Provincetown and Rehoboth may be among the most famous gay destinations on the East Coast, but did you know that the Jersey Shore is also home to several LGBT-friendly beach communities? Within just a few hours or less from downtown Philly are stunning stretches of sand that have become both official and unofficial havens for slathering on out and proudness “down the shore.”
Asbury Park’s beach and beyond
Asbury Park has become an LGBT mecca in recent years thanks to a boom in gay-friendly shops, restaurants and nightlife less than 55 miles from New York City. And while there’s no “official” gay beach at this North Jersey hot spot, the sand between 4th and 5th Avenues at Convention Hall has become an unofficial gathering place for all things fierce. In fact, the location is ideal for catching some rays (and waves) and tapping into the mile-long boardwalk attractions – everything from noshing to shopping (there are lots of great boutiques featuring local designers).