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 The Carousel Building 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 Bradley Beach, 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.
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“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.”
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“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 Riley 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 Marandola's Restaurant Bradley Beach or visit McCabe Avenue Beach, 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 Bradley Beach, 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 Bradley Beach, 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 Bradley Beach, 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.
The Jersey Shore is sparking fun and lighting up the summer with a bang!Here are the scheduled Fourth of July firework events, by town, around the Jersey Shore. Weather could cause changes to the schedule.AberdeenThe Independence Day Extravaganza will take place from 5 to 10 p.m. on Tuesday, July 1, at Veterans Memorial Park with fireworks starting at 9:15 p.m. Festivities include, food trucks, inflatables, face painting, character meet-and-greets, live music, and a DJ! The splash pad will stay open until 8 p.m. for ex...
The Jersey Shore is sparking fun and lighting up the summer with a bang!
Here are the scheduled Fourth of July firework events, by town, around the Jersey Shore. Weather could cause changes to the schedule.
The Independence Day Extravaganza will take place from 5 to 10 p.m. on Tuesday, July 1, at Veterans Memorial Park with fireworks starting at 9:15 p.m. Festivities include, food trucks, inflatables, face painting, character meet-and-greets, live music, and a DJ! The splash pad will stay open until 8 p.m. for extra fun before the night lights up with fireworks over the bay.
Asbury Park’s annual fireworks show will light up the sky along the waterfront, with prime viewing from the boardwalk. Please note: the beach will be cleared at 6 p.m. in preparation for the event. Fireworks will take place at 9 p.m. on Thursday, July 3, at 2nd and 4th beaches.
Atlantic Highlands annual fireworks take place at 9:45 p.m. on Thursday, July 3, at Atlantic Highlands Marina. The even is part of the Atlantic Highlands Firemen’s Fair starting on July first. Festivities includes games, rides, food and live music.
Celebration at Barnegat High School begins at 5 p.m. on Saturday, July 5, with a DJ, food trucks, face painting and more. Fireworks follow at dusk.
The annual Beach Haven Fourth of July Fireworks presented by @fantasyislandlbi and The Beach Haven Chamber of Commerce will be held at 9:30 p.m. on Friday, July 4, at Taylor Park. Bay Village will host fireworks on Taylor Avenue.
Come to see the July 4th Fireworks in Beachwood on Saturday, July 5 at 9 p.m. at the Beachwood Beach.
Join us for fireworks and a light show at Taylor Pavilion at dusk on Saturday, July 5, in front of the Taylor Pavilion. Fireworks start at after 9 p.m., accompanied by a computerized lightshow. This will take place at Taylor Pavilion, located at 500 Ocean Avenue North.
Fireworks take place Wednesday, July 2, after the Sounds of Summer concert series. Jukebox Legends play from 6 to 7 p.m., and Naked Jake Band play from 7:30 to 9 p.m. Bring blankets or lawn chairs.
Go: Veterans Park, 489 Forest Hills Parkway; 732-244-7400, twp.berkeley.nj.us.
Bradley Beach’s Independence Day Fireworks will be held on Saturday July 5 on the beachfront at 9 p.m.
Fireworks on Thursday, July 3, at Windward Beach Park, part of the SummerFest Concert Series, which hosts fireworks after every show. Food, beer and wine garden at every concert. Music begins around 7 p.m.
The celebration will take place from 6 p.m. on Thursday, July 3, at Freehold Raceway. There will be food trucks, as well as music from Daddy Pop. Bring lawn chairs or blankets; no backpacks, coolers or pets.
Fireworks take place as part of Freehold Township Day, a celebration of veterans, from 4 to 11 p.m. on Saturday, July 12. The festival will offer free children's rides and more; fireworks at 9 p.m.
Hazlet's annual free Independence Day celebration will be held on Thursday July 3, 2025 starting at 6 p.m. Fireworks go off at dusk. Festivities includes a live DJ and food trucks. Bring your chairs or a blanket to sit upon.
