Story by Sheree Bykofsky -

Breathe in. You're anywhere in the world. Breathe out. You're in Spring Lake.


Have you ever had a dream that you were riding your bicycle on a two-mile boardwalk beside a pristine beach in a seaside town? Then suddenly, you came upon the most scenic lake with three covered bridges and swans? Cherry blossoms dripped their pink lavender leaves on the sidewalks and streets? And people waved from the porches of their Victorian homes? There were fine restaurants, sweet boutiques, Irish pubs and several glorious day spas where your last remaining stressful thought was kneaded right out of you? You floated up to your inn and enjoyed the view of the lake or the ocean from the rocking chair on your balcony? Later, you brought your own special bottle of Cabernet Sauvignon to a top-notch restaurant, where you were treated like royalty. Well, maybe you weren't dreaming. Maybe you were in Spring Lake in early May!

Everyone has a favorite Jersey Shore town, and Spring Lake is my top pick. There's no better time to visit the seaside village than in early May, right after the establishments open for the summer but before the throngs arrive. Parking spaces are achievable, restaurant reservations are less necessary, prices are lower, and the cherry blossoms in high bloom are dazzling--particularly the ones that surround the Cathedral. But all of the seasons present a special treat in Spring Lake: the snow on the bridges over the lake make a spectacular postcard in winter; the beach and boardwalk alive with children, families and couples liven up Spring Lake all summer; and the vibrant colors of autumn and spring are but a hint of the many pleasures that await you.

Charming and simple B&B's abound, such as the lovely Beacon House, which features a refreshing pool between two small Victorians. Only one block from the beach and the quaint and historic Sea Girt Lighthouse, The Beacon House attracts a younger party crowd as it is right across from the very popular Parker House, a bustling summer meeting spot for young singles.

If you prefer an inn with that homespun feel, you may enjoy the Spring Lake Inn. Comfortable and filled with antiques, there's not a phone or flat screen TV in sight, but you will find nostalgia, comfort and tranquility. Three rooms do have whirlpools, and if you're in the mood for romance, request the eccentric pink room in the turret of the inn.

Nearby, Wreck Pond is a scenic pond with more white swans than you can count. Beside it is The White Lilac Inn, a dollhouse of a B&B's decorated with white lace and tin ceilings, a carousel pony and antique childhood artifacts. This is every girly girl's perfect vision of romance. Off the beaten path in Spring Lake, which in local vernacular translates to five blocks from the beach, the White Lilac Inn is a quiet retreat, perfect for reading, taking long walks, and getting intimate with that special someone. Some rooms do offer upscale amenities such as flat screen TVs and Jacuzzis while others simply offer peace and relaxation in an antique setting. Bicycles are included in the prices, which are lower than those of the inns near the beach.

But for those with an appetite for luxury, the Chateau hotel is the place to stay. Each room in both the main house and the adjoining and more modern villa has a marble bath, at least one large flat screen TV, a sumptuous bed, and fragrant Aveda amenities. Many rooms have wrap-around porches, and all either have a whirlpool or a large soaking tub. Bicycles may be rented right from the porch for a nominal fee or are included in several of the special hotel packages. Situated across from the picturesque Spring Lake and next to the opulent St. Catherine's Cathedral, it's no wonder that many brides and bridal parties make it their top choice as well. The hotel is very considerate to all of its guests. The Chateau only accommodates small bridal parties, so that no guest feels like an intruder.

Sometimes more is less. It's startling to realize that The Chateau beside the lake is less expensive than the inns near the beach. And it is right next to Egan's liquor store, which is handy because most of the restaurants in town don't have a liquor license and are BYOB. Speaking of which, pick up a bottle of Chardonnay or Pinot Noir and make a reservation at the Black Trumpet, an elegant restaurant located in the Sandpiper Inn. Featuring the freshest seafood caught right off of the boats and delivered to the neighboring Manasquan Inlet, the Black Trumpet is named for the fabulous black truffle that is sometimes used to flavor sumptuous culinary creations. Every dish is as thoughtfully and beautifully presented as it is beautiful. Imagine scallops rushed from the fishing boats, perfectly seared, drizzled with truffle oil and set atop exotic greens and a luscious crab cake.

More casual but still delicious meals are served up at the hopping and bopping St. Stephen's Green Publick House, as much a fine restaurant as it is a lively pub. Instruments sit on the stage and every night, different musicians pick them up and jam. They're so talented that you definitely get the impression that they've played a few times together before! They're clearly loved by the crowds that flock to St Stephen's Green every night to drink in the pub or dine on Fried Rueben Dumplings and Shepherd's Pie. For dessert, don't even look at the menu; just trust me and order the Irish Banoffee Pie.

A typical day in Spring Lake is spent strolling or bike riding on the boardwalk and around the lake, or visiting the enticing local shops. You may want to luxuriate in a soothing massage or lavender cold stone facial at the Hand & Stone Massage Spa. Or try an express facial and expert makeup application at the Juli Mei spa on Spring Lake's main street, which is called Third.

Did you ever have a dream so great that you wished you could have it again and again! Well, you can. Just go to Spring Lake.

IF YOU GO:

Chateau Inn & Suites
500 Warren Avenue
Spring Lake, NJ 07762
info@chateauinn.com
www.chateauinn.com
732 974 2000

The Beacon House
100 & 104 Beacon Boulevard
Sea Girt, NJ 08750

Spring Lake Inn
104 Salem Avenue
Spring Lake, NJ 07762
732 449 2010
www.springlakeinn.com

White Lilac Inn
414 Central Avenue
Spring Lake, NJ 07762
732 449 0211
www.whitelilac.com


Black Trumpet
7 Atlantic Avenue
Spring Lake, NJ 07762
732 449 4700
www.theblacktrumpet.com


St. Stephen's Green Publick House
2031 Highway 71
Spring Lake Heights, NJ 07762
732 449 2626
www.ststephensgreenpub.com


Hand & Stone
Massage Spa
Spring Lake Heights, NJ 07762
732 449 1700
www.handandstone.com


Juli Mei
Apothecary . Accessories . Apparel
1303 Third Avenue
Spring Lake, NJ 07762
732 449 0021
www.shopjulimei.com


Egan's Liquors
516 Warren Avenue
Spring Lake, NJ 07762
732 449 7090


St. Catharine Church
Essex and West Lake Avenues
Spring Lake, NJ 07762


A variety of accommodations:
www.historicinnsofspringlake.com