Experience a region of New Jersey where quirky resorts, pretty towns, lonely lighthouses and plenty of parks await intrepid explorers.
Head to South Jersey, where the Delaware River runs down the west and the Atlantic Ocean borders the east. It is a landscape of contrasts. Cities and towns offer culture and urban appeal and the long coastline is scattered with glitzy resorts. In the far corners nature prevails in sweeping wild landscapes.
Carneys Point, on the Delaware River, provides a pleasant place for exploration. Walk along the riverfront, from which you can snap photos of the impressive Delaware Memorial Bridge. Cross into Wilmington, Delaware, to visit Bellevue State Park.
The city of Vineland makes a good access point to Cape May and the beautiful beaches of the Atlantic Coast. Visit the restored 19th-century Cape May Lighthouse in Cape May Point State Park. Make sure you bring your binoculars to the Cape May Bird Observatory, one of the country’s most famous birdwatching destinations.
On the coast, Atlantic City offers very different activities. Appreciate the quirky seaside atmosphere or walk along the Steel Pier and enjoy the amusement rides and games. Climb the 228 steps of the Abseco Lighthouse, the tallest in New Jersey, to get a fantastic aerial view of Atlantic City. Gambling and entertainment draw many to casinos along the ocean.
Within pretty Camden County, the towns of Cherry Hill and Cedar Brook offer a taste of suburban life. Beautiful pink blossom fills the cherry trees in April throughout quaint parks. Delight the children with a visit to the Garden State Discovery Museum or Coco Key Water Resort in Mount Laurel.
While New Jersey’s international airport at Newark is the main gateway to the South Jersey region, you may prefer the international airport at Philadelphia. Travel just 30 minutes by car or taxi to reach Mount Laurel or just under an hour to reach Vineland. Traveling from the north, Route 9 stretches along the coast and gives easy access to the resorts and coastal treasures.
