While some people enjoy watching the sun rise over the Atlantic Ocean, seeing the sun set along the western horizon is equally beautiful and does not require waking up at 5:30 a.m. The following five locations are great spots to enjoy a picturesque sunset at the Shore.
Just as its name suggests, this restaurant provides a front-row seat to summer sunsets. Co-owner Giuseppe Salpietro said the outdoor atmosphere of the fine-dining restaurant creates a relaxing environment for customers.
"Dining along the Shark River is a main attraction, and there is a beautiful sunset every night," Salpietro said.
Sunsets is at 302 S. Concourse Ave. in Neptune. For more information, call 732-775-9911.
2. Sea Gulls' Nest on Sandy Hook
Every night as the sun sets over the bay, Ed Segall, 80, owner of Sea Gulls' Nest, makes a tribute to those who have served to protect the United States. After his speech, customers stand and face the sunset as a patriotic song, usually "God Bless America," plays in the background.
Co-owner Scott Segall, 49, of Highlands, who is Ed's son, said the patriotic sunset tribute occurs rain or shine, regardless of the number of customers dining outside.
"We try to time it so that the end of the song hits the same time the sun sets below the horizon," Segall said.
He said besides the tribute, the unique location of Sea Gulls' Nest, on the barrier peninsula that protects the Highlands, makes it one of the few places with a 360-degree panoramic view of water.
"It's like you are perched in a nest with nothing else around you," Segall said. "Even though you are minutes from civilization, you are so remote here."
On a clear day, customers can see the buildings of downtown Manhattan and the Twin Lights situated 200 feet above sea level in Highlands, he said.
Segall said one night last August, customers experienced a unique show. As the sun was setting over the bay, a full moon was simultaneously rising over the ocean.
"I can't promise that very often, but that is one of the things that is very unique here," he said. "You can see the moon over the ocean and have the sunset on the other side of the restaurant."
Sea Gulls' Nest is inside Sandy Hook's Gateway National Recreation Area. For additional information, go to www.seagullsnest.info or call 732-872-0025.
3. Centennial Gazebo in Lavallette
This landmark is known by many Ocean County residents for its clear view of the sunset over Barnegat Bay.
Ocean County Public Affairs Director Barbara W. Steele, 69, of Toms River said the setting surrounding the gazebo attracts many residents.
"If you are a photo enthusiast, there are interesting real-estate shadows to capture in your photograph of the sunset," Steele said.
She said playgrounds are scattered across the bayfront for parents who want to take their children to watch the sunset.
"It gives something for the kids to do while you are waiting for Mother Nature to put on the show," Steele said.
The gazebo is between Philadelphia Avenue and Bay Boulevard in Lavallette.
4. McLoone's Rum Runner
Overlooking the Shrewsbury River, McLoone's Rum Runner offers fine dining as well as a spectacular view of the sunset, according to Kristy Hensle, director of catering and special events for McLoone's restaurants.
Hensle, 30, of Howell said whether dining indoors surrounded by large windows or enjoying a meal outside on the Boathouse Deck, customers can witness a beautiful sunset over the water.
She said the banquet hall, the River Room, on the second floor of the restaurant offers a beautiful view of the sunset and is a popular venue for private parties.
"The setting of McLoone's attracts people to the restaurant," Hensle said. "The view is definitely a big part."
McLoone's Rum Runner is at 816 Ocean Ave. in Sea Bright. For more information, call 732-842-2894.
5. All trails in Island Beach State Park
Shaped by changing tides, Island Beach State Park is a narrow barrier peninsula stretching for 10 miles between the Atlantic Ocean and the Barnegat Bay.
According to Steele, any trail in the park that ends at the Barnegat Bay is a great place to watch the sunset.
"The sunsets are spectacular and sometimes the sky looks like it's on fire," she said. "It is one of the greatest free shows going."
For more information, go to www.njparksandrecreation.org or call 732-793-0506.