At 9:30 p.m. on Friday, July 4, and Saturday, July 5, over the lake next to the Joker ride, Six Flags Great Adventure will host a fireworks show, part of the park's 50th Anniversary Celebration.
Keansburg Recreations Fourth of Family Fun Fest with fireworks kicks-off on June 28 at Baywalk East. Keansburg will also blast off fireworks for Independence Day on Thursday, July 3, at Keansburg Amusement Park and Runaway Rapids. The fireworks start at 9 p.m.
Fireworks take place after the BlueClaws game all week long during their Independence Week Show on Thursday, July 3, 18, 19 and 25. Admission included with game ticket.
A patriotic concert will kick off at 8 p.m. on Sunday, July 6, followed by fireworks at 9 p.m. at the Lavallette Gazebo, Bay Boulevard and Philadelphia Avenue.
Fireworks at 9 p.m. on Friday, July 4, part of annual Oceanfest celebration. Starts at 1 p.m. with musicians, musical acts, food vendors and more.
The Independence Day Celebration on the Main Beach will kick off with a parade and concert that starts at 5:15 p.m. on Thursday, July 3; fireworks at dusk.
Fireworks take place at dusk as part of Manchester Day on Saturday, June 28, at Harry Wright Lake. The festival begins at 2 p.m. and offers free rides, games, food vendors, live entertainment and more.
The Independence Day celebration takes place from 6 to 10:30 p.m. on Wednesday, July 2, at Joe Palaia Park with food trucks, activities, music and fireworks at 9:30 p.m. Bring lawn chairs.
Celebrate Independence Day with spectacular Fireworks show on the beach at Jenkinson’s Boardwalk on Friday, July 4! Jenkinson's Boardwalk will be lit up with fireworks 9:30 p.m. on Friday July 4.
The Coca-Cola Fireworks Extravaganza will start at 9:30 p.m. on Sunday, July 6, on the boardwalk.
Sea Bright recreation sponsored Band on the Beach and fireworks at dusk on the Main Municipal Beach on Thursday, July 3 at 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. Beyond the Blue with the Seabrighters will play at 5:30 p.m.
New Jersey boardwalks are one of our state’s best attractions. Now that summer is here, that means boardwalks are fully open with all rides, carnival games, ice cream, and local vendors going. From Asbury Park to Wildwood, New Jersey is packed with nearby options for a weekend trip to the Jersey shore’s iconic beachside promenades. Where you’re in search of fun, great food, or Instagrammable beach spots, we&...
New Jersey boardwalks are one of our state’s best attractions. Now that summer is here, that means boardwalks are fully open with all rides, carnival games, ice cream, and local vendors going. From Asbury Park to Wildwood, New Jersey is packed with nearby options for a weekend trip to the Jersey shore’s iconic beachside promenades. Where you’re in search of fun, great food, or Instagrammable beach spots, we’ve got you covered. We’ve rounded up some of the best New Jersey boardwalks for your summer beach trips.
Photo Credit: Jenkinson’s Boardwalk
With classic New Jersey hotspots like Wonderbar and The Stone Pony, there is something for everyone on the Asbury Park Boardwalk. This four-mile stretch of seaside boardwalk is home to Asbury Park Distilling Co., the Silverball Retro Arcade, Asbury 18 Mini-Golf, glassblowing at Hot Sand, and homemade ice cream at Cookman Creamery, as well as Paranormal Books and Curiosities for those who like some summertime spookiness. After a day of exploring, travelers should stop at Low Dive for some cocktails or AP Rooftop for hearty eats. Be sure to check out the 8th Avenue Dog Beach at the end of the day, and we recommend snapping some pictures by the iconic Asbury Park Convention Hall.
The Atlantic City Boardwalk is a summer staple for funnel cake, Italian ice, and saltwater taffy — and it also happens to be the world’s very first boardwalk. The Ferris wheel at Steel Pier is always a good time, and concerts at Kennedy Plaza are home to wonderful music. There are even free concerts throughout the summer and mini golf at Atlantic City Miniature Golf. There’s no shortage of fun things to do at this boardwalk.
