Family Beach Fun in Ocean City, New Jersey

Top Ten Of Family Fun, Places To Eat and Things to Do in Ocean City, NJ

Enjoying a family photo session in Ocean City or any of the beautiful coastline of New Jersey, is what we are about!

Twirling with mommy!

Ocean City, New Jersey, often referred to as America's Greatest Family Resort, is a charming coastal town located on a barrier island along the Jersey Shore. With its pristine beaches, vibrant boardwalk, and plethora of family-friendly activities, Ocean City offers a perfect destination for a fun-filled family vacation. In this article, we will explore a wide range of exciting attractions and things to do in Ocean City, ensuring an unforgettable experience for all ages.

I’ve talked a bit about Ocean City, as we do a ton of beach sessions every year. I developed my top ten list of eateries in this beloved resort town.

Ocean City, New Jersey, is a beloved destination known for its family-friendly atmosphere, pristine beaches, and charming boardwalk. Whether you're visiting for a day or an extended stay, you'll find a variety of dining options that cater to different tastes. Here are some of the best restaurants to consider when you're in town:

1. The Crab Trap

• Cuisine: Seafood

• Location: 2 Broadway, Somers Point, NJ

• Why Visit: A local favorite for over 50 years, The Crab Trap is renowned for its fresh seafood and waterfront views. The menu features everything from crab cakes and lobster to a variety of fish dishes, all prepared with high-quality ingredients. The relaxed atmosphere and friendly service make it a must-visit.

2. Jon & Patty’s Coffee Bar & Bistro

• Cuisine: American, Breakfast & Brunch

• Location: 637 Asbury Ave, Ocean City, NJ

• Why Visit: This cozy spot is perfect for breakfast or brunch, offering a wide range of options, including pancakes, omelets, sandwiches, and salads. The coffee bar is a highlight, with a selection of specialty drinks that pair perfectly with their homemade pastries.

3. Ike’s Famous Crabcakes

• Cuisine: Seafood, Fast Casual

• Location: 1344 Boardwalk, Ocean City, NJ

• Why Visit: Known for their delicious and freshly made crab cakes, Ike’s is a go-to spot for a quick and satisfying meal on the boardwalk. The menu also includes shrimp, scallops, and other seafood favorites, all available to-go so you can enjoy your meal on the beach.

4. Manco & Manco Pizza

• Cuisine: Pizza

• Location: Multiple locations along the Ocean City Boardwalk

• Why Visit: A trip to Ocean City isn’t complete without a slice from Manco & Manco. Established in 1956, this iconic pizzeria is known for its thin-crust pizza with a perfect balance of cheese and sauce. Whether you grab a slice to go or sit down for a pie, it’s a classic Ocean City experience.

5. Cafe Beach Club

• Cuisine: American, Breakfast & Brunch

• Location: 1282 Boardwalk, Ocean City, NJ

• Why Visit: Located right on the boardwalk, Cafe Beach Club offers both indoor and outdoor seating with stunning ocean views. The menu features breakfast and lunch options, including omelets, pancakes, sandwiches, and salads. It’s a great spot to enjoy a leisurely meal while taking in the sights and sounds of the beach.

6. Hula Restaurant and Sauce Co.

• Cuisine: Hawaiian, American

• Location: 940 Boardwalk, Ocean City, NJ

• Why Visit: For something a little different, Hula Restaurant offers a taste of the islands with dishes like poke bowls, teriyaki chicken, and pineapple fried rice. The casual atmosphere and friendly staff make it a great choice for a laid-back meal.

7. Drip N' Scoop

• Cuisine: Ice Cream, Donuts, Coffee

• Location: 960 Asbury Ave, Ocean City, NJ

• Why Visit: Perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth, Drip N' Scoop specializes in homemade ice cream, fresh donuts, and premium coffee. Their unique combinations, like ice cream sandwiched between donuts, make it a fun and indulgent treat.

8. Piccini Wood Fired Brick Oven Pizza

• Cuisine: Italian, Pizza

• Location: 13th & West Ave, Ocean City, NJ

• Why Visit: Piccini offers a delicious variety of wood-fired pizzas with a crispy crust and flavorful toppings. In addition to pizza, the menu includes Italian favorites like pasta dishes, calzones, and fresh salads, all made with quality ingredients.

9. Varsity Inn

• Cuisine: American, Breakfast & Lunch

• Location: 605 E 8th St, Ocean City, NJ

• Why Visit: A longstanding Ocean City establishment, Varsity Inn is known for its hearty breakfast and lunch options. The casual diner vibe and friendly service make it a great spot to fuel up before hitting the beach or boardwalk.

