New Jersey Travel Guide - New Jersey 2025 Official Travel Guide
What Exit? Shore-Town Joyrides
2024-12-16 05:21:13
With two of the busiest toll roads in the nation, NJ thrives on highway efficiency—spawning a well-known “What Exit?” culture of geographic shorthand.
The New Jersey Turnpike (NJT), opened in 1951, has since grown in length and width—with up to 14 lanes—essentially connecting NYC with Philadelphia. The Garden State Parkway (GSP), opened in 1954, provides a more scenic highway running the length of NJ near the Atlantic coastline. This road-to-sea adventure embarks at the Jersey Shore’s northernmost point in Sandy Hook and cruises down to various shore points to terminate in Cape May’s famous Exit 0. Take on the whole trip from top to bottom, or break them into separate county getaways. Buckle up – the beaches are calling!
MONMOUTH COUNTY ROAD TRIP
Sandy Hook to Manasquan (~29 miles)
Exit 117 leads to ocean and bay beaches on the slender Sandy Hook peninsula, where Gateway National Recreation Area offers immersion in nature. Just south, discover the majestic Twin Lights Historic Site—with two climbable lighthouse towers—in Highlands. Next, enjoy a nautical-themed lunch overlooking the Shrewsbury River at Beach Tavern in Monmouth Beach. Then head to Long Branch to walk the sands of Seven Presidents Oceanfront Park, once a favored POTUS vacation spot. Continue to legendary Asbury Park, featuring boardwalk diversions, funky art and a beach for both surfers and sunbathers alike. In Belmar, travelers with kids will appreciate beach playgrounds, and those without will enjoy a date night at La Dolce Vita Ristorante. Next, view maritime history at Sea Girt Lighthouse, a stately home-and-tower combo. Conclude the journey at Manasquan’s blissfully undeveloped shores at Fisherman’s Cove Conservation Area.
OCEAN COUNTY ROAD TRIP
Point Pleasant Beach to Beach Haven (~49 miles)
Take Exit 98 to family-friendly Point Pleasant Beach, where a no-frills beachfront breakfast awaits at The Food Shack before jumping on Jenkinson’s Boardwalk for arcades, minigolf, rides and the aquarium. Just south, in Bay Head, bike along the dunes and historic district of the “Ivy League” beach town. From there, drive down the super-scenic Route 35 to a happening summer destination known as Seaside Heights. Perhaps spend the night at this stopover to thoroughly enjoy the amusement pier bursting with playful activities and a meal at Bum Rogers Crab House & Tavern in Seaside Park. Next, swing back onto the GSP and take Exit 63 to diverse destinations on Long Beach Island, from the “Boulevard” in Surf City and iconic lighthouse in Barnegat Light to Beach Haven, where action-packed water activities balance with charming shops and museums.
EXPLORE MORE ROAD-TRIPIT INERARIES
ATLANTIC COUNTY ROAD TRIP
Brigantine to Margate (~12 miles)
Exit 40 leads to peaceful Brigantine, a boardwalk-free haven full of salt-worn cottages and a two-story viewing platform to observe birds and dolphin pods. Brigantine is also one of the few NJ shore towns you can drive your 4x4 vehicle onto the beach—as long as a permit is obtained. Just a few minutes south, Atlantic City brings the bling with miles of boardwalk, games, concerts, retail, dining and casinos. Stop for oysters on the half shell and the Dean Martini at Knife & Fork Inn, an old-school chophouse dating back to 1912 that was a favorite of Bob Hope and Frank Sinatra. On the far side, the quaint coastal town of Ventnor presents a more relaxed side of beach life with surfable waves and a non-commercial boardwalk with the state’s longest fishing pier. Drift slightly southward to the broad beaches of laid-back Margate, famed for Lucy the Elephant, a historic six-story architectural novelty like no other. Don’t leave town without dropping in for happy hour and live music at upbeat local bar, Maynard’s Cafe.
CAPE MAY COUNTY ROAD TRIP
Ocean City to Cape May Point (~36 miles)
Exit 30 leads to wholesome family vacation destination, Ocean City, famed for dazzling boardwalk attractions, famous pizza joints and endless activities. Heading south, collect shells or surf fish on Sea Isle City’s five miles of shoreline before zipping to nearby Avalon, where the Avalon Dune and Beach Trail offers a spot to stretch your legs in unique coastal habitats. Don’t leave town without people-watching at The Princeton Grill & Bar. Continue nature exploration at the island neighbor’s idyllic Stone Harbor Bird Sanctuary. Next, get an adrenaline charge at The Wildwoods with free beaches and exhilarating boardwalk entertainment, including multiple roller coasters and waterparks. In adjacent Cape May, fold-out your beach chair before stopping at its namesake brewery, or stroll past Victorian gingerbread architecture and shop charming boutiques. Cruise down to the southernmost tip of the Jersey Cape, Cape May Point, to explore historical World War II sites and a lighthouse where 199 steps lead to ocean and bay views.
©New Jersey. View All Articles.