The New Jersey shoreline is world famous with it’s boardwalk, casino’s and it’s history vacationing at the Jersey shore is a tradition for many families. From quiet beaches nestled in a more natural setting, family beaches with amusements for all ages, party towns for the collage set and Atlantic city for the game lover, New Jersey has something to offer everyone.
Ocean City, New Jersey is a favorite stop amongst the locals, with it’s beloved boardwalk and quiet family atmosphere. Established in 1879, this beautiful island community boast 8 miles of gorgeous beach and 3 miles of exciting boardwalk entertainment. Aiming to maintain it’s family atmosphere, Ocean City is a dry town where residents and visitors may consume alcohol, but with no bars or liquor stores in town it can not be purchased there. The boardwalk in Ocean City is second to none with water parks, amusements, mini golf, games and food the fun lasts for days. Notable places to visit on the boardwalk would be Mack and Manco Pizza, Gillian’s Wonderland Pier and Gillian’s Island Water Park. There is plenty of lodging in town as well ranging from inns, bed and breakfast, hotels and motels. For the budget conscious family there is the Oceanic Motel, formerly known as the Seaport Inn. The Oceanic has reasonable rates clean accommodations and is within walking distance to the boardwalk. Also recommended, but slightly more pricey is The Flanders Hotel, it is located directly on the boardwalk. There is plenty to do if it rains during your vacation as well. The Discovery Seashell Museum is a fun and free exibit of some of the rarest seashells, coral and sea related items. Ocean City, also has many indoor amusements and arcades.
Seaside Heights has been drawing crowds since the early 1900’s. It’s 1 mile long boardwalk is filled with amusements, games and some of the most delicious food you will ever sink your teeth into. Popular for it’s nightlife Seaside Heights has a little something for everyone, from outdoor bars, pubs and nightclubs. Parasailing, kayaking, jetskiing and sailing are available to satisfy the adventurer in all of us. A couple things that are a must to check out while visiting Seaside Heights. The Casino Pier, which is packed with over 40 amusement rides and games, is always a blast and the Wheels of Chance dotted all along the boardwalk, are fun as well and you can win anything from a stuffed animal to a TV. Just a short drive from seaside, is Island Beach State Park, a must see for everyone especially those who love nature. Island Beach is preserved area that offers, swimming, trails, fishing and many other activities. When looking for accommodations at Seaside, the first place that comes to mind is the Sunburst Motel, clean and conveniently located one block from the boardwalk, this reasonably priced beach motel is sure to meet all your needs.
Wildwood, NJ has been famous for decades for the 2 mile long board walk packed with pure excitement. With a total of five amusement piers, games, water parks and entertainment, the fun never stops on this 100 year old boardwalk. Although it can be a bit of a party town at times, the beach tags are free and everything is pretty inexpensive making it a popular spot for many locals. Wildwoods 5 miles of beach are sure to provide plenty of fun in the sun as well. During any trip to Wildwood, a visit to Morey’s Piers, Adventure Pier is essential. This pier has something for everyone, from the thrill seeker to tea cup rider. Not to be missed is Mack’s Pizza, with three different locations on the boardwalk this pizza is to good to pass up. Most people I know rent a house while they are in Wildwood, but if your looking for something more commercial they have more than enough hotels and motels.
Cape May, New Jersey located close by Wildwood, is a town that just bursts with charm. Cape May is ideal for people who love nature and enjoy a slower pace. With whale watching, bird observatories, fishing and a free zoo Cape may really is an ideal vacation getaway.
The Cape May Zoo is a must if you love animals, or have children. It’s unique in that it operates solely on donations. You walk most of the zoo on elevated wooden walk ways and a good amount animals get to laze around in the shade. Climbing the Cape May Lighthouse is another activity you can do while vacationing here, if you can make it to the top it’s a breath taking view. Cape May is also known for it’s quaint shopping areas and delicious eateries. Popular for the Bed and Breakfasts style of lodging, Cape May has many places to stay. If you have children you might try the Carroll Villa Bed & Breakfast or the Sandpiper Beach Inn. For a romantic adults only getaway, you may try the Inn at the Park or for something closer to the beach The Mooring. A popular place to eat in Cape May would definitely include The Mad Batter, which is attached to the Carroll Villa and has great food.
Atlantic City, NJ is known the world over for it’s gambling, but gambling alone does not define this bustling beach. Atlantic City, boasts casinos, a boardwalk filled with excitement, pro sports, historical places, shows, and beaches. Some of the casinos that are a must see are Caesars, Borgata and Wild Wild West Casino. The architecture of these buildings is amazing and the atmospheres unique. On the Boardwalk they have restaurants like Planet Hollywood, The Hard Rock Cafe and The Rainforest Cafe which are always fun especially for the kids. Famous for it’s ongoing live shows, Atlantic city is currently hosting Legends in Concert at Bally’s and The Price is Right Live Stage Show at the Showboat. There are many other shows, but these two are very popular. If you want to decompress from all the action Atlantic City is minutes from Brigintine, NJ, a quieter beach with a more nature oriented atmosphere. The Marine Mammal Stranding Center is educational and fun for the whole family and The Sea Wall where you watch for dolphins and other marine life is exciting as well. No trip to the Atlantic City area is complete, without a trip to see Lucy the Elephant. Lucy is a 65ft tall elephant shaped building that you can walk through and once served as a hotel decades ago.
At the end of the day, in this Jersey girl’s opinion there is nothing in the world like the Jersey shore. Regardless of what beach you ultimately choose to visit take my advice, do not leave with out eating Salt Water Taffy, boardwalk cheese fries, and a sausage sandwich. Bring the Salt water Taffy home with you though, it last forever and when you get nostalgic from your vacation you can just open the box, sniff and it will take you for a stroll down memory lane.
