-
What is Manasquan, New Jersey known for?
- Manasquan is a borough in Monmouth County, New Jersey, famous for its wide sandy beaches, fantastic surfing, and the great number of tourists that visit during the summer.
-
What outdoor activities are available in Manasquan?
- Manasquan is home to the Edgar Felix Bikeway, a 5.4-mile-long rail trail connecting Manasquan and Allaire State Park.
-
What makes the Manasquan Inlet special?
- The Manasquan Inlet connects the Atlantic Ocean with the Manasquan River and is considered one of the best surfing spots on the East Coast.
-
What is the history of the Algonquin Theatre in Manasquan?
- The Algonquin Theatre started as a first-run movie theatre in 1938 in downtown Manasquan.
- Today, the theatre offers plays and musicals, jazz and pop concerts, an orchestral music series, special events, student matinee presentations, film screenings, and a variety of classes and workshops in theatre, music, and dance.
This post may include affiliate links. Click here for Affiliate Disclosure.
1. Edgar Felix Memorial Bikeway
The Edgar Felix Bikeway is a 5.4-mile long rail trail between Manasquan and Allaire State Park in New Jersey. The original trail opened in 1971 on a former roadbed of the Farmingdale and Squan Village Railroad as well as the Freehold & Jamesburg Agricultural Railroad. The Edgar Felix Bikeway was the first bike trail in New Jersey and it has been expanded several times. The Manasquan-Farmingdale segment of the Freehold & Jamesburg Agricultural Railroad was abandoned in 1966. Retired radio researcher and cycling enthusiast Edgar Felix managed to convince the borough of Manasquan to purchase the abandoned roadbed. The path was extended through the Allenwood section of Wall Township, ending at Hospital Road in Wall Township. The trail was extended in 2005 from Hospital Road to the public access area of Allaire State Park and along the abandoned Route 18 right-of-way to the Wall Township Municipal Complex.
Manasquan, New Jersey
2. Manasquan Inlet
The Manasquan Inlet connects the Atlantic Ocean with the Manasquan River in New Jersey. The current location of the inlet is several thousand yards from its original location in 1868 near the former Manasquan Coast Guard Station next to Stockton lake. Historically, the Manasquan inlet had always been shallow and difficult for large boats to navigate. When the Point Pleasant Canal was dug in 1926, the water of the Manasquan river flowed very fast through the created opening, disrupting the natural flow of the river. This caused the inlet to get completely choked with sand. It was possible to walk from Manasquan to Point Pleasant beach. Many efforts to keep the channel open failed and the inlet remained closed. In 1930 the Army Corps of Engineers put up temporary piers and started building jetties. The inlet was officially reopened on August 29, 1931, with a parade of boats. The Manasquan Inlet is considered one of the best surf spots on the East Coast. Many competitions are held at the Manasquan Inlet throughout the year.
Ocean Ave., Point Pleasant Beach, NJ 08742, Phone: 732-892-1118
3. Algonquin Arts Theatre
The Algonquin Theatre started its life as a first-run movie theatre in 1938 in downtown Manasquan, New Jersey. The theatre was very popular and successful from '38 through the mid-Seventies. It was closed in 1981 due to age, disrepair and competition. The building, together with other neighboring structure, was neglected and abandoned until 1992, when Fran and Jack Drew and Sal and Joyce Maraziti came to the rescue. In 1992, they co-founded Algonquin Arts: A New Jersey Non Profit Corporation and started renovation of the abandoned movie house. The new building had a proscenium stage and fly tower for theatrical productions, an orchestra pit, a sprung stage for dance performances, lighting and sound systems, new image projection, 540 seats, a courtyard entrance, and much more. The formerly derelict building started its new life as a year-round theatre and education center. AAT hosted plays by local theatre groups as well as nationally recognized touring companies. It also offered a range of educational programs. Current annual programming at the theatre includes up to eight main stage productions of plays and musicals, a range of jazz and pop concerts, an orchestral music series, special events, student matinee presentations, film presentations and a range of classes and workshops in theatre, music and dance.
