Exploring the Jersey Shore: A Day Trip from MetLife Stadium
If you have a gap of several days between your nation's World Cup matches and you have already exhausted the museums of Manhattan, it is time to do what every local New Jerseyan does in July: head "Down the Shore." The Jersey Shore offers 130 miles of Atlantic coastline, featuring pristine beaches, bustling boardwalks, and a totally distinct summer culture that is worlds apart from the urban sprawl of the Meadowlands.
Choosing Your Beach Town
The Jersey Shore is not a monolith; the vibe changes drastically depending on which exit you take off the Garden State Parkway. If you want high-energy nightlife, massive casinos, and world-class dining, head south to Atlantic City. If you want a wholesome, historic, family-friendly boardwalk with amusement park rides, visit Ocean City or Point Pleasant. If you want a vibrant music scene, incredible food, and a trendy, artistic atmosphere, Asbury Park is the undisputed crown jewel of the modern Shore.
Logistics of a Shore Trip
- The Traffic Warning:
Driving south on the Garden State Parkway on a Friday afternoon in July is a grueling test of patience. The traffic heading to the Shore is legendary. If you are doing a day trip, you must leave early in the morning (before 8:00 AM) to beat the rush and secure parking.
- Beach Badges (The Sand Tax):
Unlike most of the world, almost all beaches in New Jersey are not free. To step on the sand during the summer, you must purchase a daily "Beach Badge" from attendants stationed at the dune entrances. They typically cost between $8 and $12 per person per day.
- Taking the Train:
If you do not have a rental car, you can take the NJ Transit "North Jersey Coast Line" directly from Penn Station or Secaucus Junction. It drops you off directly in shore towns like Asbury Park, Belmar, and Point Pleasant Beach.
No trip to the Shore is complete without walking the boardwalk at night, eating a slice of massive boardwalk pizza, and buying saltwater taffy. It is an iconic slice of Americana.