10. Uncle Bill’s Pancake House

• Cuisine: Breakfast, American

• Location: 2112 Asbury Ave, Ocean City, NJ

• Why Visit: A family-friendly favorite, Uncle Bill’s Pancake House has been serving up delicious pancakes and breakfast classics for decades. The extensive menu features a variety of pancakes, waffles, and omelets, ensuring there’s something for everyone.

These restaurants represent just a taste of what Ocean City, NJ, has to offer. Whether you're in the mood for fresh seafood, classic boardwalk fare, or a sweet treat, there's something to satisfy every craving.

Family photo fun!

A seagull was flying above and grabbed a whole french fry.

1. Enjoy the Beautiful Beaches:

   Ocean City boasts some of the finest beaches on the East Coast. With miles of soft, powdery sand and clear blue waters, families can spend their days sunbathing, building sandcastles, and playing beach games. The beaches are well-maintained and provide a safe and enjoyable environment for swimmers and surfers alike.

2. Explore the Boardwalk:

   The Ocean City Boardwalk is the heart and soul of the town, brimming with entertainment, shops, and delicious treats. Take a leisurely stroll along the 2.5-mile wooden walkway, lined with amusement parks, arcades, and quaint shops. Indulge in mouthwatering saltwater taffy, funnel cakes, and ice cream from the numerous confectioneries and eateries.

3. Visit Wonderland Pier:

   Located on the boardwalk, Wonderland Pier is a classic amusement park that offers thrilling rides, games, and entertainment for the whole family. Take a ride on the Ferris wheel to enjoy breathtaking views of the coastline, experience the exhilaration of roller coasters, or challenge each other to a friendly competition at the arcade.

4. Discover the Ocean City Historical Museum:

   For those interested in learning about the town's rich history, a visit to the Ocean City Historical Museum is a must. The museum showcases exhibits that highlight the area's past, including its origins as a religious retreat and its development into a bustling resort town. Explore artifacts, photographs, and interactive displays that provide insight into Ocean City's unique heritage.

5. Experience Watersports and Fishing:

   Ocean City is an ideal destination for water enthusiasts. Engage in a variety of exciting watersports such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and jet skiing. The calm back bays provide an excellent setting for fishing, where families can try their hand at catching flounder, striped bass, or bluefish. Charter boat services are available for those seeking a deep-sea fishing adventure.

   6. Play Miniature Golf:

   Ocean City is famous for its multitude of mini-golf courses, offering fun and friendly competition for the whole family. Whether you prefer a pirate-themed course or a glow-in-the-dark adventure, there are options to suit every taste. Spend a delightful afternoon putting around whimsical landscapes and enjoying the company of loved ones.

   7. Visit the Ocean City Arts Center:

   For a dose of creativity, head to the Ocean City Arts Center, where you can explore various art forms. The center hosts rotating art exhibitions, workshops, and classes for all ages, providing opportunities to unleash your inner artist. Engage in pottery, painting, or drawing sessions, and bring home a unique souvenir of your time in Ocean City.

   8. Enjoy Nature at Corson's Inlet State Park:

   A short drive south of Ocean City, Corson's Inlet State Park is a pristine natural area that offers a tranquil retreat from the bustling beach town. Explore the park's trails and dunes, go birdwatching, or enjoy a picnic amidst the picturesque surroundings. It's a perfect spot to reconnect with nature and experience the coastal ecosystem up close.

   9. Attend Family-Friendly Events:

   Ocean City hosts a myriad of family-friendly events throughout the year, creating a vibrant and festive atmosphere. From the Night in Venice to movie nights on the beach. 

   10. Of course, the big one… book a family beach session on the beaches of Ocean City, NJ with Shooting Star Photography!

Classic shot of the family!

Running away from dad.

Had to get a classic of little guy!

As you can see, there’s always fun to be had by families staying in Ocean City at the Jersey Shore! 

Happy Shooting, my friends!

Deirdre Giumetti

Shooting Star Photography

Fine Art Beach Photography Workshop in Wildwood 2024

Join us next year for our beach photography workshop. It will be held on Saturday, June 15th 2024.  A fine art workshop with children and families can be a wonderful way to capture beautiful and memorable moments. Here are some tips to help you create stunning beach photographs and what we will cover for the duration of the day. 

What we will cover in our workshop!

