Berkeley Oceanfront Hotel - Image 1
1 / 3

Berkeley Oceanfront Hotel

3.6
·2k reviews·Asbury Park, United States

Historic 1925 boardwalk hotel in Asbury Park, offering stylish rooms, ocean views, and a vibrant event scene.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer mornings

Enjoy the beach before crowds

CrowdHigh
Loading map...
Berkeley Oceanfront Hotel - Image 1

Berkeley Oceanfront Hotel

Best Time

Summer mornings

Enjoy the beach before crowds

CrowdHigh

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Historic 1925 boardwalk hotel in Asbury Park, offering stylish rooms, ocean views, and a vibrant event scene.

3.6
(2k reviews)

"Unbeatable location on the boardwalk with historic charm and friendly staff."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Book in Advance for Events

Popular events like 'House At The Shore' sell out fast. Book tickets early!

🚶‍♀️ Walkable to Everything

The hotel is steps from the beach, boardwalk, shops, and restaurants.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Asbury Park Boardwalk & Beach Access

Asbury Park Boardwalk & Beach Access

Directly adjacent

Step right out onto the iconic boardwalk and sandy shores for endless oceanfront fun.

Palm Court

Palm Court

Hotel Lobby

Experience the hotel's historic heart, where elegance meets architectural grandeur.

Ocean Views from Rooms

Ocean Views from Rooms

Select Guest Rooms

Wake up to stunning vistas of the Atlantic Ocean and the vibrant Asbury Park coastline.

On-site Events & Entertainment

On-site Events & Entertainment

Various hotel venues

From live music to house parties, the hotel frequently hosts vibrant events.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Historic Charm

The Berkeley Oceanfront Hotel boasts a rich history dating back to 1925. While offering modern amenities, expect a classic, grand hotel experience. Many visitors appreciate the historic ambiance, but some reviews mention dated elements or minor maintenance issues, so manage expectations for a perfectly pristine, modern hotel.

Location is Key

Situated directly on the Asbury Park Boardwalk and steps from the beach, the hotel's location is a major draw. This means easy access to sun, sand, and local attractions. Be aware that this prime spot can also mean more foot traffic and potential noise, especially during peak season or events.

Best Times

When
Summer mornings
Why
Enjoy the beach before crowds
Crowd
High
When
Weekdays off-season
Why
Quieter atmosphere, better rates
Crowd
Low
When
Event evenings
Why
Experience lively atmosphere
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

First time staying at the Berkeley Oceanfront Hotel and it was truly memorable as we celebrated my son’s birthday here 🥳🎂🌊 The ocean views, historic charm, and perfect location, just a short walk to the beach made it an unforgettable family getaway. 💙 @berkeleyhotelnj 📍 Berkeley Oceanfront Hotel, 1401 Ocean Ave, Asbury Park, NJ 07712 #BerkeleyOceanfrontHotel #AsburyPark #AsburyParkNJ #AsburyBoa...
funtrips_withthelims
6 likes • 235 views

🎯 Book in Advance for Events

Popular events like 'House At The Shore' sell out fast. Book tickets early! Instagram+1

🚶‍♀️ Walkable to Everything

The hotel is steps from the beach, boardwalk, shops, and restaurants. InstagramReddit

Within the storied walls of Palm Court lies a history as rich as its design. 🌴 A place where elegance is etched into every detail. Welcome to the Berkeley Oceanfront Hotel, in the heart of Asbury Park, New Jersey 🎵🥂 #celebrateinstyle #asburypark #berkeleyoceanfronthotel #asburyparknj #njweddings #njphotography #asburyparkwedding #palmcourt
berkeleyhotelnj
90 likes • 6.2K views
I had a great time during a recent stay at the Berkeley Oceanfront Hotel in Asbury Park, NJ. The hotel is just steps away from the Asbury Park Boardwalk and Beach. The rooms were well-designed, as was the property with a number of shops and restaurants on-site. I would recommend it, if you're visiting the area. #BerkeleyOceanfrontHotel #AsburyPark #AsburyParkNJ #AsburyParkBoardwalk
honestlycristina
8 likes • 206 views

🐶 Pet-Friendly Stays

Bring your furry friend! The hotel is known for being welcoming to pets. Reddit

☕ Grab a Coffee & Relax

Visit Lilly and Lus Cafe for a latte, pool, and live music. Instagram

The legendary Berkeley Carteret Hotel, now known as the Berkeley Oceanfront Hotel, an architectural gem on the Asbury Park boardwalk since 1925. From hosting Hollywood royalty like Frank Sinatra to a period of ownership by Johnny Cash, this landmark echoes with a century of Jersey Shore history. #asburypark #berkeleyhotel #berkeleycarteret #jerseyshorehistory #jsmemories #njhistory #asburyparknj ...
jerseyshore.memories
55 likes • 1.3K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Book in Advance for Events

