Looking for sweeping views, seaside charm, and small-town warmth? Head to Atlantic Highlands! Nestled between wooded hills and the Raritan Bay, this historic Monmouth County town offers ferry access to NYC, scenic parks, and a walkable downtown with great dining and coastal flair. Whether you’re hiking, boating, or relaxing by the water, Atlantic Highlands is the perfect escape.
Atlantic Highlands, NJ Highlights:
- Walk the Atlantic Highlands Marina: Watch boats dock, take in the views, or hop on a ferry to Manhattan.
- Visit Mount Mitchill Scenic Overlook: The highest natural point on the Atlantic Seaboard south of Maine, offering panoramic views of New York City and Sandy Hook Bay.
- Stroll the downtown: Discover local shops, art galleries, indie cinemas, and great restaurants along First Avenue.
- Explore Hartshorne Woods Park: Hike wooded trails, bike rugged terrain, or visit historic military batteries.
- Take the Seastreak Ferry: Enjoy a scenic boat ride directly to NYC in under an hour with skyline views.
When I like to visit Atlantic Highlands, NJ
The best time to visit Atlantic Highlands is from late spring through early fall (May to October). Summer is perfect for boat trips, hikes, and al fresco dining. Fall offers colorful foliage and crisp views from the overlook trails.
Tips for getting to Atlantic Highlands, NJ
- By Car: About 1 hour from NYC via the Garden State Parkway or NJ Route 36.
- By Ferry: The Seastreak Ferry runs between Atlantic Highlands and Manhattan’s East 35th Street or Wall Street terminals.
- By Train: NJ Transit’s North Jersey Coast Line connects to nearby Red Bank or Middletown, then a short taxi or Uber ride to town.
Where I like to stay in Atlantic Highlands, NJ
- Blue Bay Inn – Stylish boutique hotel just steps from downtown shops, restaurants, and the ferry terminal.
- Beachfront Airbnbs – Cozy rentals near the harbor or on scenic bluffs overlooking the bay.
- Nearby Inns and B&Bs – Consider charming options in neighboring Highlands or Sea Bright for a coastal stay.
Best Things to Do in Atlantic Highlands, NJ
1. Sail into Relaxation with Classic Boat Rides
Classic Boat Rides is a cruising charter company that specializes in boating excursions for both business and family outings, including “sight sea-ing,” office parties, birthday parties, sunset cruises, eco tours, and weddings. Classic Boat Rides cruises Sandy Hook Bay and the Two Rivers, as well as to New York City to see a variety of lighthouses, the Statue of Liberty, and Lower Manhattan. The Mansion Tour along the Navesink provides amazing views of the grand homes belonging to the famous and rich, including the estate of Bon Jovi, while the Sandy Hook Bay Tour is a relaxing cruise through the bay.
8 Simon Lake Drive, Atlantic Highlands, NJ 07716, Phone: 732-337-9292
2. If You Need a Morning Boost, Sip Fresh Brews at Fair Mountain Coffee Roasters
Fair Mountain Coffee Roasters in the Jersey Shore town of Atlantic Highlands is a certified organic coffee business that is dedicated to obtaining the best quality of fair trade, organic, specialty coffees throughout the world. The company personally roasts the coffee to bring out the different individual characteristics before offering them to customers. The Fair Mountain Coffee Roasters shop is open Mondays and Tuesdays from 10:00am until 2:00pm and on Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays from 10:00am until 4:00pm. The coffee company was founded in 2009 and continues its commitment to helping coffee communities today.
71 First Ave, Atlantic Highlands, NJ 07716, Phone: 732-708-0800
3. Savor Homemade Flavors at Christine’s Italian
Christine’s Italian Ristorante serves authentic and hearty Italian fare made with attention to detail and care, celebrating culinary tradition and using seasonal, local produce. Shareable appetizers on the menu include cheesy eggplant rollatini and stuffed artichoke with panko, garlic, and cheese. As for entrees, guests will find an array of options at the Italian restaurant, such as savory chops, steaks, classic veal Milanese, and breaded chicken margarita. The menu at Christine’s Italian wouldn’t be complete without pasta dishes, including shrimp and mussels linguini alla vongole and the rigatoni alla Sharon. The restaurant is open for dinner Tuesday to Sunday.
42 First Ave, Atlantic Highlands, NJ 07716, Phone: 732-872-4790
More Places to Eat in Atlantic Highlands, NJ
- The Atlantic House – Modern American tavern with rooftop views, craft cocktails, and fresh seafood.
- Kunya Siam Thai – Local favorite for Thai cuisine with bold flavors and cozy ambiance.
- Sissy’s at the Harbor – Great breakfast and brunch spot with harbor views and relaxed vibes.
My favorite local events:
- Atlantic Highlands Classic Car Show (Summer) – Annual event with vintage cars, live music, and family fun downtown.
- Movies in the Park (Summer) – Outdoor screenings at the harbor or in Veterans Memorial Park.
- Fall Festival & Farmers Market – Seasonal celebration with local produce, crafts, and entertainment.
My favorite day trips within 30 Minutes to 2 Hours of Atlantic Highlands, NJ:
- Sandy Hook (10 min) – Enjoy beaches, biking trails, historic forts, and lighthouse tours.
- Red Bank (20 min) – Artsy downtown with boutiques, the Count Basie Center for the Arts, and great restaurants.
- Asbury Park (40 min) – Famous boardwalk, music scene, and quirky shops along the oceanfront.
- Long Branch (30 min) – Visit Pier Village for oceanfront dining, shopping, and beach time.
- New York City (1 hr by ferry) – Spend the day exploring museums, shows, and parks with an easy return trip.
Plan Your Trip