The Perfect Fall Weekend on the Shore: Where to Eat, Play, and Stay in Monmouth County, New Jersey

Monmouth County sits on a relatively quiet stretch of central New Jersey between New York City and Philadelphia. Here, you’ll find windswept beaches, charming towns, world-class entertainment in artist-loved theaters, and coastal dining. Then there’s the history — including lighthouses that played important roles in early America.

Fall is one of the most rewarding times to visit Monmouth County. The beaches are quieter, the coastal air turns crisp, and seasonal farms come to life with pumpkin patches, corn mazes, and harvest festivals. Scenic parks and riverside paths burst with autumn color, while waterfront towns host open-air markets, art walks, and outdoor dining well into October. Here’s how to make the most of your fall visit to Monmouth County.

Things to do in Monmouth County

Tour the Twin Lights Lighthouse…

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Twin Lights is on the hills overlooking Sandy Hook Bay in Highlands. This historic lighthouse, open daily from 10 AM to 4 PM, is famed for several groundbreaking advancements: it was the first US lighthouse equipped with a Fresnel lens (concentric rings of glass prisms that capture and magnify light, allowing it to be visible over significantly longer distances), had one of the country’s earliest electrically illuminated beacons, and was the site of Guglielmo Marconi’s first practical demonstration of wireless telegraphy in 1899.

Visitors can explore the impressive double brownstone towers, built in 1862, and ascend 65 steps for breathtaking panoramic views of the coastline and surrounding area. Inside, the museum showcases a collection of artifacts from both the lighthouse and lifesaving station, including films and informative exhibits detailing the station’s storied past.

Although accessible year-round, a particularly exciting time to visit is during the annual Lighthouse Challenge, held on the third weekend in October, featuring exclusive tours and special events.

Twin Lights Lighthouse: 2 Light House Rd, Highlands, NJ 07732

…then continue to the Sandy Hook Lighthouse

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Sandy Hook Lighthouse is the oldest standing and continuously operating lighthouse in the US, located within the Sandy Hook Unit of Gateway National Recreation Area in Highlands. Constructed in 1764, it’s the only remaining tower of the 11 lighthouses built in the original 13 colonies. Today, visitors can explore this well-preserved landmark by joining a seasonal guided tour conducted by the National Park Service. Those eager to experience the breathtaking views from the top must be at least 48 inches tall and prepared to climb 95 stairs and a nine-rung ladder.

Tours depart from the Sandy Hook Visitor Center, and guests are encouraged to inquire about tour availability and scheduling, as these vary seasonally.

Sandy Hook Lighthouse: 84 Mercer Rd, Highlands, NJ 07732

Appreciate all things pumpkin at Happy Day Farm

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A 130-acre, family-friendly destination, Happy Day Farm comes alive in the fall when visitors can enjoy pumpkin picking, shoot a pumpkin blaster, take part in carnival games, navigate intricately themed corn mazes (past themes include Snoopy, Marvel, and New Jersey-native celebrities), and capture memorable moments among the whimsical installations of Pumpkinville. In all, guests can take part in more than 35 activities and farm animal encounters during Fall Festival Days on weekends and Columbus Day.

Weekday visits offer a relaxed experience with pumpkin picking, tractor rides, and fields blooming with sunflowers and zinnias. Advance online tickets are required for weekend events, and bring cash as most activities and door tickets are cash-only.

Beyond fall, Happy Day Farm transforms throughout the seasons. Summer visitors can pick fresh berries — blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries — or stroll through fragrant lavender fields and blooming sunflowers and zinnias. Fresh-squeezed lemonade, shaved ice treats, and gemstone mining add to the summer charm.

Happy Day Farm: 106 Iron Ore Rd, Manalapan Township, NJ 07726

Explore the vintage shops and boutiques in Red Bank

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This town of under 13,000 on the shore is known for its funky art scene, history, culture, and shopping. Start your afternoon by grabbing a lunch of flatbreads and burgers with a pint of craft beer at The Robinson Ale House, a local favorite known for its atmosphere.

Take a leisurely walking tour to admire beautifully preserved Victorian-era homes, stop by the historic and local favorite Dublin House pub, and enjoy serene views of the Navesink River at picturesque Riverside Gardens Park.

Or spend time at the more than 15 shops selling everything from antiques and collectables to jewelry and more at Monmouth Street Emporium. Stroll along Broad Street and hop into any boutiques, art galleries, and specialty stores that catch your eye. Don’t miss Jay & Silent Bob’s Secret Stash comic book store if you’re a fan or collector.

