Adopting a vegan lifestyle is often as much about community, convenience and variety as it is about ethics. If you find yourself in New Jersey (whether you live there, are passing through, or planning a visit) you’ll be pleasantly surprised by how many great vegan and plant-based dining options and wonderful places to stay await!
Why New Jersey is Vegan-Friendly
New Jersey has seen a steady rise in vegan and vegan-friendly restaurants in recent years. Plus, with the density of towns and cities in NJ, you’re often just a short drive or train ride from a decent vegan meal.
If you’re new to the state (or just new to vegan dining) here are some of the best spots around. I’ve grouped them by region or vibe to help you pick what suits you best.
When most people think of New Jersey, they picture busy boardwalks, casinos, or city skylines but beyond the crowds lies a surprisingly peaceful side of the state. Hidden between pine forests, lakes, wildlife refuges, and quiet coastal towns are some truly serene retreats perfect for vegan travellers seeking nature, comfort, and a gentle reset. From eco-cabins surrounded by forest trails to cozy coastal stays near vegan cafés, New Jersey has quietly become an underrated haven for mindful, plant-based explorers.
Top Vegan & Plant-Based Restaurants Worth Checking Out
If you’re new to the state (or just new to vegan dining) here are some of the best spots around. I’ve grouped them by region or vibe to help you pick what suits you best.
- Gaia & Loki (Jersey City): This fully vegan restaurant offers a broad and inventive menu. From “meatball subs” and empanadas to brunch dishes, it’s a great spot if you want variety and generous portions.
- Vegan AF (The Heights, Jersey City): A popular plant-based eatery for breakfast, lunch or dinner. Expect a range of vegan burgers, sandwiches, and jackfruit dishes, plus plenty of comfort food.
- Kaya’s Kitchen (Belmar, Jersey Shore): If you find yourself near the shore, Kaya’s Kitchen is a go-to for vegan comfort food with flair: burritos, seitan “steak”, vegan cheesesteaks and more!
- Luna Verde (Bradley Beach, Jersey Shore): For fans of Mexican-style food, Luna Verde serves up inventive vegan burritos, tacos, chimichangas and soy-chorizo nachos. A cheerful, flavour-packed choice!
- Simply Green Cafe (Ramsey, North Jersey): A friendly, all-vegan diner-style cafe. Think vegan wraps, “buffalo chicken” sandwiches, vegan French toast and comfort classics.
Tips for Vegan Living in NJ
- Embrace variety: New Jersey’s vegan scene isn’t limited to salads and smoothies - many places serve hearty, indulgent meals like burgers, cheesesteaks, pizzas and burritos!
- Don’t underestimate the Shore towns: beach towns like Belmar and Bradley Beach are great for vegan dining.
- Explore small cafés and bakeries: sometimes the best treats are found in smaller local spots!
Where to Stay? Peaceful Retreats for Vegan Travellers in New Jersey
When most people think of New Jersey, they picture busy boardwalks, casinos, or city skylines but beyond the crowds lies a surprisingly peaceful side of the state. Hidden between pine forests, lakes, wildlife refuges, and quiet coastal towns are some truly serene retreats perfect for vegan travellers seeking nature, comfort, and a gentle reset. From eco-cabins surrounded by forest trails to cozy coastal stays near vegan cafés, New Jersey has quietly become an underrated haven for mindful, plant-based explorers.
At Vegan vs Travel, we’re passionate about helping travellers find destinations that support a compassionate and sustainable lifestyle. Whether you're looking for vegan-friendly restaurants, eco-conscious accommodations, or nature-focused escapes around the world, our guides make it easier to travel in alignment with your values, without sacrificing comfort or adventure.
If you're craving a peaceful getaway where you can unwind, reconnect with nature, and enjoy plant-based dining options nearby, New Jersey offers more than you might expect. These six peaceful nature retreats combine sustainability, comfort, and vegan-friendly surroundings, making them ideal choices for a relaxing East Coast escape.
If travel for you is about meaning, not just miles, BetterTrips redefines what it means to travel responsibly. Their hand-picked properties across New Jersey reflect a commitment to sustainability - solar-powered cabins, homes with eco water systems, and hosts who source local vegan-friendly ingredients.
1. BetterTrips
If travel for you is about meaning, not just miles, BetterTrips redefines what it means to travel responsibly. Their hand-picked properties across New Jersey reflect a commitment to sustainability - solar-powered cabins, homes with eco water systems, and hosts who source local vegan-friendly ingredients.
Imagine waking up in a lakefront cottage surrounded by the sounds of birds and the smell of pine, knowing your stay supports local communities and minimises your footprint. From farm retreats offering organic plant-based breakfasts to eco-lodges near coastal trails, BetterTrips blends comfort and consciousness seamlessly.
