Local lifestyle + wedding photographer, Veronica Grimm, has lived on the coast of New Jersey nearly all of her life. Although a New York native, her family visited the Jersey Shore every summer, until finally nestling themselves into their own beach home. She now lives in Long Branch, NJ, and has passed on her deep love for the beautiful hidden beaches to her two adorable daughters. We asked Veronica to give us a locals guide to the area, including her favourite beaches and food spots, all captured on film…

What’s your favourite thing about living here?

New Jersey beaches are unexpectedly beautiful. The summer crowds can be overwhelming, but there is still so much to love. September is the most magical month, where we celebrate “Local Summer”. We get our beaches back, our dogs can roam free, and there is a certain calmness that washes over the area after a bustling season comes to an end. Being close to Asbury Park, a city overrun with culture, grit + history, is a big bonus for us. It may not be California, but I fully embrace this place I call home.

What are your favourite beaches in the area?

Surprisingly, Long Branch isn’t my favourite beach (at least not in the summer). I grew up going to Sandy Hook National Seashore, which is still a favourite place in the off season. It is a treasure, with so many nooks and crannies to explore and photograph, golden hour especially. We almost always go to Deal, where we can surf and chill out on a less crowded beach. As you can tell, we really aim for mellow.

If you’re wanting to find a spot a little further away, my parents have had a beach home in Wildwood Crest over 20 years. It’s a long stretch of beaches and what seems to be a forever low tide, has made this an idyllic spot for our kids. Cape May is close by with it’s charming shops, historic Victorian homes and a humble lighthouse. A cocktail at Congress Hall should not be missed.

Where do you get your caffeine fix?

Cafe Volan has been our go-to local coffee shop. We love it because of the quality coffee, good vibes and the awesome owners we get to call friends. Supporting our local spots is important to us.

Best spots for a bite out?

This one is tough! We are incredibly lucky to have some amazingly talented friends and family in the local food industry so it’s hard to narrow it down, but I’ll try! Cardinal has been our go-to for breakfast since they opened their doors. Talulas for incredible pizza, Netties House of Spaghetti for the best Italian, Seed to Sprout for the best Vegan cuisine, The Grand Tavern for the best burger. Each of these restaurants are small businesses run by hardworking and passionate people. If you ever come to visit, be prepared to eat!

Best hidden gem…

Island Beach State Park is one of our absolute favourite escapes. My parents used to bring me as a kid and it’s been so special taking our girls, especially with them. We have camped there overnight and it’s still a top summer memory. Waking up to the sunrise over the ocean, collecting shells, and cooking clams over an open fire can not be beat. With it’s silky soft sand, towering dunes and a widespread beach, this little slice of heaven makes you forget you’re in NJ at all.