1. Choosing the Right Time: Plan your photo session during the golden hours, which are usually the first two hours after sunrise or the last two hours before sunset. The soft, warm light during these times will add a magical touch to your photos.

2. Location Scouting: Explore different areas of the beach in Wildwood to find the most scenic spots. Look for interesting natural elements like dunes, driftwood, or rock formations that can enhance your composition.

3. Plan for Candid Moments: Allow the children to play and have fun naturally while you capture their candid expressions and interactions. Candid shots often evoke genuine emotions and make for beautiful fine art photography.

4. Props and Accessories: Consider using props like colorful beach toys, umbrellas, or even kites to add a playful and whimsical element to your photos. They can help create visually interesting compositions and engage the children during the shoot.

5. Incorporate Movement: Experiment with capturing motion and movement at the beach. Encourage the children to run, jump, or play with the waves. Freeze the action with a faster shutter speed or experiment with slower shutter speeds to capture the motion blur.

6. Composition and Framing: Pay attention to the composition of your shots. Use the rule of thirds, leading lines, or natural framing elements to create visually pleasing and balanced images. Experiment with different angles and perspectives to add variety to your photographs.

7. Use a Telephoto Lens: A telephoto lens can be beneficial for beach photography, as it allows you to capture intimate moments from a distance without intruding on the children's play. It also helps create a shallow depth of field, separating the subject from the background.

8. Post-Processing: We’ll be editing your photos in post-processing to enhance the fine art aesthetic. Experimentation with our pastel and dreamy, soft look to achieve the desired artistic effect.

Remember, the key to successful beach photography with children is to create a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere. Let them have fun and be themselves while you capture those precious moments. This is what we will go over.

Why a workshop inWildwood, New Jersey?

Wildwood, New Jersey, is a popular vacation destination for families, offering a variety of attractions and activities. Here is some information to help you plan your family vacation or workshop weekend in Wildwood:

1. Beaches: Wildwood is known for its expansive, clean beaches. The beach is free to access and offers plenty of space for families to relax, build sandcastles, and enjoy the sun. Lifeguards are on duty during the summer months for added safety.

2. Wildwood Boardwalk: The Wildwood Boardwalk is a must-visit attraction for families. Stretching over two miles, it is filled with amusement rides, arcades, shops, and eateries. Kids will love the Ferris wheel, roller coasters, water parks, go-karts, and mini-golf courses along the boardwalk.

3. Morey's Piers: Morey's Piers is an iconic amusement park located on the Wildwood Boardwalk. It offers a wide range of rides and attractions suitable for all ages. The park has water parks, thrilling roller coasters, family-friendly rides, and games for endless entertainment.

4. Wildwood Crest Bike Path: Enjoy a leisurely bike ride or stroll along the Wildwood Crest Bike Path. This scenic path runs parallel to the beach and offers beautiful views of the ocean. You can rent bikes from various rental shops in the area.

5. Doo Wop Experience: Wildwood is known for its vibrant Doo Wop architecture from the 1950s and 1960s. Visit the Doo Wop Experience Museum to learn about the history and significance of this unique architectural style.

6. Cape May County Park & Zoo: Just a short drive from Wildwood, you'll find the Cape May County Park & Zoo, a fantastic family-friendly attraction. The zoo is home to a wide variety of animals and features playgrounds, picnic areas, and walking trails.

7. Water Sports and Activities: Wildwood offers a range of water sports and activities for families to enjoy. You can try jet skiing, parasailing, paddleboarding, or even take a dolphin-watching cruise to see these magnificent creatures up close.

8. Nightly Events and Fireworks: During the summer season, Wildwood hosts various events and concerts on the beach and the boardwalk. Don't miss the Friday Night Fireworks display, a spectacular show that lights up the night sky.

9. Restaurants and Dining: Wildwood boasts numerous restaurants, offering a variety of cuisines to suit all tastes. From casual beachfront eateries to family-friendly dining establishments, you'll find plenty of options to satisfy everyone's palate.

10. Accommodations: Wildwood offers a range of family-friendly accommodations, including hotels, motels, vacation rentals, and campgrounds. Choose a place that suits your family's needs and provides easy access to the beach and attractions.

Remember to check the specific operating hours and availability of attractions and events during your visit, as they may vary depending on the season. Enjoy your family vacation and workshop in Wildwood, NJ!

For information on the workshop, you may find that information here.

Happy Shooting, my friends!

