Named after the Roman water deity, Neptune is a sprawling New Jersey township on the edge of the Atlantic Ocean. It encompasses the historic beachside communities of Ocean Grove and Asbury Park, as well as the 18-hole Shark River Golf Course and its adjacent fossil-filled park.
Things to do in Neptune
Spend a day wandering amidst the beautiful Victorian buildings of Ocean Grove, which has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Of particular note is the Great Auditorium, an 1894-built wooden masterpiece that houses one of the world’s largest pipe organs. Outside the Great Auditorium is a statue of Reverend Ellwood Stokes, who played an important role in the founding of Ocean Grove.
North of Ocean Grove is the Asbury Park Boardwalk, a 19th-century promenade that has been modernised with colourful murals. You can refuel with a craft beer at one of the local bars or feast on locally caught seafood before enjoying a sweet treat from Coney Waffle. In addition to its diverse range of boutiques, the Asbury Park Boardwalk is famed for its live music and street performer scene.
On the edge of Neptune is Shark River Park, which is named after the prehistoric shark teeth that have been discovered in its river. In addition to fossicking for fossils and fishing, this popular green space provides a picturesque backdrop for picnics. You can explore along the 13 kilometres of hiking trails or let the kids run loose in the children’s playground.
Getting around Neptune
Neptune is around an hour’s drive from Newark and 45 minutes from Newark Liberty International Airport, which has flights to destinations across the globe. Regular trains connect to the Bradley Beach railway station and buses travel throughout the township, connecting most of its attractions.