Best New Jersey's Top Seaside Attractions

Spend your day swimming, sunbathing, or boogie-boarding along one of New Jersey's many white-sand beaches. Or visit the famed 2.5-mile Jersey Shore Boardwalk for entertainment, shopping, and dining!

1. Lucy The Elephant

Lucy the Elephant is one of America's oldest roadside attractions and a must-visit for anyone wanting to spend a day by the seashore. At six stories high, this iconic landmark should not be missed! Lucy, built-in 1881 by Philadelphia businessman James Vincent Lafferty Jr. as a marketing ploy to lure property buyers to Margate, then known as South Atlantic City, serves as an example.

2. Adventure Aquarium

Adventure Aquarium, situated along Camden Waterfront, offers truly one-of-a-kind exhibits. Boasting more than 8,500 aquatic animals within two million gallons of water, this aquarium promises an unforgettable experience for visitors. You can have many incredible experiences at the aquarium, like swimming with sharks and stingrays. Additionally, you can help feed the hippos and get up-close views of some of their other animals.

3. Piers

Piers offer an exciting way to explore the ocean and have fun with friends. Plus, they're great spots for people-watching and wildlife sightings! On the Jersey Shore, there are numerous piers perfect for sunset strolls, fishing or simply admiring the beauty of the sea. All are easily accessible and will make you feel like you're at a beach destination in the Caribbean!

4. Battlefield State Park

History buffs will love this idyllic 18th-century landscape of rolling farmland and hedgerows in Monmouth County. Here, the park preserves an idyllic 18th-century landscape. It boasts miles of hiking trails, a restored Revolutionary War farmhouse, picnic areas, and a visitor's center. Additionally, it hosts the annual Battle of Monmouth reenactment in June.

5. Essex Country Turtle Back Zoo

Turtle Back Zoo should not be missed if you're searching for an exciting zoo in New Jersey. This modern zoo offers plenty of animal exhibits and fun activities for visitors to enjoy. Grant funding to the New Jersey Zoological Society and Essex County enabled them to open new exhibits at Turtle Back Zoo, such as a Black Bear Exhibit, North American Wildlife Exhibits, Reptile & Education Center, outdoor/indoor dining facilities, and more.

6. Jenkinson's Aquarium

Jenkinson's Aquarium in Point Pleasant is a popular destination for locals and tourists. Opened in 1991, this attraction showcases Atlantic and Pacific sharks, penguins, seals, coral reefs and more - perfect for families to enjoy together! Kids will adore the touch tank, where they can interact with various creatures, from stingrays to starfish. Don't forget about Luseal - a local celebrity rescued as a pup who resided at the aquarium for over three decades!

7. Barnegat Lighthouse

Barnegat Lighthouse is an iconic landmark on Long Beach Island that commands stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean, Island Beach State Park, and Barnegat Bay. It's also a favorite spot for nature hikers, birders and fishermen alike. From Memorial Day to Labor Day, the park is open to the public for a nominal fee per person. Children under 12 are admitted free but must be accompanied by an adult.

8. Casino Pier and Breakwater Beach Water Park

Casino Pier & Breakwater Beach Water Park, situated on a picturesque Jersey Shore pier, is the ideal destination for families to have an exciting day of activities. It features plenty of thrilling rides, refreshing ocean breezes, and an unforgettable view. Attractions such as Breakwater Beach Water Park and Casino Pier have long been favorite destinations for locals and visitors alike. This water park features various thrill slides, a wave pool, a children's play area, and cabana rentals.

9. Cape May County Parks & Trails

Cape May County Parks & Trails offer an abundance of activities. There are hiking trails, a Parcourse Fitness center, picnic areas, fishing ponds, and more to discover. The zoo is another popular attraction that's free to enter and offers many animals. Spend the day there with your family and friends!

10. Seaside Park

Seaside Park in New Jersey is one of the premier seaside destinations, offering plenty of activities for everyone to enjoy. From its iconic boardwalk to its numerous restaurants and bars, this beach town is packed with exciting experiences! Seaside Park comes alive during summer as visitors come for exciting boardwalk rides and delectable food. MTV's hit shows Jersey Shore films here, helping fuel the local economy.