Tip & trick: Book your stay during spring or early fall for milder weather and fewer crowds - plus, local farmers’ markets overflow with fresh vegan produce perfect for homemade meals!
For travellers who love combining cozy stays with curated adventures, Smartours brings together some of the best vacation rentals and guided experiences across New Jersey. Whether it’s a lakeside escape near Sussex County, a charming coastal retreat in Cape May, or a peaceful hideaway in the Pine Barrens, each stay is hand-picked to balance comfort with authentic local charm.
Tip & trick: Book your stay during spring or early fall for milder weather and fewer crowds - plus, local farmers’ markets overflow with fresh vegan produce perfect for homemade meals!
2. Smartours
For travellers who love combining cozy stays with curated adventures, Smartours brings together some of the best vacation rentals and guided experiences across New Jersey. Whether it’s a lakeside escape near Sussex County, a charming coastal retreat in Cape May, or a peaceful hideaway in the Pine Barrens, each stay is hand-picked to balance comfort with authentic local charm.
And if your wanderlust extends beyond the Garden State, Smartours’ Self-Guided Tour Packages open the door to a world of flexible exploration. From Japan’s timeless temples to Greece’s sun-kissed islands and Morocco’s desert landscapes, these itineraries blend freedom and structure effortlessly. You’ll enjoy thoughtfully chosen stays, smooth connections, and the freedom to follow your curiosity - making every trip feel both planned and spontaneous at once!
Few things feel better than a seaside morning with vegan pancakes and ocean air. Hotala curates a diverse range of coastal getaways - from cozy beach cottages to luxury condos near the shore.
For vegan and nature-loving travellers, the beaches of New Jersey (especially in Cape May and Long Beach Island) offer stunning sunrise yoga spots, vegan-friendly cafés, and calm, walkable boardwalks.
3. Hotala
Few things feel better than a seaside morning with vegan pancakes and ocean air. Hotala curates a diverse range of coastal getaways - from cozy beach cottages to luxury condos near the shore.
For vegan and nature-loving travellers, the beaches of New Jersey (especially in Cape May and Long Beach Island) offer stunning sunrise yoga spots, vegan-friendly cafés, and calm, walkable boardwalks.
Hotala’s platform lets you find properties that match your vibe - ocean-view balconies, private kitchens, or beachfront patios where you can unwind after a day of exploring!
Tip & trick: Try early morning beach walks with a smoothie in hand - it’s the perfect mindful moment before your day of exploring or kayaking.
If your ideal vacation mixes action with rest, StayAndPlay is your go-to platform. Their properties are often located near outdoor adventure hubs - from hiking in the Watchung Mountains to paddleboarding along lakes.
Tip & trick: Try early morning beach walks with a smoothie in hand - it’s the perfect mindful moment before your day of exploring or kayaking.
4. StayAndPlay
If your ideal vacation mixes action with rest, StayAndPlay is your go-to platform. Their properties are often located near outdoor adventure hubs - from hiking in the Watchung Mountains to paddleboarding along lakes.
Perfect for couples and families, their vacation homes offer everything you need for a balanced retreat - cozy interiors, nearby vegan-friendly dining spots, and access to both nature and local attractions.
Tip & trick: Use Stay and Play’s local recommendations to find hidden hiking trails or nature tours - many are led by local experts who care deeply about environmental preservation.
For travellers who love design, comfort, and eco-conscious style, Casai delivers boutique vacation rentals that feel like a blend of art and nature. Their New Jersey stays feature warm, minimalist décor and smart-home features powered by sustainability in mind.
Tip & trick: Use Stay and Play’s local recommendations to find hidden hiking trails or nature tours - many are led by local experts who care deeply about environmental preservation.
5. Casai
For travellers who love design, comfort, and eco-conscious style, Casai delivers boutique vacation rentals that feel like a blend of art and nature. Their New Jersey stays feature warm, minimalist décor and smart-home features powered by sustainability in mind.
Casai is perfect for vegan digital nomads or couples seeking a relaxing escape. Think cozy interiors, plant-filled spaces, and balconies overlooking lush green surroundings. The brand also collaborates with local artisans - a bonus for those who appreciate community-driven travel.
Tip & trick: Pack reusable essentials - bamboo utensils, refillable bottles, and travel mugs - so you can keep your trip eco-friendly while exploring Casai’s urban-chic neighbourhoods.
When you’re not soaking in the serenity of your retreat, get out on the water with Kayaking Near Me - a great resource for discovering the best paddle spots across the state.
