Discover the Charm of Ocean Grove, New Jersey
Ocean Grove, NJ: A charming Jersey Shore town known as "God's square mile." A dry town with charming Victorian Bed & Breakfast lodging, a pristine beach, quaint shops, and the iconic Great Auditorium.
One of the unique aspects of Ocean Grove is its strong connection to the Methodist community, with its "dry town" liquor law and many historic Methodist buildings still standing today.
The beach in Ocean Grove is a major draw for visitors and locals alike, offering a peaceful retreat where visitors can relax and soak up the sun. Whether you're looking to swim, surf, or simply stroll along the sandy shores, the beach in Ocean Grove has something for everyone.
In addition to its beautiful beach, Ocean Grove boasts a range of attractions to explore. From the charming downtown Main Avenue lined with Victorian homes to the iconic Great Auditorium, there is no shortage of things to see and do in this quaint seaside town.
Overall, Ocean Grove, where recreation, history, and religion all prosper in "God's square mile," it offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, history, and charm, making it a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the best of the Jersey Shore.
The Historical Society of Ocean Grove
To truly appreciate the unique character of Ocean Grove, a visit to the Historical Society of Ocean Grove is essential. Housed in a beautifully preserved 1884 cottage, the museum provides an immersive look into the town's founding as a Methodist camp meeting and its evolution into a Victorian architectural jewel. Inside, you'll discover captivating exhibits featuring period furniture, historic photographs, vintage clothing, and artifacts that tell the story of "God's square mile."
The society also offers fascinating guided walking tours and highly sought-after seasonal house tours, giving visitors a rare glimpse inside magnificent private homes.
A visit enriches your understanding of the town's distinct religious and architectural heritage, providing context for the stunning structures you see today. Admission is typically free, though donations are encouraged to support their preservation efforts. Street parking can be competitive, especially in the summer, so planning to arrive early or walking from your lodging is a wise choice.
Have Fun in Ocean Grove
- Summer Band Concerts: Throughout July and August, enjoy free weekly concerts at the Boardwalk Pavilion. Seating is limited and on a first-come basis, so an insider tip is to bring your own beach chair and arrive early to claim a good spot with an ocean breeze.
- Giant Flea Markets & Craft Fairs: On select summer Saturdays, the area around Ocean Pathway transforms into a massive market with hundreds of vendors. These are must-do events for shoppers. Practical Tip: Parking is extremely challenging; plan to walk from your lodging or arrive at the edge of town very early.
- Family & Youth Programs: The Ocean Grove Camp Meeting Association (OGCMA) offers a rich slate of summer programs for children and teens, like Riptide and Youth Ministry. These often require pre-registration and a fee,
- Victorian Holiday Events: In December, experience the magic of a Victorian Christmas with events like the town tree lighting and the highly popular Holiday House & Inn Tour. Tickets for the tour are required and often sell out weeks in advance, so book early!
- Worship and Choir Festivals: A cornerstone of Ocean Grove life, the Sunday services in the Great Auditorium are open to all and feature incredible music. Special choir festivals throughout the summer are a powerful and moving experience. No tickets are needed, but a collection is taken.
Jersey Shore Towns Near Ocean Grove
The prime location of Ocean Grove NJ makes it a perfect starting point for exploring the varied attractions of the Jersey Shore. Just a short walk or bike ride north connects you to the vibrant city of Asbury Park, renowned for its legendary music scene at venues like The Stone Pony, a lively boardwalk brimming with unique shops, and a diverse culinary and nightlife scene that provides a dynamic contrast to Ocean Grove's peaceful ambiance.
Head south to find Bradley Beach, a more relaxed, family-friendly town with a broad, beautiful beach and a quaint Main Street, easily reachable on foot or by a quick drive.
A bit further south, Belmar appeals to those seeking an active social scene with its bustling bars, marina, and excellent surfing conditions. Transportation between towns is simple; walking and biking are ideal for nearby destinations, while a car or the NJ Transit train (with a station in Asbury Park) makes day trips along the coast effortless and enriches any Ocean Grove travel itinerary.
