ft. A chance of showers.
Data on this page amalgamated from several sources, including the National Weather Service (weather), National Ocean Service (tides), U.S. Naval Observatory (sun), and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (UV index).
Dan Zarrow is Chief Meteorologist for Townsquare Media New Jersey. The Shore Report is generated semi-automatically daily at 5 a.m. from mid-May to late September. Follow Dan's weather blog and Facebook page for your latest forecast and realtime weather updates.
No question New Jersey has been hit hard by hurricanes and tropical storms the last few years. From Ida, to Henri, to Isaias, to Fay and to Sally. But where on earth are they getting these names? Steve Trevelise thinks if they had "Jersey" names, they would be more intimidating. He asked his Facebook following for some suggestions, here's some of what they came up with.
These nine towns in New Jersey, beautified by history, nature, and local spirit, reflect a gentler rhythm of life. The neighborhoods are tight, and the roads are safe. This is the latest from the Garden State by WorldAtlas.com.Allentown Allentown’s small-town appeal lies in its balance between rural landscapes and community charm. The town is distinguished by its preservation of history, with old small businesses in the heart of the central district that make for a relaxing downtown stro...
These nine towns in New Jersey, beautified by history, nature, and local spirit, reflect a gentler rhythm of life. The neighborhoods are tight, and the roads are safe. This is the latest from the Garden State by WorldAtlas.com.
Allentown’s small-town appeal lies in its balance between rural landscapes and community charm. The town is distinguished by its preservation of history, with old small businesses in the heart of the central district that make for a relaxing downtown stroll. Iconic spots include the Old Allenwood General Store and Vintage America, which retails proudly American-made craft products like hats, candles, and more. Dining destinations like Woody’s Towne Café add to the experience with their traditional diner aesthetic. Historic highlights in Allentown include the Allentown Presbyterian Church, built in 1837, and the Old Mill, now home to the Moth Coffeehouse. Open green spaces like Heritage Park, with water streams from Indian Lake, also contribute to the town’s appeal as a prime destination to enjoy a slower pace of life.
Ocean Grove adds a relaxed, distinctive appeal to the typical small waterfront town in New Jersey with its wooden boardwalks, intimate beaches, and rows of pastel-painted Victorian homes. With a population of just 2,916, it's known for having one of the largest concentrations of Victorian architecture in the United States. The town’s historic charm is showcased in landmarks like the soaring Great Auditorium, the Centennial Cottage maintained by the Historical Society of Ocean Grove, and the iconic Tent Colony, where canvas tents have been passed down through generations since the town’s founding in 1869. Whether you're exploring the tree-lined streets, attending a concert, or staying at a charming local inn like The Inn at Ocean Grove or The Ocean Plaza Hotel, Ocean Grove invites visitors to slow down and experience coastal New Jersey at its most graceful and timeless.
Clinton, New Jersey, offers a harmonious blend of small-town charm and natural beauty, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a slower pace of life. Nestled in Hunterdon County, Clinton is surrounded by scenic parks and reservoirs that offer plenty of outdoor recreation. Just 4.5 miles away, Spruce Run Recreation Area features a 1,290-acre reservoir popular for camping, boating, fishing, and swimming. Another nearby option is Round Valley Recreation Area, located 5.8 miles away and home to New Jersey’s only wilderness camping sites. Accessible by hiking or boating, these secluded spots along the reservoir’s southeastern shoreline provide a more rugged experience for seasoned adventurers. After a day spent in nature, visitors can unwind in Clinton’s quaint downtown, exploring the historic Red Mill Museum, browsing local boutiques, or enjoying a meal at one of its cozy eateries. With its rich history, picturesque setting, and welcoming community, Clinton is both a peaceful retreat and a convenient stopover for families and outdoor enthusiasts.
