A quiet walk on the beach, some good eats without the crowds and a moment to yourself with the waves as a soundtrack – what could be better than a pre-beach season visit to South Jersey’s coastal towns? 

Cape May 

We recommend: a trek to the top of the Cape May Lighthouse (open on weekends), a stroll past the pastel homes (the Painted Ladies) on Gurney St., a trolley tour around the historic district, a day of history at the Harriet Tubman Museum, bird watching at the Cape May National Wildlife Refuge  

Stone Harbor & Avalon

We recommend: a peaceful afternoon at Stone Harbor Point, searching for wildlife at the Stone Harbor Bird Sanctuary, a stroll down Avalon Boardwalk, explore The Wetlands Institute, visit the Cape May County Zoo (in neighboring Cape May Courthouse), brunch at The Reeds, eat homemade pasta at Spiaggetta 

Ocean City

We recommend: walk the Ocean City Boardwalk for a few offseason shopping and eats, see marshes and bridges as you walk Crook Horn Creek Nature Trail (starting from 51st St.), grab a bucket of Johnson’s Popcorn, walk around Corson’s Inlet State Park for serene views of beach and ocean 

Long Beach Island 

We recommend: check out the New Jersey Maritime Museum, climb Barnegat Lighthouse, search for osprey at the 20th St. Osprey nest, play some games at Fantasy Island Amusement Park’s arcade, watch for birds among the pristine dunes of Holgate Beach Wilderness Area