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For many people, pets are an integral part of the family and are included in holiday planning or weekend outings. However, before you rush out to the Jeep together, make sure that you are prepared with these safety tips for pets. Make Your Pets Road Ready It's wise to prepare your dogs for a road trip by first taking them on several shorter drives to acclimatize them for the long journey. This will help avoid unnecessary stress or anxiety for both the pets and the family. There are plenty of pet-friendly activities around Ocean Township that can serve as smaller trial runs for getting them used to being in the car. more Pet Identification Before going anywhere with your pets, make sure that they are tagged or microchipped with updated identification details. If they are somehow separated from you, then they can be returned safely. Place a temporary travel tag on their collars with your phone number and your destination details. Pet Safety Restraints Some states have laws regarding pet travel, so do your homework. Either use a travel crate for your pets that are strapped and cannot move around in the vehicle or use a pet restraint to keep them safe. There are many types available to keep both your pets and yourself safe while driving. Stop regularly on your journey with food, water, leashes, and any other accessories that you may need. Never leave your furry friends in the car unattended, especially in the heat and in cold conditions. Being a pet owner is a responsibility. You need to ensure that your pets are safe in your Jeep Wrangler and don't cause a distraction to the driver. Some rights reserved by robot-girl

Asbury Park, New Jersey, is a popular destination for people from all over the world. It's about half an hour away from Ocean Township, and it has one of the best beaches in the state. Many music lovers visit this small town, and Bruce Springsteen's first album was called "Greetings From Asbury Park, N.J." Here are some fun outdoor places to visit in Asbury. Convention Hall and Paramount Theatre The Asbury Park Convention Hall and the Paramount Theatre, which host a variety of events, were finished in 1930 when Asbury Park was a glamorous destination for the wealthy. The beautiful architecture contains seashells, anchors, seahorses, and other nautical elements. The structures have extensive intricate metalwork. The Grand Arcade connects the Convention Hall and the Paramount Theatre. These elements offer 40-foot ceilings, oceanfront restaurants, and interesting stores. You can view Asbury Park's annual holiday tree lighting as well as many other fun outdoor events. You can also see a show, go shopping, or just check out this unique set of buildings. more Asbury Splash Park The Asbury Splash Park is right on the boardwalk, so you and your family can easily take a break from shopping and cool down. It has a variety of features, including a giant watering pot and the popular Tipping Tea Cup. Parents can watch kids play and relax from comfy lounge chairs. You can buy a day pass for adults or kids. There's also a family pass for two adults and two children. The Asbury Splash Park is open every day from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. except in bad weather. Asbury Eighteen The Asbury Eighteen, a miniature golf course, is right next to the Asbury Splash Park, and you can buy tickets for both at the same time. Both places are also available for private parties. The Asbury Eighteen is open Monday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Friday through Sunday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Pedal Boats on Wesley Lake Kids and adults will enjoy getting some exercise and viewing the scenery from a pedal boat on Wesley Lake. These fun vessels are shaped like swans, dragons, herons, pirate ships, and more. Each boat can hold two adults and one child or one adult and two children. This activity was popular in the 1940s, and revitalization in Asbury Park brought it back to the area. For an especially beautiful view, try a sunset ride. Asbury Festhalle & Biergarten's Rooftop Bar Asbury Festhalle & Biergarten has 41 brews on tap, more than 100 bottled beers, live music, and a 9,000-square-foot rooftop bar. This authentic German biergarten is open daily until 2 a.m., and you can make new friends at the communal tables while enjoying impressive ocean views. Try oysters covered in sauerkraut and pretzel crumbs, wiener schnitzel, bratwurst, or other traditional fares. The Asbury Park area is filled with beautiful scenery and fun outdoor activities. You can go swimming, look for seashells on the beach, rent a bike, and more. Kids and adults near this charming town definitely won't have to worry about boredom. Some rights reserved by chrisinphilly5448

