This past weekend I spent Saturday with the family clan in Bay Head, NJ, just south of Point Pleasant. Post-Labor Day at the shore is divine — more room on the beach for paddle ball, sand castle building and Scrabble tournaments. We basically played beach bum all day, with occasional trips back to the house to check the tennis and football scores. The weather was perfect, the sun still hot enough for a quick dip or ride in the kayak. But as the temps get cooler, there will still be lots to do in and around this area. Let's start with places to stay:

The Bentley is open year round with rates from $90 to $225 per night. Their off-season and extended stay specials for 2005 don't seem to be posted yet, but they may be similar to what they have listed for last year.

The Grenville has reduced rates in the fall ($89, Sun - Thurs) and is open through November 13. The restaurant is one of the best along the beach, and they are hosting a cooking class on October 20th with dinner immediately following ($60, not including gratuities).

If you want to just grab sandwiches for a picnic on the beach, head to Curtis' Central Market. There are plenty of sailing or fishing charters (more listed here) to check out, or head into town to explore the shops and art galleries. The Algonquin Theater in nearby Manasquan has several shows this fall, and the Annual Christmas tour of the Bay Head Inns is on December 4.

[Last week: Point Pleasant; Next week: Atlantic City]

Filed under: Festivals and Events, Food and Drink, Stories