Think you know the shore? Think again! Here’s our definitive guide to the Jersey Shore.
1) LBI
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Long Beach Island is a huge stretch of barrier islands off the coast of New Jersey and brings hundreds of thousands of tourists every year for a fun beach getaway. You won’t find anything Jersey Shore related here! LBI is actually made up of several small, sleepy beach towns including Brant Beach, Loveladies, Holgate, Surf City and Beach Haven. Make sure to visit the Barnegat Lighthouse (as pictured above), the family friendly Victorian Fantasy Island Amusement Park and the Surflight Theater. Beach Haven also has a ton of shopping!
2) Manasquan
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Renowned for its surfing, Manasquan is held closely in the hearts of Jerseyans. The town offers a laid back atmosphere with plenty of local places to eat and shop. If you’re traveling with your kids, make sure to stop in at Gee-Gee’s Arcade and Pizza for hours of family fun!
3) Belmar
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If you’re looking for a beach in the day and a party scene at night, Belmar is definitely the place to go. Hit up Bar Anticipation (aka Bar A) which features a sandy beach area, outdoor beach volleyball and more bars than you can possibly drink at. Also check out DJ’s and Boathouse for a rip-roaring good time.
4) Island State Park
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Want to drive your car on a more secluded beach? Check out Island State Park which is less about rules and more about fun.
5) Point Pleasant
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For that iconic boardwalk experience and to guarantee your kids will never be bored, Point Pleasant is your beach. A wide, expansive beach during the day, and then the boardwalk lights up at night with rides, an aquarium, and tons of boardwalk games and fair food. For the adults, check out Martell’s Tiki Bar.
6) Wildwood Crest
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Don’t associate this place with the Wildwood you think you know. Wildwood Crest has a huge beach, and amazing food. You have to eat at Ravioli House or the Fish Factory (get the soft shell crab!).
7) Cape May
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For the older crowd seeking a more quiet beach experience head to Cape May! Awesome activities include self-guided winery tours, local museums, shopping and horse and trolley rides.
8) Sea Bright
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Besides the gorgeous beach and great small town vibe, make sure to check out Angelica’s, which was totally rebuilt after Hurricane Sandy and serves out-of-this-world Italian food.
9) Bay Head
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Bay Head is great for adventurers. It’s retained its quiet, sleepy feel but has a range of sporty activities. Visitors can rent kayaks, surf boards and bikes in town!
#10: Ocean City
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Ocean City is guaranteed to make everyone in the family happy. The kids can enjoy mini golf, water sports and the boardwalk. There’s also a vibrant downtown area, golf courses, fishing excursions and miles of sandy beaches.
Look gorgeous! Anywhere with sunsets as beautiful as that has my attention.