Spring is coming, and that means longer days, more sun, and warmer weather. However, you'll still need to deal with dangerous roads. Here are some of the potential hazards of driving in thawing New Jersey weather. Potholes When snow and ice melt, the water seeps into cracks in roads that are often formed by heavy snowplows. When the water freezes again at night, it expands those cracks and eventually forms potholes. You could encounter new hazards on your normal route to work or the grocery store. Hitting a pothole too fast could damage your tires, suspension, or alignment. It could even lead to an accident. Drive slowly, and watch for new hazards when ice and snow start to melt. If you notice dangerous potholes, report them before they damage someone else's vehicle. more Animals and People In spring, many animals emerge from hibernation. Others are searching for mates. This means that dogs, cats, rabbits, raccoons, squirrels, deer, and other animals will need to cross streets more often. Watch the sides of roads carefully for animals, and clean your headlights or change the bulbs if needed. If something comes near your vehicle, don't risk losing control by swerving or braking suddenly. Animals are usually more active at dawn and dusk. You should also watch for children playing in neighborhood streets, joggers, people walking their dogs, and other pedestrians. Always make complete stops and look both ways at intersections. Obey speed limits and other local traffic laws, and watch out for people who might be paying more attention to their phones or other devices than their surroundings. Black Ice Since the ground warms more slowly than the air, there could be ice on some roads even when the weather is above freezing. This often forms a thin layer called black ice. Instead of looking icy, the road looks wet. Many drivers don't slow down before their tires hit the black ice, and they lose control. To avoid this, drive slowly on wet roads and make sure there's plenty of stopping distance between you and other vehicles. Slush Slush is the mix of mud, ice, and snow that forms when ice starts to melt. It can slow down your car, truck, or SUV and make turning or changing lanes difficult. It can also accumulate on your windshield and block your vision. Pull over when needed to remove slush. You should also rinse the bottom of your car often to get rid of road salt and other corrosive chemicals. Poor Maintenance Forgetting to check your tires, have your vehicle's oil changed, or replace your windshield wipers could lead to a breakdown or an accident. Make sure you get your vehicle's fluid levels checked, clean your headlights, and perform other maintenance tasks. Paying for a tune-up now will be much less expensive than letting a minor issue become severe. For more tips on driving safely in spring, contact Sea View Jeep. We can help you find a vehicle that gives you and your passengers peace of mind. Some rights reserved by Nichola

Whether your kids are young or old, spending time as a family is important. There are several attractions and activities in the Ocean Township area that offer fun for everyone, from jumping on trampolines to visiting with live animals and playing games. Check out these family-friendly activities in Ocean Township. Sky Zone Trampoline Park Trampoline parks are popping up all around the country, and Sky Zone was one of the first to start this fun trend. You'll find it on State Highway 66 right in Ocean Township, and this attraction is a great way to spend an afternoon. Everyone can get in on the jumping from the kids to the adults, and it's an excellent form of exercise. You can head here for a birthday party, try out the Ninja Warrior Course, or stop by after dark for Glow with lasers, music, and blacklights as SkyZone turns into a jumping dance club. Jenkinson's Aquarium Jenkinson's Aquarium is a fun experience for the whole family. There are tons of exhibits to explore and animals to see, from African penguins to harbor seals and all kinds of local fish and marine life. Head to the second floor to enter the tropical rain forest, or take a look in the 58,000-gallon shark tank. You'll see sandbar sharks, nurse sharks, and a sand tiger shark. The kids are sure to love the touch tank, where they can touch marine animals including sea urchins, horseshoe crabs, and stingrays. Stop by and say hello to Lucy, the resident harbor seal. She came to the aquarium in 1991 for treatment after either a shark attack or she was hit a boat. She now lives at the aquarium, and even though she is blind, she teaches visitors about seal behaviors. more Monster Mini Golf Take the game of mini golf to a new level at Monster Mini Golf. This is state of the art indoor mini golf course where you play completely under the glow of black lights. There is an 18-hole course that is fun for all ages, but it doesn't stop there. This facility also has a Hi-Tech video game arcade with a huge prize center, monster-themed laser tag, a laser maze, and