This Monmouth County gem is located in the Central Shore region. On this boardwalk, attractions like The Columns, which is a live music venue as well as a restaurant, are just one of the many things to do in Avon-by-the-Sea. Gazebos and pavilion areas are located along the boardwalk to enjoy lunch from local delis in the area. Almost daily in July and August, the boardwalk features live concerts at 7:30PM located one block North of the Pavilion.
While driving by Ocean Avenue in Belmar, the boardwalk and beach expand from First to 20th Avenues. Besides walking, this boardwalk has lots to see and do. There are attractions, shops, and restaurants to enjoy such as La Dolce Vita, Beckman’s On the Beach, Marina Grille, Hazel Boutique, Eastern Lines Surf Shop, and more.
This small beach town shouldn’t be overlooked. With neighboring towns, Asbury Park and Ocean Grove, Bradley Beach is another boardwalk to add to your bucket list. With its quiet and laid-back vibe, catch a glimpse of the sunrise or sunset by the boardwalk while enjoying the ocean breeze and scent.
If looking to get daily steps in, Lavallette is a spot worth checking out. It isn’t a typical boardwalk with games and sounds — it’s a mile-long boardwalk that acts as an entryway to the beach. Besides walking, visitors can bike or run and enjoy the boardwalk. Visitors can admire the beachfront houses along the coast.
Arguably New Jersey’s most Victorian-style oceanside boardwalk, Pier Village in Long Branch is named ‘City by the Sea’ because it is classically cute. The glass-encased Pier Village Carousel is a prime spot for pictures, or if you’re more into gaming and activities, shooting skee ball at Boardwalk Fun n’ Games is the way to go. McLoone’s Pier House hosts live music with cocktails and stunning ocean views. Long Branch is the place to go for a classy visit.
Located in Toms River, this boardwalk is similar to Lavallette. On Ortley’s boardwalk, visitors are free to take a stroll while enjoying the ocean breeze. Ortley Beach is located right by the boardwalk for those wanting to catch some waves after a long walk.
If beachside arcades and amusement parks are a must in your summer plans, Jenkinson’s in Point Pleasant is the spot to go — and it’s a great place to bring some kids along. Leaning on the family-friendly side with the Adventure Lookout Ropes Course, funhouse, aquarium, and tons of boardwalk games, Jenkinson’s is sure to entertain both little ones and adults alike. After the beach day, Jenks Club or the Inlet Bar are great spots to grab a drink and listen to live music while gazing at sunset views.
If visiting Spring Lake, Sea Girt’s boardwalk is just a six-minute drive away. Ocean views are a must-see while checking Sea Girt out. The Historic Sea Girt Lighthouse is a great pit stop after all the walking on the boardwalk.
Casino Pier at Seaside Heights is a must-see Jersey Shore hotspot for amusement park rides, carnival games, go-karts, and mini-golf, with plenty of bars and nightlife after prime beach hours. Berkeley Candy is a Seaside Heights classic for house-made salt water taffy for those with a sweet tooth — or you can post up on the beach and see the local surfers catch the waves from Memorial to Labor Day. Once the sun goes down, the Aztec Bar is a lively scene for drinks and live music with that Atlantic view.
Sea Isle City’s Promenade and Boardwalk expands from 29th to 57th Street. There are breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean while walking, running, or cycling. With the Promenade being next to the boardwalk, there are gift shops, food spots, arcades, and local boutiques worth checking out.
With a length of 2.2 miles, the Spring Lake boardwalk has two neighboring towns and is a perfect spot for a casual stroll without a lot of traffic. The north end of the boardwalk is near two arches that mark the border between Belmar and Spring Lake. As for the south end, visitors will come across the town of Sea Girt. While making your way through the boardwalk, pavilion areas are found to sit down and watch the ocean waves in peace.
