If you live in New York City, you know how important it is to escape the noise and fast pace every now and then. Luckily, you don’t have to travel far to find peace, natural beauty, and charm.
Just 90 minutes from Manhattan sits Spring Lake, NJ. This timeless seaside town feels worlds away from the city. With pristine beaches, quaint architecture, and a slower pace, Spring Lake is the perfect retreat.
Getting to Spring Lake
Getting to Spring Lake from New York City couldn’t be easier. If you’re driving, you can head south on the Garden State Parkway and be at the shore in under two hours. If you’d rather sit back and relax, NJ Transit makes it easy with direct train service from Penn Station. Either way, it’s close enough to leave on a Friday afternoon and have your toes in the sand before the sun sets. This makes Spring Lake ideal for a weekend getaway from NYC.
Things to Do in Spring Lake
Part of the appeal of Spring Lake is its calm atmosphere, creating the perfect setting for unwinding. However, when you’re ready to explore, you’ll still find plenty to do.
The Beach
The beach is approximately two miles long, running the whole length of the town. It’s also known as one of the cleanest beaches on the Jersey Shore. Unlike other, busier spots along the Jersey Shore, it never feels overcrowded here. There is plenty of room to lounge, read a book, or just soak up the sun!
The Boardwalk
There is a boardwalk here, though it stands out compared to others at the shore. The boardwalk here is simple and serene, and runs along the length of the beach. It’s perfect for morning jogs or leisurely evening walks.
Downtown
Downtown, there are plenty of boutique shops, cozy cafés, and local restaurants. From artisanal coffee to fresh seafood, you’ll find it all within a few blocks.
Flat streets lined with shady trees make biking in town a breeze. You’ll pass classic Victorian homes, beautiful gardens, and the lake that gives the town its name.
If you’re craving a little more energy, Asbury Park is only a quick drive away with its vibrant art scene and live music. But most visitors find everything they need right in Spring Lake.
Where to Stay in Spring Lake
While there are many places to stay in Spring Lake, none compare to ICONA’s Grand Victorian Hotel. This boutique resort is one of the only oceanfront hotels in Spring Lake. Initially built in 1883, the property blends timeless charm with modern luxury.
The wraparound porch at the on-site restaurant, Amelia’s, is the perfect spot for evening cocktails. The elegant, well-appointed rooms offer comfort with a coastal touch. Best of all, you’re only steps away from the sand, so you can wake up and walk right to the ocean.
Why It’s the Perfect Beach Getaway from NYC
What makes Spring Lake so special is its balance. It has all the beauty of the Jersey Shore without the hustle. In Spring Lake, the sound of ocean waves, the historic homes, and rest and relaxation are the main draws. It’s a place where mornings start with beach walks, afternoons drift by with a good book, and evenings end with ocean breezes and beautiful sunsets.
For New Yorkers craving peace, it’s the kind of getaway that resets your spirit. And because it’s so close, you don’t lose hours on the road. Instead, you spend them savoring the calm that comes with being by the ocean.
Plan Your Jersey Shore Escape
If you’re ready to trade city streets for ocean air, start planning your Spring Lake escape. Whether you come for a weekend or a whole week, the experience is restorative and refreshing.
There’s no better place to stay than ICONA’s Grand Victorian Hotel. At our luxurious hotel in New Jersey, you can experience the best that Spring Lake has to offer.
Reserve your stay today, and discover why Spring Lake is one of the best quick beach getaways from NYC.