60 Abe Voorhees Dr, Manasquan, NJ 08736, Phone: 732-528-9211
4. The Committed Pig
Located on the Main street in downtown Manasquan, New Jersey, The Committed Pig is a charming spot with exposed brick walls, narrow and cozy, with thick recycled wood tabletops, open for brunch, lunch, and dinner. The place is popular, so do not be surprised if there is a long line outside. The menu is full of nostalgic comfort food such as soups and grilled cheese sandwiches, awesome double patty hamburgers, pancakes, crazy pork-roll sandwiches and more. The most popular dishes are their Nutella Stuffed French Toast, which comes with fresh strawberries and bacon, Pig Fries, waffle fries with Mornay sauces and more.
165 E Main St, Manasquan, NJ 08736, Phone: 800-908-4960
5. Squan Tavern
Squan Tavern in Manasquan, New Jersey, is a landmark local bar and restaurant serving traditional Italian dishes and a large range of pizzas. The dining room is spacious and homey, perfect for family gatherings. You can be sure that you will be leaving the Tavern full. The menu is huge and includes just about everything you expect to get in an Italian restaurant: fresh Antipasto, tender fried calamari, Spinach Ricotta Gnocchi, homemade Dumplings sauteed with Mushrooms and Spinach in a Parmigiano Cream or Marinara Sauce. Or you might want to try Chicken Yolanda, sauteed with Sun-dried Tomatoes and Melted Fresh Mozzarella in a Balsamic Vinegar and White Wine Sauce. Their Friday Seafood Special includes Shrimp, Scungile, Mussels and Clams over Linguini in Marinara or a Garlic and White Wine Sauce. Squan wine list is excellent, with bottles from New and Old World. They have craft beers from local breweries as well as popular beers from all over the worl.
15 Broad St, Manasquan, NJ 08736, Phone: 732-223-3324
6. Hinck Turkey Farm Deli & Restaurant
Hinck’s Turkey Farm is a New Jersey Shore family owned and operated farm-based business. They have been raising and processing all-natural turkeys since 1938.The business consists of production of turkeys, a USDA processing plant that produces turkey meat and turkey products, and retail food market and restaurant. Their Glendola, Wall Township, New Jersey plant raises up to 10,000 free range turkeys. Their processing plant is also there as well as their our own retail market selling fresh oven-ready or cooked turkeys or turkey products as the base product for various dishes such as turkey salad, soups, potpies, croquettes, turkey burgers, and other. They also offer take out food and buffet catering.
1414 Atlantic Ave, Manasquan, NJ 08736, Phone: 732-223-5622
| Best Time to Visit | Places to Stay | Tips for Visiting |
|---|---|---|
| Spring (March-May) – Mild temperatures, blooming flowers, and a quieter beach experience. | Inn on Main Hotel – Elegant boutique hotel in the heart of Manasquan. | Walk along Manasquan Beach – Enjoy peaceful ocean views before the summer crowds arrive. |
| Summer (June-August) – Peak season with warm weather, perfect for beachgoers and surfers. | The Beacon House – Charming bed & breakfast near the beach. | Spend a day at Manasquan Beach – Relax, swim, or surf at this popular Jersey Shore destination. |
| Fall (September-November) – Crisp air, fewer tourists, and scenic coastal views. | Tandem Bike Inn – Cozy accommodations with a welcoming atmosphere. | Explore Fisherman’s Cove Conservation Area – Enjoy a peaceful nature walk along the waterfront. |
| Winter (December-February) – Quiet town atmosphere, great for cozy getaways. | Shore Hills Motel – A budget-friendly stay with easy access to the shore. | Enjoy local dining and shopping downtown – Warm up at quaint cafés and unique boutiques. |
Plan Your Trip
Table of Contents: