History of the Berkeley Oceanfront Hotel

Beaux-Arts Architecture on the New Jersey Shore

Since our grand opening in 1925, the Berkeley Oceanfront Hotel has been a choice locale for hosting world leaders, dignitaries, and Hollywood royalty. With a guest history boasting names like Frank Sinatra, Judy Garland, and Marilyn Monroe, the hotel is no stranger to the glitz and glamor of the high life. The Berkeley was co-owned by music legend Johnny Cash in the 1980s, and had the historic distinction of hosting the Miss America Pageant in 1934 and 1935.

During World War II, our hotel underwent a remarkable transformation, first serving as a receiving station for the British Royal Navy and later metamorphosing into a hospital for naval officers. The Berkeley was known as HMS Asbury during the war, one of many of the hotel's diverse roles throughout its rich history.

Making a triumphant comeback after a period of decline and a significant $20 million renovation, today's Berkeley Oceanfront Hotel stands as Asbury Park's final bastion of its gilded past. As you stroll through our meticulously restored interiors, you'll also find echoes of a 1920s ambiance, precisely the period when Yankee legends Babe Ruth and Lou Gehrig dined within our walls. Our historic ballrooms are the perfect stage for life's significant celebrations, harkening back to a time when grandeur was not just a style but a statement.

Whether you're a history enthusiast, a music lover, or just seeking an extraordinary retreat, the Berkeley Oceanfront Hotel offers a unique experience. Visit today and be a part of a story that has been in the making since 1925.