Ocean City Boardwalk’s two-and-a-half miles of beachside bliss is the spot for bike rentals by the shore. Bikers can cruise by lines of shops and art vendors, or park on the dunes for some time on the sand. The rides at Playland’s Castaway Cove are a ton of fun, and the pool at Ocean City Waterpark, which opens sometime in June, is also a great spot to cool off after a long day in the sun. Quieter than its shoreside peers, Ocean City Boardwalk does not serve alcohol, but you can stay past sundown for neon carnival rides, live music, and homemade fudge.
Ventnor City is just a quick 10-minute drive (not including traffic!) from nearby Atlantic City. This boardwalk is a quieter, low-key vibe for those wanting to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city. It is 1.5 miles long and some highlights of this boardwalk include sightseeing Ventnor City’s fishing pier, tennis courts, library, and houses.
With carnival rides, over 100 shops + snack stalls, and three water parks, Wildwood is a summertime New Jersey staple down the shore. Stretching thirty-eight blocks of shoreline, there’s nothing that can’t be found in Wildwood. From go-kart racing at Morey’s Piers to monster truck rides on the beach and a zip line, there’s plenty to do both on and off the sand. HG pro tip: We recommend getting a reservation at Breakfast in the Sky to jump-start your day on the Ferris wheel, a uniquely Wildwood experience.
There is no better way to celebrate July 4th than with a sparkling array of fireworks near you in New Jersey, and luckily the state has plenty of shows tonight, July 3 and through the Fourth of July weekend to satisfy your dopamine cravings.The weather is expected to be pleasant and there is undoubtedly at least one fireworks show near you worth checking out — honestly, are any not worth it? — so keep reading to get a sampling of some of the best fireworks shows across the Garden State.There are at ...
There is no better way to celebrate July 4th than with a sparkling array of fireworks near you in New Jersey, and luckily the state has plenty of shows tonight, July 3 and through the Fourth of July weekend to satisfy your dopamine cravings.
The weather is expected to be pleasant and there is undoubtedly at least one fireworks show near you worth checking out — honestly, are any not worth it? — so keep reading to get a sampling of some of the best fireworks shows across the Garden State.
There are at least 19 fireworks displays in New Jersey on July 3. Here's the lineup, alphabetically:
Other fireworks on July 4 will take place in these NJ towns: Augusta (Sussex County Miners game), Allendale, Bridgewater, Camden, Collingswood, Cape May, Elizabeth, Evesham, Jersey City, Livingston, Long Branch, Millburn/Short Hills, Millville, Ocean City, Oradell, Margate City, Trenton, Union, Sea Isle, Summit, and Washington Township (Gloucester).
Audubon's Independence Day parade will be on July 4th, starting at Amherst Road and Harvard Ave., but their fireworks show is around 9 p.m. Saturday, July 5th at the Audubon High School in Camden County.
Barnegat Township will offer food trucks and live music and set off fireworks at dusk on July 5. Celebrations begin at 5 p.m. at Barnegat High School.
Bradley Beach in Monmouth County will set off fireworks at the beachfront on July 5 beginning around 9 p.m.
East Windsor will host its fireworks show at dusk on Saturday, July 5 at Etra Lake in Mercer County.
The Sussex County Miners are hosting fireworks on July 4 and July 5 this year during their games against the Ottawa Titans. Gates open at 4:30 p.m., with fireworks following the game.
Bergen County's Tenafly Borough will hold their annual fireworks display on Saturday, July 5 behind the Tenafly High School. Live music begins at 7:30 p.m. with fireworks to follow at 9 p.m.
Lori Comstock is a New Jersey-based journalist with the Mid-Atlantic Connect Team.
The Fourth of July in 2025 falls on a Friday and sets the stage for an action packed long weekend in New Jersey of fireworks, parades, concerts and festivals to celebrate Independence Day.There’s no shortage of July 4th festivities and if you’re making plans for a busy weekend of grilling or visiting the Jersey Shore, we’ve got you covered.Some events are even scheduled for the weekend before July 4th, so check the listings below closely.A quick reminder - while some ...
