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When you live at the Jersey Shore, you could still travel to Philly or NYC for date night, but why not stay local? Monmouth and Ocean County both have unique date night spots that rival any night in either of our neighboring cities.  We’ve compiled a list of some of our favorite spots for date night and we’ll be posting them weekly in our Jersey Shore Date Night Series. This week we are diving into Jersey Shore waterfront dining spots where your meal or happy hour rendezvous will includes water views:

Beach Tavern– Monmouth Beach

Atmosphere is everything at Beach Tavern. It’s located right on the Shrewsbury River in Monmouth Beach and it will have you feeling like you’re at a beach bar thousands of miles away. Call ahead and inquire about the seafood tower- you won’t be disappointed. The sunsets are breathtaking here so you’ll want to plan accordingly. Beach Tavern. 33 West Street Monmouth Beach, NJ 07750. (732) 870-8999 http://beachtavern.net/

Rooney’s Oceanfront– Long Branch

There are few spots at the Jersey Shore that have a better happy hour than Rooney’s Oceanfront. Once the summer crowd subsides, locals can finally hit Rooney’s a lot more easily. It’s one of the most ideal oceanfront date night spots in our book. Rooney’s Oceanfront, 100 Ocean Avenue North Long Branch, NJ 07740. 732-870-1200. http://www.rooneysocean.com/

MJ’s Bayville– Bayville

MJ’s in Bayville is one of the area’s newest waterfront dining experiences. During the warm summer months, guests are invited to pull up by car or by boat to enjoy a few drinks on MJ’s patio. When the weather cools off, cozy up inside with your date and check out the ocean views from the comfort of the bar. There are almost always specials going on so be sure to check them out when you go. MJ’s Bayville, 905 Bay Boulevard, Bayville NJ 08721. 732-269-7764. http://www.mjsrestaurant.com/Bayville

Mister C’s Beach Bistro– Allenhurst

Mister C’s is your classic Jersey beach bar serving up original cocktails and the freshest seafood while you take in spectacular ocean views. The emphasis on using fresh ingredients definitely shows when you dine and drink there. Not big on seafood? Their steaks are some of the best you’ll find around. It’s a great spot for a casual date night and happy hour drinks. Mister C’s Beach Bistro. Ocean Pl & Allen Ave, Allenhurst, NJ 0771. https://www.mistercsbeachbistro.com/

Pearl at Oyster Point Hotel– Red Bank

The Oyster Point Hotel is the perfect spot for a mini “staycation”. Get a room at the Oyster Point Hotel to make “date night” an all night event. Begin the night at the bar with happy hour drinks at Pearl before moving to the dining room. Dress to the nines for an elegant dinner overlooking the Navesink River. It’s a well deserved date night you won’t forget. Pearl at Oyster Point Hotel, 146 Bodman Place
Red Bank, NJ 07701. (732) 530-8200. http://www.theoysterpointhotel.com/

Klein’s Fish Market– Belmar

If you’re craving seafood, you won’t find any fresher than Klein’s Fish Market. Enjoy the freshest seafood you’ll get anywhere in Klein’s waterfront dining room. Watch boats come and go and the sunset every night while you enjoy favorites like Lobster Mac and Cheese. Klein’s Fish Market, 708 River Road Belmar, NJ 07719. (732) 681-1177. http://kleinsfish.com/index.asp

Molly Pitcher Inn– Red Bank

If your significant other appreciates a romantic waterfront dinner in Red Bank backed by outstanding cuisine, the legendary Molly Pitcher Inn should be put on your to do list. Use their link below to view their different dining menus. The Molly Pitcher Inn, 88 Riverside Ave Red Bank, NJ 07701. (732) 858-5310. http://themollypitcher.com/

Oyster Creek– Leeds Point

Jersey Shore waterfront dining is inaccurate here. Oyster Creek is actually actually over the water. You can expect 360 degree water views and sunsets that “flood” the surrounding water with it’s reflection. The perfect spot for date night pictures. While the sunsets are certainly a draw, once you try the food you’ll be hooked. No frills fresh seafood is what they do best at Oyster Creek. Oyster Creek Restaurant and Boat Bar. 41 Oyster Creek Road Leeds Point, NJ 08220. (609) 652-8565 http://oystercreekrestaurant.com/

Panini Bay– Tuckerton

Panini Bay is a hidden gem tucked away on Barnegat Bay in Tuckerton. Come by boat or by car. Open weekends in the off-season, Panini Bay will make you and your date feel like you’re on vacation. BYOB or try one of the Bellview Wines they carry. You can expect a quiet date night that feels a million miles away from any stress. Panini Bay. 101 Parker Road Tuckerton, NJ 08087. (609) 294-4281 https://paninibay.com/

Boondocks Fishery (Seasonal)- Red Bank

Lobster (or Lobstuh) Nights here are legendary. Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday nights in the summer you can get 2 lobsters, corn and potatoes for just $27.95. Grab a bib and dig in with your date! This isn’t a date night where you want to wear your nicest clothes either. Roll up in shorts and flip flops and prepare to get buttery while overlooking the water. Boondocks Fishery. 1 Wharf Ave Red Bank, NJ 07701. https://www.facebook.com/LOBSTUH/

Barnacle Bill’s– Rumson

We love a no frills dive spot- especially when it’s on the water. Barnacle Bill’s is the place for awesome cheeseburgers and live music every weekend. It’s the hangout spot you can see yourself hitting every weekend. Take a load off, relax and listen to some live music with your date. Barnacle Bill’s. 1 First Street Rumson, NJ 07760. (732) 747-8396. http://barnaclebillsrumson.com/

Langosta Lounge– Asbury Park

Sure you could go to Langosta for dinner and have a great time, but the real fun starts late night. They have some of the most unique and eclectic live bands you won’t find anywhere else. Get there before the band goes on, grab a cocktail and take a seat. You likely won’t be sitting long before the music takes over and you’re dancing the night away. Now that’s a great date night. Langosta Lounge. 1000 Ocean Ave Asbury Park, NJ 07712. (732) 455-3275. https://www.langostalounge.com/

Salt Creek Grille– Rumson

Sitting on the Navesink River, Salt Creek Grille is a cozy spot with some killer amazing eats. It’s perfect for those chilly nights when you just want a hot, homestyle meal. They make a great steak but their menu has a little something for everyone. Salt Creek Grille is one of our favorite Jersey Shore waterfront dining destinations. 4 Bingham Ave Rumson, NJ 07760. (732) 933-9272. https://www.saltcreekgrille.com/rumson/

Iron Whale– Asbury Park

Sitting on the Asbury Park Boardwalk next to Convention Hall, The new Iron Whale is a reinvented Jersey Shore waterfront dining spot with oceanfront views. Come winter, try to reserve a table near their fireplace and enjoy a menu that’s full of creative seafood dishes as well as meat entrees served on iron. Check their menu out using the link below. 1200 Ocean Avenue, Asbury Park, NJ (732) 361-5185. https://www.ironwhalenj.com