NJShore Guide

Compare Jersey Shore Towns

Can't decide between two shore towns? Our head-to-head comparisons break down beaches, activities, dining, and more to help you pick the perfect destination.

12

Comparisons

18

Towns Covered

6

Categories Compared

All Comparisons

Ocean CityVSCape May
Family vacation decision

Two of New Jersey's most beloved family destinations, Ocean City and Cape May offer distinctly different beach vacation experiences. Ocean City brings classic boardwalk fun and a dry-town atmosphere, while Cape May charms with Victorian elegance and natural beauty.

2 wins3 ties1 wins
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WildwoodVSSeaside Heights
Boardwalk experience comparison

Two iconic Jersey Shore boardwalks with distinctly different vibes. Wildwood offers free beaches and massive piers with world-class coasters, while Seaside Heights brings that classic MTV Jersey Shore energy with a more compact, party-friendly atmosphere.

4 wins1 ties1 wins
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Beach HavenVSCape May
Upscale/luxury beach vacation

Two of the Jersey Shore's most prestigious destinations offer refined beach experiences. Long Beach Island (LBI) spans 18 miles of barrier island with distinct communities, while Cape May enchants with Victorian architecture and culinary excellence.

1 wins3 ties2 wins
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Point Pleasant BeachVSBelmar
Day trip from NYC/North Jersey

Two of the most accessible Jersey Shore destinations from NYC and North Jersey, Point Pleasant Beach and Belmar offer different flavors of the classic shore experience. Point Pleasant brings boardwalk fun while Belmar offers a more laid-back beach town vibe.

2 wins1 ties3 wins
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Asbury ParkVSOcean Grove
Atmosphere and vibe comparison

Separated by a lake but worlds apart in atmosphere, Asbury Park and Ocean Grove offer the Jersey Shore's most fascinating contrast. Asbury brings LGBTQ+-friendly arts and music scene, while Ocean Grove maintains its Methodist camp meeting heritage with Victorian architecture and Sunday restrictions.

4 wins2 ties0 wins
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Atlantic CityVSWildwood
Entertainment style comparison

Two of the Jersey Shore's biggest destinations offer vastly different experiences. Atlantic City brings casino gambling, world-class entertainment, and nightlife, while Wildwood delivers classic family boardwalk fun with free beaches and Doo-Wop charm.

2 wins2 ties2 wins
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Stone HarborVSAvalon
Upscale island neighbors

Sharing Seven Mile Island, Stone Harbor and Avalon are neighbors with similar upscale vibes but distinct personalities. Stone Harbor has a charming downtown and bird sanctuary, while Avalon offers pristine beaches and a slightly quieter atmosphere.

2 wins4 ties0 wins
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Spring LakeVSSea Girt
Upscale Monmouth County

Two of Monmouth County's most prestigious beach communities sit side by side, offering refined alternatives to the busier shore towns. Spring Lake is known as the 'Irish Riviera' with Victorian architecture and a non-commercial boardwalk, while Sea Girt offers a quieter, more exclusive beach experience.

4 wins1 ties1 wins
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Long BranchVSAsbury Park
Entertainment and dining focus

Long Branch and Asbury Park are the two premier entertainment destinations on the northern Jersey Shore. Long Branch offers upscale pier dining and family-friendly beaches, while Asbury Park brings indie music venues, LGBTQ+ friendly atmosphere, and a thriving arts scene.

0 wins3 ties3 wins
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Ocean CityVSWildwood
Boardwalk and family entertainment

The ultimate Jersey Shore boardwalk showdown! Ocean City and Wildwood represent two different visions of beach town perfection. Ocean City offers a wholesome, dry-town experience with classic boardwalk charm. Wildwood brings bigger thrills, free beaches, and a more energetic atmosphere.

1 wins1 ties4 wins
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Beach HavenVSSea Isle City
Barrier island beach towns

Beach Haven on Long Beach Island and Sea Isle City on Seven Mile Island offer quintessential barrier island experiences. Beach Haven brings historic charm and Fantasy Island amusement park. Sea Isle City offers a lively promenade, strong family community, and excellent fishing.

2 wins1 ties3 wins
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How We Compare Towns

Our comparisons evaluate shore towns across six key categories:

Beach Badges & Costs
Boardwalk & Activities
Dining Options
Atmosphere & Vibe
Accommodations
Accessibility

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