6 Best Places to go in New Jersey

Did you know that New Jersey’s nickname is The Garden State? This vacation destination is home to 35+ state parks and over 100 miles of diverse coastline. Between the boardwalks, restaurants, beaches and attractions there is something to please every taste. There is so much to do and see in New Jersey the hardest part is truly deciding where to go! We’ve put together our six favorite vacation destinations in New Jersey to make your planning a little easier. Pick your favorite, or take a road trip and visit all six – they are ordered by location so that you can start in Longport and drive out to Cape May, stopping at every place in between.

Our 6 Favorite Vacation Destinations in New Jersey

Longport Vicinity, NJ

Longport, NJ

Longport offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of busy beach towns. Drive down to the southernmost point of Longport to check out The Longport Point, which offers stunning views of the ocean meeting the bay. If you have your pet with you then stop by the Longport Dog Beach, where you favorite furry friend can enjoy some off-leash beach time.

If you’re visiting the Longport Vicinity you also need to check out Lucy the Elephant. This marvel is the oldest surviving roadside tourist attraction in America with a hilarious history! Lucy the Elephant is a 65’-tall elephant structure made of wood and tin, built way back in 1881. The U.S. Patent Office actually granted the builder a patent giving him the exclusive right to make, use or sell animal-shaped buildings for 17 years – who would have thought?

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Ocean City, NJ

Ocean City, NJ

The next stop on our list is Ocean City, New Jersey. With over 8 miles of sand and surf on the ocean side and water activities on the bay side, Ocean City, NJ is a beach-lover’s paradise. Take a fishing charter, rent some Stand Up Paddle boards, or just soak in the sun on the beach. Corson’s Inlet State Park is a great place to hike, bike, fish and horseback ride. Ocean City’s 2.5 mile boardwalk is famous and offers a huge selection of attractions, dining options and great views. It’s a great place to pick up a new bikini or a souvenir. Families with kids will love Playland’s Castaway Cove offers roller coasters and themed mini golf.

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Sea Isle City, NJ

Sea Isle City, NJ

Just a hop, skip and a jump from Ocean City is Sea Isle City, New Jersey. Sea Isle City also has a boardwalk, but with a more relaxed feel. There are cute shops, great views, and plenty of places to sit and relax along this 1.5 mile boardwalk. You’ll hear many people refer to Sea Isle’s boardwalk as the Promenade. There is a public beach and kids can enjoy the local skatepark. Townsends Inlet Waterfront Park is also a must in Sea Isle City. There is great fishing and surfing at Townsends, and the sunsets are spectacular.

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Avalon & Stone Harbor, NJ

Stone Harbor, NJ

Continue on from Sea Isle City and cross the Ocean Drive Bridge to the Avalon and Stone Harbor area. Avalon and Stone Harbor make up the Seven Mile Beach that’s packed with adventure. Enjoy a game of tennis, visit one of the 9 parks and playgrounds, or stroll through town on a bike. Shopping at 96th Street or along Dune Drive is a must while you’re in this area, and there are no shortage of great restaurants mixed among the retail shops. Walk the Avalon Dunes Beach Trail or spend some time bird watching at the Avalon Seawatch! The Wetlands Institute is also a great educational opportunity for the whole family.

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Wildwood, NJ

Bridge over a swamp in Wildwood, NJ

Wildwood, New Jersey is home to wide, sandy beaches, a renowned boardwalk and so much more. Since the beaches are so wide, this is one of the best places to soak up the sun and enjoy a little more elbow room for your family. The boardwalk offers arcades, roller coasters, shops, eateries and more. Plus, there’s a tram you can take along the boardwalk if you get tired of walking. Three large piers jut out from Wildwood’s boardwalk, offering even more to do. Morey’s Piers & Beachfront Water Parks is a must for the kiddos, who will love the 6-block amusement park with 100+ rides and attractions.

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Cape May, NJ

Victorian homes in Cape May, NJ

The last stop on our list is the top of southern New Jersey’s Cape May Peninsula – Cape May, New Jersey. This charming seaside town is home to grand Victorian houses, museums, shops and more. Visit the Cape May Lighthouse and climb to the top for excellent views, or tour the Emlen Physick Estate, New Jersey’s only Victorian house museum. Cape May is home to many excellent wineries, which is the perfect way to unwind after a day at the beach. Looking to connect with wildlife of your trip? Visit the Jersey Shore Alpacas farm or join a dolphin watching tour.

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Plan Your New Jersey Vacation

We hope you enjoyed our guide to the ultimate New Jersey vacation. Get the most of your vacation to New Jersey with Long & Foster Vacation Rentals. We offer a great selection of vacation homes throughout New Jersey’s most popular destinations.