Minerva's by the Sea
13 W 7th St, Barnegat Light, Long Beach Island, NJ 08006-1590
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About
5.0
#2 of 3 B&Bs in Barnegat LightLocation
4.9
Cleanliness
5.0
Service
4.9
Value
4.7
Minerva's is a year-round family-friendly bed and breakfast, with five units, all with private bath and comfortable distance/separation between each unit. One unit has a private entrance and a full kitchen. Free wi-fi, attractive library and lobby sitting areas. Two rooms have a private decks. Convenient to shops and restaurants, beaches and fishing.Rates from $265, including full breakfast,and use of beach tags, beach towels, beach chairs, and bikes.
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Property amenities
Free parking
Free High Speed Internet (WiFi)
Wifi
Free breakfast
Non-smoking hotel
Room features
Air conditioning
Room types
Non-smoking rooms
Family rooms
Good to know
HOTEL STYLE
Charming
Location
13 W 7th St, Barnegat Light, Long Beach Island, NJ 08006-1590
Getting there
Somewhat walkable
Places to stay are graded on a 0-100 scale. The higher the grade, the easier it is for travelers to find restaurants and things to do within walking distance.
Grade: 68 out of 100
68
Atlantic City Intl Airport
33.2 mi•
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Philadelphia Intl Airport
60.9 mi•
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Rental Cars
10 Restaurants
within 0.75 miles
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Detailed Reviews
Minerva's by the Sea, which I stumbled across while looking for something different and came across it on Living Social in 2012. The offer looked fantastic- there were two healthy breakfast included as well as a massage, bird watching and there was a lighthouse sightseeing tour going on at the time.
I went to Minerva’s bed and breakfast not knowing what to expect, and was totally and completely blown away by the ultra-modern accommodations, the scenic location of Minerva’s at the end of the island but more importantly the feeling of welcome and warmth that I receive from Miss Emma that weekend and every time I have gone through the years. .
If you're looking for a place to step away from the hustle and bustle of work, school, family or just need to be rejuvenated while reflecting and walking on the beach there is no place like Minerva’s by the Sea. I have come to think of Minervas’ as I'm riding across the bridge to the island and then completing the trip down the island to Minerva’s…each time I do it I feel like I'm going home and maybe you can have that feeling too.
I went to Minerva’s bed and breakfast not knowing what to expect, and was totally and completely blown away by the ultra-modern accommodations, the scenic location of Minerva’s at the end of the island but more importantly the feeling of welcome and warmth that I receive from Miss Emma that weekend and every time I have gone through the years. .
If you're looking for a place to step away from the hustle and bustle of work, school, family or just need to be rejuvenated while reflecting and walking on the beach there is no place like Minerva’s by the Sea. I have come to think of Minervas’ as I'm riding across the bridge to the island and then completing the trip down the island to Minerva’s…each time I do it I feel like I'm going home and maybe you can have that feeling too.
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Date of stay: January 2020
Rooms
Cleanliness
Service
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from lbilady10, Owner at Minerva's by the Sea
Responded Feb 7, 2020
We're so glad that what we try to do here--to nourish body, mind, and spirit--works for you!! See you soon!
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
I reviewed Minerva's several years ago after my first stay, and having just spent a second vacation there I wanted to update my review. Everything remains as it was: perfect. Barnegat Light is a little slice of beach paradise on LBI, and Emma at Minerva's adds to that feeling. The rooms are clean and well-maintained, the location can't be beat, the breakfasts--both for the quality of food served and conversation that emerges--unforgettable. There continue to be only positive reviews posted here and with good reason. There is no better place to stay on LBI both for the price and the performance. Period.
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Date of stay: August 2014Trip type: Traveled with family
Value
Service
Sleep Quality
Room Tip:Â All rooms are good but Mermaid and Neptune have lovely front-facing decks. Mermaid is bigger but...
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from lbilady10, Owner at Minerva's by the Sea
Responded May 30, 2016
Hi Corey, just scrolling through Trip Advisor and noticed again your kind words about your stay in 2014! I'm really looking forward to your family's annual visit this summer--2016!
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Our long weekend in Barnegat Light was our first visit to Long Beach Island, and we were looking for someplace to stay that could also accommodate our daughter and son-in-law. Of course, at the height of the summer season, all B&Bs require a minimum stay. Owner Emma Lapnasky cheerfully helped my husband work out reservations that met the requirements of our different schedules (different arrival times and departure dates).
