My husband and I will be staying in Toms River NJ overnight in order to attend a family event the next day. We're getting there early on Saturday so will have most of the day and night and are looking for recommendations on where to go/what to do and restaurants. We were thinking about heading to the beach at Seaside Heights. Specific places we should check out? Any other suggestions closeby? Thanks for your help!

I wouldn't go to Seaside...IMHO it isn't a pleasant place and can have problem teens on the boardwalk...instead go up the Garden State Parkway to Spring Lake...lovely beach, non commercial boardwalk, and beautiful town. You could have dinner at either The Black Trumpet or Whispers. (about 30 minutes from Toms River)

If you want to take a walk on a commercial boardwalk with all the games,etc. stop in Pt. Pleasant Beach. They have all the "jersey Shore" fun in a much more family oriented place.

If you're just looking for a quiet beach to walk or swim without anything commercial, head to Island State Beach State Park, south of Seaside Beach and Seaside Heights.

Definitely don't recommend Seaside unless you like crash commercialism and hordes of people.

You could also stop at Cape May on your way up from Maryland, if that timing would fit in your plans.

That's Island Beach State Park.

If you go to Island Beach State Park, go early. When the parking lots are full they close access.

Thanks for your help!