Spring Lake offers a quieter, more refined experience on the Jersey Shore, known for its historic homes, calm atmosphere, and a boardwalk free of commercial distractions. Stretching two miles along the ocean, the boardwalk is ideal for peaceful, reflective beach walks. Nearby, Third Avenue serves as the town’s main business district, home to casual dining spots like Sun & Waves and Honey Berry Café. The surrounding streets are lined with beautifully preserved Victorian homes that showcase the town’s timeless character. Visitors interested in local history can explore the Spring Lake Historical Society, which features artifacts from the town’s past. For an immersive stay, the Spring Lake Inn offers a taste of old-world charm inside a spacious Victorian mansion with 16 elegant guest rooms.
Lambertville is a top choice for those seeking a slower pace of life, thanks to its mix of antique shops, art spaces, and scenic surroundings. Known as the Antique Capital of New Jersey, Union Street—one of the town’s main business areas—is lined with gems like A Touch of the Past Antiques and the Antiques Center at the People’s Store.
Art lovers will enjoy stops like Union Gallery and Cross Pollination Gallery, both of which showcase work by local artists. The Goat Hill Overlook and the D&R Canal Trail in nearby Stockton offer peaceful riverside walks and bike rides. From Bridge Street, visitors can easily reach New Hope, Pennsylvania, to explore additional shops, cafés, and galleries such as New Hope Art House and Gallery Piquel. Top accommodation options in town include the Lambertville Station Restaurant and Inn, located on the Delaware River waterfront, and the Lambertville House, offering a more historic stay in the heart of town.
Cranbury is a peaceful escape from the city, offering small-town calm just over 45 miles from New York. Strolling down Main Street feels like walking through history, with colonial-era buildings, charming shops, and preserved landmarks at every turn. Highlights include the First Presbyterian Church of Cranbury, established in 1746, and the Cranbury Township Town Hall, both central to the town’s story. Brainerd Lake offers tranquil views and gentle water activities, while Village Park adds space for slow-paced outdoor fun. Main Street is home to small businesses and classic eateries, with standouts like Teddy’s Luncheonette and The Cranbury Inn welcoming guests with tradition and charm.
Belmar is a relaxing aquatic escape for those looking to enjoy watersports while soaking in an upscale coastal ambiance. The town offers fishing, boating, and leisurely exploration through the Belmar Manutti Marina, a central hub for water lovers. A visit becomes even more memorable thanks to seasonal events that embrace Belmar’s identity as a seaside destination. Among the most celebrated are the New Jersey Seafood Festival, which showcases local flavours and draws visitors from across the state, and the New Jersey Sandcastle Contest, where creative talent transforms the shoreline into a gallery of sculpted masterpieces. The small-town experience in Belmar is complete with fine dining destinations like the Marina Grille, which offers a memorable meal among an aquatic backdrop, and La Dolce Vita, a local Italian favourite.
Salem, New Jersey, stands out as one of the best communities for a relaxed visit thanks to its quiet riverside setting, deep-rooted history, and small-town atmosphere untouched by heavy tourism. Located near the Delaware border, the town is home to colonial landmarks, scenic riverbanks, and preserved architecture that invite slow exploration. A stroll along Market Street reveals centuries of history, including the Old Salem County Courthouse, dating back to 1735, and the Salem County Historical Society, which features artifacts from the area’s past, including clothing, furniture, and more. For those looking to venture further into nature, surrounding green spaces like Oakwood Beach and Supawna Meadows National Wildlife Refuge, located 3.8 miles away, offer peaceful escapes.
Blairstown is one of the best small towns to experience calming greenery and serene nature, with nearby spots like Sycamore Park and Limestone Ridge Marsh Preserve, located just 1.4 miles away. Surrounded by rolling hills and farmland in Warren County, the town offers peaceful moments at every turn, from walking across the iconic footbridge at Footbridge Park to spending a quiet afternoon on the Paulinskill Valley Trail. Its compact Main Street is as quiet and relaxing as the landscape around it, lined with local shops, vintage storefronts, and the historic Roy’s Hall Theatre, dating back to 1913. Whether you’re taking in the scenery, exploring trails, or simply enjoying the slower rhythm of daily life, Blairstown delivers an easygoing retreat rooted in natural beauty and small-town charm.
