It's Outdoor Dining Time at the Jersey Shore

Locals and tourists alike wait all year for the start of the summer season.  One of the reasons is so we can sit outside and enjoy a drink with friends while taking in some of the most beautiful views on the East Coast. 

So, where do you go?  Check out these places and feel free to comment on some of your favorites, too!

River House: 1 Ocean Ave, Brielle · (732) 528-7000  http://www.brielleriverhouse.com  Wonderful views of the Glimmer Glass in Manasquan.  Lots of tables and an outdoor bar overlooking the water.  A perfect place to watch fireworks in season. 

9th Ave Pier: 9th Ave at River Road, (905 State Route 35) Belmar  (732) 749-3800 Belmar   http://www.9thavepier.com  On the Shark River in Belmar with beautiful sunset views.  Live music on the weekends, too! 

Kleins: 708 River Rd, Belmar · (732) 681-1177  http://www.kleinsfish.com  Some of the best seafood around.  Located on the Shark River in Belmar, the tiki bar rarely gets crowded.  Live music and great drinks while you wait for a table, or just enjoy drinks with friends.

Sand Bar: 201 Union Ln Ste H, Brielle · (732) 528-7750 · http://www.sandbarrestaurant.com  On the Manasquan River is where you'll find this restaurant with a few outdoor seats.  Great food, great views of some of the most beautiful yachts around in the Brielle Marina.  Walking distance to the next favorite:

Union Landing: 622 Green Ave, Brielle · (732) 528-6665  http://www.unionlanding.com  This seasonal hang out has a few levels overlooking the Manasquan River in Brielle.  Great food, lots of parking, and walkable to the River House and Sand Bar. 

Dolce Vita: 400 Ocean Ave, Belmar · (732) 749-3177  http://www.dolcevita.com  This is one of the areas finest Italian food restaurants overlooking the beach in Belmar.  More of a restaurant than a bar, you can enjoy drinks seasonally here.  Indoor and outdoor seating. 

Ragin' Cajun: 1102 State Route 35, Belmar · (732) 280-6828  http://www.ragincajunnj.com  No alcohol here, but the BEST Cajun food outside New Orleans.  Chef and owner, Tracey is usually around to make her specialties your way!  Quaint atmosphere inside, views of the Shark River out.  BYOB.  Local musicians play almost nightly and include Rogues on the Run!