Sea Bright offers coastal charm and commuter convenience on the Shore
Many North Jersey neighborhoods claim to be the “Gateway to the Shore” or even the start of the legendary Jersey Shore itself, but no town stakes a better claim to this title than the oceanside borough of Sea Bright. This slender neighborhood hugs a barrier peninsula stretching from the lighthouse and beaches at Sandy Hill to the marinas of Monmouth Beach, and is dotted with beach clubs, beachfront family homes, and popular restaurants. With a picture-perfect view of the ocean and the 1950s seawall, and with proximity to the Seastreak ferry in Highlands, Sea Bright is ideally situated for both beach lovers and New York commuters.
Ocean Avenue features private clubs and public beaches near Sandy Hook
Sea Bright is known for its beach clubs, from Ship Ahoy to Water’s Edge and Driftwood, each of which offer private pools and cabanas for its members. Alternatively, visitors can enjoy public beaches such as Highlands Beach and Navesink Beach on the oceanfront or travel up to Sandy Hook’s less crowded and more natural beaches to observe horseshoe crabs and other beach wildlife while enjoying the sun and the water. History lovers may enjoy visiting the decommissioned gunnery batteries of Sandy Hook or a former Nike missile launch site, reminders of the area’s former importance as a military base during World War I, World War II and the Cold War.
Million-dollar homes mix tradition with modern luxury and ocean views
From 1840 to the 1880s, Sea Bright rapidly developed from a small fishing hamlet into a beachside resort town. Sea Bright has also developed into a commuter suburb of New York with the launch of the Seastreak ferry in 1986, resulting in the construction of just as many resplendent residences as oceanfront hotels and beach clubs. Realtor Angela Verdesco of Keller Williams says that homeowners can “own a piece of paradise right on the beach in a very desirable area,” with easy beach access; this unrivaled convenience for beach lovers and commuters reflects itself in Sea Bright’s home prices. This borough’s homes range in value from approximately $1 million to $5 million, making it one of the most expensive shore towns.
Students go to the Oceanport and Shore Regional High School Districts
Sea Bright’s students attend Wolf Hill Elementary School, Maple Place Middle School, and Shore Regional High School. Shore Regional has consistently ranked among the state’s top public high schools and is locally known for its theater program. Among the school’s most famous alumni is Holly Black, the creator of the famous children’s fantasy book series The Spiderwick Chronicles.
Downtown is home to waterfront favorites like Donovan's Reef
Beyond its scenery and history, Sea Bright is home to thriving businesses. Verdesco says, “Sea Bright features its downtown area, top-rated restaurants, and local happenings, plus convenient access to transportation with a nearby train and ferry.” The downtown area of Sea Bright includes surf shops, wine stores, and favorite restaurants, from the tacos, seafood, and grilled foods from Donovan’s Reef to the delicious pulled pork mac and cheese and pizza at Tommy’s Tavern + Tap and the pasta at Anjelica’s.
Shore town where locals can take the ferry or drive into New York City
Sea Bright’s location along the Atlantic shore offers residents plenty of commuting options: New York commuters can access the city within an hour by ferry or an hour and a half by car. With immediate proximity to the beach and easy commutability to New York City, Sea Bright offers residents unmatched access to the New York metropolitan region’s greatest features.
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Written By
Jacob Adelhoch
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Video By
Jonathan Bradley
