What are the best beaches along the NJ shore?
I am planning a weekend trip after Labor Day to the shore, and am unfamiliar with the NJ shoreline. What are the best beaches? Criteria - best for couples, best for swimming, best sand, best attractions in nearby towns, best restaurants within striking distance, most romantic B+B's. Thanks.

You don't say whether you want the North or South shore. If it's north I'd say try Spring Lake, Point Pleasant or Bay Head. They are all quaint towns with lovely B&Bs and nice beaches. They also are not far from the boardwalks both in Point Pleasant and Seaside Heights. In South Jersey I'd recommend Cape May - which has beautiful Victorian homes as well as nice beaches. I can't recommend an restaurants as we usually rent a house and cook at home, but I'm sure others can help on that one. September is a great time to visit the shore -- have fun.

I agree with the above suggestions, you may also try Long Beach Island, which is beautiful also.

I would agree with the responses and would stay in Spring Lake. Lots of B&B's. Call Holli at the Old Mill Inn in Spring Lake Heights, NJ. She can recommend a B&B and be sure to eat there and request a table in the Green Room. I worked there for 8 years and it is really romantic. Mannasquan has a nice boardwalk with just house to walk on and the beach is nice as well. PT. Pleasant has a boardwalk with rides and such and a nice bar that jets out on the beach called Jenkinsons. Spring Lake has a nice row of shops and a catholic church on the lake that you need to go in to see how beautiful. Also a nice park there. Good Luck. Need more info, just e-mail me direct. I now live in Seattle but might be of some help. Cape May is lovely as well, more touristy.

Cape May for restaurants, shops, Victorian charm. Wildwood Crest for beach; Wildwood for restaurants and attractions (boardwalk). Avon-by-the-Sea for B&B, restaurants, charm. Long Beach Island (its 18 miles long) for house rentals. Enjoy your trip "down the shore."

I vote for Cape May! (I rent a beachfront condo from "www.vrbo.com/vrbo/1245.htm". If you're interested in a B&B look at web site "www.capemay.com". They also have a great listing of restaurants, the history of Cape May, etc.