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A guide to South Jersey Shore beach towns: Top stops and insider tips
The Atlantic City Boardwalk is a quintessential South Jersey Shore experience – Photo courtesy of Visit Atlantic City
Is there a more perfect way to kick off the summer than with a trip down the Shore? From New Jersey's most southern point in Cape May to the glitzy casinos of Atlantic City, the South Jersey Shore offers award-winning beaches, the nation's best boardwalks, and plenty of entertainment for all ages.
We combined USA TODAY 10BEST Readers' Choice Award winners with insider tips from a South Jersey native to help you make the most of your time at the Jersey Shore. The best part? No matter which shoreside town you make your home base, all of this fun can be found within a one-hour drive. Cape May
Cape May on South Jersey Shore is the perfect town for anyone looking to slow down – Photo courtesy of Spirit Catcher Photography
Cape May is a charming seaside resort town renowned for its rich history, picturesque Victorian architecture, and stunning Atlantic Ocean views. As America's oldest seaside resort, it offers a unique blend of historic elegance and family-friendly attractions.
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Best things to do in Cape May
Sunset Beach is the perfect spot to end the day in Cape May – Photo courtesy of Catherine Smith
Besides enjoying some of New Jersey's best beaches, visitors can wander the beachfront promenade, shop at the Washington Street Mall, and discover history at the Harriet Tubman Museum, which made the 10 best list for Best New Museum in our Readers' Choice Awards when it opened its doors in 2021. Nature lovers should check out the Cape May National Wildlife Refuge and the award-winning Salt Marsh Safari on the Skimmer. After a day of adventure, take part in the tradition of catching the sunset behind the World War II Lookout Tower at Sunset Beach. (Get there early, because it gets crowded.) Where to eat and drink in Cape May
As one of the best small town food scenes in the United States, Cape May boasts many outstanding dining options within walking distance of the ocean. A must-visit is The Lobster House, a legendary waterfront restaurant offering fresh seafood and picturesque views of Cape May Harbor. Beyond that, the town offers everything from upscale dining to casual breakfast spots, ensuring delectable and memorable meals for every palate. Where to stay in Cape May
For your stay, consider the stately Congress Hall (Best Historic Hotel), the nation's oldest seaside resort, which first opened its doors in 1816. This historic hotel boasts a prime beachfront location, luxurious accommodations, multiple dining options, a full-service spa, and plenty of activities.
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The Wildwoods
Unlike most of New Jersey's beaches, The Wildwoods offer free beach access – Photo courtesy of Craig Terry
This vibrant Jersey Shore destination, made up of three towns — Wildwood, Wildwood Crest, and North Wildwood — is famous for its massive free beaches, award-winning boardwalk, and family-friendly vibe. It's a unique destination where mid-century cool meets classic seaside fun.
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Best things to do in Wildwood
South Jersey Shore boardwalk rides are a quick way to get in touch with your inner child – Photo courtesy of Greater Wildwoods Tourism and Development Authority
The main attraction is the expansive free beach, The Wildwoods, which made the Best Beach in New Jersey list two years in a row. It's so vast that there are beach taxis that bring you closer to the ocean. In the evening, explore the 38-block boardwalk, packed with rides, games, shops, and water parks. Dive into the area's unique culture at the award-winning Doo-Wop Experience Museum and its Neon Sign Garden. Don't miss out on games, dancing, and live music at Wildwood's Honky Tonk Saloon, among the best new attractions in the country in 2025.
Just 15 minutes outside of Wildwood, on your way to Ocean City, you can explore the award-winning Cape May County Park and Zoo. This large zoo is home to a variety of animal exhibits and has a large playground with picnic areas. Enjoy animal encounters and ziplines for an added fee. Where to eat and drink in Wildwood
Wildwood is a beer lovers' paradise on South Jersey Shore – Photo courtesy of MudHen Brewing Co Marketing Team
Wildwood's dining scene offers something for everyone, especially craft beer lovers. For a full meal, check out MudHen Brewing Company, which has ranked nationally among brewpubs in recent years. The sophisticated yet casual menu includes burgers, cauliflower bites, seafood, homemade Cornish pasties, and an extensive children's menu.
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For creative local brews, check out one of this year's best new breweries, Anglesea Aleworks, where you can bring your food to enjoy alongside unique craft beers, hard sodas, and seltzers. Where to stay in Wildwood
For a comfortable coastal paradise, consider staying at Madison Resort Wildwood Crest, one of the 10 best new hotels in 2025. This property boasts gorgeous beachfront views, bright and spacious rooms, and top-notch amenities like a free shuttle service to get around town.
When you check rates and book independently reviewed hotels through our site, we may earn a small commission.
Ocean City
The Ocean City Boardwalk ranked eighth in the country in the 2025 Readers' Choice Awards for Best Boardwalk – Photo courtesy of Ocean City Chamber of Commerce
Ranked as one of the best summer travel destinations in the country, Ocean City provides families with clean beaches, a fun-filled boardwalk, and wholesome entertainment that attracts multigenerational visitors year after year. Best things to do in Ocean City
The beloved 2.5-mile Ocean City Boardwalk, among the 10 best boardwalks in the country, is packed with carnival rides, arcades, shops, mini-golf, and endless treats. Most noteworthy are the rides at Playland's Castaway Cove and the many concerts, children's plays, and magic shows hosted throughout the week at Music Pier. For a classic boardwalk experience, try Johnson's Popcorn and Shriver's Combo for popcorn and saltwater taffy goodness.