Popular events like 'House At The Shore' sell out fast. Book tickets early! Instagram+1

🚶‍♀️ Walkable to Everything

The hotel is steps from the beach, boardwalk, shops, and restaurants. InstagramReddit

🐶 Pet-Friendly Stays

Bring your furry friend! The hotel is known for being welcoming to pets. Reddit

☕ Grab a Coffee & Relax

Visit Lilly and Lus Cafe for a latte, pool, and live music. Instagram

🚗 Parking Options

Street parking is available and reasonable off-season; valet is an option. Reddit

What Travellers Say

3.6
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Guests frequently praise the Berkeley Oceanfront Hotel for its unbeatable location directly on the Asbury Park boardwalk and beach, along with its historic charm and friendly staff. While some reviews note minor maintenance issues or inconsistent amenity service, the overall experience is often described as a great coastal getaway with a lively atmosphere, especially when events are happening.

"What a phenomenal trip. I was there volunteering on the staff for a symposium and the entire weekend was such a wonderful experience. Decent, moderately priced food inside the hotel itself, the staff were some of the kindest people I've ever met in hospitality, and their event team was completely on their game. There's also a Salon attached to the hotel and accessible through the lobby. I didn't need a cut, but the people working there seemed as polite and friendly as the rest of the crew.

The space is good for weddings, conferences, symposiums and any other potentially large gathering. The town itself is freaking beautiful - the beach is a block from the hotel, there's a boardwalk with a playground and old fashioned arcade nearby, a record store, a bowling alley, plenty of entertainment and food options.

My only complaint is that one of the lamps in our room (817) didn't have a switch. Like... it fell out or was pulled out. We just unplugged it for the weekend. One of the electrical outlets in the room was a super loose fit for most of our chargers, too.

Amenities in the room are an ice bucket and free water bottles, the basic lineup in the bathroom, and cable TV. I do wish they had water bottle refill stations in the hotel common areas and by the ice machines, but the age and infrastructure of the building make sense as to why.

The rooms were a bit on the pricier side, though that appears to be a theme throughout the rest of the town. It definitely requires thorough planning to enjoy your trip - the bill can add up quickly if you're not careful.

Street parking in the off season was a very reasonable rate. Valet was a bit pricey for my agenda and wallet."

Joshua Riley

"I had high hopes for this resort but it was disappointing. This was our first time in Asbury Park. The hotel is convenient to the beach and boardwalk. We stayed in the off season for 2 weeknights and 2 weekend nights; the staff during the weekend were remarkably friendlier than the staff we first encountered. The room was surprisingly big and comfortable, but there was an issue with the room my mother stayed in (the faucet in the shower fell off!) Mostly I was surprised how few amenities there were for it being a resort. On our last day we went to the pool; the front desk staff person directed us to where it was, but there were no towels and no staff. A very kind woman in the restaurant brought us towels when I asked. Soon after, what appeared to be the owner of the hotel came outside with 6 or so staff members, and he berated them for the state of the pool. Some staff began vacuuming the pool, but the berating when on for 30 minutes or more. It was incredibly awkward, especially because no one acknowledged us at all, sitting just a few feet away. Only one staff person later sought us out to apologize. Overall, the hotel was sad. I imagine it could reach its potential with new management, but I can’t recommend it. A hotel should only charge resort prices if it is indeed a resort. This, sadly, is not."

Courtney Gillette

"Perfect Beachside Stay!
I had a wonderful stay at the Berkeley Oceanfront Hotel! The location truly can’t be beat — it’s just steps from the beach and the Asbury Park boardwalk, which made it super convenient to take morning walks along the ocean and enjoy the local restaurants and shops.
The staff were exceptionally friendly and helpful from check-in to checkout. They made me feel very welcome and went out of their way to answer questions and offer recommendations. The overall atmosphere was relaxed yet elegant, which made for a really comfortable experience.
My room was clean, spacious, and had that classic charm the Berkeley is known for. I also appreciated how easy it was to get around — everything from the beach to nightlife was just a short walk away.
If you’re looking for a place that’s close to the beach, has a great staff, and gives you that perfect coastal getaway vibe, I highly recommend the Berkeley Oceanfront Hotel!"

