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A Shoobees Guide to the Jersey Shore |
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Mid-Summer fun at the Jersey Shore Every summer, the Jersey Shore draws in thousands of visitors from around the country. Some have never walked down the Boardwalk or experienced the charming towns that dot the shoreline while other people make it a point to come back year after year. During the summer months of July, the Jersey Shore is really heating up with fun and excitement for the entire family. As you will see from the information below, there is never a dull moment. Atlantic City
For couples loving to gamble and be in the middle of fast-paced excitement, Atlantic City is the ideal travel destination. You can spend hours on the beach simply sun bathing, swimming, or making your way up and down the Boardwalk or if you prefer, you can hit some of the finest and loosest slots in all of gambling. All of the major hotels feature amazing shows, offering something for young to old. For example, on July 10, Rod Stewart will be in concert playing at the Atlantic City Boardwalk Hall. The concert begins at 8:00 p.m. and tickets are on sale ranging from $45 to $125 per person. Ongoing shows include Legends in Concert at Bally’s Palace with both matinee and evening shows as well as comedy routines, which can be enjoyed at the Tropicana and The Improv. Cape May Cape May is a picturesque destination that provides the distinction of being the oldest Oceanside resort in the United States. For 20 miles, this town stretches out toward the sea, providing the perfect oasis for every lifestyle. Here, you can relax, enjoy water sports, shop, or simply explore the historical structures, gaining a peak into the Victorian past. For the month of July, you can get started by attending the Kiwanis Pancake Day on July 7. This event begins bright and early at 7:00 a.m., and goes until 12:30 p.m. for late risers. Held at the Convention Hall, this is a great way to get to know the locals and visitors alike. On that same day at 1:00 p.m., the Independence Parade begins, again just outside the Convention Hall. For art lovers, you will not want to miss the 37th Promenade Art Show, running from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., July 13 through 15. Then on July 21, the Jersey Cape Antique Auto Show is the perfect event for the entire family. All you need to do is show up at the Washington Street Mall and enjoy four hours of fun, starting at 10:00 a.m. If you want to see “Baywatch” in action, you certainly do not want to miss the Beach Patrol SuperAthlon where lifeguards for the Jersey Shore show off their skills. Since the dates change each year, you will need to call 884-9520 for the exact date in 2004. Finally, for the kids you can enjoy Kid’s Day at the Physick Estate on July 11. As you can see, Cape May has a lot of diversity. That coupled with the town’s rich heritage, and this makes a great destination. North Wildwood, Wildwood, and Wildwood Crest Although these three towns are all located close by, they do offer distinct characteristics. Things you will find in common include pristine sandy beaches, exciting boardwalks, amusement rides, boating, swimming, and some of the best salt-water fishing on the east coast. During the day, you can take in a tour, get involved in water sports, and then at night, head out to enjoy a bike ride, outdoor concert, or a casual stroll along the boardwalk. In North Wildwood, you will discover some of the finest beachside resorts along the New Jersey shore. This beautiful destination was first discovered in the 1600s by the Lenni Lenape Indians. Then in 1870, some Swedish fishermen also fell upon the beautiful area and laid stake to the land. The towns of Wildwood and North Wildwood are also beautiful destinations, providing magnificent scenery and fun things to do. In fact, in the town of Wildwood, its popularity brings tens of thousands of visitors every summer to experience the beaches, water, and atmosphere. You can begin your vacation on July 1 by taking a Doo Wop Trolley Tour. This particular tour runs through September and begins at Ocean and Schellenger Avenues. This tour is amazing, having won several awards. Then on July 3 and 4, the Gazebo by the Sea Craft Show is a wonderful way to see all the talent by local residents. In fact, you can expect more than 50 artisans, selling just about every type of craft imaginable. If you love art and being whimsical, then the Sidewalk Chalk Competition is like nothing you have ever seen. Just as you did as a child, you will be able to take colored chalk and create your own masterpiece. This event is open to all ages and there are even special prizes for the best picture so come prepared to draw. For the Fourth of July, the fireworks display held in Wildwood is spectacular. The event is held on the Boardwalk at Pine Avenue, beginning at 10:00 p.m. On that same day, you can take in the Independence Day Parade as it makes its way north on Surf Avenue, enjoy the Dance Xplosion from July 7 through 11 at the Wildwoods Convention Center, and then from July 9 through 