Five Things to Do on the Jersey Shore

One of the most famous East Coast beach destinations, a trip to the Jersey Shore, for many, conjures a certain degree of nostalgia. It’s at once iconic and old-school, yet also surprisingly fresh and exciting. Even regular Jersey Shore vacationers are likely to discover a new restaurant or revamped hotel on a trip to this famous summer retreat.

From Sandy Hook to Cape May, beachgoers will find 130 miles of beautiful coastline on a trip to the Jersey Shore. These stretches of Atlantic coast are perfect for peak summer sunning. For a special getaway, consider the 18-mile Long Beach Island, just two hours from New York City.

A trip to the Jersey Shore definitely wouldn’t be complete without a stroll on a classic boardwalk. Some of our favorites include Ocean City Boardwalk and Asbury Park Boardwalk, which was recently refreshed. (Have your fortunes read at Madam Marie’s Temple of Knowledge, play vintage pinball machines at the Silverball Museum, and bed down at the 110-room Asbury: the first hotel to open here in 55 years.)

Related: How to Recreate That Old-School Jersey Shore Vacation

Summers on the Jersey Shore are incomplete without ice cream, whether you favor soft-serve custards or full-blown sundaes. Take a break from the beach to grab a cone from a legendary Jersey Shore ice cream shop like Hoffman’s of Point Pleasant; Stone Harbor’s Springer’s Homemade Ice Cream; and Duffer’s in Wildwood.

Mini golf is another timeless activity along the Shore, and there are plenty of options for a round or two. Classics include Shipwreck Island Mini Golf in Bradley Beach and Seaside Heights’ Wacky Rooftop Golf.

If you prefer to scope out the Shore while getting in a leisurely workout, rent a bike and hit the boardwalk on two wheels. Enjoy the ocean breeze and the sights while exploring the likes of the Cape May Shoreline Ride and Sandy Hook’s Multi-Use Path.