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Berkeley Shores is a gorgeous waterfront neighborhood in the town of Bayville, New Jersey. Its ultra-convenient location combined with the serenity of waterfront living makes Berkeley Shores a top contender among waterfront communities along the eastern seaboard.
Let’s learn more about this fantastic neighborhood.
As mentioned, Berkeley Shores is on New Jersey’s Atlantic coast in the town of Bayville. Bayville is part of Berkeley Township in Ocean Country. The 2020 census results put the population of Berkeley Township at just over 44,000 people.
The median household income in Berkeley Township is $54,000, and more than 80% of residents are high school graduates. More than 20% of residents have attained advanced educational degrees.
The total land area of Berkeley Township is 42.71 square miles, and the population density is 1,024 persons per square mile.
The average commute time for non-remote workers is 33 minutes.
Bayville is perfectly located for travel to some of the east coast’s largest and most popular cities. Living in New Jersey makes it easy, whether you’re commuting for work or traveling for weekends and extended stays at your second home.
Drive time from Berkeley Shores to Philadelphia is a mere 90 minutes. Alternatively, the bus takes about three hours as a transfer in Atlantic City is necessary.
You can travel from Berkeley Shores to New York City in just over two hours by train. The travel time to Newark by train is about two and half hours.
Depending on traffic, driving to either city clocks in at about 90 minutes.
Driving from Berkeley Shores to Washington, D.C., takes three and half hours. Using public transportation doubles the time as a combination of bus and train is necessary.
Again, driving to Baltimore is the fastest way to get there. The drive time is just under three hours, and the bus/train combination takes six hours.
The neighborhood of Berkeley Shores falls within the boundaries of the Berkeley Township school district. There are four elementary schools, three of which offer a preschool program.
Central Regional School District offers middle and high school instruction at Central Regional High School and Central Regional Middle School. Berkeley Township Middle School serves students in grades 5 and 6.
The school district boasts a student-teacher ratio of 11:1.
One of the highlights of living in Berkeley Shores is the proximity to Barnegat Bay. The bay is a portion of the Atlantic Ocean and is protected to the east by Island Bay State Park, a barrier island. This island stretches for nearly ten miles.
Barnegat Bay is the largest body of water in New Jersey and is nearly 200 miles long. Its unique ecosystems include tidal flats, salt marshes and maritime forests. Wildlife includes many species of fish, mollusks, crustaceans, deer, raccoons, foxes, wading birds, osprey and bald eagles.
Waterfront living at its finest, having a home in Berkeley Shores puts you in the perfect spot to take advantage of everything Barnegat Bay offers.
Sailing
What’s waterfront living without sailing? The protected waters of Barnegat Bay are perfect for sailing adventures.
Several local outfits offer sailing charters and day trips if you prefer to sit back and relax. Saling schools are available for those who’d like to learn to captain their own boat.
Several private marinas in the area offer slips for rent if you have your own boat. Ocean Gate Yacht Basin has 180 slips available for year-round boat storage.
Additionally, many Berkeley Shores homes offer private docks and boat slips. This is a highly sought-after amenity and one of the many perks of having a home here.
Fishing
With a sailing community like the one in Barnegat Bay, it’s no surprise that fishing is popular as well. Numerous fish species swim in these waters, and many of them, like striped bass, are delicious.
Fishing licenses are not required for surf casting or boat fishing in Barnegat Bay. However, if you plan to fish for saltwater species, you need to register with the state of New Jersey.
Crabbing and Clamming
A shellfish license is required for those who want to harvest the many species of clam, oyster, scallop and mussels.
Additionally, a crabbing license is required for anyone taking crabs by using crab traps or baited lines.
Save the Bay
Barnegat Bay is an essential yet fragile ecosystem. Many local advocacy groups work tirelessly to preserve this important natural resource. Learn more about how you can get involved.
Berkeley Shores and Bayville is a lively community and hosts community events throughout the year. Holiday events are also a highlight, and both are wonderful reasons to call the area home.
Catch a Baseball Game
The Lakewood BlueClaws are a minor league baseball team affiliated with the Philadelphia Phillies. Games are held at the ShoreTown Ballpark in Lakewood from June through September.
Summer Concert Series
Veteran’s Park in Bayville hosts an exciting summer concert series. Enjoy live music, food and other activities in a family-friendly atmosphere.
