This Is My New Jersey

Now that the unofficial start of summer is upon us, thoughts turn to going down the shore. And there seems to be specific wants based on age when it comes to which shore town people pick.

High School Shore Trips

Most teenagers start out at Seaside Heights. It’s where you went after the prom. You would spend the day on the beach, find a public shower to clean up and then walk the boards at night. Dinner would include a cheesesteak from The Midway and a swirl from Kohr’s. Games at Union Jacks and a visit to Sand Tropez for a new summer outfit. Unfortunately, Seaside has experienced some serious challenges in recent years, mainly due to the bad press that started when they allowed the show-that-shall-not-be-named was filmed there. I really hope they can clean up all the trouble while keeping what makes Seaside a special place.

College and Twenty-Somethings

When you are in college or at your first job, you have some money in your pocket. That usually means Belmar. An appealing location to twenty-somethings, Belmar has a great boardwalk and a very clean beach. Nightlife includes the popular Bar A and The Rooftop. You aren’t surrounded by high-schoolers and there aren’t as many little kids running around.

Families

Once you are married and have a few kids, many move on to Point Pleasant. The big reason? Jenkinson’s. With a little something for everyone, you can check out the aquarium, the classic arcade, or the batting cages. Of course, there are plenty of rides for kids of all ages. There are still places for adults to enjoy, including Jenks and the Inlet Bar for a beer and a view of the waves.

Couples, Empty Nesters, and Others Who Want Quiet

I never visited Wildwood Crest until I started dating my husband. I fell in love with it and look forward to every visit. Wildwood Crest is a dry town, so it doesn’t draw major partygoers. The boardwalk is located one town over in Wildwood, which includes the famous Tram Car and the famous neon signs of the Doo Wop architecture. Continuing north, the boardwalk stretches into North Wildwood and includes Morey’s Surfside. One of the biggest draws is the wide open and FREE beach from Wildwood Crest all the way to North Wildwood! For us, just about every day begins and ends with a walk on the beach. USA Today just named Wildwood the top beach in New Jersey.

My other favorite spot on the Jersey Shore is Cape May. Rooted deep in history, there is something for everyone. From walking along the Washington Street Mall to admiring the Victorian architecture, it is a magical place. We pick up some fudge at The Original Fudge Kitchen and salt water taffy at Fralinger’s. When it comes to the beach, there is nowhere I would rather go than Sunset Beach to dig for Cape May diamonds and check out the horseshoe crabs. I kid you not when I say I could stay there for hours. The most special part of the day is the sunset flag ceremony. The United States flags that are flown are veterans’ casket flags brought by family members for this special event. It is certainly not to be missed. USA Today named Cape May beaches the fourth best in the state (link: https://10best.usatoday.com/awards/best-beach-in-new-jersey/).

The Jersey Shore has it All…

These are only a few of the wonderful beaches along the 130-plus miles of coastline in New Jersey. Each shore town has its own unique flavor. I encourage you to check out all the Jersey Shore has to offer. Why spend thousands going to far-away locations when we have everything you want right here in Jersey!