11, there is also the Anglesea Blues Festival, where smokin’ blues are played on an outdoor stage on Old New Jersey Avenue. Additionally events planned for the month of July include the New Jersey State Barbecue Championship in North Wildwood starting on July 9 and going until the 11th. You will have the opportunity to taste lip-smacking’ barbecue and mill about the town. Next, there are Boogie Board Races on July 10, which is a great time for kids aged 7 to 18, the Duke of Fluke Fishing Tournament on July 10 at the Sterling Harbor Marina, and the Hereford Inlet Lighthouse Craft Show, that runs on July 10 and 11, held at 1st and Central. Wildwood, North Wildwood, and Wildwood Crest also host the Miss North Wildwood Competition on July 14, The Beschen-Callahan Memorial Lifeguard Races on July 16, Christmas in July with Santa on July 17, Handcraft Unlimited Summer Craft Show on July 17 and 18, and a wonderful event called Closer Walk. This event starts on July 22 and runs to the 24th. This very unique experience is designed bring the entire family closer together. For Closer Walk, youth groups along with their families meet down at Morey’s Piers where they enjoy a weekend camping on the Beach. The entertainment includes contemporary Christian music and focuses on teaching people how to have a closer walk with Christ. If you still want more, you have it. On July 22, there is the Wildwoods Baby Parade, which has been a tradition since 1909. Then there is the Annual Co-ed Beach Ultimate Frisbee Tournament on July 24 and 25 in Wildwood. This tournament is open to people 18 years and up, and covers all levels of skill. If you prefer, you can enjoy the Annual Greater Wildwood Yacht Club Regatta, also on July 24 and 25. Taking place on Sunset Lake, you will have a wonderful day on the water, and even take sunfish and laser classes. Then on July 24 is the Annual Sandblast Beach Run in North Wildwood and finally, on July 24 and 25, the Mid-Summer Craft Show. Here, you will see incredible handmade crafts and be able to spend time in beautiful Wildwood Crest. Brigantine Brigantine is just a few minutes from the fast and exciting city of Atlantic City. Therefore, while the town of Brigantine is laid back you will be located conveniently to all types of activities tied directly in with the bigger city. However, if you want a town along the New Jersey shore, Brigantine would be a great choice for its relaxing atmosphere. With so many things to do all year round, the entire family will love this destination. No matter what your pleasure, whether fishing, swimming, boating, tennis, volleyball, or golf, this town offers a wide array of activities. If you are planning a trip to this area in July, you will find that most of the events are held in Atlantic City or other neighboring towns but then after a busy day, you can once again retreat to this fabulous area along the Jersey Shore.
Stone Harbor Located about midpoint along the Jersey Shore, Stone Harbor is a charming town that offers 30 miles of fantastic beachfront. For more than 75 years, this town has been a major destination for people all around the country. Offering outstanding restaurants, many modern hotel accommodations, and incredible shopping, Stone Harbor is a comfortable and fun place to visit. For the younger crowd or those individuals that enjoy a lot of activity, you can rent jet skis, play tennis, volleyball, and golf, or you can play all types of games on the beach and in the water. Most people that visit Stone Harbor come for the incredible Arts and Crafts stores, attracting people from all around. Other activities include the Hobie Cat Races, and visits to the Stone Harbor Bird Sanctuary. This town is one that typically people come for some much-needed R&R and then for faster-paced activities, they will travel the short distance to Atlantic City or other nearby towns. Avalon “Cooler by the Mile” is the motto of Avalon in that this town is the only one along the New Jersey Shore extending a full mile out. One of the things you will notice immediately upon arriving in Avalon is the dunes, which have been maintained meticulously and proudly by the town’s people. In fact, special walkways have been constructed along the end of the streets as a way of protecting the dunes, which is a major tourist attraction. The month of July is exciting in Avalon and starts on July 3 with the Avalon Recreation Antique Show. This event is ideal for people that love old things and history, and runs from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. On this same day, the Snake Brothers will be performing at the free Beach Concert held at 30th Street. Then on July 4, Avalon goes in with the town of Stone Harbor in putting together an incredible fireworks display. In addition to the fireworks display, July 4 also features the Warren Buckingham Memorial Swimming Races at the Windrift Motel, Field Races at the Recreation Field starting at 2:00 p.m., and the Boat Parade, which is certainly a sight to see. Moving to July 10, the Holston Tennis Trust Fund Raiser is held along with another free Beach Concert where you can listen to the tunes