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The following list of things to do at the Jersey Shore is brought to you by New Yorker, Aurie Ceylon from hey, it’s aurie! Read on for some of her top Jersey Shore must-dos.
I am the quintessential Jersey Shore girl. As a kid, the Jersey shore was a MUST on the list of family getaways.
As an adult, I will always be excited to go back, even if it’s only for one day.
The food, the shoreline, the shops, the entertainment, the nightlife… There is something for everyone, which is what makes it the ideal hotspot. Whether you’re flying solo, traveling with friends, or roped into yet another trip with your overbearing parents, you’ll definitely find something to make your visit worthwhile.
As I gear up for my next trip to the shore, I am flooded with memories of my favorite eats, shops, and adventures. There is truly nothing like the Garden State coast (sigh).
Yes, yes, I get it. We all know the TV series Jersey Shore (I’m not ashamed to say I’ve watched it since high school), but trust me, there’s more to the shore than getting boozy on the boardwalk.
While it might seem like a small strip of beach, the Jersey shore encompasses about 141 miles of coastline on the Atlantic Ocean. Ranging from North to South Jersey, visitors can choose from dozens of tourist attractions, including historical hamlets, bustling boardwalks, casino life, fresh seafood, and sleepy beaches. It’s impossible to fit it all into one trip (yes, I’ve tried), but there are plenty of things to add to your Jersey shore bucket list.
(If you don’t head home with an oversized bag of salt water taffy on your lap, you’re doing it wrong.)
Unsure where to start? No worries, I’ve got your back.
Read on for 15 unique and fun things to do at the Jersey shore.
Save this List of Things to Do on the Jersey Shore for Later!
You’ll be very glad you did.
1. Wildwood Boardwalk
Prepare to be overstimulated in the best way possible. Think old world charm meets new age night club.
With all its sounds, colors and smells, the Wildwood Boardwalk is one of the most famous tourist attractions along the shoreline.
A 2.5-hour drive from NYC, Wildwood sits on the southern end of the Garden State. But don’t be fooled by its daytime appeal, the Wildwood boardwalk truly comes alive at night! So, spend the days tooling up and down the charmingly mid-century wooden planks, then head for the amusement park on the pier at sunset for jaw-dropping rides and neon classic arcade games.
Beyond that, you grab a bite on the boardwalk, bar hop through waterfront happy hours, ride the surprisingly speedy tram car or take a leisurely beachside stroll…. Or, maybe do it all. Summer days are long and the choice is all yours!
2. Atlantic City
Ready for some glitz and glam? Look no further than Atlantic City, the seaside gaming and resort capital of the East Coast. Located in South Jersey on Absecon Island, Atlantic City is a dream for the traveler in search of a night on the town.
Brief History Lesson: Originally constructed in 1870, the recently renovated Atlantic City boardwalk sparkles with world class casinos, resort hotels, museums, Michelin dining, and an endless array of entertainment. With nightlife and eats on one side of the boardwalk and stunning beachside views on the other, it’s easy to imagine getting lost in the beauty of this jam-packed gem.
P.S. – For some bonus ‘razzle dazzle’, wrap up the evening with dinner and a show at Caesar’s Palace! Why? You can’t leave Atlantic City without hearing Caesar sing, can you?
3. Ocean City Boardwalk
Not looking to get boozy at the shore? Ocean City is the place to be.
Known as “America’s Greatest Family Resort”, you can spend your days and nights enjoying PG fun on the beach, boardwalk, and marina. With plenty of watersports including paddleboarding, kayaking, jet skiing, and windsurfing, the thrill-seeking wanderer will never run out of things to do. If you want something a bit more lively, walk the iconic 2.5 mile boardwalk, which is chock full of activities including a carousel, live entertainment, and a waterpark.
Wait, a waterpark on the boardwalk? You bet.
Fun Fact: Did I mention that Ocean City is an incorporated “dry” town? In 1879, four Methodist ministers established Ocean City with a strict ban on the manufacture and sale of alcohol. This ban remains intact to this day. (Much like the delights of this oceanside metropolis, some things never change.)
4. Historic Cape May
This Victorian coastal town is located 40 miles south of Atlantic City at the southern tip of Cape May Peninsula. Pebbled shores border the perimeter, while the center of Cape May is home to a charming village.
For the traveling historian, it will be easy to get lost in this timeless delight. Spend your days wandering the tree lined streets, exploring endless sweet shops and dining on fresh faire. With a population of less than three thousand, you will truly feel like you have the whole town to yourself.
Looking for lodgings? Check out one of Cape May’s ornately decorated (and hauntingly beautiful) bed and breakfasts. Just a quick stroll from the water or the town center, each B&B has its own fascinating history. Curl up in a wraparound porch swing and take in the nautical charm of this mystical hamlet. I’d recommend the Inn at the Park, located in downtown Cape May!
5. Whale & Dolphin Watching Boat Tours
While SeaWorld has its perks, there’s nothing like seeing ocean life in its natural habitat.
Whale and Dolphin sightings have become much more prominent at the Jersey Shore in the past few years, which means ample opportunity to catch a glimpse of the secrets of the deep blue sea.
While June through September are optimal months for whale and dolphin sightings, residents of the Jersey Shore sneak peeks year round! Whether you’re in Ocean City or down at Cape May Point, there are plenty of tours for whale and dolphin sightings.
You can even book a sunset dinner cruise!