Scott

What People Like

Prime boardwalk location
Historic charm
Friendly staff

What People Dislike

Minor maintenance issues
Inconsistent amenities
Can be noisy during events

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Berkeley Oceanfront Hotel is located in Asbury Park, NJ. If driving from NYC, take the Garden State Parkway South to Exit 105. From Philadelphia, take I-95 North to the NJ Turnpike North to the Garden State Parkway North to Exit 105. Public transportation options include NJ Transit trains to Asbury Park station, which is a short taxi or rideshare away from the hotel. Reddit

Yes, the hotel offers parking. Street parking is often available and can be reasonably priced, especially during the off-season. Valet parking is also an option, though it may be more expensive. Reddit

The Berkeley Oceanfront Hotel is ideally situated for walking. The beach, boardwalk, and many shops and restaurants are just steps away. For destinations further afield, rideshares and local taxis are readily available. InstagramReddit

While specific accessibility details can vary, historic hotels often have some limitations. It's recommended to contact the hotel directly to inquire about accessible rooms, ramps, and other specific needs to ensure a comfortable stay. Reddit

Travel times vary greatly depending on your starting point. From New York City, it's typically around a 1.5 to 2-hour drive. From Philadelphia, expect a similar travel time. It's always best to check real-time traffic conditions before you depart. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

For standard hotel stays, booking your room in advance is recommended, especially during peak season or weekends. For specific events hosted at the hotel, such as concerts or parties, separate tickets are usually required and should be purchased in advance as they can sell out. Instagram+1

Standard check-in times are typically in the afternoon (e.g., 3:00 PM or 4:00 PM), and check-out is usually in the morning (e.g., 11:00 AM or 12:00 PM). It's always best to confirm these times directly with the hotel when making your reservation. Reddit

While specific promo codes can vary, it's worth checking the hotel's official website or booking platforms for any ongoing promotions or package deals. Signing up for their newsletter might also provide access to special offers. [^SEO Keyword: berkeley oceanfront hotel promo code]

Cancellation policies can differ based on the rate booked and the time of year. Generally, most hotels allow free cancellation up to 24-72 hours before your arrival date, but it's crucial to review the specific terms and conditions of your reservation. Reddit

Some hotels, especially those with amenities like pools or on-site services, may charge a resort fee. It's advisable to check the hotel's booking details or contact them directly to inquire about any additional mandatory fees beyond the room rate. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Rooms typically include basic amenities such as an ice bucket, complimentary water bottles, cable TV, and standard bathroom toiletries. Some rooms offer ocean views. Minor issues like loose outlets or non-functioning lamps have been noted in some reviews. Reddit

Yes, the hotel features a pool. However, reviews suggest that amenities like towels and staff presence at the pool area can sometimes be inconsistent, so it's good to be prepared. Reddit

Yes, the hotel has on-site dining options, including Lilly and Lus Cafe for coffee and snacks, and often hosts events with food. There are also shops accessible through the lobby, and a salon. InstagramReddit

Absolutely! The hotel has multiple ballrooms and is frequently used for weddings, conferences, and other large gatherings. The event team is often praised for their professionalism. InstagramReddit+1

The hotel offers a blend of historic charm and contemporary style. It's known for its grand architecture and elegant ambiance, while also being a lively spot for events and a convenient base for enjoying Asbury Park's attractions. InstagramReddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The hotel offers on-site dining, including Lilly and Lus Cafe for coffee and light bites. They also cater events and may have other dining facilities. For a wider variety, numerous restaurants are within walking distance on the boardwalk and in Asbury Park. InstagramReddit

Reviews suggest the food is decent and moderately priced, particularly for events and symposiums. For more diverse culinary experiences, exploring Asbury Park's vibrant food scene is highly recommended. Reddit

While specific menus aren't detailed, the hotel's cafe and general atmosphere are often described as kid-friendly. The proximity to boardwalk eateries also provides plenty of casual options for families. Reddit

Typically, hotels of this caliber offer breakfast, either through a cafe, room service, or a dedicated dining area. It's best to check with the hotel directly for current breakfast offerings and hours. Reddit

Information on specific dietary options is not widely available. It's recommended to inquire directly with the hotel's dining staff or explore the diverse restaurant scene in Asbury Park, which generally offers a good range of choices. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The hotel's grand architecture, especially the Palm Court, offers stunning interior shots. The ocean views from rooms and the boardwalk provide classic coastal backdrops. Don't miss capturing the historic facade and any event spaces. Instagram+1

For general photos of the exterior or public areas like the lobby, it's usually permissible. However, for professional photoshoots or if you're using specific event spaces, you'll likely need to arrange permission and potentially pay a fee with the hotel's event management. Instagram

The hotel is excellent for architectural photography, historical ambiance shots, wedding photography, and capturing the vibrant Asbury Park boardwalk scene. Its classic style lends itself well to elegant and nostalgic imagery. Instagram+1

While casual photography for personal use is generally fine, professional photography, drone usage, or extensive photoshoots may require prior authorization from the hotel management. Always be respectful of other guests' privacy. Instagram

