NJShore Guide
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Elberon

The Summer White House Legacy

Elberon is an unincorporated section of Long Branch with an extraordinary history as the "Summer White House" of the Gilded Age. Seven US Presidents vacationed here, including Ulysses S. Grant, James A. Garfield (who died here after being shot), and Woodrow Wilson. The grand estates along Ocean Avenue still echo this prestigious past.

Today, Elberon maintains its quiet, exclusive character. The beaches are some of the most peaceful on the northern Jersey Shore, backed by historic mansions rather than commercial development. The Elberon Bathing Club continues a tradition of private beach clubs dating back to the 1880s.

While technically part of Long Branch, Elberon has its own distinct identity and zip code. The nearby Deal Casino (private club in Deal) and Long Branch's Pier Village are easily accessible, but Elberon itself offers a serene escape from more crowded beaches.

historicquietexclusivepresidentialelegant

What Makes Elberon Special

Historic & Exclusive

Known for its historic and quiet atmosphere

Perfect For

history buffs, quiet seekers, couples

Easy Transit Access

NJ Transit to Elberon Station

Local Legend

President James Garfield was brought to Elberon after being shot in Washingto...

Where to Stay in Elberon

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Ocean Place Resort

Resort • 10 min to Elberon beaches

$$$

Full-service oceanfront resort in Long Branch (10 min north). Pool, spa, and beach access. The area's premier hotel.

oceanfrontpool
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Elberon Vacation Rentals

Vacation Rental • Walking distance to beach

$$$

Historic homes and properties available for weekly rental. Experience Elberon's grand estate atmosphere.

historic propertiesfull amenities
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Long Branch Hotels

Hotel • 5-10 min to Elberon

$$

Various hotels in Long Branch offer easy access to Elberon beaches. Pier Village area has most options.

varietyPier Village access

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Did You Know?

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Did You Know?

President James Garfield was brought to Elberon after being shot in Washington DC, where he died at the Elberon Hotel on September 19, 1881.

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Did You Know?

Seven US Presidents vacationed in Elberon: Grant, Hayes, Garfield, Arthur, Harrison, McKinley, and Wilson - earning it the nickname "Summer Capital."

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Did You Know?

The Elberon Casino (1886) was the social center for Gilded Age elite and hosted presidents, robber barons, and high society.

Historical Note

Elberon's presidential legacy began when Ulysses S. Grant visited in 1869. The area became so prestigious that railroad tracks were extended directly to hotel doorsteps. After Garfield's death here, the nation mourned and Elberon became synonymous with presidential prestige.

Beach Badge

$12/day

Parking

~$20/day

From NYC

1hr 15min

Transit

Train + Bus

Don't Miss in Elberon

Elberon Beach

Must See

Quiet, historic beach backed by grand estates. Less crowded than Long Branch beaches to the north. Peaceful and refined.

Historic Estate Drive

Must See

Drive along Ocean Avenue to see grand estates dating to the Gilded Age. Many housed presidents and wealthy industrialists.

Also Worth Checking Out

•
Church of the Presidents — St. James Chapel where seven presidents worshipped. Small museum with presidential artifacts and history. In Long Branch.
•
Pier Village (Nearby) — Long Branch's oceanfront shopping and dining district is 5 minutes north. Modern boardwalk with restaurants and shops.

Where to Eat in Elberon

See All 4 Restaurants →

Avenue

americanfine dining
$$$

Try: Seasonal seafood

• ocean view• upscale

Rooney's Oceanfront

seafoodamerican
$$

Try: Lobster or fresh catch

• oceanfront• seafood

Pier Village Restaurants

seafoodamerican
$$

Try: McLoone's for seafood with views

• variety• oceanfront

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See All 4 Restaurants →

Getting to Elberon

🚆 Public Transit

Elberon is accessible via NJ Transit at Elberon Station.

Elberon station on North Jersey Coast Line. Train from NYC Penn Station (1hr 20min). Walking distance to beaches.

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🚗 By Car

  • From NYC: 1hr 15min
  • From Philadelphia: 1hr 30min
  • From Newark: 1hr
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Best Time to Visit Elberon

Peak Season

June - August

Warmest weather, all attractions open, full beach services. Expect larger crowds and higher prices.

Off-Season Perks

  • •Lower accommodation prices
  • •Fewer crowds
  • •Easier parking
  • •More authentic local experience

Explore More

Elberon Beaches

2 beaches to explore

Dining in Elberon

4 restaurant recommendations

Stay in Elberon

3 places to stay

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Fishing Charters

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Beach Badge Prices

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Nearby Towns to Explore

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Long Branch

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Deal

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$12/day

Allenhurst

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$7/day

Asbury Park

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