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The weather is getting warmer and it won’t be long before New Yorkers look for a way to escape the sweltering city.  Spring Lake, New Jersey offers an idyllic setting for a quick weekend getaway.  Located just 65 miles south of New York on the Jersey Coast, Spring Lake has everything that makes for a relaxing weekend: great accommodations, fine restaurants, a quaint commercial district, and a beach that rivals anything found on outer Long Island, all located within a picturesque town.

What to Do:  If you’re looking for something more than just relaxing at your inn and reading a book, there is a myriad of activities to occupy your time while in Spring Lake.  Most inns have bicycles that you can borrow to get around town.

• The two-mile, non-commercial boardwalk and beach is the central summertime attraction in Spring Lake.  The white sand reminds me of some Caribbean locales.  The beach is private, however most accommodations will provide complimentary beach passes.    
• Stroll through the park and cross one of the three wooden bridges in the town’s namesake Spring Lake.  The lake is stocked with fish, so bring your fishing pole! 
• The active community theater, Spring Lake Community House, received regional recognition for the original play William’s Dark Lady.  Performances continue in late June and July.  A production of Oliver! is scheduled for August.  www.SpringLakeTheatre.com 
• Visit historical sights such as the Sea Girt Lighthouse, which dates back to 1896. The lighthouse offers tours and has rooms dedicated to the marine history of Spring Lake.   

Getting There:  Spring Lake is easily accessible on the New Jersey Coast Line of NJ Transit.  Trains leave almost hourly from Penn Station-New York.  Most trains require a quick, easy transfer in Long Branch.  The trip lasts just over 2 hours and costs $12.50 one-way. 

Getting Around:  Spring Lake can be easily navigated on foot.  The train station is five blocks from the beach and most accommodations are walking distance to sights and restaurants.

Photo credits: personal collection