Ultimately, the best towns in New Jersey with a slower pace of life are the ones where time lingers, stories live in old buildings, and forests, lakes, and winding trails frame outdoor adventures. Whether you're wandering through a historic district or hiking a peaceful trail, these towns remind us that less can mean more.
Boom! Ready to celebrate Fourth of July? The good news is that at the Shore you can watch fireworks before and after Independence Day — and on July 4, too.Here's a look at when and where some towns will be celebrating. Click here to see the full list of towns in Monmouth and Ocean County lighting up the night sky.Asbury ParkAsbury Park&rsqu...
Boom! Ready to celebrate Fourth of July? The good news is that at the Shore you can watch fireworks before and after Independence Day — and on July 4, too.
Here's a look at when and where some towns will be celebrating. Click here to see the full list of towns in Monmouth and Ocean County lighting up the night sky.
Asbury Park’s annual fireworks show takes place Thursday along the waterfront, with prime viewing from the boardwalk. The beach will be cleared at 6 p.m. in preparation for the big show at 9 p.m. at 2nd and 4th beaches. Rain date is 5 p.m. Saturday. Go: 732-775-2100; cityofasburypark.com.
Fireworks and a computerized light show take place after 9 p.m. Saturday in front of the Taylor Pavilion, 500 Ocean Ave. Go: 732-681-3700, belmarbeachnj.com.
Fireworks take place Thursday at Windward Beach Park, part of the SummerFest Concert Series, which hosts fireworks after every show. Music begins at 7 p.m., and there will be food, beer and wine at every concert. Go: 265 Princeton Ave., bricksummerfest.com.
At 9:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday, over the lake next to the Joker ride, Great Adventure will host a fireworks show, part of the park's 50th anniversary celebration. Go: 1 Six Flags Blvd.; 732-928-2000, sixflags.com.
Fireworks take place after the BlueClaws game during on Thursday. Admission is included with the purchase of a game ticket. Go: ShoreTown Ballpark, 2 Stadium Way; 732-901-7000, blueclaws.com.
The 2025 Independence Day Live Music and Fireworks Show at North Lake Park, overlooking Lake Carasaljo, begins at 8 p.m. on Monday, July 7. The Wilbur Wittemann Patriotic Band will conduct a musical performance at the park’s All Wars Memorial Amphitheater, followed by fireworks (around 9:15 p.m.) — which can be viewed from both North Lake Drive and South Lake Drive. Go: 732-364-2500, lakewoodnj.gov.
Fireworks at 9 p.m. Friday, part of the annual Oceanfest celebration that begins at 1 p.m. with musicians, musical acts, food vendors and more. Go: 732-222-0400, oceanfestnj.com
Celebrate Independence Day with fireworks on the beach at Jenkinson’s Boardwalk at 9:30 p.m. Friday. Go: 732-892-0600, jenkinsons.com.
The Coca-Cola Fireworks Extravaganza starts at 9:30 p.m. Sunday on the boardwalk. Go: 732-793-9100; seaside-heightsnj.org.
Here are other things to do this week, including a hot dog-eating contest at Jersey Freeze, and Diana Krall at the Basie in Red Bank.
Rain or shine, the annual Independence Day parade in Ocean Grove takes place at 10:30 a.m. Saturday.
The parade begins at Stockton and Central avenues. You can see the parade route at oceangrove.org/parade-map.
At 7:30 p.m. Saturday, a patriotic concert takes place in the Great Auditorium, 21 Pilgrim Pathway. While no tickets are required, a free will offering will be taken.
Go: Independence Day parade, 10:30 a.m. Saturday, Ocean Grove; 732-775-0035. oceangrove.org/independence.
How many hot dogs do you think you could eat in 10 minutes?