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Away from the boardwalk, Ocean City's main street — Asbury Avenue — offers a number of boutique shops with unique gift and souvenir ideas, including books and candles, clothes, and housewares. I particularly enjoy perusing all the locally made goods at Stainton's.
Lucy the Elephant is older than the Statue of Liberty and the Brooklyn Bridge – Photo courtesy of Catherine Smith
Between Ocean City and Atlantic City, you'll find America's No. 1 Best Roadside Attraction for 2025 – Lucy the Elephant – in the town of Margate. This beloved National Historic Landmark, built in 1881, stands six stories tall and was originally built to help attract visitors to the island. Tours are available most days throughout the year. Where to eat and drink in Ocean City
Not pictured is the seagull that stole my donut right after this photo was taken – Photo courtesy of Catherine Smith
Located about a quarter mile apart on the north end of the boardwalk, Oves Restaurant and Browns Restaurant are two iconic Ocean City eateries offering breakfast, lunch, and dinner. If you're on the boardwalk early in the morning, try their donuts! Folks line up early (cash in hand) for a taste of these hot and fresh treats.
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Beyond the many boardwalk treats and tasty restaurants on Asbury, visitors can find more dining variety and local nightlife just over the 9th Street Bridge in Somers Point. Along Bay Avenue and Shore Drive in Somers Point are local dive bars (Ocean City is a dry town) and restaurants. The Point, a fun tiki bar on the bay, features tropical drinks and bites, while Gregory's Restaurant & Bar serves up quality pub fare and is the originator of Taco Tuesday (No joke. There was even a lawsuit with Taco Bell!)
Meanwhile, the town's newest hot spot, Squares & Fare, is my ultimate favorite. Owner Dominic Russo started making his mouthwatering deep-dish pizzas in his home kitchen during the Covid pandemic. Curious foodies (myself included) booked pizza appointments months in advance and then showed up in his driveway at a designated time. Now with a permanent location, a pie from Squares & Fare is the perfect meal to pick up on your drive into Ocean City or to take with you to the award-winning Somers Point Beach Concert Series. This Friday night concert series takes place at William Morrow Beach, less than a block from Squares & Fare. While not required, I highly recommend booking your pizza time slot ahead of time. Where to stay in Ocean City
Visitors can rent charming single-family homes on quieter streets, condos with ocean views, or hotel rooms just steps from the bustling boardwalk and the downtown shopping district. Scarborough Inn is a highly rated boutique hotel proudly owned and operated by lifelong locals.
When you check rates and book independently reviewed hotels through our site, we may earn a small commission.
The Forum Ocean City is a reasonably priced and family-friendly motor inn between the Boardwalk and Asbury Avenue.
When you check rates and book independently reviewed hotels through our site, we may earn a small commission.
Atlantic City
There's always fun to be had in Atlantic City on the South Jersey Shore – Photo courtesy of Visit Atlantic City
Atlantic City offers a vibrant mix of seaside fun and thrilling nightlife. Famous for its world-class casinos and iconic boardwalk, AC (as the locals call it) provides a perfect getaway with its wide, sandy beaches and endless activities.
Insider tip: If you're coming from Philadelphia, take the train to Atlantic City from 30th Street Station. The NJTransit ride costs about $12.35, takes about an hour and a half, and includes a free shuttle to the casinos.
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Ranked as one of the best boardwalks in the nation, you'll find plenty to keep you busy in Atlantic City. In addition to ranking third this year in the Best Beaches in New Jersey awards, Atlantic City is also home to Island Waterpark at Showboat, an award-winning indoor water park. After a day of splashing in the surf, get your thrills at Steel Pier amusement park.
Bally's Atlantic City, ranked among the 10 best casinos outside of Las Vegas, is one of the city's nine casinos. Loved for its prime boardwalk location, breathtaking ocean views, lively casino floor, and diverse dining experiences, Bally's delivers a memorable experience.
This tribute band to The Beatles, The Doors, and Led Zeppelin will take you on a trip – Photo courtesy of Joe Kelly
Between all of the casinos, clubs, and bars, there's always a high-quality show to catch in Atlantic City. Don't miss the Magical Mystery Doors at Ocean City Resort. This tribute band to The Doors, The Beatles, and Led Zeppelin is the only casino show outside of Vegas to win first place in the Readers' Choice Awards for Best Casino Show.
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Atlantic City is home to a variety of noteworthy dining options. Ranked among the 10 best new casino restaurants, Capriccio at Resorts Casino Hotel offers exceptional Italian dining overlooking the boardwalk. There's also Amada at Ocean Casino Resort, an award-winning restaurant that serves up authentic Spanish tapas and grilled seafood with ocean views. And award winner Kuro, at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, offers expertly crafted sushi and tempura.
