Belmar, NJ

By the turn of the 20th century, Belmar had earned a reputation as a beautiful summer resort destination. Bathhouses, bait shops, shooting galleries and boat rentals cropped up all along the town, drawing in droves of tourists for relaxing seaside vacations.

Since then, Belmar has maintained its reputation as a haven for frenzied city dwellers and those looking for some refreshment and relaxation. Surfers flock to the area for some of the best waves on the East Coast, and fishermen converge on the bay and ocean for some outstanding deep-sea fishing.

On the drier side of town, The Boatworks Gallery hosts both visual and performing arts shows as well as classes and workshops. It also matches up informal groups of people with similar interests such as creative writing and photography to foster the spirit of art in the community.

Discover an eclectic mix of fare in Belmar, with culinary choices ranging from standard beach-goer hot dogs to organic vegan and down-home BBQ.

A cozy little haven located on Route 71, Turnstile Coffee Roasters features worn brick walls and reclaimed lumber tables, making it an experience far removed from Starbucks. This isn't just any coffee — it's roasted on-site alongside other options of small batch roasters that hail as far away as Portland and as close to home as Brooklyn. Try the Sumatra for a smoky chocolate-flavored pick-me-up, and pair it with a flaky almond croissant.

If you're looking to switch it up, Ragin Cajun makes for an encounter to write home about. Upon walking through the front door, you might think you're stepping into a friend's living room, and you very well may be back to visit this friend again. With only "the freshest ingredients going into the pot," the crisp, clean taste of this establishment's comfort food sends your taste buds straight to New Orleans. Classic Creole dishes like jambalaya, etouffee and gumbo are served up on steaming platters in heaping portions. Get there early as there are no reservations and limited seating.

Belmar takes a top spot in the mecca of Jersey Shore nightlife. Here you'll find a mix of big-haired Jersey girls dancing alongside flowery hipsters. D'Jais Oceanview Bar features pulsating music, scads of fist pumping and a constantly packed house in the summer. Sometimes, there's actually room to dance, otherwise bopping your head and sipping your Long Island iced tea while people watching has to suffice.

Belmar is generally easy to navigate on foot, with ample sidewalk space and slower speed limits making for safe streets. Biking is allowed on the boardwalk after 8 p.m. and before 8 a.m., providing great views of summer sunsets and sunrises on your ride.

Cab service is available with call-ahead service, but Uber isn't an option for the neighborhood. New Jersey Transit provides rail service to Penn Station in New York City, and it also provides bus service to Philadelphia.

The Garden State Parkway, The NJ Turnpike and Interstate 295 are all major thoroughfares that have close roads to the area. When driving in, expect to pay for parking along the boardwalk. All spots are metered in the summer months, and the machines don't give change.

If you have a boat, feel free to take it to one of the 70 dock slips available, and better yet, docking for the day is free.

Dempsey Park is home to the skateboard park as well as three full-size basketball courts. It is open to the public, with the exception of organized events in the community. Safety equipment is advised at the park, while helmets are mandatory. You'll find crowds of teenage skaters just learning and old pros kick flipping off the half pipe.

For those more at home with a picnic or a game of tennis, Maclearie Park on the Shark River has areas for both. There's a playground for the tots and tables and grills available for congregating with your pals. Take in the natural beauty and serenity of the calm waters of the river, and enjoy a relaxing excursion that's a far cry from the frenzied roar of the ocean close by.

The summer brings the annual Belmar Seafood Festival, where you can sample fresh local seafood for ridiculously affordable prices. Grab lobster and snow crab legs, and for those who aren't into seafood, burgers and fries can be found there too. You can also hang out at the beer tent and sample local brews while your friends are chowing down.

Breathtaking views, a healthy housing market and a charming downtown make this community a highly sought after place to call home. The cost of living is well above state average, with a one-bedroom rental running around $1,550.

Gas prices are about 5 percent lower than the national average, while a rail ticket to New York City sets you back around $16. This is a tourist destination after all, so a beer in a local bar runs upward of $8.

The downtown district always has something happening in the spring and summer seasons. With surf shops, chic boutiques, art galleries and coffee houses, Main Street serves as the centerpiece to this seaside town.

Artifacts Boutique houses a diverse selection of "affordable chic" jewelry, cards, dresses, shawls and local art. Belmar Bikes not only sells some of the top names in cycling, but also repairs, maintains and offers advice on your current bike.

A big skateboarding presence in the local skate park provides area youth with something to do in warmer weather. The Pro Skateboard Shop features a bevy of skater dudes that know what they're talking about, from the best brands to the newest tricks. The Shop provides the state's largest selection under one roof, and there's no shortage of gear as it carries trendy hoodies and stickers for your board.

Matt's Farm Market opens through the fall and offers a wide array of local produce. The summer brings the tastiest sweet white corn and heirloom tomatoes found in New Jersey. With a friendly staff and a convenient location to the beach, the market is always teeming with eager veggie lovers from around the region.

For your grocery needs, Shoprite of Belmar is located on Route 35. Known for its low prices and full-service stores, its presence in the area is a welcome one. Order specialty birthday cakes, meat and cheese platters, sandwiches or even bagels and cream cheese from the comfort of your home, and pick up your order as soon as the next day.