northeast

Family Vacations to New Jersey

Arrow Discover more

New Jersey- Family Vacation Guide

Many beach towns are easily accessible by train from New York City. Depending on where you stay, walking or biking to the beach can be good options. However, a car can also be helpful if you’re going to a less accessible destination or you want to be able to easily pack and take beach chairs, towels, coolers and umbrellas for the day.

Where to Go

The Jersey Shore has several towns and stretches perfect for families. Go fishing and enjoy the waves in Sandy Hook, but be warned that it can get crowded here so plan to start your days early. Older kids will enjoy the cool factor of Asbury Park, which plays host to the Bamboozle Music Festival and offers a food truck park. Younger ones will also enjoy the numerous family-friendly activities here including mini-golf, a boardwalk and an arcade. Meanwhile, Cape May offers visitors 2 miles of trails to explore and picturesque lighthouse views. There many boutique hotels along the shore and an abundance of beach houses families can rent.

What to Do

  • Head to one of the many beach towns on the Jersey Shore. From the boardwalks of Asbury Park to the white sand beaches of Long Beach Island, there’s plenty of distinctive towns to choose form, each with their own quirky character.
  • Visit the lighthouse within the impressive lands of Cape May Point State Park and climb the 199 stairs to the top. Stroll along the nature trails and boardwalks that sit atop sandy dunes and overlook ocean views in this 235-acre park.
  • Hit the resort city of Wildwood for family fun in the form of beaches, waterparks, thrilling amusement park rides. Travel along the boardwalk on the iconic and colorful Tramcar that first began operating in 1949.
  • Atlantic City offers plenty for kids to do that isn’t gambling. Hop on the rides at Steel Pier, visit the Ripley’s Believe It or Not museum and treat their sweet tooth at It’Sugar candy store. In the evenings, look for the free movie screenings on the beach or take older kids to a concert on the beach.

Getting Around

The wide open expanses and spread out nature of the top attractions make it nearly impossible to visit without a car.

Get travel news sent to your inbox