Now that the summer season is in full effect, our favorite beach bars are up and running. For the ultimate Jersey Shore experience head over to Donovan’s Reef in Sea Bright, where the scent of the salty Atlantic greets you from the parking lot.

For you movie fanatics, Donovan’s Reef was established in 1976 and named after the famous John Wayne comedy coincidentally titled Donovan’s Reef. This 1960’s film is about a former sailor who owns a bar on a South Pacific island after WWII, called you guessed it…Donovan’s Reef.

This small bar is not only reserved for after hours fun, Donovan’s is a hotspot for daytime drinking as well. Guests can come in their bathing suits, lay on the beach, listen to music and enjoy the drinks that the tiki bars have to offer. Donovan’s is a private lifeguarded beach bar so you’re more than welcome to get in touch with your inner Michael Phelps out in the waves.  You most certainly won’t leave hungry either with their grill that is open daily from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. serving some of your summer favorites.

It’s not uncommon for the regulars to stay through the night, as many patrons are still donning their cover-ups and tan lines well into the early morning hours. It’s the ultimate laid back, beach bum, real Jersey Shore atmosphere.

If you prefer not to get sand in your shoes, there are a few small outdoor bars on the other side of the boardwalk as well as a full indoor bar. Inside you’ll find a stage that is home to many live bands whose music keeps everyone singing and dancing.

Make sure you check out their Web site with full a calendar of events and for you social media savvy people out there, follow them on twitter for instant updates on everything Donovan’s.

Some helpful tips that my friends and I learned the hard way this past Memorial Day Weekend. Donovan’s does in fact have cover, and no they don’t accept credit cards, so make sure you come with that cash money!

*Located at 1171 Ocean Avenue in Sea Bright