A weekend itinerary for Ocean Grove—perfect for a relaxing escape with a touch of Victorian whimsy
Day 1: Seaside Serenity & Local Charm
Morning: Check into The Ocean Plaza Hotel or The Majestic Hotel—both offer Victorian elegance just steps from the beach.
Grab breakfast at The Starving Artist at Days—a local favorite for creative brunch dishes.
Stroll the Ocean Grove Boardwalk and enjoy the peaceful beach views.
Afternoon: Explore Main Avenue Galleria for unique art and handmade gifts.
Visit the Historical Society Museum to learn about Ocean Grove’s rich past.
Lunch at SeaGrass Restaurant—fresh seafood and American fare in a relaxed setting.
Evening: Enjoy an early dinner at nearby Porta’s Pizzeria in Asbury Park
Attend a concert or event at the iconic Great Auditorium, known for its stunning acoustics.
Enjoy a sunset walk along the beach, then unwind with ice cream or saltwater taffy from Sea View Sweets.
Day 2: Leisure & Local Flavor
Morning: Coffee and pastries at Ocean Grove Bake Shoppe.
Relax on the beach or rent bikes to explore the tree-lined streets and Victorian homes.
Afternoon: Visit Cheese on Main for gourmet snacks and picnic supplies.
Take a short walk to nearby Asbury Park for lunch and boardwalk fun.
Evening: Return to Ocean Grove for dinner at Moonstruck (just over the border in Asbury)—romantic ambiance and delicious cuisine.
End the night with a quiet porch sit or a moonlit beach stroll.
Things To Do in Ocean Grove
The Great Auditorium
This 7,000-seat auditorium on Pilgrim Pathway is a remarkable wooden structure. Almost as big as a football field, it has one of the largest pipe organs in the country. Currently the instrument consists of ten (10) divisions, totaling 207 ranks and 12,200 pipes, played from a console of five keyboards (manuals) and pedals. If you aren’t here for Christian worship, go to a Saturday night show or one of the many other year round concerts and performers that appear in the Auditorium.
Ocean Grove Beach
The Beach is open from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
They have public bathrooms, public changing rooms, a public gazebo, and umbrellas and chairs can be rented on the beach. During the early morning or evening hours, take a stroll along the natural wooden boardwalk. It’s a pleasant, relaxing stroll with no commercial amusements or concession stands.
Beach Badge fees and Regulations
Historic House Tour
Their self-guided tour aboard the charming trolley will take you on a delightful adventure, offering a glimpse into the rich history and unique charm of each house. From Victorian-era gems to quaint seaside cottages, each stop on the tour reveals a story waiting to be discovered. Immerse yourself in the intricate details and craftsmanship of these well-preserved homes that stand as a testament to Ocean Grove's past.
Downtown Main Avenue
Ocean Grove, with it's attractive downtown, is also a popular shopping destination. For those who love Ocean Grove, what could be better than a gift from their favorite local shop, restaurant, or hotel in town?
The Board Walk Pavilion
This beach front attraction comes alive in the summer with evening Summer Band concerts, Sunday morning worship services, and the Gospel Musical Ministries series.
Ocean Grove Pier
The Ocean Grove pier has been rebuilt and open to the public in 2023, after being damaged in 2012 during Hurricane Sandy.
The cross-shaped pier is 500 feet long and offers seating and fishing.
Webcam
Places To Stay in Ocean Grove
Booking Tip: Ocean Grove is a popular destination, especially from June through September. To secure your preferred lodging, it's best to book several months in advance. Look for potential discounts on mid-week stays or during the beautiful spring and fall shoulder seasons.
Ocean Grove "Tent City"
Today, over 100 tents remain to the north of the Great Auditorium. The tents are made with canvas with a striped canvas-covered porch, a plain canvas-covered sleeping and living area in the front. It has a wooden shed behind the tent that contains the kitchen, bath and dining area. The size of the tents, including the rear wooden structure, is a little over 300 square feet.