When we arrived, we were greeted by Emma, who is as friendly in person as she was over the phone. The B&B itself is plainly, but comfortably furnished -- it reminded me of staying at my favorite aunt's house. Our room (Neptune) had a mini fridge, perfect for chilling drinks and preserving leftovers from our dinners out, and also a balcony, which got a nice breeze -- perfect for reading in the early evening. The lobby is reminiscent of a family room -- it has a regulation size fridge stocked with bottled water and soda ($1 per bottle or can, payment on the honor system), as well as ice; comfy sofas to lounge in, and a table stocked with jigsaw puzzles. I spent a lot of time in the library, either sitting at the table with my laptop or relaxing in one of the two lounge chairs. There are luxurious, plush towels in the bathroom, and basic shampoo, conditioner, and soap.
Breakfast is served at a communal table, with the host(s) presiding. One morning, Emma read an excerpt from a book about birds, made all the more enjoyable because of Emma's insights and her lovely speaking voice. Another morning, host Bob made us breakfast while he told us stories of his travels around the world. In fact, what really sets Minerva's apart from other B&Bs is the hosts, who really make guests feel like family.
Minerva's was designed so that the bedrooms are separated from each other by other rooms, and the walls are well insulated, so all the bedrooms are quiet. There's also an elevator, for those who can't manage the stairs.
Minerva's is also next door to the excellent Poppy's ice cream parlor, just down the street from Kubel's, a popular and very good restaurant, and is just under a mile walk over flat streets to Viking Village, which has some cute shops and a great take-out restaurant, as well as an independent coffee shop. For those who like local history and nature, the lighthouse, local museum, and nature trail are 2 to 3 blocks north.
If you're looking for more shopping or activities (like mini golf), it's easy to drive south on LBI, or take the free shuttle bus, which stops right by Minerva's.
The only drawback is that no matter where you stay in Barnegat Light, you have to cross the dunes to get to the beach (I recommend bringing beach chairs with aluminum frames and plastic arms, because they're much lighter and easier to carry than the chairs with wood arms). There's a shuttle, but when we were there, it kept getting stuck in the soft sand. On the other hand, the area is really flat and great for biking (and Minerva's has a couple of bikes for guests to borrow, bring your own helmet).
Many of the guests while we were there have come back year after year, and I can understand why.
When we arrived, we were greeted by Emma, who is as friendly in person as she was over the phone. The B&B itself is plainly, but comfortably furnished -- it reminded me of staying at my favorite aunt's house. Our room (Neptune) had a mini fridge, perfect for chilling drinks and preserving leftovers from our dinners out, and also a balcony, which got a nice breeze -- perfect for reading in the early evening. The lobby is reminiscent of a family room -- it has a regulation size fridge stocked with bottled water and soda ($1 per bottle or can, payment on the honor system), as well as ice; comfy sofas to lounge in, and a table stocked with jigsaw puzzles. I spent a lot of time in the library, either sitting at the table with my laptop or relaxing in one of the two lounge chairs. There are luxurious, plush towels in the bathroom, and basic shampoo, conditioner, and soap.
Breakfast is served at a communal table, with the host(s) presiding. One morning, Emma read an excerpt from a book about birds, made all the more enjoyable because of Emma's insights and her lovely speaking voice. Another morning, host Bob made us breakfast while he told us stories of his travels around the world. In fact, what really sets Minerva's apart from other B&Bs is the hosts, who really make guests feel like family.
Minerva's was designed so that the bedrooms are separated from each other by other rooms, and the walls are well insulated, so all the bedrooms are quiet. There's also an elevator, for those who can't manage the stairs.
Minerva's is also next door to the excellent Poppy's ice cream parlor, just down the street from Kubel's, a popular and very good restaurant, and is just under a mile walk over flat streets to Viking Village, which has some cute shops and a great take-out restaurant, as well as an independent coffee shop. For those who like local history and nature, the lighthouse, local museum, and nature trail are 2 to 3 blocks north.
If you're looking for more shopping or activities (like mini golf), it's easy to drive south on LBI, or take the free shuttle bus, which stops right by Minerva's.
