I live five minutes from the ocean. Technically, five minutes from a crappy part of the ocean and thirty minutes from the nice part of the ocean.
There are multiple waterfronts and boardwalks within a few minutes drive. And if I really wanted to, I could walk to them.
While Hazlet isn’t a beach town, it’s close enough to all the others that we get to enjoy all of them. That and when it’s five minutes to the ocean, it’s maybe ten to the woods for a hike. The best of both worlds.
If you live in a place like Hazlet, you’ll understand. But if not, here are six things to do when you live near the water.1. Inkwell Coffeehouse
Inkwell Coffeehouse is the best place to go in the middle of the night. They’re open until 3:00 A.M. anyway. They aren’t known for their service, but they’re known for the fries and coffee. Seriously, make sure you try the Dutch Coffee.
2. Playa Bowls
While Playa has been rapidly expanding since their 2014 opening in Belmar, they have locations all around Jersey. It’s great enjoying a bowl in the sun in Glassboro, but you can’t beat having Playa on the beach. If you haven’t tried it yet, make sure it gets added to your summer bucket list.
3. Coney Island Waffle
Known for their milkshakes that are topped with massive amounts of treats, Coney Waffle is an Instagram hit. I really don’t know a single person that’s gone and not posted it somewhere. Grab a couple friends and tackle one of these massive shakes.
4. Sandy Hook
The perfect thing about Sandy Hook is that they don’t charge during the winter, and when they do charge, it's by car. So, borrow your mom’s minivan and pack it full of your friends and hit the beach! It’s miles long and just waiting for you to pick your favorite spot.
5. Long Beach Island
For me, this is an hour drive minimum, but for a day trip, it’s worth it. My family’s been taking trips here for as long as I can remember. We hit the same stores, get the same pizza, and buy from the same fudge shop every time. It’s the perfect place to make a tradition out of a tourist trap, and turn it into your own thing.
6. Pier Village
Think of every food trend, Pier Village has them all nestled into a few blocks bordering the shore. It’s even the home of a Playa Bowl and Coney Island Waffle. Wanting to try Playa on the beach still, done in a flash with a visit to Pier Village.