Grab your floaties, cause we’re diving headfirst into beach fun this summer – and the planning starts now. Add these beach towns and their unique attractions to your summer vacation plans to build the perfect summer vacation close to home.
The Wildwoods: Never a dull moment
Sing along with us…whoa -oa – oa, those Wildwood days. Although we may petition to change the words to “whoa those Wildwood days…aren’t long enough to fit in all of these events I want to go to.” With unique events happening pretty much every day of the season – like the Barefoot Country Music Fest kicking off June 20, the boogie board races on July 13 and the Wildwood Crest music series & food truck festival (Wednesdays through Aug. 21) – there isn’t a dull moment between the beach and the boards. And if you’re worried about missing out on something, the town even has a feature on its website to help you plan your vacation!
Cape May: Picture-perfect history
People have been flocking to America’s First Seaside Resort since the 1800’s, and they’ve left behind plenty of stories. Explore Emlen Physick Estate, the Cape May Lighthouse, the Harriet Tubman Museum and a World War II Lookout Tower, just to name a few historic hotspots. Or visit Carroll Gallery to see the rotating exhibits highlighting different aspects of the town’s history. Cap off your trip with a day or two relaxing on one of the many beaches and strolling through Washington Street Mall, a picturesque town square with nearly 100 shops.
Ocean City: For the whole family
As “America’s Greatest Family Resort,” Ocean City takes family fun to heart. Whether you’re dropping the kids at the arts center for one of the creative summer camps, playing a family game of mini golf on the boardwalk or spending the day relaxing on one of the scenic beaches, you’ll make a whole lot of memories in this dry town. For adventurous families, check out the water activities like paddle boarding and jet skiing. If you love the arts, take in one of the town’s many performances. And end your days with a stroll down the boardwalk to check out rides and plenty of food. The opportunities for family fun are endless.
LBI: Seaside classics
Beaches. Boardwalks. Rides. Waterparks. Seafood. Think of your ideal beach getaway – then turn it up a notch and you’ve got Long Beach Island. The expansive Fantasy Island, filled with amusements, foods and boardwalk games, is celebrating 40 years this season with giveaways and throwbacks. Viking Village, a fishing village established in the 1920’s that still participates in the commercial fishing industry, offers local shops offering jewelry, home decor, vintage treasures and clothing. Stop by to pick up (really) fresh seafood and vegetables for a home-cooked meal or grab some takeout – that’s just as fresh – if you don’t feel like cooking.