The only drawback is that no matter where you stay in Barnegat Light, you have to cross the dunes to get to the beach (I recommend bringing beach chairs with aluminum frames and plastic arms, because they're much lighter and easier to carry than the chairs with wood arms). There's a shuttle, but when we were there, it kept getting stuck in the soft sand. On the other hand, the area is really flat and great for biking (and Minerva's has a couple of bikes for guests to borrow, bring your own helmet).
Many of the guests while we were there have come back year after year, and I can understand why.
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Date of stay: August 2015Trip type: Traveled as a couple
Value
Location
Service
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Minerva's by the Sea B&B
Minerva's is my go-to get away place. After experiencing the sterility of a hotel room, I found the friendliness and comfort of Minerva's a perfect fit. I have never been a bed and breakfast person but Minerva's is like staying at the beautiful home of a friend. It is contemporary and immaculate. There are bikes, beach chairs and towels for the guests' use. The big bonus is Emma's gourmet cooking. She is gracious, friendly and engaging. The fact that it is open year round is a plus. When I need to get to the ocean, I go to Minerva's.
Minerva's is my go-to get away place. After experiencing the sterility of a hotel room, I found the friendliness and comfort of Minerva's a perfect fit. I have never been a bed and breakfast person but Minerva's is like staying at the beautiful home of a friend. It is contemporary and immaculate. There are bikes, beach chairs and towels for the guests' use. The big bonus is Emma's gourmet cooking. She is gracious, friendly and engaging. The fact that it is open year round is a plus. When I need to get to the ocean, I go to Minerva's.
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Date of stay: June 2014Trip type: Traveled solo
Value
Rooms
Location
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep Quality
Room Tip:Â The Mermaid room is my favorite. It has a balcony with a view of the bay.
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
I went to Minerva's By the Sea just about 1 week post-Labor Day. I love Barnegat Light, but had never stayed in town. I choose this B&B over other places because of the kind way Emma was written about by other reviewers. I'm so happy we stayed here!
We (my fiance' and I) knew we'd be arriving after hours, and arrangments were made for self-check in. However, even with our after-hours arrival, Emma (owner) came downstairs when she heard us coming in to greet & introduce herself, and offer assistance if needed. She was smiling, kind and gentle towards us weary travelers.
We settled into our room (Mermaid) which in addition to the bed we slept in, also had a day bed that we didn't use. Our bed was very comfortable, and placed next to the sliding screen door which led to a cute balcony just off the room. We liked being able to sleep with the door open/screen closed so we could smell the fresh air, and hear the buoy every now and then way off in the distance. Comforting. The room also had a nice size flat screen tv, free wi-fi, small fridge, and private bath. We were exhausted, and slept very well. We woke up to the wonderful smell of good coffee, so nice.
When we made our reservation, we told Emma that we are both vegans. Emma asked a few questions at the time, and indicated she would do her best to accommodate us. The fact is, Emma went out of her way for us, and we give especially high marks here. We were treated to a bountiful, gorgeous and varied breakfast every day. There were choices of granola, rice milk, soy yogurt, divine Italian pastry, pitas, gourmet nuts, fresh warm peppers roasted by Emma herself, fresh fruits, hummus, and more... all of it vegan. I could tell by the items Emma chose that quite a bit of thought went into providing a healthy, nutritious, beautiful breakfast which was also artfully plated and served with pride. This made us feel very special, as we are sadly quite accustomed to most places making no effort whatsoever for us. Not the case here, quite the opposite! Hooray!
Our room, along with the rest of the inn, was sparkling clean. The B&B has a nice sized library/activity room which has a wall full of books to browse & borrow, as well as games and activities for young to old. There are also bicycles available, which I used for hours one day when my fiance' had to take the car out of town for business one entire day. I pedaled all the way to the center of the island and back, sightseeing, taking photos, and stopping somewhere along the way for a snack.
We found the location of Minerva's to be nice. Relatively quiet, yet set very close to the main road, which is convenient for the small amount of lovely shops and such. Actually, many of the places are already closed this time of year (shops/restaurants) which is one of the things that draws us this time of year. The shops that were open were very close by, and I biked to them all, chatting with the shopkeepers who also were very friendly.
Beach towels and badges (needed on season) are provided as well. We went to the beach an entire day, but didn't need either as we were there to shell seek and do photography. Barnegat Light beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in the world in my opinion. I just love wandering through the dune paths to get to the beach, and then walking up and down watching the birds and waves, finally making my way to the inlet to watch whatever may be going on.
