Best Wedding Venues along the Jersey Shore – A Photographer’s Perspective

As a wedding photographer, I’ve had the privilege of capturing love stories all along the New Jersey coastline, and I can confidently say the best Jersey Shore wedding venues offer more than just a pretty backdrop—they create real moments, real light, and real memories. From sunset portraits on the sand to elegant estates with incredible architecture, the Jersey Shore is filled with stunning venues that elevate every wedding gallery. Whether you’re planning a grand celebration or something more intimate, these venues offer that perfect mix of beauty, variety, and natural charm.

North New Jersey Shore Wedding Venues

North Jersey Shore is where timeless elegance meets sweeping ocean views. It’s also one of the best places for clean natural light, lush gardens, and golden-hour beach photos without having to travel far from NYC.

The Breakers on the Ocean (Spring Lake)

Address: 1507 Ocean Ave, Spring Lake, NJ

Location: Sits directly on the beach and boardwalk—just steps to the Atlantic Ocean.

Website: The Breakers On The Ocean

Phone: (732) 449-7700

Email: info@breakersnj.com

Why it’s the best:This circa‑1880s grand hotel offers stunning oceanfront ceremonies on its Terrace. Spring Lake’s peaceful, upscale vibe sets a relaxed tone for the day. The wrap-around porches, vintage details, and beach directly across the street make this venue a dream. I especially love the classic front staircase and the sunset light that filters in through the ballroom windows.

Clarks Landing Yacht Club (Point Pleasant)

Address: 847 Arnold Ave, Point Pleasant Beach, NJ

Location: Located on the Manasquan River, about a 5-minute drive (roughly 1–2 miles) from the ocean beaches.

Website: Clark’s Landing Yacht Club

Phone: (732) 899-5559

Email: info@clarkslandingcaters.com

Why it’s the best: Between the marina views, the terrace at sunset, and their picture-perfect indoor ceremony space overlooking the water, there are endless opportunities to capture meaningful, emotional images. The indoor light is clean and bright, and the staff is incredibly helpful, making for smooth, stress-free timelines.

Windows on the Water (Sea Bright)

Address: 931 Ocean Ave, Sea Bright, NJ

Location: Beachside venue with its own private beach on the Atlantic, literally oceanfront.

Website: Windows on The Water

Phone: (732) 842-8463

Email: events@windowsonthewater.com

Why it’s the best: A private beach, panoramic ocean views, and a tented reception space filled with natural light—what more could a photographer ask for? The soft dunes make for stunning portraits, especially during golden hour, and the beachfront ceremonies are effortlessly romantic.

Central Jersey Shore Wedding Venues

Central Shore offers garden charm, lower cost (since many venues are slightly inland), and easy access via the Garden State Parkway.

The English Manor (Ocean Township)

Address: 1 English Ln, Ocean Township, NJ

Location: Approximately 2 miles from the Asbury Park boardwalk and beach.

Website: The English Manor

Phone: (732) 776‑8558

Email: info@theenglishmanor.com

Why it’s the best: The English Manor offers the perfect blend of classic garden romance and cozy estate charm. From a photographer’s perspective, this venue is incredibly versatile—lush outdoor ceremony gardens, twinkle-lit trees, and elegant indoor spaces that photograph beautifully in any season. The staff is warm and organized (which makes a huge difference on a wedding day), and golden hour portraits on the grounds feel quiet, romantic, and timeless. It’s a gem for couples wanting a classic yet relaxed setting just minutes from the beach.

Shadowbrook at Shrewsbury (Shrewsbury)

Address: 1 Obre Pl, Shrewsbury, NJ

Location: Inland location, around 7 miles from the nearest Jersey Shore beaches.

Website: Shadowbrook at Shrewsbury

Phone: (732) 747-0200

Email: info@shadowbrook.com

Why it’s the best: This Gatsby-style estate is the epitome of timeless glamour. With grand staircases, marble floors, crystal chandeliers, and manicured gardens, Shadowbrook blends stately elegance with modern luxury for couples looking to make a serious statement.

Park Loft (Oceanport)

Address: 505 Brewer Ave, Oceanport, NJ

Location: Situated in Oceanport—around 2–3 miles from the Long Branch/Asbury Park coastline.

Website: Park Loft

Phone: (732) 790-5775

Email: events@theparkloft.com

Why it’s the best: A chic, industrial-style venue with exposed beams, high ceilings, and floor-to-ceiling windows that flood the space with light. Park Loft feels like a New York loft dropped into the quiet of the Shore—modern, flexible, and stunning for creative couples looking to customize their space. I love how flexible the space is—it can feel both romantic and contemporary, depending on the couple’s vibe.

South Jersey Shore Wedding Venues

The South Shore brings rustic charm with vineyards, private islands, and seaside luxury—ideal for couples seeking sprawling outdoor celebrations or oceanfront elegance.

Renault Winery and Golf Resort (Egg Harbor City)

Address: 72 North Bremen Ave, Egg Harbor City, NJ

Location: About 15–18 miles inland from Atlantic City and the Atlantic Ocean shore.

Website: Renault Winery

Phone: (609) 965-2111

Email: info@renaultwinery.com

Why it’s the best: Rustic romance meets historic charm. The vineyard ceremony locations are full of warm light and earthy tones, and there are so many creative portrait locations—grapevines, courtyards, arched doorways, and a classic car or two for good measure.

Mallard Island Estate (Manahawkin)

Address: 1450 E Bay Ave, Manahawkin, NJ

Location: On Barnegat Bay, with beach access roughly 0.6 miles away and ocean beaches around 3 miles.

Website: Mallard Island Estate

Phone: (609) 494-9100

Why it’s the best: This private island estate stuns with a waterfront ceremony space, grand ballroom with cathedral ceilings, and luxury bridal suites. It’s one of the most picturesque spots in all of South Jersey—a hidden gem for romantic coastal weddings.

ICONA Windrift (Avalon)

Address: 105 80th St, Avalon, NJ

Location: Beachfront on Avalon Island—directly on the sand.

Website: ICONA Windrift

Phone: (609) 454-6484

Why it’s the best: ICONA offers oceanfront luxury with a modern coastal feel. Their beachfront terrace, modern ballrooms, and boutique accommodations make it perfect for couples wanting a true beach wedding with top-notch service and stunning sunset views.

Final Thoughts from a Jersey Shore Wedding Photographe

As a Jersey Shore wedding photographer, I look for more than just a pretty space. I look for how the light falls, how easy it is to move from portraits to ceremony, and how a venue supports a couple’s experience. Each of these locations earns its place as one of the best Jersey Shore wedding venues not just for beauty—but for the moments and magic they help create.

If you’re planning your Jersey Shore wedding and want to see real galleries from any of these venues, let’s connect! I’d love to share how each space truly shines through the lens.