Spring Lake Travel Guide: Things to Do, Best Time to Visit & Itinerary

Spring Lake, often whispered about as the “Irish Riviera,” is a sanctuary of Victorian grace and coastal serenity on the Jersey Shore. Unlike its raucous neighbors, this town has staunchly refused the allure of neon lights and amusement rides. Instead, it offers a two-mile non-commercial boardwalk, avenues lined with century-old sycamores, and grand estates that echo the Gilded Age. It is a place where time seems to slow down, inviting you to trade the noise of modern life for the rhythmic sound of the Atlantic.

The town centers around its namesake, a spring-fed lake spanned by rustic wooden bridges that look as though they were plucked from a Monet painting. Whether you are watching swans glide across the water in Divine Park or admiring the copper dome of St. Catharine’s Church, Spring Lake exudes an air of sophisticated tranquility. It is a destination for those who seek the ocean’s beauty without the boardwalk clutter, offering a refined escape just an hour and a half from New York City.

A Legacy of Elegance

Spring Lake’s history is written in its architecture. During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, wealthy families from Philadelphia and New York built magnificent summer cottages here, many of which still stand today as bed and breakfasts or private residences. The town has maintained a strict dedication to preservation, ensuring that the “shingle style” architecture and wraparound porches remain the dominant aesthetic. Walking the residential streets feels like an open-air museum tour of American turn-of-the-century design.

Culturally, the town is distinct for its quiet dignity. There are no parking meters on most streets, and the beach is free of commercial vendors. This creates a community atmosphere that values conversation, nature, and relaxation. The local theater and historic community house host events that feel intimate and welcoming, reflecting a town that prides itself on being a true neighborhood rather than just a tourist trap.

The Icons You’ll Want to See

Spring Lake Boardwalk - A pristine, two-mile stretch of boards offering uninterrupted views of the dunes and ocean. It is strictly for walking and jogging (no bikes after 9 AM in summer) and features comfortable benches and pavilions. Access is free, but beach access requires a badge ($12 daily).

Divine Park & The Wooden Bridges - Located just blocks from the ocean, this park surrounds the spring-fed lake. The two rustic wooden footbridges are the most photographed spots in town. Admission is free, and it is a perfect loop for a 1-mile walk.

St. Catharine’s Church - An architectural marvel located at 215 Essex Avenue. This Beaux-Arts style church overlooks the lake and features a stunning interior with murals and a copper dome. It is open daily for prayer and visitors, free of charge.

The Community House - Located at 300 Madison Avenue, this Tudor-style building houses the public library and theater. The surrounding sunken gardens are a peaceful retreat open to the public for free.

Planning Your Visit

Spring Lake is easily accessible via the Garden State Parkway or by NJ Transit trains (North Jersey Coast Line), which stop directly in town. Once you arrive, the town is incredibly walkable. You can park your car at your hotel and easily walk to the beach, the lake, and the Third Avenue shopping district. Bicycles are also a popular way to get around, though be mindful of boardwalk restrictions during peak hours.

When packing, remember that Spring Lake is slightly more formal than other shore towns. While beachwear is fine on the sand, most restaurants and the downtown area require casual resort attire, think collared shirts and sundresses rather than tank tops and flip-flops for dinner. Also, bring a cooler if you plan to spend the day at the beach, as you won’t find burger stands or soda machines on the boardwalk itself.

Ultimately, Spring Lake offers a sophisticated retreat regardless of when you visit. While summer brings the quintessential beach experience, the shoulder seasons of late May and September offer the same beauty with a fraction of the crowds, making it easier to secure a table at the town’s top restaurants or a bench on the boardwalk.