6. Haunted Trolley Tour
Ready for a bonus spooky adventure? Another fun thing to do on the Jersey Shore is hop aboard the iconic Ghosts of Cape May Trolley Tour for a sightseeing paranormal night you won’t soon forget. Led by renowned author and psychic medium Craig McManus, you will find yourself quickly engrossed in tales from yesteryear.
Craig gives excellently detailed lore of paranormal activity throughout local businesses, as well as stories of the spirits that haunt Cape May to this day. A perfect activity for the endlessly curious traveler.
7. S.S. Atlantus
In the mood for more haunted history? Head to Sunset Beach at Cape May Point.
If you’re lucky, you might catch a glimpse of the S.S. Atlantus, one of 12 concrete ships built after World War I. Although these ships were later deemed impractical for their weight, they were instrumental for transporting American troops back from Europe at a time when steel was scarce.
Unfortunately for the S.S. Atlantus, a storm in 1926 broke her free of her moorings and drifted her out to sea. With every effort to recover her unsuccessful, she remains mostly underwater to this day.
Closely resembling a large shark fin, this bit of wreckage is now an important piece of Cape May’s history. Stick around after sunset and you might hear the sounds of an era gone by, lost to the sea.
8. Seaside Heights Boardwalk
Well, it wouldn’t be a post about the Jersey Shore without paying homage to the reality TV stars that brought the Garden State into the new millennium.
Grab your bump-it and your spray tan and head to Seaside Heights boardwalk, where you are guaranteed to have a day (or night) full of classic beach eats and endless happy hours.
Keep the nostalgia train running and end your night at Jenks, the original fist-bumping dance club from our favorite reality tv throwback. With a beach bar, oceanfront restaurant, and night club, Jenks has something for everyone.
9. Emlen Physick Estate
If you’re looking for historic oddities, you must stop by the Emlen Physick Estate.
Built in 1879 by Frank Furness, this bizarre 18-room mansion includes ‘oversized’ features like upside down chimneys, hooded dormers, and more!
Once home to Furness, his widowed mother, and unmarried aunt, the home fell to ruin and was almost demolished after Furness’ death.
Fortunately, the city of Cape May purchased the estate and worked with Cape May MAC (museum, arts, and culture nonprofit) to restore the home and grounds to their former glory. The Emlen Physick Estate is now a museum, carriage house, and tea room! Visitors are encouraged to explore the home and walk the grounds year-round.
Fun Fact: The Emlen Physick home was used as as a location for the 1981 horror film The Prowler!
Click to learn more about Emlen Physick Estate
10. Wildwood Crest Beach
For the wanderers seeking a quieter beach experience, this is for you.
Wildwood Crest Beach is – by far – the most resort-style oceanfront you’ll find along the Jersey Shore.
With pristine sandy shores, beautiful homes, and zero access to the neighboring boardwalk of Wildwood, you can leave the rowdiness behind and enjoy the silence of summertime stillness. Bonus – for the non-drinking travelers – unlike Wildwood, Wildwood Crest is an incorporated dry town!
Click to learn more about Wildwood Crest
11. Casino Pier Breakwater Beach Waterpark
Snooki not your speed? Not to worry, there’s more to Seaside Heights than partying.
From vintage arcade games to a sky coaster that soars over the boardwalk, Casino Pier Breakwater Beach Waterpark has everything you need to fill a day with adventures.
The waterpark has been named “the best in the state” and features thrillers like Salem’s Scream, a 50-foot slide with dropout flooring that will make you glad you skipped the margaritas.
12. Willow Creek Winery & Farm
If stunning views, tastings, and treats sound like your kind of thing, Willow Creek Winery is the only wintery located in Cape May, and – clearly – it’s the only one you’ll need.
Open year-round, this stunning 50-acre winery and farm is a dream. Whether it’s for large-scale events, tastings, tours, or a simple lunch with friends, Willow Creek has something for everyone. Stroll the seemingly endless grounds, then pop over to the restaurant for wine and nibbles on the patio. Did I mention there’s a charcuterie tasting?
Click to book a wine tasting at Willow Creek Winery & Farm
13. Climb the Cape May Lighthouse
Ready for some movement? Grab your sneakers and climb to the top of Cape May Lighthouse for a panoramic view of Cape May Point.
Originally constructed in 1857 for $40,000, the lighthouse sits at the tip of southern New Jersey and offers visitors stunning views of both the Delaware River and the Atlantic Ocean.
Since the lighthouse opened to the public in 1988, over 2.5 million visitors have made the trek up the 199 steps to the very top. Perfect for the thrill-seeking wanderers!
Click to learn more about Cape May Lighthouse
14. Ocean City Fishing Pier
And if you want more Ocean City, whatever you do, don’t skip the panoramic views at the Ocean City fishing pier.
Built in 1916 by the Ocean City Fishing Club, this historic boardwalk extension is an integral part of Ocean City tourism.
It’s also the only on-ocean fishing pier in the city!
Whether you’re fishing, taking selfies, or just enjoying the breeze, this pier is a must-see.
15. Laura’s Fudge
Before you head home from a Jersey Shore getaway, this is a MUST!
For the sweet tooth wanderer, don’t forget to stop by Laura’s Fudge! Known by locals as the “original fudge shoppe on the shore”, their rocky road will make you never want to leave. Located on the Wildwood boardwalk, it’s hard to pass by this neon-clad hot pink fudge shop without stopping in for a square.
Did I miss any of your favorite Jersey Shore things to do?
Let me know in the comments!
