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The best Airbnbs on the Jersey Shore

Jamie Ditaranto   

The best Airbnbs on the Jersey Shore

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  • As states begin phased reopenings following lockdowns due to the novel coronavirus, many travelers will be looking for easy domestic getaways.
  • The Jersey Shore offers a quaint seaside vacation within driving distance for many East Coasters. Filled with 141 miles of large sandy beaches, the area is famous for its retro beach towns and boardwalk kitschiness.
  • We picked top-rated shore houses on Airbnb from Point Pleasant to Cape May, ranging in price from $110 to $325.
  • Read all Business Insider travel reviews here.

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:
  • Airbnb listings are for the entire home, so you don't have to worry about sharing a bathroom with your host or another guest.
  • The home is affordably priced, ranging from $110 to $325, and available to book in the summer and fall of 2020, as of publishing time.
  • All are highly-rated Airbnb listings with a review score of 4.8 or higher.
  • Properties are unique and modern with free parking and proximity to the beach.

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.

Atlantic City: Cozy oceanfront condo with amazing views, $110

Atlantic City: Cozy oceanfront condo with amazing views, $110
Airbnb
Book this oceanfront condo starting at $110 per night

Wake up and see nothing but blue. With a panoramic window looking over the ocean, this high-rise studio condo in Atlantic City is a chic and minimalistic alternative to a room at one of the casinos. With parking included, you won't need to worry about where to keep your car and can enjoy direct access to the boardwalk. The listing also mentions a shared gym and pool in the building, but these may be closed currently.

One unique design element of this apartment is the window above the jacuzzi tub, which lets in a lot of natural light, but can also be covered up for more privacy.

This Airbnb has some availability in June and July, but more nights open up towards the end of August.

Rating: 4.86

COVID-19 cleaning procedures: No specific cleaning procedures are mentioned, but the apartment has an average cleanliness score of 4.9 and the host is a Superhost.

Atlantic City: Beach block apartment, $115

Atlantic City: Beach block apartment, $115
Airbnb
Book this beach block apartment starting at $115 per night

This second-floor studio apartment has been recently remodeled and includes a parking pass that will allow you to park on the street.

Inside, you'll find a modern kitchen, smart TV, and nice tile work in the shower. It's a relatively new listing, but the space feels fresh and up to date. Ideal for couples or solo travelers, the location is this listing's biggest draw. You can see the boardwalk and beach from the first-floor patio (which guests have access to).

Weekends are booked up through July 2020, but this apartment has a lot more availability beginning in August and is totally open in September, at the time of publishing.

Rating: 5.0

COVID-19 cleaning procedures: A newer listing, it doesn't have that many reviews yet, but guests who stayed in June 2020 note that this listing was very clean and it has a cleanliness rating of 5.0.

Mystic Island: Family-sized home on the lagoon, $150

Mystic Island: Family-sized home on the lagoon, $150
Airbnb
Book this home on the lagoon starting at $150 per night

With room enough for six, this huge house on the Mystic Island Lagoon, between Atlantic City and Long Beach Island, is perfect for a family-focused getaway.

In addition to the outdoor seating area, hammocks, fire pit, and grill, the big draw of this listing is the huge dock that puts you right on the water. You can rent some kayaks or use the house's pedal boat free of charge. The home's decor is nautical, without being kitschy and the deck views, complete with an outdoor breakfast nook, are lovely.

This listing is booked through until August, but more nights open up in September and October.

Rating: 5.0

COVID-19 cleaning procedures: This Superhost has officially committed to Airbnb's "Enhanced Clean," which dictates a strict cleaning protocol. Past reviewers rave about the home's impeccable cleanliness and it scored a perfect 5.0 rating in this category.

Ocean View: Nature's touch getaway, $150

Ocean View: Nature
Airbnb
Book this getaway house starting at $150 per night

This nature-surrounded Airbnb listing makes a good argument for staying somewhere off the beach. At this home, you'll be surrounded by greenery with much more privacy than if you were close to the boardwalk.