a concession stand. Bring the kids for a birthday party, or head here as a family for an afternoon of glowing golf. Silverball Museum Arcade The Silverball Museum Arcade in nearby Asbury Park pays tribute to the old pinball machines of the past. There are over 600 games in rotation, so you're sure to find some old favorites while enjoying the experience of trying new games. The kids can have some fun learning how to play pinball, and it can bring back memories for others. To play, all you need to do is purchase an entry pass. Then, you can play any of the games for as long as you want. There's plenty of fun waiting in Ocean Township. Check out these family-friendly attractions in the area. Image by ncole458 is licensed under CC-BY 2.0

Nothing makes for an intimate and memorable meal like Italian cuisine. Fortunately, there are plenty of great Italian restaurants in Asbury Park, New Jersey. We've put together this short list of our favorites in the area to help get you started. Belmonte's Ristorante You'll have to bring your own wine or beer when you show up for a meal at Belmonte's Ristorante, but this fantastic local eatery will take care of everything else. Start your dinner off with an appetizer like Pasta Fagioli or a Caprese platter with mozzarella, roasted peppers, tomatoes, and basil. Or choose a salad with fried calamari and beans or spinach and goat cheese. Whatever you choose to whet your appetite, you can bet that the flavors will be fresh and authentic. This is true for the entrees as well. We suggest trying the Penne Puttanesca, which is served with anchovies, capers, and black olives. more Jimmy's Italian Restaurant Enjoy a made-to-order meal at Jimmy's Italian Restaurant. Make yourself at home in the golden light of the restaurant's newly renovated dining room, where the elegant decor and lavishly prepared dishes will make you feel like royalty. Because dishes are cooked to your tastes, you have some flexibility with which to customize your order. Jimmy's specializes in both Italian pasta dishes and seafood. One of our favorites is the Sole a la Marisa: fish topped with a mouthwatering pink basil clam sauce. The restaurant also prides itself on its wine list, which has both house wines and vintages from Italy and the rest of the world. Stella Marina Take a pleasant stroll along the boardwalk to find Stella Marina. This bar and restaurant seeks to establish a trendy, hip atmosphere with its bottle-shaped chandeliers and casual decor. But the real star of the show is the food. Rustic Italian cuisine is the specialty at Stella Marina. Make sure you try the escarole bean soup or calamari to get your taste buds activated before digging into a main course like the gnocchi with prosciutto and mushrooms or the filet mignon with gorgonzola cream and fingerling potatoes. Don't forget to ask about the restaurant's winter specials, which can include discounted meals and wine. Pasta Volo Get a casual bite to eat at Pasta Volo. This popular restaurant specializes in freshly prepared pasta and homemade sauces. Some of its unique creations include pasta infused with rosemary and pasta flavored with beer from a local brewery. Sauces range from classic marina to zesty pesto; ask your server exactly what would best complement your dish. Everything is served in a portable container that's perfect for takeout, but you are welcome to enjoy your meal right there in the restaurant too. Pasta Volo is also one of the few Italian eateries with plenty of vegan and gluten-free options on its menu. Don't limit yourself to the restaurants you already know, as Asbury Park rewards exploration with lots of new and exciting local options. Whether you are looking for classic Italian or contemporary innovation, you'll find it at these restaurants. Image by flickr4jazz is licensed under CC-BY 2.0

When traveling or hanging out with friends or family, the question of what to do is inevitable. Near Ocean Township, there are several ways to spend your day. Whether you're seeking adventure, going sightseeing, or solving problems, these three options will be time well spent. Sky Zone Have a party to plan or just want to unwind with some exciting activity? Sky Zone may be the perfect jumping-off point. Located at 2355 State Highway 66, Sky Zone offers several activities as well as multiple types of passes. Sky hoops, free-climbing, and a warped wall are just a few ways Sky Zone can bounce you into motion. Have a larger group? They offer Ultimate Dodgeball on a trampoline court. Feeling competitive? Try the gladiator-style Sky Joust above an air bag or foam pit. Sky Zone also has a Warrior Course. And you don't have to worry about the kids — Sky Zone has several toddler events, such as Toddler Time, specifically designed for supervised bouncing and fun for the little ones. more Asbury Park Boardwalk In need of a little activity with some freedom, fresh air, and