When the air warms up, New Jersey residents head "down the shore," as they say, to enjoy the vast coastlines far from the bustle of New York City and Philadelphia suburbs. MTV's reality show, "Jersey Shore," made the Garden State's beach nightlife famous, but New Jersey residents know there's more to the shore. Get beyond Seaside Heights and check out the beaches locals love.
Cape May
Grab your binoculars and head to the southern tip of New Jersey. Cape May calls itself "the nation's oldest seashore resort," and the Victorian-style homes will make you feel like you stepped back in time. Clean, wide beaches lead to a south-facing shore where nature lovers gather to watch for whales and rare migrating birds. Locals and tourists gather on the boardwalk for evening strolls along the coastline amidst five star restaurants and boutique gift shops. City of Cape May 643 Washington St. Cape May, NJ 08204 609-884-9525
Island Beach State Park
Enjoy New Jersey's natural side at Island Beach State Park. Newark Star Ledger columnist John Shabe calls this beach the "RV enthusiast, fisherman's and hiker's heaven," and lists it as one of the best beaches in New Jersey. Nature trails abound along 10 miles of white sand beaches where you can walk and bike year-round and saddle your horse in the winter months. This is a popular place to plant your umbrella without the gift shop and roller coaster clutter of other Jersey Shore hot spots. Island Beach State Park Seaside Park, NJ 08752 732-793-0506
Point Pleasant
Gather the family for a classic Jersey Shore destination. Point Pleasant's name gives away its small town charm, but don't be fooled--there is something here for beachcombers of all ages. The beaches here are clean and wide, and the locals know it. Be prepared for cheek-to-jowl crowds on the beach during the daytime and a hopping boardwalk at night. Try your hand at one of the carnival games or get a T-shirt made to show your Jersey pride. Come back in September for their popular Seafood Festival where the fish is as fresh as it gets. The Municipality of Point Pleasant Beach 416 New Jersey Ave. Point Pleasant Beach, NJ 08742 732-892-1118
