Point Pleasant Beach sits at the northern tip of Ocean County, right where the Manasquan River meets the Atlantic. It is one of the most accessible spots on the Jersey Shore. Families return here year after year, and it is easy to see why. The boardwalk is walkable, the beach is clean, and the town is compact enough to explore without a car.
This guide is written for families traveling with infants and toddlers. It covers the best things to do, where to eat, and what to know before you arrive.
Getting Your Bearings in Point Pleasant Beach
Point Pleasant Beach is a true Shore town, not a day-trip resort. Arnold Avenue runs through the heart of downtown. From there, most of the action is within easy walking distance. The boardwalk stretches about a mile along the ocean and anchors the entire visit.
Parking fills up fast on summer weekends. Arriving before 9 a.m. makes a real difference. Street parking is available throughout the residential blocks, and paid lots sit near the boardwalk entrance.
Top Things to Do with Little Ones
Jenkinson’s Boardwalk
Jenkinson’s Boardwalk has been a Point Pleasant Beach landmark for over 90 years. It is the first stop for almost every family visiting the area. Amusement rides are available for all ages, including options for very young children. Beyond rides, the boardwalk has arcade games, miniature golf, and classic boardwalk food. It does not feel overwhelming for families with strollers or small children. The layout is open and flat, which makes navigation straightforward.
Jenkinson’s Aquarium
Jenkinson’s Aquarium is open year-round and is considered a must-see on any family’s visit. It is small enough to hold a toddler’s attention without exhausting them. Sharks, penguins, and seals are among the resident animals. The aquarium also offers scheduled feeding times, which are worth planning around.
The Beach
The beach at Point Pleasant is kept notably clean, and the boardwalk runs directly alongside it. Lifeguards are on duty during peak season. The waves are manageable for young children near the shoreline. Beach badges are required for access and can be purchased at the beach entrances.
Riverfront Park and the Manasquan Inlet
The inlet area offers a calmer, quieter alternative to the boardwalk. It is a prime spot to watch boats come in and out, and families often fish here. There is also a playground nearby, making it a good option for an afternoon when the boardwalk feels like too much.
Where to Eat with Kids
Point Pleasant Beach has a strong lineup of family-friendly restaurants. Most are casual and accustomed to families with young children.
The Shrimp Box
The Shrimp Box is known for seafood with waterfront views. It sits near the inlet and offers both indoor and outdoor seating. The atmosphere is relaxed and kid-friendly.
Spano’s Ristorante Italiano
Spano’s is a well-regarded BYO spot serving Italian seafood, pasta, and meat dishes. It draws both locals and visitors. Reservations are a good idea during summer weekends.
Hoffman’s Ice Cream
Hoffman’s has become a Point Pleasant legend, known for fresh-made ice cream and creative seasonal flavors. It is a reliable end-of-day stop, especially after a long morning on the beach.
Kohr Brothers Frozen Custard
Kohr Brothers has operated on the Point Pleasant boardwalk since 1923. It is a true Shore institution. The frozen custard is worth the wait, especially on a hot afternoon.
Staying in Point Pleasant Beach with a Baby or Toddler
Most families visiting with infants and toddlers stay in vacation rentals rather than hotels. The area offers a range of options near the boardwalk and in quieter residential neighborhoods, many with beach access. Beachside cottages and multi-bedroom homes are the most common choices for families.
A few things to keep in mind when booking:
Many rentals in Point Pleasant Beach require a 7-night minimum during peak summer season. Book early, as the most popular properties fill up quickly — sometimes as early as January.
Cribs, high chairs, and strollers are rarely included in rental properties. Most homes are furnished for adults, not young children. That’s where Coastal Baby Rentals can help.
Baby Gear Delivery to Point Pleasant Beach
Coastal Baby Rentals delivers clean, inspected baby and toddler gear directly to your Point Pleasant Beach rental. Everything arrives on your check-in day, between 1 and 6 p.m. There is no hauling gear from home, no checking oversized bags at the airport, and no scrambling to find a crib on arrival day.
Available items include full-size cribs with ultra-pedic mattresses, jogging strollers built for boardwalk use, high chairs, car seats, beach carts, and more. Reserve online at coastalbabyrentals.com and enter your Point Pleasant ZIP code to see exactly what is available for your dates.
Point Pleasant Beach falls within the North Shore service area, which means Coastal Baby Rentals serves it year-round. Call 732-272-6804 with any questions about your order.
One Last Tip
Point Pleasant Beach moves at a slower pace than many Shore towns. That is part of what makes it a good fit for families with little ones. The boardwalk is accessible, the restaurants are laid-back, and the beach is well-maintained. With the right gear waiting at your rental on arrival day, there is very little standing between you and a good first morning at the Shore.