shopping? Located at 1300 Ocean Ave. in Asbury Park, New Jersey, Asbury Park Boardwalk has been making waves since 1871 and offers both day and evening events. It features restaurants, theaters, convention centers, and a pier that extends over the Atlantic Ocean. Stroll down the boardwalk, browsing through boutiques that can't be found anywhere else. The shops have art, custom surfboards, and beachfront styles. Child- and pet-friendly, Asbury Park Boardwalk has live music events as well as a water park and the Silver Ball Museum. It might take all day to see everything this boardwalk has to offer but not to worry. Lunch, dinner, and dessert can be found in eateries like Asbury Oyster Bar, Stella Marina, and Coney Waffle. Solve It Sherlock Escape Rooms In need of a little mystery? Always wondered about escape-room experiences? Escaped before and searching for your next escape-room adventure? Solve It Sherlock Escape Rooms offers themed rooms to test your wits. Fun for the whole family, themes include pirates, magicians, and quarantine — complete with a zombie actor. To play, all you need is a reservation at 708 NJ-35, Neptune, New Jersey; a group of friends or family; and a desire to solve the mystery before time runs out. Booked in 60-minute increments, Solve It Sherlock Escape Rooms offers a game master with hints to help you through the experience. Each room is rated for difficulty, so whether you're a beginner or a master, there's a room and a mystery that's just right for you. Time with family and friends is time well-spent, and there's plenty of things to do near Ocean Township. Work up a sweat, climbing walls at Sky Zone; stroll the beach at Asbury Park Boardwalk; or solve a mystery and make your escape at Solve It Sherlock Escape Rooms. Family-friendly fun is just around the corner near Ocean Township. Image user goodrob13 is licensed under CC-BY 2.0

It happens to all of us — the sweet tooth. The craving for baked treats, sugary goodies, or gooey rewards. Whether you live in the Ocean Township area or you are just visiting, there's a place to satisfy your craving. Here are a few places to get yummy treats to calm your craving. Purple Glaze Donuts, etc. Doughnuts are for more than just breakfast. Purple Glaze Donuts, etc. has been satisfying the doughnut community since 2015. Owned by a retired teacher turned baker, Purple Glaze Donuts, etc. is located at 516 Summerfield Ave., Asbury Park. This doughnut and coffee shop offers plain and simple doughnut creations, such as cinnamon and sugar or classic Bavarian, alongside decadent flavors like French Toast, Ring of Fire, and Wake 'n Bacon. Their Vegan menu is equally diverse, with plain vanilla, a chocolate-filled-chocolate Triple Threat, and Mango Tango options, among others. They also offer custom catering. more Coney Waffle When you're in the mood for ice cream, there are few that can satisfy the craving the way Coney Waffle can. Established in 2015, Coney Waffle is based on the concept first created in 1941 by the owner's grandmother for her Coney Island concession stand. Coney Waffle has four locations in New Jersey, and each offers uniquely designed waffle cones as well as The Cannoli Waffle, The Galaxy Cone, and The Side Show Shake. Forty-plus flavors of hard ice cream, vegan alternatives, and frozen drinks are offered at all four locations, and the Long Branch location is certified Kosher. Sugarush Voted best cupcakes by New Jersey Monthly magazine. New Jersey's first cupcake bar, Sugarush, is located at 37 E. Front St., Red Bank, New Jersey. Sugarush has been featured on ABC's "The Chew" and won Food Network's "Rewrapped." Their cafe offers a craft-your-own cupcake bar featuring five cake flavors as well as daily specials. Icing flavors include vanilla buttercream, chocolate mint, and strawberry cream, to name just a few. Along with icing, they offer a wide array of drizzles, stuffings, and toppings. There's also a top-10 favorites menu with options like Carrot Toffee Crunch and Cappuccino. Sugarush also does event planning and has party space available for special occasions. Broad Street Dough Co. A new take on freshly made, Broad Street Dough Co. makes your doughnuts right in front of you and invites you to help. Located at 2005 Route 35 N., Oakhurst, Broad Street Dough Co. has 20 different kinds of doughnuts, including S'mores Galore, Chai Town, and Wayside Walnut, as well as custom and catering options. With menu selections separated into Old School, BSDC Specialties, Triple Layer, and A Little Extra, you're sure to find a new favorite doughnut creation. They also offer Vegan, Gluten-free, and Parve options and are a certified Kosher Dairy. When your sweet tooth catches you in Ocean Township, you'll find plenty of options to satisfy it. No matter your flavor or needs, you can celebrate special events or the success of the day with doughnuts from any of these delicious locations. Image user jronaldlee is licensed under CC BY 2.0

