Beloved Jersey Shore Bar Celebrates 50 Years In Business

SEA BRIGHT, NJ — A beloved Jersey Shore bar recently celebrated 50 years in business.

On Saturday, Donovan's Reef in Sea Bright hosted a 50-year anniversary celebration, with giveaways, limited-time drinks, merch and more throughout the weekend.

An iconic shore destination since the late 70s, the bar has been recognized by multiple publications over the years, and was most recently voted amongst the best beach bars in the U.S. in USA Today's 10 Best Series.

• Read More: Monmouth County Bar Voted Amongst Best Beach Bars In The U.S.

Monmouth County Commissioner Director Thomas Arnone also declared Aug. 10, 2026, as Donovan's Reef Day — marking the exact 50th anniversary of the bar's grand opening in 1976.

"It’s an incredible honor as we celebrate five decades of memories with our amazing community," the bar said in an online post.

Through the Open for Business in Monmouth initiative, the Board of County Commissioners congratulated bar owners Michael Cardelfe, Christine Carducci and Bob Phillips on their anniversary.

“My fellow Commissioners and I are thrilled to support all of our businesses and are excited to recognize milestone achievements such as Donovan’s Reef’s 50 years in business,” Arnone said.

“Donovan’s Reef has been voted ‘One of the Top 21 Beach Bars in America,’ and their location offers beautiful ocean views, a private beach with lifeguards, live music and great food,” he continued. “Congratulations on 50 years and best wishes in all your future endeavors!”

The Open for Business in Monmouth initiative is designed to support, promote and celebrate businesses in all 53 Monmouth County municipalities.

Business operators, municipalities and chambers of commerce are invited to request county participation in, or coordination of, ribbon cutting ceremonies for new businesses, expansions, relocations, grand openings and milestone anniversaries.

Businesses marking a significant anniversary are also encouraged to contact openforbusiness@visitmonmouth.com to find out more.

To learn more about Donovan's Reef, you can visit their website.

Donovan's Reef is located at 1171 Ocean Avenue, Sea Bright.

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• Monmouth County Bar Voted Amongst Best Beach Bars In The U.S.