You’ll find routes like Delaware River, Lake Hopatcong, and Barnegat Bay, each offering a mix of calm and adventure. The platform also provides safety guides, mapped routes, and insider tips - making it easy for eco-conscious travellers to explore responsibly.
Tip & trick: Always carry a reusable water bottle and reef-safe sunscreen when kayaking. Small steps make a big impact on preserving waterways and marine life.
If your travel heart beats for sandy toes and salty air, Oh My Beaches is your go-to hub. It’s a site created by beach lovers for beach lovers - offering travel inspiration, destination guides, and hidden coastal gems you won’t find in typical travel lists!
From the quiet shores of Rhode Island to the vibrant coastlines of North Carolina, Oh My Beaches celebrates the beauty of coastal living while encouraging mindful, eco-friendly travel.
Tip & trick: Combine your New Jersey trip with a day trip to nearby beach towns featured on Oh My Beaches - and always pack a vegan picnic to enjoy the view!
Being a vegan in New Jersey can be surprisingly easy - especially if you're staying near a city during your visit. With a growing number of dedicated vegan spots and many more “vegan-friendly” restaurants, you can enjoy everything from comfort food to brunch to ethnic cuisines made plant-based!
Even dining out with omni friends or family doesn’t have to limit your choices - many mainstream restaurants now offer vegan versions of burgers, pizzas, wraps or salads! If you’re exploring NJ’s coastal regions, vegan dining blends with beach-town charm: casual eateries, chill vibes, and food that doesn’t compromise on flavour or ethics. Oh and if you want to find more vegan places just try HappyCow or Abillion!
Tip & trick: Pack reusable essentials - bamboo utensils, refillable bottles, and travel mugs - so you can keep your trip eco-friendly while exploring Casai’s urban-chic neighbourhoods.
Nature and Adventure Experiences in New Jersey
Kayaking Adventures in New Jersey
When you’re not soaking in the serenity of your retreat, get out on the water with Kayaking Near Me - a great resource for discovering the best paddle spots across the state.
You’ll find routes like Delaware River, Lake Hopatcong, and Barnegat Bay, each offering a mix of calm and adventure. The platform also provides safety guides, mapped routes, and insider tips - making it easy for eco-conscious travellers to explore responsibly.
Tip & trick: Always carry a reusable water bottle and reef-safe sunscreen when kayaking. Small steps make a big impact on preserving waterways and marine life.
Beach Escapes and Coastal Inspiration with Oh My Beaches
If your travel heart beats for sandy toes and salty air, Oh My Beaches is your go-to hub. It’s a site created by beach lovers for beach lovers - offering travel inspiration, destination guides, and hidden coastal gems you won’t find in typical travel lists!
From the quiet shores of Rhode Island to the vibrant coastlines of North Carolina, Oh My Beaches celebrates the beauty of coastal living while encouraging mindful, eco-friendly travel.
Tip & trick: Combine your New Jersey trip with a day trip to nearby beach towns featured on Oh My Beaches - and always pack a vegan picnic to enjoy the view!
Final Thoughts
Being a vegan in New Jersey can be surprisingly easy - especially if you're staying near a city during your visit. With a growing number of dedicated vegan spots and many more “vegan-friendly” restaurants, you can enjoy everything from comfort food to brunch to ethnic cuisines made plant-based!
Even dining out with omni friends or family doesn’t have to limit your choices - many mainstream restaurants now offer vegan versions of burgers, pizzas, wraps or salads! If you’re exploring NJ’s coastal regions, vegan dining blends with beach-town charm: casual eateries, chill vibes, and food that doesn’t compromise on flavour or ethics. Oh and if you want to find more vegan places just try HappyCow or Abillion!
New Jersey’s charm also lies in its diversity - beaches, forests, and charming small towns that make every kind of traveller feel at home. Whether you’re checking into an eco-retreat with BetterTrips, booking a cozy rental with Rent By Owner, or relaxing by the shore with Hotala, you’ll find a space that speaks to your vegan and nature-loving spirit.
Add a splash of adventure through Kayaking Near Me, and unwind with coastal inspiration from Oh My Beaches - together, they make your New Jersey escape truly unforgettable.
Travel gently, eat kindly, and explore deeply - because sustainable journeys aren’t just good for the planet, they’re good for the soul.
Add a splash of adventure through Kayaking Near Me, and unwind with coastal inspiration from Oh My Beaches - together, they make your New Jersey escape truly unforgettable.
Travel gently, eat kindly, and explore deeply - because sustainable journeys aren’t just good for the planet, they’re good for the soul.
And if you’re planning your next mindful escape, Vegan vs Travel’s 2025 Vegan Backpacker Guide to Budgeting offers smart, sustainable travel hacks to make your journey both affordable and eco-friendly! (Top image source: Unsplash)