of Tommy Zito. Then on July 15, the Cape Harmonaires will be performing at 7:00 p.m., also on 30th Street at the beach. This concert is a real treat and something you do not want to miss. July 17 offers two fun activities with the first being the Cape Atlantic Avalon 5-Mile Run, which begins at 8:00 a.m., and then the band Remedy will be playing down at the beach at 30th Street for yet another free concert. Looking at July 24, there is the Mencini Scholarship Basketball Tournament, another free beach concert going from noon to 3:00 p.m., featuring The Mighty Parro, and then the Big Band Dance that features the Walt Wagner Orchestra, held at the Avalon Community Hall with the doors opening at 8:00 p.m. On July 25, you can participate in the Avalon Yacht Club 5K Run or finally, simply kick back while you listen to the last free concert of the month of July on the 31st when McHugh & Company will be playing. Sea Isle City Sea Isle City is a very popular destination choice for a number of reasons. Often referred to as “The Sea and Sand Family Vacation Land”, once you have arrived, you will agree. The locals are very hospitable and this area of the Jersey Shore is breathtakingly beautiful. Providing visitors with a full five miles of white sand, the town is the perfect place to frolic on the beach or splash around in the water. The summers in Sea Isle City are always busy with Free Summer Concerts under the Stars, City Tours, Dance Parties, and more. Other events begin on July 4 with the Jr. Olympics that features children from the age of three to 13. Located at Dealy Field, registration begins at 9:30 a.m. Then, a spectacular Fireworks display is held at 9:00 p.m. at JFK and the Beach, featuring the Cape May County String Band that will be offering entertainment. On July 5, you can enjoy Ken McBride Himself or sit back and enjoy the sounds of Verdi Concert Band on July 7, both concerts beginning at 7:30 p.m. Additionally, July 8 features yet another concert, this time by the U.S. Air Force Band. If you want to listen to great music and support our military, then this concert is perfect. Then on July 10, there is the Blackthorn Rugby Football Club Tournament at Dealy Field followed by a rock and roll concert on July 12 called “Just in Time.” On July 14, the Sara the Turtle Festival begins at 6:00 p.m., July 14 the Country Joe & The Honky Tonk Heroes, or you can enjoy the Phillies Home Run Derby for boys and girls aged 7 to 15 on July 18. In Sea Isle City, you will find also more events to include Parrotville on July 19, which features Jimmy Buffet tunes or the Tidal Wave Band on July 21. An excellent way to get some exercise while enjoying the scenic view is to get involved in the CMC Bar Association 5K Run held on July 23 at JFK Boulevard and the Beach. Kicking off at 6:00 p.m., you will then have the rest of your evening to enjoy other activities. For more music, July 26 will feature Al Santoro & The Highlighters, playing golden oldies, July 27 “Puss in Boots”, starting at 7:30 p.m., and finally, the Midiri Brothers Big Band. Strathmere While some of the towns along the Jersey Shore are commercialized, you will find that Strathmere is kind of a sleepy town where no one is in a hurry. For this reason, if you want to be close to excitement but in a town where things are a little slower paced, Strathmere makes the ideal place to relax. For the summer months of 2004, you can enjoy a Country Family Brunch, which is held each Sunday, starting at 10:00 a.m. and ending around 2:00 p.m. The menu is loaded with fresh, local, and seasonal foods that are mouth-watering. Since this town is primarily residential and so laid back, the most excitement you will find is watching the waves roll in! However, other towns along the Jersey Shore are only a short drive away when you need a little more activity. Ocean City Here the air is filled with the smell of fresh salt air and cotton candy. Families come in droves from near and far to enjoy the town of Ocean City, taking advantage of the white sand to build sandcastles or to rent bikes so they can take a ride along the Boardwalk. As you visit Ocean City, you will see people of all ages relaxing on the seven miles of white sand or walking along the waterline, simply picking up seashells. The Boardwalk is also a main attraction in this town. Stretching out 2 1/2 miles, you can enjoy fine shops, take a roller coaster ride, or simply take an afternoon to play miniature golf. Packed with all types of summer events, spending time in Ocean City is guaranteed to be anything but boring. July 4 is always a fun time, filled with music, food, arts & crafts, games, and of course, fireworks. All you have to do is visit the Jamboree in the Park event and you will get all this and more. In addition to fireworks, you will also be treated to a free concert on the beach, which begins at 8:00 p.m. Just imagine laying back on a blanket along the shoreline while listening to FREE music! What could be better than that? Another fun event begins on July 11 and runs through August 29. Sundaes in the Park is a time of free, family concerts, a huge make-your-own sundae bar for