Nine contestants will try to devour as many as possible during Jersey Freeze's second annual hot dog-eating competiton, taking place Thursday during the Freehold Township restaurant's annual fireworks-viewing party. The contest will begin around 7 p.m.
Last year's winner finished 13 hot dogs and won a cash prize, trophy and gift cards, which will again be offered to both the first-place winner and runner-up.
The evening's festivities, which include a DJ, face painter and firetruck for children to enjoy, take place in the parking lot, which has a view of the fireworks at nearby Freehold Raceway.
Go: Hot dog-eating contest, during a fireworks-watching party, 6 to 10 p.m. Thursday, Jersey Freeze, 120 Manalapan Ave., Freehold Township; 732-462-3008, jerseyfreeze1952.com.
Dispatch's ninth studio album "Yellow Jacket" blends infectious reggae, ska and roots rock with fresh urgency and purpose.
Released in June, the album is "both a call to community and a reflection on the abuse of power," a release states. The band with John Butler plays the Stone Pony Summer Stage on Friday. Tickets start at $30.
Formed in the 1990s by Chadwick Stokes and Brad Corrigan while in college in Vermont, Dispatch has long been known for its genre-blending sounding and commitment to social activism.
Among the new songs on "Yellow Jacket" is "In the Street," featuring Ani DiFranco. Their latest single is “Whisk Me Away,” a guitar-driven track that marks a first for the group as longtime member Matthew Embree steps into the spotlight as lead vocalist.
Also playing the Pony on Friday is G. Love & Special Sauce, and Donavon Frankenreiter. The evening kicks off at 5 p.m.
Go: Dispatch with John Butler, G. Love & Special Sauce, and Donavon Frankenreiter, 5 p.m. Friday, Stone Pony Summer Stage, 913 Ocean Ave., Asbury Park, tickets start at $30; 732-502-0600, stoneponyonline.com/calendar.
The only jazz singer to have eight albums debut at the top of the Billboard Jazz Albums chart, Diana Krall plays the Count Basie Center for the Arts at 8 p.m. Saturday.
Krall's albums have garnered two Grammy Awards and 10 Juno Awards (the Canadian version of the Grammy).
As The New York Times recently noted, Krall possesses "a voice at once cool and sultry, wielded with a rhythmic sophistication.”
Tickets are $108 to $162.
Go: Diana Krall, 8 p.m. Saturday, Count Basie Center for the Arts, 99 Monmouth St., Red Bank, $108 to $162; 732-842-9000, thebasie.org/events.
Heading to Atlantic City this weekend? There are a few Fourth of July events taking place.
At 9:30 p.m. Thursday, Borgata presents a fireworks show. Gates open at 8:30 p.m. More information is on Instagram or at 95.1 WAYV, which will broadcast live from the event.
Celebrate Ocean Casino Resort’s seventh birthday with Fireworks and Drone Shows at The Park, starting at 9 p.m. Friday. The aerial formations created by choreographed drones and fireworks take place every Friday through Aug. 8. More information is at theoceanac.com/fireworks/drone/shows.
Tropicana Atlantic City hosts a big fireworks display at 10 p.m. Friday that is visible from the beach and boardwalk. Tropicana's fireworks displays continue every Saturday, from July 6 to Aug. 31. More info is available on Instagram.
Sarah Griesemer contributed to this story.
Have an event coming up? Tell us about it. Email Bill Canacci at [email protected].
It's no secret that New Jersey is known for its beautiful boardwalk and beaches, but there are many historical entities nestled in quaint towns of the Garden State.According to mashed.com, New Jersey is home to a historic ice cream parlor that's been satisfying customers at the Shore since 1876.The multi-platform publication dedicated to food took a look at the oldest known ice cream parlors in ...
It's no secret that New Jersey is known for its beautiful boardwalk and beaches, but there are many historical entities nestled in quaint towns of the Garden State.