Round out your visit with a stop at JBJ Soul Kitchen, a non-profit community restaurant founded by the Jon Bon Jovi Foundation.

Catch a show at the Count Basie Center for the Arts

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Originally opened as the Carlton Theater in 1926, this 1,568-seat theater is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Basie has hosted legendary artists like Bruce Springsteen, Tony Bennett, Ringo Starr, and jazz icon William J. “Count” Basie himself, after whom the theater was renamed in 1984.

Esteemed for its acoustics, the Basie Center is beloved by performers — Tony Bennett called it his favorite place, while Art Garfunkel praised its unmatched sound quality. Today, the Count Basie Center for the Arts offers a broad array of performances ranging from classical symphonies and ballet to jazz, rock, and pop music. It also houses the Grunin Arts Education Building, home to the Turner Academy of the Arts, a classical conservatory, and The Vogel, an additional intimate performance space. Visitors can also enjoy the beautiful William J. and Catherine Basie Arts Plaza.

Count Basie Center for the Arts: 99 Monmouth St, Red Bank, NJ 07701

Where to eat and drink in Monmouth County

On the Deck

On the Deck delivers a taste of the Jersey Shore for lunch and dinner: traditional seafood and classic favorites served in a laid-back, waterfront atmosphere. Located near the Sea Streak Ferry terminal, this casual restaurant offers spectacular views of the marina, Gateway National Park, and the New York City skyline, making it one of the area’s best spots to enjoy stunning sunsets. The friendly vibe is perfect for groups who enjoy generous portions and well-made drinks from the full-service bar. The lobster salad and jumbo lump crab cakes are standout dishes not to miss, and if you visit on a Thursday, the prime rib special is highly recommended. Other favorites include the broiled seafood platter, brimming with fresh clams and shrimp in an irresistible lemon and garlic sauce, and the generously portioned decked pasta with ample lobster, scallops, and shrimp. On the Deck and its lively waterfront atmosphere thrives in the warmer months with both indoor and outdoor seating, though it remains a reliable, welcoming choice year-round.

On the Deck: 10 Simon Lake Dr, Atlantic Highlands, NJ 07716

McLoone’s Pier House

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Since opening in 2005, McLoone’s Pier House is a celebrated oceanfront dining spot in Long Branch. With views of the Atlantic Ocean and indoor and outdoor dining, it’s equally special for a relaxed meal as a special celebration. The extensive menu features a raw bar with oysters and clams, crab cakes and calamari, and a sushi menu. Entrées span from classic steaks and steamed lobster to fish tacos.

McLoone’s Pier House: 1 Ocean Ave N, Long Branch, NJ 07740

Where to stay in Monmouth County: Wave Resort & Spa

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Wave Resort & Spa is centrally located in Pier Village in Long Branch, making it perfectly located for exploring nearby attractions, from the iconic Monmouth Racetrack to adventures along the Jersey Shore to Asbury Park. Or, for the lighthouse enthusiasts among us, the resort can be a homebase for the annual Lighthouse Challenge.

Guest rooms and suites have private balconies to fully immerse you in the sights and sounds of the Atlantic Ocean. Dining here is a highlight in itself. Choose from casual, quick bites at Bubbi’s Bagels and LBK Grill, or indulge in cocktails and elevated bites at The Bar, Carousel Bar, and the seasonal swim-up Pool Bar — oceanfront views included, of course. During cooler months, cozy outdoor fire pits and seasonal beverages at the Carousel Bar provide warmth and ambiance.

While the location makes it easy to get out and explore (take advantage of the complimentary beach cruisers from the hotel concierge), you’ll want to do at least some of your relaxation and wellness at Wave Resort Spa. There are restorative treatments from massages and body scrubs to CBD and aromatherapy options. Complement your spa experience with visits to the state-of-the-art fitness center with Peloton bikes and modern exercise equipment overlooking the picturesque pool deck. Outdoor seasonal fitness classes, yoga sessions, and watersports provide ample opportunities to stay active while enjoying the ocean breeze.

Waves Resort & Spa: 110 Ocean Ave, Long Branch, NJ 07740

Getting to and around Monmouth County

Getting here is easier than it seems. Visitors flying in can use Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR), which is just under an hour’s drive to the coast. For those coming from New York City, the SeaStreak Ferry offers a direct and scenic route to Atlantic Highlands or Highlands that comes with skyline views (and no traffic). From there, it’s a short drive to most of the county’s cultural and coastal destinations.

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