Summer is quickly fading, but that doesn't mean you have to be sad. Beat the end-of-summer blues by enrolling in a fall class in Asbury Park. The city offers numerous activities — from art classes to cooking classes — for interested residents. Pick up a new skill by checking out one of the following local offerings. Art Let your inner artist blossom by attending an art class at the Main Avenue Galleria at 57 Main Ave. in Ocean Grove. Choose from either a one-day workshop in which you can perfect a specific skill or a multi-week course to strengthen your creative prowess. Some upcoming one-day workshop classes include: Pansy in Colored Pencils: Aug. 26 from 12:45 to 2:45 p.m.; cost is $35. Sips & Serendipity — Haifa by the Sea: Sept. 22 from 5 to 8 p.m.; cost is $40. Abstract Flowers Painting: Oct. 20 from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.; cost is $65. All the multi-week courses are currently in progress, but keep your eyes peeled on the event page to plan for upcoming classes. Previous options have included an Anatomy Workshop, Painting with Texture, and Painting and Drawing for Beginners. more Music With big musicians like Bruce Springsteen and bands like The Gaslight Anthem getting their starts in Asbury Park, it should come as no surprise that the city has a thriving music scene. Learn how to play your preferred instrument by enrolling in lessons at the Lake House Music Academy. This establishment is located at 618 Lake Ave. and offers assistance in guitar, bass, piano, vocals, and drums. If you have the basics of music down, you can also opt for lessons in songwriting, music theory, and audio engineering. You'll be taught by a number of working musicians who have years of experience performing. Cooking For cooking lessons, you'll have to drive to nearby Fair Haven to get to the Taste and Technique Cooking Studio. This culinary school is located at 597 River Road and offers numerous classes for adults who are looking to up their cooking game. Choose a participation class if you want to get your hands dirty or a demonstration class if you'd rather just watch how it's all done. Upcoming fall classes include: Autumn Decadence (partial participation): Sep. 30 from noon to 3 p.m.; cost is $75. The Indian Kitchen (partial participation): Oct. 4 from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m.; cost is $75. Oktoberfest (partial participation): Oct. 11 from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m.; cost is $75. Yoga Work on your flexibility, strength, and spirituality at an Asbury Park yoga class. One of the premiere yoga studios in the area is The Daley Practice at 625 Bangs Ave., Suite 1. They offer classes daily, so you can get your fill of downward dog whenever it's most convenient for you. Single classes are $18, five classes are $80, 10 classes are $150, 20 classes are $280, 30 classes are $390, and an unlimited monthly pass is $140. Stay active and engaged with the world around you by learning one of these skills. Whether you're a budding prodigy or a fledgling beginner, you'll still have fun and accomplish something new. Image by Les Roches is licensed under CC BY 2.0

Craving something out of the ordinary? Asbury Park has a plethora of Asian restaurants offering flavorful food. Get your fill of delicious cuisine at one of these great Asian restaurants in Asbury Park. Taka Taka is located at 660 Cookman Ave. in Asbury Park and is open from noon until 10 p.m. on Sunday through Thursday and from noon until 11 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. Taka specializes in Japanese cuisines such as sushi and katsu. They have more than a dozen unique specialty sushi rolls that they created, including the crab mango or yuzu lobster rolls. Taka also serves sashimi and nigiri for those who most enjoy the taste of fish. The dinner options highlight some traditional Japanese dishes like chicken teriyaki, chicken katsu, and either soba or udon noodle soup. Bamboo Leaf Bamboo Leaf is located at 724 Main St. in Bradley Beach and is open on Sunday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 11:30 a.m. until 10 p.m., on Friday and Saturday from 11:30 a.m. until 10:30 p.m., and on Monday they are closed. If you like spicy Thai food, Bamboo Leaf is the place to go. Start your meal with an order of traditional spicy papaya salad that will leave you feeling refreshed. When it is time to order your entree, you can choose from curry, noodles, stir fry, or fried rice. more Yummy Yummy Chinese Restaurant Yummy Yummy Chinese Restaurant is located at 59 South Main St. in nearby Neptune. Yummy is only a few minutes away from Asbury Park, but if you want a quick Chinese meal, it's a great option. Their menu boasts all the classic American-Chinese dishes like General Tso's, sesame chicken, happy family, and triple delight. You can choose