BookTowne is a book store in Manasquan, NJ. Open: Mon–Sat 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM; Sun 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM. Phone: (732) 722-7255. Average rating is 4.9 stars from 84 reviews. Website: http://www.booktowne.com/.
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People gathered outside BookTowne, a local bookstore.
4.9 84 reviews Today 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Your Next Favorite Book Awaits on Main Street

A magical independent bookstore and gift shop beloved by Manasquan locals and shore visitors alike.

About Us

Exterior view of BookTowne with books displayed in windows.
Exterior view of BookTowne with books displayed in windows.

On Main Street in Manasquan, BookTowne has earned a 4.9-star reputation not by being the biggest bookstore around, but by being the most carefully curated. Every shelf tells you someone who genuinely loves books put it together. Classics sit beside debut novels, local authors share space with international bestsellers, and the gift section surprises you with artworks and finds you didn't know you needed until you spotted them.

Step inside and the atmosphere does something to you. Customers describe it as enchanting, and that word keeps coming up in review after review for a reason. The layout invites wandering. The light is warm. The kind of place where you pop in for one thing and resurface forty minutes later with three books and a smile you can't quite explain.

BookTowne is the rare independent that feels genuinely irreplaceable to its community. It's the spot locals bring out-of-town guests to show off, the place shore-goers circle back to visit again. At 171 Main St, it proves that a great bookstore is never just about the books.

What We Offer

BookTowne stocks a thoughtfully assembled range of new releases, literary classics, children's titles, and regional interest books that reflect the character of the Jersey Shore. Whether you're hunting for a specific title or open to discovery, the collection rewards both approaches. Staff picks and curated displays make browsing genuinely fun rather than overwhelming.

Beyond books, the shop doubles as a destination gift shop, stocked with artworks, unique goods, and one-of-a-kind finds that make it easy to leave with something special for someone else or a little treat for yourself. It's the kind of selection that makes gift-giving feel personal again.

The store also serves as a community gathering point, hosting author events and readings that bring readers together around shared stories. If you're visiting Manasquan for the weekend, a stop at BookTowne is the kind of local experience you'll remember long after the tan fades.

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Take a look at our space and what we have to offer

“What a wonderful bookstore on Main Street in Manasquan. A great environment and atmosphere and a nice collection of books and other artworks. Highly recommend!”

— Bernard Jeremy

What Our Customers Say

Don't just take our word for it - hear from our satisfied customers

Click to Rate & Review This Business ✍️
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
4 months ago
"What a wonderful bookstore on Main Street in Manasquan. A great environment and atmosphere and a nice collection of books and other artworks. Highly recommend!"
— Bernard Jeremy
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
10 months ago
"⸻ A Truly Magical Bookstore This bookstore is pure enchantment. Yes, it has books—classics, new releases, and everything in between—but it’s so much more than that. Every shelf and corner is filled with beautiful surprises: whimsical stationery, charming book-themed bags, handmade candles and soaps, delightful toys, and decorative art that makes you want to stay and explore. Many of the classic novels come in unique, beautifully colored editions that feel like treasures. The entire space has a warm, cozy, almost fairytale-like atmosphere that invites you to slow down and enjoy. It’s not just a place to buy books—it’s a place to wander, to discover, and to fall a little bit in love with reading all over again."
— Diane Desimini
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
4 months ago
"What an amazing gem of a bookstore and gift shop. It is the most charming spot! I found fantastic gifts during a quick stop, and I look forward to going back to explore more. It’s so rare to find a shop like this."
— Breit
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
7 months ago
"This is the cutest book shop, I really enjoyed my time wandering finding good reads and also checking out all the gifts/souvenirs. Loved the vibe in here, it fits this small town perfectly."
— Ruba Abdul-Raziq
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
2 months ago
"Completely warms my heart and soul every time we walk in here. Pure peace. My kids love it here too!"
— Meghan Kosequat

Frequently Asked Questions

Where exactly is BookTowne located?

BookTowne is at 171 Main Street in Manasquan, NJ 08736, right in downtown Main Street shopping district, easy to find on foot or by car.

Is BookTowne only a bookstore, or does it carry other items?

It's both. BookTowne operates as a bookstore and a gift shop, carrying artworks and unique gift items alongside its curated book selection. Many customers come in for a book and leave with a gift for someone, too.

What kinds of books does BookTowne carry?

The shop stocks a wide range including new releases, literary classics, children's books, and titles with local or regional interest. The selection is curated rather than exhaustive, which means quality over quantity.

Does BookTowne host author events or readings?

Yes. BookTowne hosts author events and community readings throughout the year. Check their website at booktowne.com for the current event calendar and upcoming appearances.

Is BookTowne a good spot for gift shopping?

Absolutely. Multiple reviewers specifically highlight the gift shop side of the store. You'll find artworks and distinctive items that are hard to find elsewhere, making it a reliable stop when you need something genuinely thoughtful.

Is BookTowne worth visiting if I'm just in Manasquan for the weekend?

Strongly yes. It consistently ranks among the highlights visitors mention about Manasquan. Budget more time than you think you'll need since most people end up staying longer than planned.

How can I find out about new arrivals or upcoming events?

The best way is to visit their website at booktowne.com, where they share new arrivals, staff picks, and event announcements. Stopping in regularly is also its own reward.

Hours of Operation

Closed · Opens Sunday at 11:00 AM
Monday 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Tuesday 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Wednesday 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Thursday 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Friday 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Saturday Today 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Sunday 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
91° Clear Manasquan
Sat 100° 76°
Sun 84° 73°
Mon 74° 71°
Tue 76° 68°
Wed 76° 67°
Thu 91° 69°
Fri 93° 76°

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