Whether you call it the beach or shore, there are many options for seaside weekends in the tri-state area. Here are a few of our favorites:
Spring Lake, New Jersey
The Jersey Shore has a number of beautiful towns that seems to defy most people's definition of the Jersey Shore. About an hour and a half outside of Manhattan, Spring Lake is a quaint oceanside resort town with tree-lined streets, old homes and a buzzing town center. Spring Lake's namesake is a small lake in the middle of a residential neighborhood just a few blocks from the beach. The beachfront boasts the longest non-commercial boardwalk in New Jersey. The almost 2 mile long boardwalk is the perfect place to go for a run or walk after a long day at the beach.
Third Avenue, Spring Lake's main street, boasts over 60 shops and boutiques. Who's on Third Grill (1300 Third Avenue) is a great place to grab breakfast or a quick lunch. Sister's Cafe (1321 Third Avenue) is a New American cafe with old town charm. It's open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Spring Lake's Chamber of Commerce Web site is a great place to look for hotels, restaurants and directions. Hotel rates start around $100 per night and B&Bs around $175.
Mystic, Connecticut
Two and a half hours from Manhattan, Mystic is a great place for visitors of all ages. From the Mystic Seaport Museum to the Mystic Aquarium, the Mystic Art Association to nearby Foxwoods Casino, Mystic has lots to offer for a short or long weekend getaway. In addition to the cultural attractions, you can spend the day at the beach, go deep sea fishing, shop in Olde Mystic Village or step aboard The Mystic Whaler for a lobster dinner cruise.
For a sushi or seafood dinner, try Go Fish (Building 22 at 27 Coogan Boulevard in Olde Mystic Village). Sea Swirl (Jct. Of Routes 1 & 27) is a great waterfront seafood restaurant that is loved by locals and visitors alike. Mystic has lodging accommodations to suit most budgets. Check out Mystic Discovery Guide for local hotels, B&Bs, restaurants and other travel information.
Montuak, Long Island
Montauk is a wonderful getaway for a low-key weekend of hanging out on gorgeous beaches, fishing and eating seafood. Situated past the Hamptons on the tip of Long Island's South Fork, Montauk has managed to retain its unpretentious air.
On a good day, you can reach Montauk in two and a half hours from Manhattan. On a Friday afternoon in August, you're lucky if you can get there in three to four.
Montauk is well-known for its fishing -- visitors can charter boats or go out on a party boat. You can also go surfing, scuba diving, biking, horseback riding and play tennis and golf in Montauk. Unlike neighboring Hamptons towns where people dress-to-impress, Montauk visitors can enjoy a drink at a beachfront bar in flip-flops and a wet bathing suit.
Hungry for a big breakfast? Choose from over 20 types of pancakes at Mr. John's Pancake House (Main Street). For a waterfront seafood dinner, try Gosman's Dock (West Lake Drive).