from pork, seafood, chicken, beef, or vegetable on any entree. Yummy even has lo mein and chow mein if you enjoy noodle dishes. Don't forget to order a crunchy egg roll or wonton soup with your meal too. MOGO Korean Fusion Tacos MOGO Korean Fusion Tacos is right in Asbury Park at 632 Cookman Ave. Their business hours are from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Sunday through Thursday and on Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. until 3 a.m. MOGO — the Korean word for "eat" — is fusion cuisine that takes spicy and flavorful Korean dishes and serves them in Mexican style. The dishes at MOGO are build-your-own. Start by picking the style in which you want your food to be served: a taco, a burrito, or a bowl. Next, pick from Korean-marinated BBQ rib-eye, soy-ginger marinated chicken thighs, cod with spicy mayo, spicy marinated pork belly, sweet and sour shrimp, or spicy tofu. Whichever option you choose comes topped with a type of slaw or pickled salad. If you happen to follow a low-carb diet, any of these tacos can be served on romaine lettuce leaves. Asbury Park has endless options if you like to dine on Asian food. Pick from Japanese, Thai, Chinese, and even Korean cuisines, and you will surely have a satisfying meal. Image by jeffreyw is licensed under CC BY 2.0

It's an indisputable fact that Asbury Park has one of the best beaches in the state of New Jersey. But there's more to do in this town than surf and play in the sun. Take a break from the waves, and go shopping at one of these top five eclectic boutiques. Surf Equipment and Art at Lightly Salted If you think the combination of art and surf is unlikely, then you'll be surprised at Lightly Salted. Although surf rules this shop's atmosphere, you don't have to be a surfer to enjoy it. Browse the shop for coastal art pieces and surf-style fashion and accessories, and if you're inclined to give it a go at riding the waves, you can sign up for some surf lessons. For longtime surfers, drop by to order your custom-made surfboard. Unique Outfits at Interwoven Fashion trends are overrated. What's the fun of looking like everyone else? Interwoven, a clothes and accessories shop, sets its path in the fashion industry by supporting a lot of unknown brands and introducing them to their customers. The owner's rule of thumb is if a piece catches her eye and sparks happiness, it finds its way into the collection. If you prefer established fashion designers, you'll also find more familiar pieces that the owner carefully selected. Vintage is Always In at Rebel Supply Co Rebel Supply Co. is the perfect vintage shop for indecisive buyers or anyone who loves to browse. It doesn't matter if you have a particular style or are obsessed with a specific brand's collection from two seasons ago, rest assured that here you will find what you're looking for. Keep an eye on Rebel Supply Co.'s Instagram page for Outfit of the Day suggestions and daily deals. Artisanal Goodies at Big Spoon Little Spoon This mom-and-pop shop is the perfect blend of the founder's skills and expertise. Matt's creative genius and Amy's knowledge in herbs and art come together every day at Big Spoon Little Spoon to make the best all-natural handcrafted products. Sourcing local, organic, and responsible ingredients as much as possible, the shop has a variety of plant-based soaps, body butters, and aloe vera lotions to choose from. The Soap Box gift set is a great way to introduce the brand to a friend or to buy for yourself as a pampering gift. Quirky Decor at Shelter Home Fun House Adding a fun piece here and there to your home decor is like wearing a colorful pair of socks with your suit. It's just adventurous enough to stay within the limits of your comfort zone. Well, at Shelter Home Fun House, you'll find those types of pieces. Even if you don't feel like changing anything in your house, a colorful kitchen accessory makes a great gift. A branch of the main store, the Shelter Home Fun House also has a collection of T-shirts and hoodies made in collaboration with local artists. By shopping at any of these boutiques, you'll support local businesses while finding unique pieces. Image by kezee is licensed under CC BY 2.0