Plus, Sea Isle Beach is only four miles away if you do feel like a beach day. With the vibe of an old-school log cabin, this studio connects to the main house but has a private entrance and deck. Complimentary beach furniture and tags are also included. With a perfect rating across over 40 reviews, past guests sing high praises about the central location and the hosts' warm hospitality.

There is some availability in late June, but more days open up in July and August.

Rating: 5.0

COVID-19 cleaning procedures: No specific cleaning procedures are mentioned, but the host is a Superhost and the listing has a perfect 5.0 score in this category and one past reviewer uses all caps to emphasize "The place was IMMACULATELY CLEAN."

Beach Haven: Cozy beach cottage $170

Beach Haven: Cozy beach cottage $170
Airbnb
Book this cottage starting at $170 per night

This adorable studio-sized cottage is an idyllic romantic getaway within walking distance of both the beach and the bay, as well as shops and restaurants in town. Its bayside location also means you'll be able to enjoy some spectacular sunsets. Your stay even includes complimentary bikes, as well as beach chairs and beach badges.

The cottage is mostly booked through the summer, with just a couple of days still available in July.

Rating: 5.0

COVID-19 cleaning procedures: According to the host, who is a Superhost, the condo will be cleaned and wiped down with bleach and disinfectant. It also has an average cleanliness rating of 5.0.

Ventnor City: Large house with private balcony and patio, $186

Ventnor City: Large house with private balcony and patio, $186
Airbnb
Book this house starting at $186 per night

Not far from Atlantic City and only two blocks from the Ventnor City Beach, this house is so spacious there's room enough for nine guests.

Staying here includes complimentary beach badges and chairs and there's enough room for two cars to park. The decor is modern and light, but still beachy with a touch of sophistication. While here, you can gather the crew around the kitchen island or sit out on the big patio and enjoy the salty air. For an extra fee, you can even bring your four-legged friends to join you.

The house is available to rent beginning July 1 but is mostly booked for August.

Rating: 4.79

COVID-19 cleaning procedures: No specific cleaning procedures are mentioned, but multiple guests note the home was "sparkling clean" and it has an average cleanliness rating of 4.7.

Seaside Heights: Newly renovated apartment, $247

Seaside Heights: Newly renovated apartment, $247
Airbnb
Book this apartment starting at $247 per night

Despite being the epicenter of every Jersey Shore stereotype, there's a reason why Seaside Heights is so popular — it's a lot of fun. And this newly renovated apartment right on the beach provides a wonderful counterbalance to the boardwalk's gimmicky charm with a tasteful interior dressed in light beach tones. Your stay includes beach badges as well as a shared outdoor space with picnic tables, a grill, and an outdoor shower.

There are four apartments in total, so if you have a large group, you may even consider renting out the whole building. The nightly rate may seem pricey for the size, but given the beachside location along Jersey's most famous strip of sand, it's actually quite the steal.

This listing has a lot of availability in July and is totally open for booking in August and September.

Rating: 5.0

COVID-19 cleaning procedures: Many guests note the cleanliness and freshness of the renovation and it has an average rating of 4.9 in this category.

Sea Isle City: Townhouse with ocean view, $250

Sea Isle City: Townhouse with ocean view, $250
Airbnb
Book this townhouse starting at $250 per night

With four bedrooms, as many as 11 people can enjoy this huge townhouse steps away from the Sea Isle City Beach. The decor is modern with a hint of a beach vibe and there's even an indoor fireplace, in case you want to get cozy on chilly nights.

But the best standout feature is the roof deck, which is a prime spot to take in incredible sunsets. Past reviewers also praise how easy it was to communicate with the host.

Openings for this Airbnb start in August and there's more availability through September.

Rating: 4.8

COVID-19 cleaning procedures: Not much is mentioned specifically, but some recent reviews note that the house was clean.

Cape May: Chambourcin cottage at Willow Creek Vineyard, $250

Cape May: Chambourcin cottage at Willow Creek Vineyard, $250
Airbnb
Book this cottage starting at $250 per night

Willow Creek Winery lists multiple cottages varying in size on Airbnb, but the second-floor Chambourcin Cottage is the coziest and offers the best value.

