Sharing this again since many asked for it.
A Shabbos Getaway to Long Branch – Kosher Trippers
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I recently had an amazing vacation at Long Branch, NJ, which I highly recommend, especially for Orthodox Jews seeking kosher dining and minyan.
There are three hotels clustered close to the water: the Wave, Bungalow, and Ocean Place. Among them, the Wave stands out as the nicest and best option. The water is stunning, clean and pretty modest during the week and off-season weekends, although peak summer time isn’t so.
For kosher food, there are several excellent places right there on premises: Salt Steakhouse (amazing), Soya Restaurant (amazing), Pèpe Pizza for dairy (delicious), and Bubbies, a fantastic sandwich and breakfast spot that closes early afternoon. You’ll also find a waffle place, ice cream, and a chocolate factory along the same strip. All are under JSOR supervision, but please check Kashrut standards based on your own stringencies.
Minyanim are plentiful, closest is at the wonderful Chabad of the Shore led by Rabbi Leibel Shapiro, about a 5-10 minute drive away at 620 Ocean Ave, with other options in the Deal area. There’s also a mikvah nearby 117 Lincoln Ave, roughly a 5-7 minute drive with more options in the extended area.
A standout feature is the new Shabbos dining option at Salt, available by prepaid reservation (Dinner Reservations – Lunch Reservations). It’s wonderfully convenient, eliminating the need to bring your own food, and the food is delicious. For Shabbos prayers, there’s a special new minyan nearby by Chabad at 82 Chelsea Ave with kiddush and even afternoon services led by Rabbi Shulem Ber Marasow, making this a very convenient Shabbos getaway. Wave has keys to the rooms that you can request for shabbos.
While there may be more options in the area, these are my firsthand recommendations.
Overall, my getaway was fantastic — convenient, delicious, and relaxing. Beach time during the day was beautiful, relaxing on the terrace and hotel backyard was always a pleasure, and the boardwalk offers a 24-hour experience.
The Wave hotel impressed me with its kind and caring staff, spacious rooms, ample lobby space for hanging out, and an on-site bar. They maintain strict policies of no cookware in rooms for understood safety reasons.
The Chabad Rabbi and staff were welcoming and helpful, providing valuable resources to enhance the stay.
If you’re looking for a kosher-friendly beach vacation with prayer options and great food, Long Branch is a top choice.