Back to Minerva's...Emma was almost constantly smiling. She was a true delight to speak with especially during breakfast, sharing ideas, knowledge and stories freely. We plan to visit again, next time hopefully staying even longer, and also probably staying in the room that has a small kitchen. We really liked that option for another autumn visit next year, being "special needs" travelers, its a great thing to stash a few extra groceries and be able to prepare light meals when restaurants aren't as readily open or don't have things that can suit our special needs.
Thank you Emma. Your efforts are well noted, and we are so grateful for your kind, thoughtful hospitality. We love Barnegat Light, and now have a great place to stay when we get down the shore again. We're looking forward to a stay next year, and are happily telling our friends about you!
We (my fiance' and I) knew we'd be arriving after hours, and arrangments were made for self-check in. However, even with our after-hours arrival, Emma (owner) came downstairs when she heard us coming in to greet & introduce herself, and offer assistance if needed. She was smiling, kind and gentle towards us weary travelers.
We settled into our room (Mermaid) which in addition to the bed we slept in, also had a day bed that we didn't use. Our bed was very comfortable, and placed next to the sliding screen door which led to a cute balcony just off the room. We liked being able to sleep with the door open/screen closed so we could smell the fresh air, and hear the buoy every now and then way off in the distance. Comforting. The room also had a nice size flat screen tv, free wi-fi, small fridge, and private bath. We were exhausted, and slept very well. We woke up to the wonderful smell of good coffee, so nice.
When we made our reservation, we told Emma that we are both vegans. Emma asked a few questions at the time, and indicated she would do her best to accommodate us. The fact is, Emma went out of her way for us, and we give especially high marks here. We were treated to a bountiful, gorgeous and varied breakfast every day. There were choices of granola, rice milk, soy yogurt, divine Italian pastry, pitas, gourmet nuts, fresh warm peppers roasted by Emma herself, fresh fruits, hummus, and more... all of it vegan. I could tell by the items Emma chose that quite a bit of thought went into providing a healthy, nutritious, beautiful breakfast which was also artfully plated and served with pride. This made us feel very special, as we are sadly quite accustomed to most places making no effort whatsoever for us. Not the case here, quite the opposite! Hooray!
Our room, along with the rest of the inn, was sparkling clean. The B&B has a nice sized library/activity room which has a wall full of books to browse & borrow, as well as games and activities for young to old. There are also bicycles available, which I used for hours one day when my fiance' had to take the car out of town for business one entire day. I pedaled all the way to the center of the island and back, sightseeing, taking photos, and stopping somewhere along the way for a snack.
We found the location of Minerva's to be nice. Relatively quiet, yet set very close to the main road, which is convenient for the small amount of lovely shops and such. Actually, many of the places are already closed this time of year (shops/restaurants) which is one of the things that draws us this time of year. The shops that were open were very close by, and I biked to them all, chatting with the shopkeepers who also were very friendly.
Beach towels and badges (needed on season) are provided as well. We went to the beach an entire day, but didn't need either as we were there to shell seek and do photography. Barnegat Light beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in the world in my opinion. I just love wandering through the dune paths to get to the beach, and then walking up and down watching the birds and waves, finally making my way to the inlet to watch whatever may be going on.
Back to Minerva's...Emma was almost constantly smiling. She was a true delight to speak with especially during breakfast, sharing ideas, knowledge and stories freely. We plan to visit again, next time hopefully staying even longer, and also probably staying in the room that has a small kitchen. We really liked that option for another autumn visit next year, being "special needs" travelers, its a great thing to stash a few extra groceries and be able to prepare light meals when restaurants aren't as readily open or don't have things that can suit our special needs.
Thank you Emma. Your efforts are well noted, and we are so grateful for your kind, thoughtful hospitality. We love Barnegat Light, and now have a great place to stay when we get down the shore again. We're looking forward to a stay next year, and are happily telling our friends about you!
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Date of stay: September 2010Trip type: Traveled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Minerva’s has everything you would want in a beach getaway. Everything is done with quality and the personal touch in mind. You are welcomed for who you are and you are free to enjoy yourself. We loved the beach and this stretch of the island is not crowded. Minerva’s has towels, chairs, boards and toys for you to borrow. The breakfasts are wonderful and catered to your taste and the balcony is a wonderful place to enjoy the morning. We borrowed bikes to explore the area. (Ice cream next door!) The reading room has interesting books on American history and culture as well as fiction faves. Our kids enjoyed the toys. Highly recommend.
