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 southern-most 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. 10 2025 New Jersey Travel Guide FROM LEFT: STEEL PIER, ATLANTIC CITY/@SHAUNRSMITH; BRIGANTINE BEACH/MATT BARON PHOTO
New Jersey Travel Guide New Jersey 2025 Official Travel Guide: Page 10
