Where to Stay Near Jersey Shore Whale Watch: A Guide to Lodging, Local Towns, and Shoreline Fun
Planning a trip with Jersey Shore Whale Watch in Belmar, New Jersey? Whether you’re coming for a day or staying for a long weekend, there’s a wide range of lodging options nearby — from beachside inns to budget-friendly corporate hotels, all offering convenient access to the boat and the shore.
This guide breaks down the types of hotels available, the best places to stay depending on your budget, and how to make the most of your visit with nearby attractions and local recommendations.
Location, Location, Location: All Roads Lead to Belmar Marina
Belmar is one of the most accessible towns along the New Jersey Shore. Major highways like the Garden State Parkway, Route 18, and Route 195 all lead directly to the area, making it easy for guests traveling from North Jersey, New York City, Philadelphia, and beyond.
Even better, the NJ Transit train stops just one block from Belmar Marina, where the Jersey Girl — our state-of-the-art whale watching boat — is docked.
For guests arriving by train, this makes for a smooth, car-free way to enjoy the shore and your whale-watching adventure.
Hotel Options by Price and Proximity
1. Beachfront Hotels – Premium Views and Prices
If you’re looking to stay right by the ocean, you’ll find several charming inns, boutique hotels, and bed-and-breakfasts in Belmar, Spring Lake, Ocean Grove, Bradley Beach, and Asbury Park. These towns offer stunning views, charming streets, and close proximity to the beach. However, expect to pay a premium for the location, especially during peak summer months.
Examples include:
- The James Bradley (Bradley Beach) – Luxury and style steps from the sand.
- The Asbury Hotel (Asbury Park) – A trendy hotel with rooftop bars and nightlife, ideal for adult getaways.
- Spring Lake Inn (Spring Lake) – Elegant, historic, and quiet, perfect for couples or solo travelers.
These properties often range from $200–$400+ per night depending on the time of year and availability. Many offer walkability to the beach, but keep in mind that parking can be tight in beach towns.
2. Affordable Alternatives Just Minutes Away
The farther you move from the immediate coastline, the more hotel prices begin to drop — often without sacrificing comfort. Towns like Tinton Falls, Eatontown, and Neptune are all within a 10–15 minute drive of Belmar Marina and offer national hotel chains with great weekend rates.
These towns have what we call “corporate corridor hotels” — properties that cater primarily to weekday business travelers. That means weekends are often quieter, and room rates are lower on Fridays through Sundays.
Top picks include:
- DoubleTree by Hilton Tinton Falls – Eatontown
- Homewood Suites by Hilton Eatontown
- Holiday Inn Express Neptune
- Residence Inn by Marriott Neptune
Rates typically range from $125–$200 per night and include amenities like free parking, breakfast, and pools. These are excellent choices for families or groups needing more space without breaking the bank.
Nearby Towns Worth Knowing
Belmar is centrally located and surrounded by a variety of Jersey Shore towns, each with its own vibe. Here are a few nearby destinations to consider staying in or visiting:
- Asbury Park (3 miles away) – A vibrant town known for its live music, food scene, and boardwalk. Great for couples and adult groups, but note: no amusement rides for kids.
- Spring Lake (2 miles away) – Quiet and elegant with beautiful homes and a peaceful beachfront. Ideal for couples and relaxation.
- Point Pleasant Beach (7 miles south) – If you’re traveling with children, this is your go-to destination. The boardwalk here features rides for younger kids, arcade games, mini-golf, and Jenkinson’s Aquarium.
- Seaside Heights (25 miles south) – A bit farther, but this town offers a larger boardwalk experience, with rides and attractions for all ages. Great for extending your trip into a full weekend.
Here is our list of nearby hotels
Here is our list of nearby Bed and breakfast inns
Make It a Full Shore Experience
While your whale watching trip will be the highlight of your visit (we’re confident about that — we even guarantee whale sightings, or you return for free!), the Jersey Shore has so much more to offer.
Here’s how to enhance your trip:
Traveling with Kids?
Pair your whale watching adventure with:
- A morning or afternoon at Point Pleasant Beach with its family-friendly boardwalk
- A ride down to Seaside Heights for a full day of games, amusements, and beach snacks
Just Adults?
Explore:
- Asbury Park for live music, boutique shops, local craft breweries, and beach dining
- Belmar’s own laid-back beaches, perfect for sunbathing and relaxing before or after your cruise
Beach Lovers?
Don’t miss the serene sands and boardwalks of:
- Spring Lake
- Avon-by-the-Sea
- Bradley Beach
These towns offer uncrowded, clean beaches with nearby street parking and a slower pace.
Where to Eat
After your cruise with Jersey Shore Whale Watch, you’ll likely be ready for a bite. Here are a few great local spots:
- Playa Bowls (Belmar) – Fresh acai bowls and smoothies
- Federico’s Pizza (Belmar) – Great for a quick bite with the family
- Porta (Asbury Park) – Trendy spot with gourmet pizza, fun drinks, and rooftop seating
- Klein’s Fish Market (Belmar) – Seafood with waterfront seating
Final Thoughts: Something for Everyone
One of the best parts about visiting the Jersey Shore is the variety. You can tailor your trip to your style — whether that’s luxury beachfront lodging, family fun, or an affordable and quiet weekend escape with incredible ocean views and wildlife experiences.
With easy access from major highways, a train station just one block from the marina, and so many great places to stay nearby, planning your whale watching trip with Jersey Shore Whale Watch couldn’t be easier.
Whether you’re here for a day trip or staying a while, let us be the highlight of your Jersey Shore experience. Book your trip now, and make it a memory your whole group will never forget.
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