An Inclusive Guidebook to the Jersey Shore

If you are from the Philadelphia area, you know that it would not be summer without a trip to the Jersey Shore. From Sandy Hook to Cape May, there is a beach town with a vibe for everyone. I am thankful to be able to visit the southern parts of the shore frequently and see what inclusive experiences it has to offer for my neurodiverse family. 

Even though the summer is ending, my favorite time to visit “the shore” is in the fall. The air is a little crisp, the crowds are non-existent, and the peacefulness of the beach can be heard louder than ever. 

It is beautiful to see that inclusive businesses and experiences are becoming more prevalent at the Jersey Shore. I have been able to experience many of these spots below, while others are on my bucket list for future visits. 

This is my first attempt at a guide book type post, so I hope this proves helpful for some families hoping to visit the shore in the near or distant future! (It was fun for me to gather all of these locations and visit many of them!)

Please visit websites for information on days and times open, especially during the off season.

Inclusive Restaurants:

The Other Lucy Beach Grille, 9210 Atlantic Ave, Margate City, NJ 08402

• Owner Lucy Paccione’s love of Margate and those with neurological differences propelled her to lease the shack next door to America’s oldest roadside attraction, Lucy the Elephant.
• The Pork Roll, Egg, and Cheese sandwich was perfectly done and did not skimp on the ingredients!
• The Other Lucy Beach Grille employs individuals with special needs in partnership with the H.O.P.E. (Helping Others Pursue Empowerment) non-profit.

Brandon’s Pancake House and Ice Cream Parlor, 6200 New Jersey Ave, Wildwood, NJ 08260

• Owned by Aimee Pamiano and Karl Pamiano. Karl always wanted to open his own restaurant and Aimee wanted to create a safe dining experience for individuals with autism and other special needs, in honor of her son Brandon.

• Brandon’s Pancake House and Ice Cream Parlor encourages families to come as you are and know that it is a safe place for each of your loved ones to enjoy time together and a great meal.
• There is a picture menu so that all individuals can order verbally, by pointing, or with gestures.
• The Cream Chipped Beef was one of the best I have ever had!

Compassion Cafe LBI, 10 N. Delaware Ave, Beach Haven, NJ 08008

• This came as a recommendation from a fellow autism family in my area.
• The Compassion Cafe LBI is a non-profit coffee shop that employs teens and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
• The menu offers coffee, tea, bakery items, quiche, and even has a dog bakery for those traveling with their pups!

Riv’s Toms River Hub, 1850 Hooper Ave, Toms River 08753

• I stumbled upon Riv’s in my research. I can’t wait to try it out when I am in or around Toms River!
• Riv’s Toms River Hub is a famous local restaurant owned by the Rivoli family. They are serving up American food and have been doing it well for the last 20 years. But what sets it apart from other family-run restaurants is the addition of “Chase’s Friend Zone.”
• “Chase’s Friend Zone” is a sensory friendly dining area with plenty of sensory input available throughout the room so that all family members are comfortable. This requires 24 hours notice if you are booking this room for your dining experience.

Inclusive Experiences: 

Waves of Strength, Surf City, NJ 08008

• This is another recommendation from a local autism family who was able to be a part of this program over the summer.
• Waves of Strength is a non-profit organization providing surf therapy to those children living with a disability, battling a disease, or enduring a difficult circumstance in their life. The instructors are volunteers with training in surfing and ocean safety.
• Go here to sign your child up for the program or volunteer yourself!

A Gift from the Heart, 715 Arnold Ave, Point Pleasant Beach, NJ 08742

• If you are looking for some beach themed souvenirs that are unique and handmade, A Gift from the Heart is the place to visit!
• A Gift from the Heart is a non-profit organization that provides job training and meaningful employment to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
• Employees are encouraged to create, package, and sell their creations and continue learning new skills. 
• Take a peek at some of the beautiful gifts sold here on their website or instagram.

Locations of All Ability Friendly Playgrounds:

Tom’s River Field of Dreams, 1505 N Bay Ave, Toms River, NJ 08753

• Must sign up for membership (free) in order to reserve a time slot for when you want to visit.

Splash Park and Playground, 7001 Ocean Ave, Wildwood, NJ 08260

Silver Lake Park, 410 7th Ave, Belmar, NJ 07719

Windward Beach Park, 265 Princeton Ave, Brick Township, NJ 08724

I would love to hear about more recommendations you have for inclusive experiences or businesses at the Jersey Shore! Email me at most.au.some.journey@gmail.com.