Dee Giumetti

Shooting Star Photography

Family Photographers in the Philadelphia Area and South Jersey

I met the beautiful “C” family when I first started this business.  I can’t tell you what it means to me, to see my families grow over the years. I’ve seen this little girl turn into a little woman. I’ve seen family members go off to college and unfortunately, members who have passed (but grateful that I was able to capture memories), onward to this little guys First Holy Communion. Boy, it’s been a ride. Two dogs later and two kids heading off to high school. It surely perks you up to see how much time has flown by and how important it is to capture these memories. 

What is special about booking a fall photo session in South Jersey? 

A fall photo session can be a unique and special experience for several reasons:

1. Beautiful Colors: Fall is known for its stunning and vibrant colors. The changing leaves create a warm and cozy atmosphere that can make for beautiful backdrops in photos.

2. Cooler Weather: Fall brings cooler temperatures, which can make for a more comfortable and enjoyable photo session. There's no need to worry about sweating or feeling uncomfortable in the heat, which can be a concern during summer sessions.

3. Wardrobe Options: Fall fashion is known for its cozy sweaters, scarves, and boots, which can make for stylish and fun wardrobe options for a photo session. These clothing items can add a pop of color and texture to photos, making them more interesting and visually appealing.

4. Mood and Atmosphere: The fall season has a unique mood and atmosphere that can make for a cozy and intimate photo session. The warm and cozy feeling of fall can create a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere, which can result in more natural and genuine photos.

5. Holiday Cards: Fall photo sessions are perfect for holiday cards and family portraits. Taking photos in the fall allows you to get ahead of the holiday rush and have plenty of time to select and send out your holiday cards.

Overall, a fall photo session can be a unique and special experience that captures the beauty and warmth of the season.

Family Sessions with the pups are always the best. Fall Session in South Jersey.

Siblings. I Love being able to watch these kiddos grow throughout the year.

Family is truly everything. It is not cliche. It is what gets me up every single morning.

It’s not about making memories, anyone can do that, but I just want to give every individual that comes my way, the best that I can offer. It’s a pride thing for me. It's my art that I love to share with the world. I CANNOT give my clients something mediocre as I know these will be keepsakes they may want to hang on their walls. It’s got to be art, it’s got to be what the client wants and envisions and I also want to be proud for anything that leaves my doors. 

Fall photo session with this handsome guy!!! Had to do the cool hand over hair move.

fall photo sessions. Love the falling leaves and colors.

I got to capture this absolutely stunning family in one of my favorite forest spots. I love the light any time of year and when it is fall, the colors just come alive (as you see here). I hope you enjoy! I look forward to creating something special for you and your family! 

Let us create some magic for you and your family.

Happy 2022!

Dee Giumetti

Shooting Star Photography

A Shoot In Salem County!

Sitting pretty by the stream with these three!

I jumped into the stream for this shot!

Love the Football Jersey look.. However, boooo Giants. Go Birds!

Family session on Hackett Road in Salem County.

Love the smiles of these guys!

Family Sessions Rock!

Dad and son.

Had to do it in black and white.

This was the first family, I ever shot. They were game for anything, or any location!  I love when families or folks trust me to designate locations for them!  So... I took them to one of my favorite roads in Salem County.  We passed by some farm fields, beautiful barns, and I'm sure this thought eventually crossed their mind... "Um, where are you taking us?"  However, when we got here, they understood!  Since then, other clients have wanted to utilize the same location after seeing some of these photos!  This spot is truly magical! I fell in love with Salem County about 3 years ago.  After I had my son, and we started exploring together and a lot of times we would end up here.  At this time, we were living in Camden County.  When we found out we were going to have a second addition, we knew it was time to move.  I knew where I wanted to be and that was in Salem County... and I am so happy that we're here.  Out of all of South Jersey, it is my favorite place to be.  If you have never explored the area, I suggest you do.  It is captivating.  It reminds me of Amish Country a bit, without the Amish folk.  The folks that live here are so friendly. It honestly feels like two different worlds, from where we lived before!  I feel so blessed!

Well, back to this session... I went off-topic there for a bit!

We did utilize a few locations and had a lot of poses to choose from... but I narrowed it down to these as my favorites!    This was last fall, but the leaves weren't changing just yet.  I've known mom since high school and I was so thrilled she entrusted me to take photos of her... and her boys!  It was my first family session, after all! They traveled all the way from Burlington County just to get their photos taken.  Although we are a Steelers family, I feel the hate brewing on the other end of your screen there... The Giants Jerseys were a cute touch to capture father and son in these images.

 Happy Shooting, my friends!

 Dee