For those who enjoy a relaxing weekend by the water, Long Branch beach is a must-visit vacation spot. Two summers ago on a Thursday night, just a few weeks after our wedding, my husband Zack and I packed up our swimwear and drove to the Ocean Place Resort & Spa where we planned to spend the July 4th weekend. This was by no means our first time in Long Branch beach—far from it. We frequently go on day trips there, and we especially visited several times over COVID while we were dating. We love walking on the boardwalk, hanging out on the sand, and treating ourselves to delicious ice cream. Along the boardwalk, the Ocean Place Resort is beautifully lit up at night with its outdoor pool and shimmering blue logo. Long Branch beach seemed like the perfect local vacation for the extended weekend.

As we entered the resort, we were immediately taken aback by the enormous hotel lobby that was decorated with white and beige couches, gold armchairs surrounding quaint tables, an eye-catching chandelier hanging over a flowing fountain, and a long, well-stocked bar. In the corner were guests laughing around a billiards table and life-size chess set and dozens of frum couples on shidduch dates. The ambiance felt light and cheerful and we could tell that it was a pleasant room to hang out in.

Checking in was an easy process, and after settling into our room upstairs, Zack and I returned to the lobby and exited at the back of the hotel, which had a private path to the boardwalk. The boardwalk was perfect for a calming stroll because we were able to enjoy the sounds and sights of the ocean while passing the nightlife around us by the brightly lit shops and restaurants. The atmosphere was chilled, and it was relaxing to walk around while seeing the water and listening to the hypnotic waves.

The following morning, we hopped over to the CVS across the street to buy milk for the cereal we had packed for breakfast. Next, we headed to the outdoor pool located on one of the lower floors of our resort. The long, serene pool was convenient for both doing laps and casual swimming. Additionally, the 3-foot hot tub proved to be an enticing option, especially when the weather turned chilly, promising us moments of warmth and relaxation.

Hungry after our swim, we ventured to Coney Waffle, Ice Cream and Sweet Shop, our favorite ice cream store which we had visited many times before. I indulged in a Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup milkshake topped with whipped cream, and Zack munched on a fluffy waffle with cotton candy-flavored ice cream. The store offers a wide selection of flavors, combinations, waffles, crepes and milkshakes, and it is completely kosher! (The kosher certificates for the chain’s various kosher locations are available on their website for viewing.) In addition to typical waffles and ice cream, their selection also included ice cream sandwiches and cookies and ice cream pies and cakes. A huge perk is that it was only a short walk from the resort.

While we did not have a chance to visit, we were excited to hear about The Baked Bear, a nearby kosher ice cream shop that offers delightful customized ice cream sandwiches. The process is simple and fun. First, you choose your top and bottom cookies or brownies from the large variety that even contains multiple vegan options. After that, you choose your ice cream from a list of unique flavors. Next, you choose your toppings for crunch. Lastly, once your sandwich has been created, you can request it to be warmed up if desired.

We carried our refreshments to the back outdoor area of our hotel where we lounged comfortably as we watched joggers pass in front of us and waves crash against the shore in the distance. Soon after, we opted to get a closer view of the water, so I sprawled out over the sand on a reclining chair provided by the hotel as Zack swam through the waves. The hotel beach chairs are included in the stay and did not cost extra. We then heated up water in our hotel room and brought Tradition Soups and a deck of cards that we packed to the lobby where we enjoyed spending time together while being a part of the lobby buzz.

On Erev Shabbat, Zack and I prepared our hot plate in the hotel room with the food that we brought from Grand & Essex. The hotel was fun to explore over Shabbat, and we found several cozy sitting areas. Walking along the boardwalk, reading in lounge chairs, napping and playing card games made Shabbat fly by for us. We joined a Maariv minyan at a Chabad house a couple of blocks away where we also met some warm, frum people and heard Havdala.

On Sunday morning, we drove to Oceanport Paddle Club where we rented a tandem kayak, although single kayaks were also offered in addition to SUPs (stand-up paddle boards) or mega SUPs (SUPs for multiple people). While we were on the kayak, Zack wanted to cool off and chose to jump in the water, while I stayed on our kayak and helped him climb back in afterward. While on the kayak, Zack streamed Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest from his phone, and although I was watching too at first, eventually I began paddling us along the water. Suddenly, when Joey was about to reach a new record, the contest started cutting in and out, and Zack, frustrated, asked me to return the boat back to where it was before I moved it, which didn’t seem to help and we missed the last few minutes of the contest. Later, we found out that ESPN’s broadcast had technical issues, and it was not my fault for paddling the kayak.

Although it was raining when we returned to the hotel, we found a great option for the afternoon: the indoor pool, which also had a hot tub. Then, when the sun came out, we spent some time on the beach. We spent time swimming, relaxing in the sand, burying each other, and tossing a frisbee back and forth. There were plenty of hose stations on the boardwalk to wash off afterward.

At dinner time, we drove about 10 minutes to Dougie’s Bar-B-Que in Deal. We were excited to try Dougie’s since we love the Dougie’s in Teaneck and Baltimore, but there are also several other kosher restaurant options nearby, such as Salt Steakhouse, LBK Grill, Retro Grill and Changmao Sakura for other meat options. We returned to our hotel where we got drinks at the outdoor bar and watched the dazzling fireworks celebrating our nation’s Independence Day.

In conclusion, our July 4th weekend beach getaway to Long Branch beach was an unforgettable experience filled with relaxation, delicious kosher treats and enjoyable activities. From strolling along the boardwalk and swimming in the outdoor pool to kayaking on the water and savoring delectable ice cream, every moment was filled with joy and adventure. The charming ambiance of the Ocean Place Resort and Spa, coupled with the warm hospitality of the nearby Chabad house, made our Shabbat celebration truly special.

As the weekend came to a close with a mesmerizing fireworks display, we couldn’t help but feel grateful for the wonderful memories we created together in this delightful seaside paradise. Since then, we have visited Long Branch beach several times and it remains one of our favorite summer activities. Whether you enjoy relaxing on the beach, eating ice cream, trying out a new water sport, or visiting a new restaurant, Long Branch beach is the perfect summer destination.

Be sure to check out our highlight video on Youtube, “Vacation in Long Branch Video Star” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=caMpj-Jibts).

Ahuva Greenberg grew up in Silver Spring, Maryland, and currently lives in Teaneck with her husband, Zack. She is a talent attraction coordinator at IPG Mediabrands. She has six nieces and nephews. Ahuva recently watched the movie “Barbie.”