Soulsational
One of Bayville’s most popular events, Soulsational brings together food, music and wellness for a fantastic celebration at Veteran’s Park. Check out the local vendors and explore the wellness services available right here on the Jersey Shore.
Holiday Events
There’s nothing better than celebrating holidays with your community.
You’ll never run out of things to do in Bayville and Berkeley Shores. Here is a short list of a few of the area’s most popular attractions.
Seaside Heights Carousel
Located across Barnegat Bay in Seaside Heights is one of the most iconic carousels in the United States. The carousel was brought to Seaside Heights in 1932 and showcases carousel horses and other animals created by several master carvers.
The carousel’s pavilion is currently undergoing renovation, with plans to reopen in late 2022.
Double Trouble State Park
If you want to experience more of New Jersey’s diverse ecosystem, then a visit to Double Trouble State Park fits the bill. Here you can immerse yourself in the lush pine forests and visit a cranberry bog.
Double Trouble offers numerous hiking trails and kayaking.
Infinity Equestrian
Horses are big business in New Jersey and some of the top riders in the country live and compete here. If you’re interested in lessons or boarding Infinity Equestrian offers both. Infinity Equestrian’s riders also compete in local shows as well as rated shows on the A circuit.
Casino Pier
One of Bayville’s best family attractions is Casino Pier. Here you’ll find a waterpark, arcade games, amusement park rides, mini-golf and plenty of food and drink choices. They also host parties and special events and offer weekly special discounts.
Kids’ Summer Camps
If your children like to pursue their passion during summer break you’ll find a number of day camps and sleepaway camps to pique their interest. Theater camps, dance camps, STEM camps and traditional arts and crafts camps welcome kids of all ages. Check this directory for more information.
Convenience is one of the hallmarks of living in Berkeley Shores. In addition to familiar favorites like Target, Wal-Mart, Lidl, ShopRite and Macy’s, you’ll also find fast-food restaurants.
However, Bayville and Berkeley Shores feature numerous locally-owned shops and restaurants to suit all your needs.
Los Aztecas
For authentic Mexican food, you can’t go wrong with Los Aztecas. Discover all your favorites like tacos, enchiladas and incredible house-made salsa. Los Aztecas is also perfect for a margarita night with friends.
Senza
Senza is the place to go for traditional Italian food in a fine-dining setting. Local seafood dominates the menu, but you can also find your favorite pasta dishes, an excellent wine list and gourmet pizza.
Grits and Grace
For breakfast fans, you can’t go wrong with Grits and Grace. They’re only open from 7 am to 2 pm, so get there early. They serve comfort food like pancakes and breakfast sandwiches, and don’t miss their namesake grits.
MJ’s Restaurant
Dining out in Berkeley Shores would not be complete without a waterfront restaurant. You’ll find that at MJ’s Restaurant. A stunning view combined with an extensive menu make MJ’s one of the most popular restaurants in the area.
Farmer’s Markets
New Jersey is known as The Garden State for good reasons. The Berkeley Farmer’s Market runs from May through October and features farm-fresh fruits and vegetables as well as other local delights.
Moore’s Farm Market also offers local produce but focuses more on plant and gardening supplies. They’re open all year.
You’ll also find farmer’s markets in nearby Tom’s River and Island Heights.
Living in Berkeley Shores has numerous advantages. We’re home to good schools, a lively atmosphere, community spirit and dreamy ocean views. We’re also close to many metropolitan areas.
However, Berkeley Shores’ waterfront location can’t be beaten. Waking up to ocean sunrises and having your boat moored outside your door are luxuries you could easily get used to seeing every day.
Living here year-round might not be for everyone. A second home purchase in Berkeley Shores offers you the chance to experience our laid-back way of life on your schedule. Summers, holidays and special occasions can all be celebrated at your home on the Jersey Shore.
I hope you enjoyed Neighborhood Profile: Berkeley Shores, New Jersey. As more families consider the purchase of a second home, Bayville and Berkeley Shores are becoming increasingly popular. As interest rates remain favorable, now is the perfect time to speak to a realtor about your options.
Would you like to know more about real estate and living in New Jersey? Browse some of our other articles and get in touch with Jenn Kerr to learn more about available homes and to get pre-approved for a mortgage.
I can’t wait to welcome you to Berkeley Shores.
Knowing the value of your home is the first step in deciding to sell.