The best things to do in Ocean County

“Forest Edge Farm is a full-service equestrian spot tucked in Little Egg Harbor by Bass River State Forest, with a new 80' x 180' indoor and a big outdoor arena, plus wooded trails.”

“Craving some Carolinas vibes without leaving Ocean County, Eagle Ridge Golf Club brings pristine conditions on a course voted Best in Ocean County, plus a relaxed post-round at The Hut. Hit their year-round Golf Academy for lessons and clinics so your next swing actually listens.”

From the Jackson newsletter, September 7, 2026

“Ocean County parents, We Rock the Spectrum Waretown is your sensory-friendly indoor playground with swings, slides, toys, climb-on fun, plus an arts and crafts corner. Pop in for Open Play, or line up a class or birthday party this week, all in a welcoming, truly inclusive setting.”

From the Ocean County newsletter, August 3, 2026

“The Mainland Arcade + Karts blends quiet, zippy, no-emissions electric go-karts on a twisty 1,000+ foot track with a year-round arcade packed with pinball, Pac-Man, and Nerf favorites. Grab a friend, settle some longtime smack talk, and make it a low-stress local win this week.”

From the Ocean County newsletter, August 11, 2026

“SeaSpray Park brings sea-creature splash zones, a climbable fun bus, giant tipping bucket, and cool slides to the Seaside Park boardwalk... basically kid nirvana while you hang nearby with burgers, chicken fingers, salads, or ice cream, and if a birthday’s looming their party setup keeps the chaos happy.”

From the Ocean County newsletter, August 23, 2026

“Jenkinson's Aquarium serves up close-up reef life, waddling penguins, sleek sharks and a newly renovated top floor with Wally the sloth and rainforest critters. Pop in this week for family-friendly programs like seal encounters, Tiny Tides & Tunes and Penguins & Pajamas that make weekday routines feel way more fun.”

From the Monmouth County newsletter, August 17, 2026

“From summer concerts and the farmers market to Pirates Day, family fun nights, special needs programs, and even boat launch and crabbing permits, Barnegat Recreation Center keeps the local calendar happily crowded.”

From the Ocean County newsletter, September 14, 2026

“Between narrow Pinelands fairways up front and a hilly, lake-laced back nine capped by an 18th tee on one of Ocean County’s highest points, Cedar Creek Golf Course keeps you honest and rewards ball striking. Finish at Birdies Bar & Grill for legit BBQ, or hit their clinics to tune up.”

From the Ocean County newsletter, September 10, 2026

“Designed by George Fazio, Ocean County Golf Course at Atlantis is a meticulously kept par-72 with a memorable par-3 6th over water. Wrap up at the full-service restaurant and enjoy a South Jersey gem voted Ocean County’s best in 2023.”

From the Ocean County newsletter, August 26, 2026

“Metedeconk National Golf Club is a private 27-hole playground for golfers here in Jackson, with a legit practice facility to grind, True Spec Golf to dial your sticks, and a relaxed clubhouse for post-round eats. If you crave pure golf days, membership or a friend's invite is worth chasing.”

From the Jackson newsletter, September 3, 2026

“Pine Barrens Golf Club is a members-only track right here in Jackson, carved into 420 acres of New Jersey Pinelands, with an Adirondack-style clubhouse and an award-winning layout. Perks include access to Club Max and Pacific Links reciprocal clubs, and yes, the hot dog at the turn hits just right.”

From the Jackson newsletter, September 1, 2026

“Golf venue and hotel with a 18-hole course (for all skill levels), a practice range and pro shop.”

“At K's Catnip Corner Cat Lounge, unwind with feline company while jumping into craft nights, trivia, and even chair yoga with kittens. It’s a cozy, inclusive hang where your fun actually helps local cats, plus there’s quirky cat-themed merch if your tote bag needs more whiskers.”

From the Ocean County newsletter, August 15, 2026

“Voted best mini golf on LBI, Hartland Golf & Arcade packs 18 holes with hills, ponds, tunnels, and just enough chaos to keep every round interesting. Summer Wednesday tournaments with trophies and a door-prize drawing plus the chance to win prizes on any visit keep locals coming back for friendly smack talk.”

From the Ocean County newsletter, September 4, 2026

“Thundering Surf Adventure Golf is a family-friendly putting course with 36 holes across two par courses and a legit waterfall, which means the kids stay entertained and you get to call it short-game practice. Perfect for an easy night out when you want low-stress bragging rights.”

From the Ocean County newsletter, September 2, 2026

“Thundering Surf Waterpark is the local go-to for Adventure Golf, twisting slides, the Lazy, Crazy River, and a FlowRider surf simulator families have loved since 1977. Book a cabana, let the kids race Rainbow Rapids, then hit the food and snack stands while you call it cardio.”

From the Ocean County newsletter, September 1, 2026

“If you want the rustic-without-the-hay-in-your-hair vibe, The Farm On Main in West Creek serves up a 20-acre, family-owned backdrop with a cathedral-like barn, a dreamy greenhouse and pond-side vows. In-house catering, bar and florals keep planning easy so you can actually enjoy it.”

From the Ocean County newsletter, August 14, 2026

“Island Mini Golf keeps the kids grinning and your short game honest with a pirate ship, spiderweb, and other playful traps. If you’re around midweek, they host Wednesday tournaments that started June 24, 2026, a low-stress way for Ocean County bragging rights with putters.”

From the Ocean County newsletter, September 3, 2026

“Greenbriar Oceanaire Community & Golf Course delivers an 18-hole round, then keeps the day rolling with an indoor pool, on-site restaurant, and a clubhouse packed with clubs and games. Grab a swim, play bocce, swap stories over dinner, repeat... the week just planned itself.”

From the Ocean County newsletter, August 28, 2026

“Whether you're corralling the kids or settling a sibling rivalry, Lava Golf keeps Ocean County fun low-stakes and high-smiles, with classic mini-golf vibes and 10-year anniversary happenings on deck. Make it your midweek reset or a spontaneous evening plan, then flex with some tees and hats from their shop.”

From the Ocean County newsletter, August 20, 2026