A magazine has named Asbury Park as the second best place in the United States when it comes to going on a beach vacation.
Money Magazine’s June issue named the seven best spots around the country for a beach getaway. Asbury Park ranked No. 2.
The magazine named several reasons why Asbury Park was such a great place to vacation – namely the beach and boardwalk. There are old landmarks like Convention Hall and the Stone Pony, as well as new additions such as the Biergarten and the newly renovated Asbury Lanes.
"We have a music, art and food culture unlike all the other beach towns and it drives a lot of interest in visits,” says Asbury Park spokesperson Sonia Spina.
For those wondering why beaches like Malibu or Maui are not on the list, the reason is simple – Money Magazine took affordability into account.
They found that the average airfare to Asbury Park is only $293. Hotels cost about $185 a night, with a full week only costing about $2,600.
Many say that Asbury Park is also family-friendly, with staples like the Silver Ball Arcade and affordable housing for young families.
“It’s not expensive. We have new things opening up. High-rise apartments. A lot of beautiful things,” says local business owner Dainzie Costello.
Other locations on Money Magazine’s list include Sag Habor, New York; Long Beach, California; Glen Arbor, Michigan; the Outer Banks in North Carolina and Myrtle Beach in South Carolina. The No. 1 location is Pompano Beach, Florida.