Top Things to do in New Jersey
Top Hotels in New Jersey
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10 Outdoor Activities in New Jersey That You Shouldn't Miss
Whether you are looking for sun-drenched beaches or outdoor activities in beautiful countryside, New Jersey has plenty to offer. Those who love the great outdoors should head for the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, which runs along the Delaware River for forty miles. Here you can go rock climbing, canoeing, kayaking or fishing, or simply admire the stunning waterfalls. There is a huge range of hiking trails to choose from as well as historic sites to visit. In winter, you can enjoy cross-country skiing near Blue Mountain Lakes, and birdwatchers might be lucky enough to catch sight of bald eagles. If you are looking for a change, visit one of New Jersey's eleven lighthouses that are open to public, such as the one in Cape May. For art and history enthusiasts, New Jersey State Museum in Trenton has historic artifacts and American fine art from the nineteenth century to the present day as well as a Planetarium.
Restaurants in New Jersey
1. Cape May County Park & Zoo
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 1,589 reviews
Have a wild time as you explore more than 85 acres of beautifully maintained exhibits. With 200 different species of mammals, birds, amphibians and reptiles and approximately 500 animals, you're sure to see something new. The Cape May County Zoo is open 364 days a year (closed Christmas). Summer Hours: 10 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Winter Hours: 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. beginning November 2nd. No admission fee. That's right! The zoo is free of charge! Donations are GREATLY appreciated! Join the FUN, where the admission is always FREE!
Reviewed By JazzinInJersey - Nutley, United States
All you pay us a donation, free parking and there you go !!! We are on vacation and this is our 3rd visit. It was an overcast day and all the animals were out. We saw giraffes, lion and lioness, bears, snow leopard, cougar, leopard, camels, eagle,zebra.... restrooms galore, food stops,wheelchair accessible
2. Sunset Beach
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 592 reviews
Reviewed By susank1003
What a great little hidden gem.This small little beach offers the most amazing sunsets.You can visit the grill and have a great burger on the covered deck.The little gift shops always have cute treasures to buy and they have a restroom.There's free parking and no beach tags! Its a win win.During in season if you can go at sunset you will see a flag ceramony that will bring tears to your eyes.Each night a flag is lowered that belonged to one of our Vetrans.The family is usually there and takes part while music is played.Its a great way to honor your country all while sitting in front of the sinking concrete ship on this pebbled beach and ending the day in a beautiful heartfelt way.
3. Manasquan Beach
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 48 reviews
Located just south of New York City, this beach is known for good swimming and surfing.
Reviewed By Michon21
I've been going to Manasquan Beach since I was ten and am going again tomorrow, forty one years later, because it's a nice quiet family beach where I can nap on the sand, read a book, and enjoy the sound of the waves.
4. William Warren Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 12 reviews
5. Wildwood Beach
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,879 reviews
A wide beach that appeals to families.
Reviewed By stronziger - Carlstadt, United States
Absolutely one of the cleanest, largest and most importantly free beaches in New Jersey. After spending time here you will not want to go anyplace else.
6. North Wildwood Beach
7. Island Beach State Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 247 reviews
One of the few undeveloped barrier island covering 3,000 acres. Activities include fishing, swimming, sunbathing and surfing. The state's largest osprey colony, as well as peregrine falcons, wading birds, shorebirds, waterfowl and migrating songbirds, are found here.
8. Poverty Beach
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 90 reviews
Reviewed By psudino - Weehawken, United States
This is one of those places that is not as popular since it is not close to any bars, restaurants or activities. That is precisely why I enjoy it so much. The primary entrance is on Wilmington Ave. Once you arrive you'll see a very wide beautiful section of beach. Lifeguards here seem to be sparce compared to Cape May Beach. But there are a lot less people so if you have younger kids it's easier to keep an eye on them. Overall, this is one of the least populated beaches that I've been to in NJ and that has a lot to do with why it is one of my favorites.
9. Ship Bottom Beach
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 144 reviews
Reviewed By jerb2014 - Bristol, United States
Ship bottom beach is one of the nicer beaches on the Island (although we love the beaches in Holgate). The area is keep pristinely clean and the sand is like fine cinnamon sugar. We were there during the heat wave and it was easy to burn your feet on the sand. The water had a bit of an undertow and was pleasantly cold, not severely cold. Parking can be an issue and you do need to keep you badges with you.
10. Bergen County Zoological Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 404 reviews
Reviewed By paul3776 - Paramus, United States
Bergen County Zoo in Van Saun Park is a wonderful place for people of all ages. Great zoo with all kinds of animals, train ride, pony ride, carousel, picnic area and acres of walking trails. This is located in Paramus, NJ accessible to mass transportation .
