Getting to the Jersey Shore requires knowing which highway exits to catch, how to navigate the local traffic circles, and where to park once you arrive. Whether you're heading down for a concert at the Stone Pony or spending a weekend on the boardwalk, planning your route ahead of time saves you from unexpected delays.
Asbury Park sits directly on the central New Jersey coast in Monmouth County, roughly 60 miles south of New York City and 70 miles northeast of Philadelphia. Major highways like the Garden State Parkway and Route 18 feed directly into the city, while NJ Transit provides reliable rail service straight to downtown.
Driving Routes and Highway Directions
Driving remains the most flexible option if you're carrying beach gear or traveling with a group. Depending on your starting point, different highways offer the most direct path to the shore.
From North Jersey and New York City
Take the New Jersey Turnpike South to Exit 11, then transition onto the Garden State Parkway South. Continue down the Parkway until you reach Exit 102 for Asbury Park. Bear right off the exit ramp onto Asbury Avenue (Route 66 East). Drive roughly three miles straight toward the ocean, following signs for the beachfront. Condé Nast Traveler has provided coverage on this fascinating issue in great detail.
If you're coming from northern points via Route 18, take Route 18 South to Exit 10A for Route 66 East toward Asbury Park.
From Philadelphia and South Jersey
If you're driving up from Philadelphia, take the Ben Franklin Bridge or I-95 North to connect with I-195 East. Follow I-195 East until it merges onto Route 18 North. Take Exit 10A for Route 66 East.
Drivers coming straight up the coast via the Garden State Parkway North should look for Exit 100A, which puts you onto Route 66 East heading straight toward the coast.
Navigating the Asbury Circle
Most drivers coming off Route 66 hit the Asbury Avenue traffic circle. Take the second exit to stay on Asbury Avenue (with the prominent Coca-Cola building on your right). Follow Asbury Avenue for about two miles until you hit Main Street, then make a right and follow local signs to your final destination.
Public Transportation Options
If you prefer to skip highway traffic and parking hassles, public transit offers straightforward connections from major regional hubs.
Taking the Train
The NJ Transit North Jersey Coast Line runs directly to the Asbury Park Station, located at Cookman Avenue and Main Street.
- From New York City: Board a train at NY Penn Station. Most trips require a quick transfer at Long Branch or Woodbridge, so keep an ear out for conductor announcements. The total trip takes about 1 hour and 50 minutes.
- From Newark or Trenton: Connect via the North Jersey Coast Line or regional feeder trains, routing through transfer hubs like Rahway or Long Branch.
Taking the Bus
Bus service provides direct alternatives when train schedules don't align with your plans.
- Academy Bus operates commuter routes from New York's Port Authority Bus Terminal directly to the Asbury Park Transportation Center.
- NJ Transit Bus 317 connects Philadelphia (running from 10th and Filbert Streets) directly to the Asbury Park station.
- Local routes like the 830, 832, and 836 connect Asbury Park with neighboring coastal towns and shopping centers.
Parking Strategies and Local Navigation
Once you arrive, getting around is straightforward. Asbury Park spans just 1.6 square miles, making it entirely walkable or bikeable for most visitors.
Where to Park
- Street Parking: Metered street parking is available throughout the downtown shopping districts and along Ocean Avenue. Rates and enforcement hours vary by season, with peak summer weekends requiring paid apps or coin meters.
- Surface Lots: Several large lots managed by LAZ Parking sit adjacent to the boardwalk and major event venues. Arrive early on sunny summer weekends, as lots fill up by late morning.
Local Getting Around
If you don't feel like walking across town from the train station to the beach, open-air options are readily available:
- Electric Scooters: City-approved electric scooters are stationed at designated corrals across town. Download the local vendor app to unlock and ride.
- Ride-Shares: Uber and Lyft operate actively throughout the area, though surge pricing applies during major concerts and summer festivals.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to drive from New York City to Asbury Park?
Without heavy traffic, the drive from the Lincoln Tunnel takes roughly 1 hour and 15 minutes. However, Friday afternoons and summer weekend mornings routinely add significant delays along the Garden State Parkway.
Is the train station within walking distance of the beach?
Yes. The Asbury Park train station sits roughly half a mile west of the ocean. Walking down Cookman Avenue or Asbury Avenue takes about 10 to 15 minutes, passing downtown shops and restaurants along the way.
Where is the best place to park for events at the Stone Pony?
The municipal and private lots situated immediately north and west of the venue offer the closest access. Street parking along Ocean Avenue and side streets works well if you arrive a few hours before doors open.
Are there seasonal parking restrictions in Asbury Park?
Yes. Beach-adjacent zones enforce paid parking regulations more strictly between late spring and early autumn. Always check local signage on your specific block to avoid tickets or towing.
