Forbes Travel Guide has announced its 2026 Star Awards, and one New Jersey property has earned recognition among the winners who hail from more than 100 countries.
The Asbury Ocean Club Hotel, located at 1101 Ocean Ave. in Asbury Park, received a recommendation in the 68th annual awards program, which evaluates luxury hotels, spas, restaurants, ocean cruises and cruise restaurants worldwide.
The guide uses incognito inspectors who pose as everyday guests to evaluate properties against hundreds of standards, according to a Forbes article. The inspectors pay for their own stays while checking into hotels, trying spa treatments and dining at restaurants.
Inspectors also assess intangibles such as whether the location or design creates a strong sense of place.
According to the inspectors: “Stepping inside the Asbury Ocean Club Hotel, you might be forgiven for thinking you’ve accidentally stumbled into a private beachfront home. For starters, no one asks for your credit card upon check-in at this Asbury Park, New Jersey, property occupying the fourth floor of a 17-story building.”
The inspectors also said guests are “greeted warmly with a welcome drink and cool towel as your luggage is discreetly taken to your room and you’re enveloped in an air of barefoot luxury in a quaint corner of the Northeast.”
The travel guide touted the Asbury Ocean Club Hotel’s prime location overlooking the Atlantic.
“Perched one block from the beach and a breezy 75-minute drive from Manhattan or Philadelphia, the luxury hotel brings a taste of Hamptons elegance to this newly revitalized town along the Jersey Shore,” the inspectors noted.
“Sleek, glass-walled exteriors encapsulate warm interiors (Nicholas Nixon coffee table books, plush settees and roaring fireplaces) that attract a well-heeled crowd on cozy New England nights,” they added.
The team at the Asbury Ocean Club Hotel is elated by the honor.
“We are deeply honored to receive this recognition from Forbes for the third year in a row,” said Simon Little, area director of sales and marketing.
“This award is a testament to the dedication and passion of our entire team, who work tirelessly to create a truly memorable stay for every guest,” Little said. “From our oceanfront setting to our thoughtfully curated amenities and personalized service, we are committed to delivering an experience that reflects both the energy of Asbury Park and the highest standards of hospitality.”
“Asbury Park has an incredible spirit, and we are proud to help showcase the city on a global stage,” Little said.