Golden hour (shortly after sunrise and before sunset) offers beautiful, soft light for exterior shots and ocean views. Midday can be good for capturing the bright energy of the boardwalk, while evenings can be atmospheric with hotel lighting. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Berkeley Oceanfront Hotel is a great choice for families looking for a classic beach vacation. Its direct access to the Asbury Park Boardwalk and Beach means endless fun for kids, with playgrounds and arcades nearby. InstagramReddit The hotel itself is described as kid-friendly, with features like coy ponds that children enjoy. Reddit Rooms are often noted as being spacious, which is a plus when traveling with little ones. Reddit

Parents will appreciate the convenience of having dining options on-site, like Lilly and Lus Cafe, and the fact that the hotel is pet-friendly, so the whole family can come along. InstagramReddit While minor maintenance issues have been mentioned, the overall positive feedback on staff and location makes it a solid option for a memorable family getaway by the sea. Reddit

🎉 Event Goers & Music Lovers

If you're coming to Asbury Park for its vibrant music scene or special events, the Berkeley Oceanfront Hotel is an ideal base. The hotel frequently hosts live music events, including popular House At The Shore parties and tribute acts. Instagram+2 Its ballrooms are also prime venues for concerts, festivals, and DJ nights, drawing a lively crowd. InstagramReddit

Staying here puts you right in the heart of the action, often just steps away from other Asbury Park venues. You can easily catch a show and then walk back to your room. The hotel's own event calendar means you might not even need to leave to find great entertainment. InstagramReddit

💍 Couples & Wedding Guests

The Berkeley Oceanfront Hotel offers a romantic setting for couples, especially those attending or hosting a wedding. Its historic charm and elegant ambiance create a picturesque backdrop for special occasions. InstagramReddit The ocean views from many rooms provide a lovely, serene start or end to the day. Reddit

Being right on the boardwalk allows for romantic strolls by the sea and easy access to Asbury Park's dining and nightlife. Instagram The hotel's reputation as a wedding venue means it's well-equipped to handle romantic events, and guests attending these celebrations will find the location incredibly convenient. InstagramReddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Century of History

The Berkeley Oceanfront Hotel, originally known as the Berkeley Carteret Hotel, has been a landmark on the Asbury Park boardwalk since its opening in 1925. This grand dame of the Jersey Shore has witnessed decades of change and hosted a remarkable array of guests. From Hollywood stars like Frank Sinatra to musical legends such as Johnny Cash and John Philip Sousa, the hotel's walls echo with a rich past. Instagram It has served as a backdrop for countless celebrations and gatherings, maintaining its status as a significant piece of Asbury Park's cultural heritage. Instagram

During its heyday, the hotel was a symbol of luxury and entertainment, attracting visitors from across the region. Over the years, it has undergone various renovations and ownership changes, but its core architectural grandeur and prime location have remained. Today, it continues to be a popular venue for events, a comfortable stay for visitors, and a living testament to the enduring allure of the Jersey Shore. Instagram The hotel's ability to blend its historic charm with contemporary needs makes it a unique destination for those seeking a taste of classic seaside elegance. Reddit

Events and Entertainment Hub

The Berkeley Oceanfront Hotel is more than just a place to stay; it's a vibrant hub for events and entertainment. The hotel frequently hosts a diverse range of happenings, from lively House At The Shore music nights featuring prominent DJs Instagram+1 to music festivals like the Everything Fab Four Fest.Instagram Its ballrooms and common areas are ideal for concerts, parties, and community gatherings, drawing crowds from the Tri-State area. Instagram

Beyond scheduled events, the hotel offers amenities that contribute to its lively atmosphere. Lilly and Lus Cafe provides a cozy spot for coffee, and the hotel often features live music, creating a welcoming ambiance for guests and locals alike. Instagram Whether you're attending a wedding, a concert, or simply enjoying a drink at the bar, the Berkeley Oceanfront Hotel consistently offers opportunities for engaging experiences and memorable nights out. Reddit

Guest Experience and Amenities

Guest experiences at the Berkeley Oceanfront Hotel are often characterized by appreciation for its prime location and historic charm. Many visitors highlight the hotel's proximity to the beach and boardwalk as a major advantage, making it easy to enjoy seaside activities. InstagramReddit The staff are frequently commended for their friendliness and helpfulness, contributing to a welcoming atmosphere. Reddit

While the hotel offers a classic, elegant feel, some reviews mention minor maintenance issues in rooms, such as non-functioning lamps or loose electrical outlets, which can detract from the overall experience for some. Reddit Amenities like the pool are available, though consistency in service (e.g., towel availability) has been noted as an area for improvement. Reddit Despite these occasional drawbacks, many guests find the rooms to be surprisingly spacious and comfortable, appreciating the blend of historic character and modern convenience. Reddit

You may also like

1 of 2