Shore for the Holidays
A Jersey Shore Winter Guide from El Conejo Compound
Most people picture the Jersey Shore as a summer destination — long beach days, tan lines, and boardwalk fries. But locals know a secret: the Shore is pure magic during the holidays. Twinkling lights, festive markets, cozy restaurants, and peaceful off-season beaches make winter one of the most special times to visit Neptune, NJ.
And if you're planning a holiday getaway, El Conejo Compound is the perfect home base. Located minutes from Bradley Beach and a quick drive to Asbury Park, our cozy, light-filled home wraps you in warmth from the moment you walk in. Whether you’re traveling with friends, family, or pets, you’ll feel right at home.
Here’s your full guide to what’s happening down the shore this holiday season — and why winter getaways at El Conejo Compound are becoming a beloved guest tradition.
1. The Asbury Park Santa Run
On Saturday, December 6th, the annual festive 5K returns with thousands of participants dressed as Santa running through Asbury Park’s streets to support local non-profit Lunch Break . Registration includes a Santa suit, race entry, chip-timed results, and access to after parties at four of Asbury Park’s legendary music venues for those 21 and over .
2. Allaire Community Farm Christmas Village
Running December 1-29, this farm transforms into a life-sized Christmas village every Thursday through Sunday from 4-8pm, featuring 20,000 more lights than the previous year, with Santa appearing nightly from 5-7pm .
Admission is $6 for children 18 and under, $10 for adults.
3. Local Tree Lightings & Winter Festivals
Across Monmouth County, towns celebrate with tree lightings, carolers, small-business pop-ups, and family activities. Look for:
Bradley Beach Tree Lighting
Belmar Holiday Kickoff
Asbury Park festivities
Ocean Grove’s Victorian holiday decorations
Most events are within a 5–12 minute drive.
4. Holiday Shopping & Small-Business Gifts
Skip the mall and shop local this season. Asbury Park Holiday Bazaar is the premier holiday market runs November 28 through December 21 at multiple locations including Convention Hall’s Grand Arcade (Fridays 3-8pm, Saturdays and Sundays 12-5pm) and The Asbury Hotel (select Sundays 12-5pm). This European-inspired market was rated the best holiday market in New Jersey by Food & Wine Magazine and features local makers, artisans, handcrafted goods, live music, photos with Santa, food and drinks, workshops, and festive décor .
Afterward, come home to the compound to wrap gifts on the large quartz island or unwind in the sunroom.
5. Kringle Cove at Whitechapel Projects (Long Branch)
This festive holiday pop-up restaurant and bar features Christmas décor, seasonal menus, and special events including “A Very Merry Brunchmas” on select Sundays in December with character appearances like Bluey.
The venue also hosts the Holiday Bazaar Series with local makers and vendors on Black Friday weekend (November 28-30) from 12-5pm .
6. Outdoor Winter Adventures
Looking for something peaceful and grounding? Try:
Shark River Park hikes (10 minutes away)
Sunrise walks on Bradley Beach
Evenings by the outdoor fire pit
Winter at the Shore is slow, sweet, and restorative — the perfect antidote to holiday stress.
Make El Conejo Compound Your Holiday Home Base
After a day of exploring, come home to:
A warm, pet-friendly atmosphere
First-floor ADA accessibility
Samsung Smart TVs for holiday movies
A cozy family room with an electric fireplace
A heated wrap-around deck for crisp winter nights
A screened-in sunroom perfect for mornings with coffee
Whether you’re planning a festive weekend or a peaceful off-season retreat, the Shore shines just as bright in winter.
👉 Book your holiday stay at El Conejo Compound and experience the magic of the Jersey Shore this season.