The apartment's two porches overlook 50 acres of grapevines, which you'll be free to walk around throughout your stay. The cottage's quaint atmosphere offers a romantic spot for couples looking to nestle in for a weekend.

Although this listing isn't directly on the beach, it's only two miles away from the iconic Cape May Lighthouse.

Rating: 4.9

COVID-19 cleaning procedures: The listing has Superhost status and while nothing is specifically mentioned, recent reviewers have praised the cottage for being spotless.

Stone Harbor: Getaway with bay views, $250

Stone Harbor: Getaway with bay views, $250
Airbnb
Book this bay view getaway starting $250 per night

North of Wildwood, enjoy the sunset over the bay from the upper level of this chic Stone Harbor beach house. Tastefully decorated with white and wicker furnishings, quartz countertops, plenty of natural light, and high-quality amenities, this 1950s-era home has been brought up to date with the modern aesthetic.

With two bedrooms (and enough room for six guests if you use the sofa bed), this is a spacious oasis with plenty of room for families to spread out and relax.

Nearby, walk to Stone Harbor's main strip of shops, or the fishing pier, which is another good spot to watch the sunset. The kitchen is also decently-sized for a beach rental and those who like to cook will have plenty of counter space.

This listing has no openings until October 2020, but availability is subject to change.

Rating: 4.9

COVID-19 cleaning procedures: While no new policies are specifically listed, this Airbnb has an average 4.9 cleanliness rating, and past reviews have praised the cleanliness of the place.

Wildwood Crest: Oceanfront condo, $299

Wildwood Crest: Oceanfront condo, $299
Airbnb
Book this oceanfront condo starting at $299 per night

The balcony of this ocean-facing condo looks out over Wildwood's famously large beach. Its location on the crest, south of the main boardwalk, also means it's a quieter alternative to the more boisterous side of town.

The decor is light and airy with aquamarine walls and wooden furnishings. This is a small studio apartment and although you'll be sleeping on a pull-out sofa instead of a true bed, numerous guests have praised its comfort.

This Airbnb has no availability until late July or late August

Rating: 4.8

COVID-19 cleaning procedures: Specific cleaning measures aren't mentioned but past reviewers note the home is clean and it has an average cleanliness rating of 4.9.

Asbury Park: Two-bedroom beach apartment, $300

Asbury Park: Two-bedroom beach apartment, $300
Airbnb
Book this two-bedroom apartment starting at $300 per night

Asbury Park, aka Bruce Springsteen's stomping grounds, is only a two-and-a-half-hour train ride from New York City. This newly renovated two-bedroom apartment is also within walking distance of the beach and the main strip of shops and restaurants, making it an ideal home base.

The kitchen is fully stocked and in addition to the four beach badges provided, guests also are able to borrow beach chairs, towels, and even a beach tent for babies. With hipster flair — think llama paintings and pops of color — and a porch furnished with cushioned outdoor furniture, this Airbnb is as thoughtful as any modern hotel.

At the time of publishing, there are a few days left to book in mid-July, but August has more availability, including weekends in late August.

Rating: 5.0

COVID-19 cleaning procedures: No policies are specifically stated, but past guests as recently as June 2020 have noted that the apartment was sparkling clean.

Wildwood Crest: Baydream house, $325

Wildwood Crest: Baydream house, $325
Airbnb
Book this house starting at $325 per night

This enormous house might be at the top of the price range, but with room enough for 12 people and a full deck that leads out to a boat dock on Sunset Lake, it's a solid deal.

If you know you're not going to wake up early enough to watch the sunrise over the Atlantic, at least you'll know you'll never miss a sunset with the bay for your backyard.

Guests share the deck with other apartments on the property, but it's possible to book the whole house and property as well if you have a really big group. Amenities include everything from paddleboards and kayaks to crab traps and fishing poles.

The house is booked through August, but there's still a lot of availability beginning in September.

Rating: 4.8

COVID-19 cleaning procedures: The listing doesn't mention specifics, but the host is a Superhost and it has an average score of 4.7 for cleanliness.

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