You don’t have to belong to the church to rent a tent, but if you are interested in renting, there is a long waiting list.
Beachliner Hotel
Located just 75 steps from the beach, the newly renovated Beachliner Hotel is the ultimate beach getaway. The hotel offers stunning ocean views that will leave you breathless. Their rooms are designed to provide you with unparalleled comfort and relaxation during your stay. Whether you're planning a romantic escape or a fun-filled family vacation, our hotel has everything you need to make your stay unforgettable.
The Carriage House B&B
This beautifully appointed Victorian Bed and Breakfast, just one block from the Ocean Grove Beach and walking distance from Asbury Park and Bradley Beach. An extensive breakfast buffet is provided daily . Your stay comes complete with beach chairs, beach towels and bicycles. Discounted beach badges are available for purchase. This quaint Victorian B & B will take you back in time as you enjoy the quiet of this quaint Ocean Grove treasure.
Lillagaard Inn Bed and Breakfast
Built in 1871, located steps from the beach and boardwalk, the B&B consists of 20 enchanting guest rooms with private bathrooms and ocean views. Their two oversized ocean view porches offer relaxing spaces to unwind, read a book, play cards, take a nap or talk to fellow guests while enjoying views of the ocean, beach and boardwalk. There are a variety of accommodations including deluxe queen suites, queen, full, twin and single rooms. For your comfort, all rooms include air conditioning, ceiling fans, free wifi and toiletries. A full cooked breakfast is served in thier spacious restaurant.
The Majestic Hotel
located one block from the beach with a view of the ocean from the front porch.
Built in 1870, with luxurious surroundings with an onsite restaurant.
Whether you're here for a cozy weekend getaway or an extended coastal escape, these refreshed spaces offer the perfect balance of boutique comfort and classic character. With 15 rooms and a penthouse suite. The Dining Room, tucked behind the lobby offers cosmopolitan bistro fare, is open open 7 days a week for Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner.
Guests will receive a discount for breakfast in The Dining Room with complimentary New Jersey coffee & teas.
The Ocean Plaza
Located one block from the beach,, this grand century old hotel features 16 distinctively decorated guest rooms and 3 exceptional suites. Its numerous balconies and wrap around porches provide magnificent views of the Atlantic Ocean and the town's extraordinary Victorian architecture. All of the accommodations at the Ocean Plaza include private baths, air conditioning, free WiFi, flat screen cable TV, refrigerators, coffee makers and a Buffet Breakfast is included. Open year round, guests can enjoy beautiful sunrises and sunsets, a swim in the ocean, a walk along the boardwalk, bicycling or just relaxing away from the hectic pace of the city. They are walking distance to downtown Ocean Grove.
Quaker Inn
Built circa 1875, they offer three floors of 28 comfortably furnished rooms steps away from delightful shops, restaurants and a two block stroll to the beach and boardwalk. Relax in a rocking chair on one of their 5 open porches and watch the hustle of this lovely shore town while enjoying the ocean views and breezes. They offer a variety of accommodations including a few family rooms with kitchenettes. All rooms have mini refrigerators, HD TV's, air conditioning, WiFi, and toiletries. They provide beach towels, chairs, umbrella's and discounted beach passes to get your beach day underway!
Shawmont Hotel
The Shawmont Hotel , facing the Ocean, features refurbished 30 room with a choice of standard, premium, large double, and ocean view rooms. Each room is equipped with modern amenities to make your stay as comfortable as possible. The Shawmont Hotel is an amalgamation of classic and modern styles. The Victorian style exterior is combined with modern interiors to offer guests a delightful stay. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the property, and all the rooms come equipped with a TV and private bathroom. Take in that the ocean breeze as most of the rooms offer an ocean view. A beautiful front porch with rocking chairs and an unobstructed view of the surf feels like a piece of heaven.
During the summer, light Continental Breakfast is served on Weekend's.