Whether you're looking for something old fashioned or trendy in Asbury Park, these are the top five coffee shops where you can grab a cup of joe. Our suggestions are all about excellent service for both early birds and late risers. Booskerdoo Coffee & Baking Sometimes all you want is a steamy-hot cup of coffee in the morning and maybe a pastry on the side to kickstart the day. Well, Booskerdoo Coffee & Baking keeps it that simple. The staff roasts coffee beans and bakes the pastries on location, in front of the customers. Drip coffee and espressos are all made with beans from around the world. If you're not sure what to choose, they'll gladly point you in the right direction. Neon is a favorite drink with four shots of espresso mixed with 4 oz of steamed milk. more Café Volan At Café Volan, coffee is a high-quality product meant to be appreciated as a glass of fine wine. The caffeine kick is just a bonus. When it comes to what to order, regulars and new customers are unanimous in suggesting the cold brew. Hot options are also available if you're not a fan of iced coffee. If you want to have the same experience at home, you can ask about what coffee beans they used and buy a bag. High Voltage Seafront Café Are you in the mood for coffee with a sea view and some Polish-inspired snacks? Then the High Voltage Seafront Café is right up your alley. The menu is full of delicious food options, including to-die-for avocado toast and organic, homemade Polish pierogies. Don't expect the typical coffee drinks at this sun-bathed café on the Asbury Park Boardwalk, and assume nothing less than high-quality products and service. The lavender latte, hot or iced, is a customers' favorite. The Chat & Nibble With all the fashion trends around coffee drinking, are there any old-school traditional cafés left standing? In Asbury Park there are, and The Chat & Nibble is one of them. It has been in business for more than 30 years and is still serving happy clients their breakfast, brunch, and lunch. Just glance at the menu, and you'll notice that food is the main star here and coffee is just a drink included in the breakfast special. The drink pairs well with anything on the list, but clients swear by the huevos rancheros and the Asbury Hash Special. Twisted Tree Café When a coffee shop lists drinks named Bomb and Red Eye on the menu, you know it's serious about caffeine. But here, the owners also care about your health and offer a delicious selection of vegan and vegetarian smoothies. Creamy Berry, Green Monster, and Two to Mango are some of the most ordered drinks at the Twisted Tree Café. Drinking coffee is so embedded in our daily routines that we sometimes don't stop to savor it. With the rise of the so-called third wave of coffee, the drink is now less of a commodity and more of an affordable luxury, preferably locally sourced. Image by Alex Chan is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0

Deal Lake is a man-made lake that runs through several New Jersey towns. It is the largest freshwater lake in the coastal area, and it features several shallow ponds and channels that are fun to explore. Many private homes surround the lake, and there are several boat launches and some great fishing spots. Here are some of the ways to have fun on Deal Lake this fall. Fishing The shallow waters combined with the many lily pads and fallen trees attract many different species of fish. Since most of the lake is only 3-4 feet deep, the conditions are ideal for bass, carp, and even largemouth bass. Deal Lake is also very close to the shores of the Atlantic Ocean, and it has several areas where it drains into the ocean. This allows for many saltwater fish and species to make their way to the lake, so you can find oysters, clams, and blueback herring, along with many others. more Boating The lake is one of the few in New Jersey that allows unlimited horsepower engines, so you can launch your boat no matter what size it is. There are tons of coves and canals to explore if you want to take a slow ride around, but you can also speed through the calm waters for a little excitement. Just make sure to keep it down in the many no-wake zones. When you want to pick up the speeds, head east of Route 71 and west of Norwood Avenue. more Paddling Whether you prefer a kayak, canoe or a paddleboard, there are plenty of places to explore on Deal Lake. A slow paddle around the waters is sure to bring some beautiful scenery and views of wildlife along the shores. Make sure to look carefully, and you'll probably see painted turtles and even snapping turtles in the water. If you look up, you can find osprey, herons, and loons. If you don't have your own kayak or canoe, the Deal Lake Dock Co. rents them for both half and full days. It also offers guided tours if you want someone to show you around. This company makes it easy to rent with a waiver to complete and sign on its website, so you can get out on the water quickly and easily once you get there. Golfing There are several golf courses right around the lake. The William F. Larking Golf Course at Colonial Terrace sits at the end on the lake on the west side, and nearby there is also the Hollywood Golf Club and the Deal Golf and Country Club. If the little ones want to play, you can head toward the beach and go to the Asbury Eighteen Mini-Golf course for some beachfront mini-golf. There is always something to do on Deal Lake. Whether you want to spend time out on the water or stay on the shore, you can enjoy fishing, taking in the scenery, or looking for wildlife. Image via Flickr by Y, used under CC BY 2.0