a very small price, and lots of entertainment for the kids. Then on July 14, the Free Concerts on the Beach goes into high gear. Typically, these concerts consist of well-known entertainers, providing a great time for the entire family. Then starting on July 15 and running into late August, you will find one event in Ocean City that every visitor should experience. Bonfire/Story Hour on the Beach is unique and tremendous fun! Sitting around a massive bonfire while hearing stories of all kinds, is a great way to spend an evening, regardless of age. July 17 offers something very magical and romantic called “Night in Venice”. This event includes the perfect place to view the world’s largest boat parade. For this festivity, there are more than 300 homes and 100 boats all decked out in twinkling lights, creating a Venetian Lagoon. This incredible event would be ideal for couples wanting to spend some time together. Somers Point This particular town along the Jersey Shore has long been a refuge for many families just looking for a place where they can unwind. Somers Point has a long history, which is woven into the local restaurants. People will find the seafood to be incredibly delicious and unlike anything that they have ever tasted before. This town is somewhat different from others in that its waterfront is completely on the bay. That means instead of tall, crashing waves, the beaches in Somers Point have no waves. If you love to fish, then spending time on the fishing pier will certainly bring a smile to your face. You can even rent both boat and personal watercraft to spend a little time on the water. Margate Nestled on the island of Absecon, Margate is considered a perfect family destination. The skies are clear, the water blue, and the local residents full of hospitality. Known for being in the shape of an elephant, Margate is typically referred to as “Lucy”. One of the nice things about this small Jersey Shore town is that it offers the perfect combination of rest and excitement. If you want to gamble the night away, you are located just minutes from Atlantic City but if you prefer to stay in Margate away from the lights and action of the big city, then you can enjoy a day spa, go fishing, play miniature golf, rent bikes, and so on. The great thing about Margate is that you will experience for yourself some of the best and richest seashore history in all of Southern New Jersey. In Margate, you will see a wooden elephant that reaches more than 65-feet toward the sky, looking as though protecting the community. The legend surrounding this elephant is what lends interest. You see, it is said that a first-time seaman was keeping watch over the ship, as it slowly made its way toward the New York harbor. Seeing that everything was fine, he yelled out, “All’s well”, which was immediately followed by “Elephant.” The Captain thought the seaman had gone mad and rushed to the upper deck to see what was going on. As he looked through his long glass, he too shouted, “Elephant”. Not believing what he saw, he cleaned off the lens and again looked toward the Jersey Shore. This time, he knew that his eyes were not deceiving him – there amidst the eelgrass and dunes on the lower portion of the island was a giant elephant! When traveling with children, check out the activities held at the Jewish Community Center. The summer months are filled with arts and crafts, surfing, kayaking, swimming, drama, music, miniature golf, hockey, volley, roller blading, tennis, and so on. There are also all types of programs geared toward children of every age. One such program is the HABIMAH – Performing Arts Camp. Focusing on children ranging in age7 through 13, they will be taught the fundamentals of acting, stage, and about stage presence. Other features include learning preparation for voice and music, dance movement, and even set and scenery. Longport This town is another one that is situated very close to other larger towns. Named after John Long who was a very prominent landowner, Longport is located on the south end of Absecon Island and on the north side of the Great Egg Harbor. Known as a peaceful town, you will find that the summer months are occupied with things such as fishing, relaxing in the sun, or taking a leisurely boat ride. When it comes to activities and events, generally visitors and residents alike will venture to one of the larger towns nearby. Since Longport is primarily residential, people will come here to enjoy the natural beauty of the Jersey Short but then drive 15 minutes to Atlantic City, or just five minutes to Ocean City or Somers Point. While there are many things to do in the summertime, one of the favorites is held on July 8. The Longport Traditional Celtic Tales is held at the Atlantic County Library, Longport Branch and starts at 7:00 p.m. Although you will be required to register, the event is free. Here, you can sit back and listen to professional storytellers that can take words and breathe life into them. If you should be traveling with children, they would love this event but remember it is not just for kids.
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