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With the beaches officially open as of Memorial Day weekend, more daytrippers and weekend warriors will surely be itching to get back down the shore this year — although it may look a little different due to the novel coronavirus.
In general, the boardwalks are made up of many small businesses, so the opening and distancing rules of each establishment will vary, and some will likely be closed altogether this year. Currently, New Jersey restaurants are allowed to open, but only for outdoor dining. Indoor dining is set to return July 2 but at reduced capacity.
Even shore icons like the Wildwood tram car, which has been bluntly asking boardwalk strollers to "Watch the tram car, please" for over 70 years, will return with plexiglass dividers and a twice-per-hour wipe down.
But, the Jersey Shore has already proved its adaptability once before after rebounding from the devastation of Hurricane Sandy back in 2012. Despite the recent changes, Jersey's beaches offer a coastal getaway within driving distance for many East Coasters. And, good news for those thinking about renting a car to get there, experts have weighed in on the risks of car rentals and deemed them largely safe.
Seaside hotels are usually the go-to down the shore, but if you want to minimize contact with other people, there are plenty of apartments and whole homes on Airbnb available to rent. Plus, you can take comfort in the fact that Airbnb has implemented new cleaning procedures for hosts to follow.
If you're wondering if staying at an Airbnb is wise right now, consider that experts have said Airbnbs, as opposed to hotels, may actually be the safer option. Plus, with big swaths of sand, like Wildwood's remarkably long 500-yard wide beach, there's plenty of room for everybody to stay six feet away from each other and practice safe social distancing.
However, it's important to consider that without a vaccine, there is no guarantee of safety. We always recommend following guidelines from the CDC and WHO, and taking precautions like wearing a mask and social distancing. You'll also want to weigh your own personal risk factors before deciding if travel right now is right for you.
Traveling elsewhere on the East Coast?If you do decide to take a jaunt down the shore, we searched the most popular Jersey beach towns for Airbnb listings that stood out for being impeccably clean, close to the beach, and well-reviewed. The area has mostly shaken its MTV party reputation, and towns like Asbury Park and Ocean City are excellent for families. (Though if the Point Pleasant house from MTV's hit is what you're looking for, it's bookable, too.)
We chose Airbnbs that fit the following criteria:Although not a perk offered by all of these Airbnbs, ask your host if beach badges will be included in your stay. They are required to access most beaches in New Jersey and having them waiting for you when you arrive can save you from paying a pesky daily fee.
These are the best Airbnbs on the Jersey Shore, sorted by price from low to high.