According to mashed.com, New Jersey is home to a historic ice cream parlor that's been satisfying customers at the Shore since 1876.
The multi-platform publication dedicated to food took a look at the oldest known ice cream parlors in every state to find which unique, century-old, family-owned establishments evolved into full-service dessert destinations.
"Whether you're a history buff, an ice cream lover or a bit of both, these time-honored establishments offer a delicious glimpse into America's frozen dessert heritage," said mashed.com.
Nestled in a popular resort town with quaint Victorian houses (known as "God's Square Mile") is Day's Ice Cream in Ocean Grove.
The Monmouth County dessert shop has been serving ice cream one scoop at a time for more than 135 years. Day's is Ocean Grove's oldest operating business that still occupies its original location on Pitman Avenue. Day's Ice Cream launched another shop in Ocean Grove, Just Another Day's, that closed due to a massive fire in 2019. A location on the Asbury Park boardwalk was destroyed by Superstorm Sandy.
Here's the story behind New Jersey's oldest sweet institution, Day's Ice Cream, according to Mashed:
"Day's Ice Cream opened in 1876 in Orange Grove, consistently serving ice cream to its customers ever since. It was opened by two brothers, William and Pennington Day, who were already in the ice cream business. The parlor has since become a local institution, known not only for its longevity but also for its classic homemade flavors and nostalgic atmosphere that reflect its rich history."
Day's Ice Cream is at 48 Pitman Ave. on Auditorium Park. It is open daily from noon to 10 p.m. through October.
Popular flavors incclude toasted coconut, black raspberry chocolate chip, peanut butter moose tracks, cinnamon, almond joy, salted caramel pretzel and hazelnut truffle latte.
There is also an alternative menu with low fat frozen yogurt, sugar free ice cream, dairy free sorbets, dairy free soy, coconut milk and almond milk options.
Summer is almost here which means ice cream parlors everywhere are getting ready for the busy season.I love discovering cute ice cream shops wherever I go, and some have quite a story.I knew there was something special about an adorable ice cream parlor I visited with a friend a few summers ago.She insisted we get a treat at this place she'd be going to since she was a little girl. She said she knew I'd love it.READ MORE: ...
Summer is almost here which means ice cream parlors everywhere are getting ready for the busy season.
I love discovering cute ice cream shops wherever I go, and some have quite a story.
I knew there was something special about an adorable ice cream parlor I visited with a friend a few summers ago.
She insisted we get a treat at this place she'd be going to since she was a little girl. She said she knew I'd love it.
READ MORE: Ice Cream Shop with NJ & PA locations up for national award
I couldn't wait to experience what she described as the best, old-fashioned ice cream parlor she'd ever been to.
It's in a beautiful, quaint town along the Jersey Shore.
Have you ever been to Ocean Grove, New Jersey?
It's lovely. I fell in love with the town during my very first visit.
Picturesque Victorian homes are everywhere, ice tea being served the large, wrap-around front porches of beautiful B&Bs for guests to enjoy during their stay, the historic tent village...I was fascinated by it all.
Ok, back to the adorable ice cream parlor....it's called Day's Ice Cream...and it holds the title of the Oldest Ice Cream Parlor in New Jersey.
Wow.
I was scrolling through the Mashed list of the Oldest Ice Cream Parlor in Each State, and I was pleasantly surprised that my friend's favorite childhood ice cream parlor was on it.
Here's what Mashed said about Day's Ice Cream:
"Day's Ice Cream opened in 1876 in Ocean Grove, consistently serving ice cream to its customers ever since. It was opened by two brothers, William and Pennington Day, who were already in the ice cream business. The parlor has since become a local institution, known not only for its longevity but also for its classic homemade flavors and nostalgic atmosphere that reflect its rich history."
I can't wait to go back to Day's for more ice cream.
To see the rest of the Mashed list, click here.
Day's Ice Cream is located at 48 Pitman Avenue on Auditorium Park in Ocean Grove, NJ.
732-483-4611