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Date of stay: July 2019Trip type: Traveled with family
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from lbilady10, Owner at Minerva's by the Sea
Responded Jul 12, 2019
It's always satisfying to us at Minerva's when we can make a vacation feel really nurturing for weary vacationers! Sometimes it seems our world moves so FAST, and so cookie-cutter. We aim to offer a slowed-down, relaxed setting with a little something to help each guest feel that ahhhhh feeling of being rested.
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
When you stay at Minerva's, you feel truly cared for! You will be greeted with a warm and cozy atmosphere to unwind after your trip to LBI. The manager, Emma, has a huge heart and loves to bring people together around a breakfast table where she will graciously make you a delicious hot meal! Overall, a wonderful place to hang your hat on vacation and feel restored!
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Date of stay: July 2016Trip type: Traveled with family
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from lbilady10, Owner at Minerva's by the Sea
Responded Aug 26, 2016
Hi Olivia D., it was great to host you, and I'm glad you enjoyed yourself enough to say so publicly! I built this place for folks like you, and will look forward to hosting you soon again! Thanks! Emma
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Minerva's is not just a bed and breakfast. It is a dream in the making by proprietor Emma Lasansky, a semi-retired Haverford professor. With her vision comes a three story (with elevator) house with a yoga studio downstairs, an airy kitchen with ample deck upstairs, and bedrooms of various sizes in between. There's also a well-stocked, sun-lit library, free bikes and occasional workshops available to guests. Best of all, it is within walking distance of everything in Barnegat Light and is open all year. The custom-made breakfasts are delicious and Emma is great company, if you're feeling social. Love the vibe of this place - i will be back!
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Date of stay: April 2015Trip type: Traveled with family
Value
Location
Service
Room Tip:Â an elevator is available to reach all floors.
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
I called Minerva's on a whim when considering an overnight stay in Barnegat Light, the quiet end of Long Beach Island, even though they had a 3-night minimum in season. Fortunately, proprietor Emma told me that they just happened to have one room for the very night we planned to visit. Perfect! The available room was the Emperor Penguin suite, which had a kitchenette and separate sitting area with trundle bed. Though we didn't need that much space, we were happy to have the opportunity to stay there for the night. The rooms were bright and clean, Emma's wonderful gourmet omelet (brie, arugula, and basil) was a treat, and the location was ideal. Emma is a lovely person and chatting with her at breakfast time was a delight. Beach tags are available as are beach chairs and bicycles. Overall, a wonderful experience. Highly recommended!
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Date of stay: July 2014Trip type: Traveled as a couple
Rooms
Cleanliness
Service
Room Tip:Â Ask for the rooms with the balconies.
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Just had a lovely, serene weekend at Minerva's and can't wait to go back. The room was great, with a lovely balcony facing the bay. Breakfasts were awesome, especially the waffles. Emma was the most wonderful host, and makes you feel so welcome. Fabulous b&b!
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Date of stay: July 2014Trip type: Traveled with family
Location
Service
Sleep Quality
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Glad we could talk by phone. Sorry we couldn't help you. Hope the White Whale had space. Pls call again when your travels bring you back this way.
LOCATION
United StatesNew JerseyJersey ShoreLong Beach IslandBarnegat Light
NUMBER OF ROOMS
2
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Frequently Asked Questions about Minerva's by the Sea
Which popular attractions are close to Minerva's by the Sea?
Nearby attractions include Barnegat Lighthouse State Park (0.3 miles), Viking Village, Inc. (0.7 miles), and Barnegat Light Museum (0.1 miles).
What are some of the property amenities at Minerva's by the Sea?
Some of the more popular amenities offered include free wifi, free breakfast, and free parking.
What food & drink options are available at Minerva's by the Sea?
Guests can enjoy free breakfast during their stay.
What are some restaurants close to Minerva's by the Sea?
Conveniently located restaurants include Mustache Bill's Diner, Kubel's, and How You Brewin' Coffee Bar.
Are there any historical sites close to Minerva's by the Sea?
Many travelers enjoy visiting Rock Run Gristmill (8.6 miles).
Is Minerva's by the Sea accessible?
Yes, it offers wheelchair access. For specific inquiries, we recommend calling ahead to confirm.