The Fourth of July in 2025 falls on a Friday and sets the stage for an action packed long weekend in New Jersey of fireworks, parades, concerts and festivals to celebrate Independence Day.
There’s no shortage of July 4th festivities and if you’re making plans for a busy weekend of grilling or visiting the Jersey Shore, we’ve got you covered.
Some events are even scheduled for the weekend before July 4th, so check the listings below closely.
A quick reminder - while some ground-based fireworks are now legal in New Jersey, leave the big pyrotechnics to the pros.
Here’s a rundown of Fourth of July concerts, festivals, fireworks, and parades planned throughout the state.
Did we miss something? If you have an event you’d like for us to add, send the information to [email protected] or Stephanie Loder [email protected].
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From the Rocky Mountains in Denver to the palm-drenched streets of Miami, Playa Bowls has established itself as an acai empire with hundreds of locations nationwide. But baked into the DNA of the business is an unmistakable Jersey Shore ethos which has been present since the company’s founding in 2014.Though co-founder Abby Taylor can now boast a nationwide chain, her life in her hometown of Bra...
From the Rocky Mountains in Denver to the palm-drenched streets of Miami, Playa Bowls has established itself as an acai empire with hundreds of locations nationwide. But baked into the DNA of the business is an unmistakable Jersey Shore ethos which has been present since the company’s founding in 2014.
Though co-founder Abby Taylor can now boast a nationwide chain, her life in her hometown of Bradley Beach looked very different 11 years ago. The surfer and recent college graduate was bartending at D’Jais in Belmar, hoping to put her creative energy to use. “My life was kind of in the air at that point. I knew I didn’t want to have a nine to five job,” Taylor says.
When she and surfing partner Rob Giuliani wanted something healthier than the pizza and sub options typically found at the Shore, they formed a business idea out of the bowls they’d have on surfing trips around the world. The pair set up a makeshift stand outside of a pizza shop next to the beach after making a deal with the owner. Taylor says the business is still full of those fake-it-till-you-make-it moments.
“When you’re just out there doing it, you learn as you go and make mistakes,” she says. “You’re not looking at the big picture. You’re just in the moment.”
It didn’t take long for the business to take off, prompting Taylor and Giuliani to open full brick-and-mortar shops in Belmar and Manasquan in 2015. Ten years later, their business has exploded into over 300 locations in nearly 30 states—far beyond the scope of New Jersey.
That’s why Taylor and the company recently gave the Belmar shop—the first-ever Playa Bowls storefront—a grand re-opening in May. Taylor chalks it up to nostalgia and the desire to give the shore some more love. “I just wanted to give back to the community, bring them along on this journey and have them be excited about it again,” she says.
The full-scale renovation of the store features a new design and layout, created with the intention of staying true to the original shop while also featuring more modern elements. Despite the wide reach of the chain, a slice of the Garden State can be found in the stores even 2,000 miles away. Photos of Jersey beaches hang on the walls, and each shop’s artwork is designed with a Jersey Shore vibe in mind. Even in more subtle ways, Taylor says, a Jersey Shore attitude has creeped into aspects of the business.
“We make pretty big bowls, and I feel like that’s such a Jersey thing,” she says. “We go over the top a little bit with everything. In Jersey, you’re all in. That’s how Playa Bowls was built.”
This go-getter mindset has only become more necessary for Taylor, who currently serves as chief marketing officer and is at the heart of the company’s visuals and branding. Last year, the company was acquired by private equity firm Sycamore Partners, and dozens of new locations are on the way.
As Playa Bowls grows into a household name, it’s helped spawn a wave of acai shops just like it. Through it all, one of the chain’s core goals has stood true: Bring the beach to as many people as possible, even when it’s far away.
“I’m two blocks from the beach,” says Taylor, who still lives in Bradley Beach. “I love it so much. That part’s easy because it’s literally my life.”
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