7 Best Small Towns In New Jersey For A Crowd-Free Summer
Across the East Coast, many towns come alive in the summer and bring in a rush of crowds that can make it hard to enjoy a restful stay. There is no doubt that New Jersey’s shoreline is among the most sought-after destinations. But if you are on the search for a getaway spot to keep you busy without the buzz, here are a few small towns in the Garden State that will surely be memorable. These towns blend a laid‑back atmosphere with vibrant seasonal events. Whether you’re into paddleboarding at dawn, browsing antique markets, or catching local live music, there’s always something unique to each traveler’s taste.
Lambertville
Right on the Delaware River is Lambertville, known as the “Antiques Capital of New Jersey,” for its remarkable vintage stores, though also dazzling with riverside cafes and art galleries. The best way to fall into the gentle pace of the town is to visit the treasure trove of antiques, the famous Golden Nugget Antique Flea Market that has been in operation for 50 years, and in the summer runs three days a week. Then, take your bike for a ride along the Delaware & Raritan Canal that runs over 70 miles with impeccable river views before stopping for delicious Spanish tapas at Under the Moon Café. And just around the corner of the restaurant, you can explore a handful of art galleries lining the streets. For superb landscape art, the Haas Gallery is a must, hosting a permanent exhibition of Gordon Haas’s work, the internationally renowned American impressionist.
Red Bank
The waterfront charm of Red Bank will make you want to book more than just a weekend alongside the Navesink River. Starting with its shops, the town is home to a wide array of indie stores and quirky shops that will steal your heart. You can customize your own hat at the Pretty Charming Co., with DIY patches, charms, and pins to match your very own style. You will also find personalization services at the Pearl Street Consignment store that boasts a large collection of vintage items and garments that you can tailor on-site, especially if you’re looking to take home a dazzling pair of Y2K jeans. For only $10 an hour, you can complete your nostalgic trip at YESTERcades with its classic arcade games, vintage gaming consoles, and pinball machines, which will have you coming back for more.
Belmar
Belmar is a quieter Jersey shore beach town with uncrowded beaches and scenic marine excursions. The Belmar Beach & Boardwalk brings together multiple family‑friendly beach zones, while the 17th and 18th avenues are prime surfing hotspots with relaxed summer crowds. Along the mile‑long boardwalk, you can stop for a miniature golf tournament at Belmar Mini Golf, open every evening from 5 pm to 10 pm for only $7 per person. Departing from Belmar Marina, make sure to book the Jersey Shore Whale Watching Tours, with guaranteed whale sightings or a free return ticket; you might spot dolphins, sea turtles, and, if you’re lucky, sharks as well.
Spring Lake
Tranquil and sophisticated, this beach town is ideal for an upscale seaside escape. Starting off with the most iconic hotel of Spring Lake, The Breakers on the Ocean provides an oceanside experience like no other, with elegant dining options from fresh seafood specials to afternoon desserts and exquisite cocktails. The resort also connects its guests to nearby entertainment, such as easy access to Monmouth Park Racetrack and Six Flags Great Adventure. Besides taking a dip in the ocean and strolling along the boardwalk, the town’s vibrant Third Avenue is filled with picturesque stores ready to be explored. You can pick up your latest read from Thunder Road Books, an independent local bookstore, or shop for breezy summer looks and surfing apparel from the family-owned Bare Wires Surf and Skate.
Clinton
Set along the Raritan River, Clinton is a charming town known for its walkable downtown, artsy atmosphere, and riverside beauty. Stroll across the iconic iron truss bridge for postcard-worthy views, then wander the Clinton Historic District to discover independent shops, antique stores, and cozy cafes. The Red Mill Museum Village still draws visitors with its striking red facade and exhibits on 19th-century milling life. At the same time, the nearby Hunterdon Art Museum offers rather contemporary art shows and hands-on workshops like ceramics and printmaking. For an intimate experience, you can enjoy refined Italian fare at Rosemarie’s Cucina. But if you prefer to stay by the water, you can pick up a sandwich and cold brew from Riverside Coffee & Tea to enjoy on the shore.
Frenchtown
Frenchtown feels like a romantic village in mid‑summer on the serene Delaware River. Don’t miss the Bastille Day Weekend in mid-July, with street performers, live French music, crepe stands, and a costumed parade that brings the town to life. A family-favorite stop is Sandy’s Scoops, which serves both classic and novelty ice cream treats as well as many vegan and dairy-free specials. After your outdoor adventures, browse Modern Love for curated home goods, pop into Canal Studios Art Gallery, or unwind with a massage at Euphoria Studio. You can have as much fun as you want, whether you are in town for the summer festival or a slow weekend retreat.
Haddonfield
This historic town near Philadelphia blends revolutionary history with leafy suburban beauty. You can kick off your visit at the Indian King Tavern Museum, where costumed docents bring to life the moment when New Jersey declared its independence in 1777. Afterward, take your time exploring Kings Highway, where you’ll find the full-service indie bookstore Inkwood Books, and many other local boutiques offering handmade goods. Kids and adults alike will enjoy shady hikes through Crows Woods Nature Preserve, or an afternoon at Cooper River Park, complete with pedal boats, softball, and riverside picnic spots. As you wander town, don’t miss a photo with “Haddy,” the cheerful hadrosaurus statue that celebrates Haddonfield’s paleontological claim to fame. When the sun sets, live music drifts through the air at Kings Court Gazebo, perfect for winding down after a long summer day.
Finishing Thoughts
This time around, you can skip the packed boardwalks and overrun shore towns. These small New Jersey gems offer a more personal kind of summer. Whether you're kayaking past art galleries in Lambertville, catching live music under the stars in Red Bank, or spotting dolphins off the coast of Belmar, each town delivers its own brand of charm and tranquility. Spring Lake’s quiet beaches and graceful streets round out a season of laid-back discovery. For travelers seeking character, calm, and memorable moments, these towns prove that the Garden State’s best summer escapes lie just off the beaten path.
