The Garden State has 130 miles of gorgeous coastline, and, when combined with numerous resplendent rivers and lovely lakes, we definitely don't have a shortage of scenic beauty. So there's nothing better on a beautiful day than dining on delicious food while enjoying those scenic views at some of the best waterfront restaurants in New Jersey  And yet, with so many from which to choose, where does one begin? Read on as we these 14 incredible New Jersey waterfront restaurants that will have you clamoring for more!

1. Alice's, Lake Hopatcong

Enjoy delicious "new-American" cuisine, a full bar, live music on the lower level, and sprawling lakefront views. Dine indoors or opt for the outdoor patio at this bucket-list-worthy restaurant.

2. The Black River Barn, Randolph

The Black River Barn offers both indoor and outdoor dining along with casual pub fare. Music lovers will appreciate Black River Barn's nighttime scene - karaoke, open mic nights, live shows, and more! Oh, and did we mention that the views here were jaw dropping?

3. Battello, Jersey City

One of the best spots for NYC views, Battello serves lunch, brunch, dinner, and a light bar menu... and it's one of the most romantic places to dine in New Jersey! You'll find Italian fare here, but if you prefer American cuisine, check out their sister restaurant, The Kitchen Step. The same executive chef (Ryan DePersio) is behind both culinary gems.

4. Chart House, Weehawken

The reviews of this chain restaurant were so spectacular, it was impossible to leave Chart House off the list. The seafood spot also has an amazing hot chocolate lava cake. But what really sets this restaurant apart are, of course, the views!

5. McLoone's Boathouse, West Orange

Look out on the reservoir at South Mountain Reservation while enjoying your meal. Brunch is a favorite at this lakeside spot in NJ.

6. Lambertville Station, Lambertville

This restaurant and inn offers American cuisine, served on the banks of the Delaware River. Housed in a renovated 19th century train station, this scenic spot is a local favorite.

7. Patriots Crossing, Titusville

This casual American bistro offers great views of the Delaware River and D+R Canal. Enjoy indoor and outdoor dining and an attached liquor store. In terms of riverfront dining in New Jersey, Patriots Crossing wins!

8. Carlucci's Waterfront Grill, Mount Laurel

Located on the banks of the Rancocas Creek, Carlucci's serves up Italian cuisine, steak and seafood. It's one of the top spots for outdoor dining in the Garden State!

9. Curtin's Wharf, Burlington

Located in the charming and historic town of Burlington, this seasonal spot offers live music several nights a week and is located right on a marina.

10. Rat's Restaurant, Hamilton

It's hard to imagine a restaurant in a setting any more beautiful than Rat's Restaurant in Hamilton, New Jersey.

This fantastic French restaurant located on the Grounds for Sculpture may be the most whimsical on the list - it is inspired by a Claude Monet painting.

11. The Chop House, Gibbsboro

This lovely lakeside restaurant in New Jersey is picture-perfect, and regarded as one of the best steakhouses in New Jersey.

12. Harpoon Willy's, Manasquan

This waterfront dining spot offers some of the best burgers around. Enjoy live entertainment and other fun events here, too!

13. River Winds, West Deptford

Enjoy scenic Delaware River views with Philadelphia in the distance. Cuisine is a mix of seafood and modern American.

14. The Lobster House, Cape May

This longtime reader favorite has some of the freshest seafood around. You have to check out the seasonal raw bar while you're here.

Please note that this list is not a ranking, rather the restaurants are listed primarily from north to south. We think you'll all agree that each is amazing in its own way. If you were to do a search for “waterfront restaurants near me” at least a few of these would most certainly pop up at the top of the list!

There were so many more restaurants that could have made this list. What do you consider to be among the best waterfront restaurants in New Jersey? What are your favorite spots to visit? Let us know in the comments below!

For those who enjoy swimming, check out this hidden lake in New Jersey with some of the bluest water in the state!

If you're interested in making a weekend trip to New Jersey, you'll find some great deals on accommodations at Hotels.com.

If you’re still in the mood for more New Jersey adventures, take a look at this video: