As the weather starts to warm up here in West Long Branch, it’s the perfect time to get outside and take advantage of everything the area has to offer. Whether you live off campus and are looking for somewhere new to go, or live on campus and just need a quick escape, there are so many easy, fun options nearby that make spring one of the best times of the year.
- Strollo’s Lighthouse Ice Cream
A true local staple, Strollo’s is more than just an ice cream spot. It has multiple locations in the area, including Long Branch, Ocean, and West End. It’s known for its flavors of the week, which change regularly, enticing people to come back. My friends and I love going just to see what the new flavor is, and it has honestly become a fun little tradition we have every week.
They have several different homemade Italian ice flavors as well as soft serve, milkshakes, and tons of toppings. It’s the perfect place to go with friends if you’re looking for a sweet treat. Whether you stick to a classic, like half chocolate, half peanut butter (aka the best combo) or try something new, it’s the perfect treat after a long day of classes and I, of course, definitely recommend. - Long Branch Boardwalk
Located right by the University Bluffs at Monmouth, the boardwalk stretches about two miles and is one of the best places to go when the weather is nice. It’s ideal for walking, running, or even just clearing your head. It does get a little crowded, especially because Long Branch is such a family-oriented town, and you are more than likely to see someone you know. I recommend going with a friend or two and catching up on all the drama or interesting news from the weekend before. Before you know it, you have just walked two miles without even realizing. The ocean views make it feel like a mini escape from campus life, and if you go at sunrise or sunset, it’s even better. It’s also a great spot if you’re just looking to get out of your house or dorm room, and it doesn’t cost anything. - Pier Village
Pier Village is definitely one of the most popular spots in the area, and for good reason. There are so many places to eat, shop, and hang out. When the weather gets warmer, many restaurants open up outdoor seating, which is so nice just being outside after being couped up for months. Although it can get a little touristy on the weekends, it’s still a great place to go, especially if you want to have a relaxing afternoon filled with shopping and food. They also recently put a mini golf course right in the center, which has a super cute theme. You can easily spend a whole afternoon here, whether you’re grabbing lunch, getting iced coffee, taking pictures by the beach, or just walking around with friends. - Beach Days at Seven Presidents Oceanfront Park
If you’re not utilizing the beach here as a Monmouth student, let me be the one to tell you that you definitely should. As soon as it starts getting warm, beach days become a must. Seven Presidents is one of the best nearby spots because it’s clean, spacious, and not overly crowded early in the season. It’s only a few minutes further from Long Branch, and most people don’t know about it. If you’re looking for somewhere to go, where you probably won’t see anyone you know from campus, this is the ultimate beach getaway. There are also tons of parking spaces, as well as walkability to several local lunch spots in the area. It’s perfect for laying out, listening to music, or just relaxing with friends. Even if it’s not quite hot enough to swim, just being by the ocean instantly makes the day better. - Explore Nearby Towns like Asbury Park or Belmar
If you’re looking to switch things up, taking a short drive to Asbury Park or Belmar is always worth it. Both surrounding towns have their own vibe, which makes it fun to explore depending on what you’re in the mood for. Asbury Park is known for its more lively, artsy atmosphere, with unique shops, cool cafes, and a busy boardwalk. There’s usually something going on, whether it’s live music, pop-up markets, or events.
Belmar, on the other hand, is a little more laid-back but still just as fun. It’s perfect for beach days, grabbing food with friends, or just walking around and enjoying the scenery. It’s also home to the popular Jersey Shore boutique Hazel Boutique. This shop is a must-stop if you’re into shopping and want to find cute, trendy pieces. Both of these amazing spots are close enough for a quick trip, making them the perfect option if you want to branch outside of the normal scene.
There are so many amazing things to do around campus as the weather is warming up. Attending Monmouth University has so many perks, especially when it comes to everything outside of campus. From being just minutes away from the beach to having easy access to local spots like the boardwalk, Pier Village, and nearby shore towns, there’s always something to do. If you’re not from the area, it’s a great way to enjoy your college town before you go back home for the summer as well. Our school’s location makes it so easy to step away from school for a bit and enjoy everything the area has to offer. Have fun and make sure to welcome the warm weather with a smile!
