Summer 2022 is just around the corner, which makes now the perfect time to break out the calendar and make your plans for the warmer months. Lucky for you, there’s plenty of adventure waiting for you down the shore from Ocean City to Wildwood. Spend the day by the water soaking up the sunshine, or get tickets with your friends to one of the many festivals in the area. Whatever you decide to do, you can be sure you and your family will have plenty to enjoy. With this in mind, let’s look at some of the more celebrated activities, adventures, and experiences in the area that are perfect for summer fun.
1. Spend the day at the beach
Avalon is renowned for its seven-mile stretch of white-sand beaches along the Atlantic Ocean. The town extends eastward one mile farther into the ocean, providing locals and visitors alike with an abundance of recreational water activities. There’s no question the beach and water activities are a highlight of Avalon and are complete with picturesque dunes, well-constructed walkways, and pristine sandy shores.
Visitors can look forward to various recreational activities, including boating, sailing, kayaking, paddle boarding, water skiing, fishing, surfing, and wakeboarding. If you’re looking for a more relaxing way to pass the time, lay out on a towel on one of the beautiful beaches with a good book and soak in the glorious summer sun.
2. Book a tee time at the Avalon Golf Club
Enhance your golf abilities when you check out the Avalon Golf Club. Nestled along the Jersey shore between Ocean City and Wildwood, this 18-hole golf course challenges golfers of all abilities. The course measures from 4924 to 6235 yards and tests players with narrow fairways, ample water features, and the most prominent component – the wind. This acclaimed golf club is open daily to the public from dawn to dusk. It’s become the perfect spot at the Jersey Shore to golf, dine, and enjoy a day outdoors.
3. Have a family fun day at the zoo
Make memories with your whole family by taking a trip to the Cape May County Park and Zoo. This attraction is located in Cape May County and is home to more than 550 animals representing 250 species. Since its opening, the zoo has become a significant attraction to both visitors of the shore and residents alike. The facility spreads across 85 acres, so you’ll have plenty to explore with your family.
Nature lovers will be impressed by the remarkable collection of animals and exhibits, including the Bald Eagle Exhibit or the chance to watch the growing ring tail lemur family at play. Passionate about protecting wildlife and their habitats, the zoo offers an array of entertaining and educational experiences on and off zoo grounds.
Visitors can participate in informative zookeeper talks, private zoo tours, and special seasonally-themed events. Open 364 days a year, the Cape May County Park and Zoo is free of charge and looks forward to welcoming guests.
4. Grab a drink at Slack Tide Brewing Company
After a full day in the sun, head to Slack Tide Brewing Company to grab a drink. This family-owned and operated brewery has become a favorite among locals since its first opening in 2015, and for a good reason. Since opening, Slack tide has sent a number of its beers to competitions and has garnered several awards. Be sure to check out what’s currently on tap, which includes no less than 18 rotating beers. If you’re looking for a more immersive experience, stop by the tasting room, which is open daily for indoor and outdoor seating.
5. Rent a bike
Enjoy Avalon from another vantage point when renting a bike from one of the town’s many bike shops. After all, the beach isn’t just for swimming and sun tanning –— it’s also the ideal location to grab your bike and explore the area through another lens. The Hollywood Bike Center, located on Dune Drive, is a popular bike rental choice.
The shop offers the newest and best quality bicycle rentals, and the attentive staff will be able to help you find the best options for the whole family. You’ll enjoy soaking up the cool breeze while pedaling the wide streets. Additionally, a half-mile boardwalk offers unmatched views of the water, which is perfect for bikers to take advantage of.
6. Shop until you drop
If shopping is your guilty pleasure, you’ll have plenty to indulge in. Avalon’s central business area is situated along Dune Drive, lined with chef-driven restaurants, local businesses, and an exciting nightlife scene. Revamp your wardrobe by taking a trip to The Preppy Palm – a women’s clothing store on Dune Drive.
Since its opening in 2007, this high-end store has offered a one-of-a-kind shopping experience. Grab a gift for a friend or a trinket for yourself at Armadillo Limited. This charming store offers an eclectic mix of home decor, accessories, and gifts. It’s become Avalon’s go-to spot for everything from housewarming to wedding gifts. After a full afternoon of shopping, stop by Avalon Coffee Company for a caffeine fix. Known for its delicious coffee and friendly staff, this hole-in-the-wall joint is located in the heart of Dune Drive.
7. Attend a performance at Cape May Stage
Avalon has robust art and cultural scene, embodied by the Cape May Stage. Housed in what once served as a 19th-century church, this neighborhood theater is situated at the corner of Bank and Lafayette Streets in downtown Cape May. Year round, the theater features an array of plays, musical theater, and shows. Guests can look forward to high-quality performances which inspire and entertain audiences of all ages and backgrounds.
8. Check out a local festival
The Wildwoods is known for its well-rounded calendar of community events and festivals, which occur throughout each season. This vibrant, exciting district has over 160 festivals and events each year, many of which are free. From classic car shows to music and food events, there’s always something exciting happening here, no matter the season.
Arts and crafts lovers can look forward to the Boardwalk Crafts, a must-see event on weekends throughout the summer. Located on the world-famous Wildwood Boardwalk, this incredible event showcases the impressive work of dozens of local and national artists. Guests can browse through booths and mingle with artists, making it a popular event for any fans of handmade products.
Additionally, the Wildwood Crest Sand Sculpting Festival, which happens in July, is another favorite amongst locals. Grab your buckets and shovels and head to the beach to create works of art in the sand. Categories include amateur and semi-pro sand sculpting contests and are free to all participants. Sculptures are judged on several factors, including creativity, execution, composition, and overall presentation. Prizes are awarded to the top three winners in each category, but the fun is guaranteed for all participants.
9. Go for a stroll on the boardwalk
Photo courtesy of Fun New Jersey
No trip to the Wildwoods is complete without a visit to the iconic boardwalk. Since its opening in the 1890s, the award-winning boardwalk has become a hub of activity and a central highlight of the region. Today, the Wildwoods' Boardwalk bills itself as one of the country’s last grand seaside promenades and comprises 38 blocks packed with novelty shops, waterparks, restaurants, and entertainment and amusement piers. Guests can look forward to over 100 rides and attractions that offer endless entertainment and adventures. The boardwalk completes the vibrant atmosphere with dazzling lights, exhilarating rides, and an intoxicating ambiance of excitement and energy. If you get hungry, a seemingly endless array of restaurants, cafes, and takeout shops have you covered. The choices are numerous – treat yourself to anything from funnel cakes, homemade fudge, gourmet pizzas, to seafood specials.
10. Connect with nature
There’s nothing like removing yourself from the hustle-bustle of city life to rejuvenate in nature, and Cape May Point State Park is the perfect place to do just that. Spread over 24 acres, this spacious park comprises freshwater meadows, ponds, forests, dunes, and a beach.
The park is best known for the famous Cape May Lighthouse, originally built in 1859. Cape May Point State Park is just a short bike ride from historic Cape May, making it an excellent place for a day trip.
If you’re looking to enjoy the impressive variety of activities and experiences available in New Jersey year-round, please don’t hesitate to contact Christen Andrews of the Elite Property Group today. Whether you’re looking for a vacation property or your permanent residence, Christen is there to help guide you every step. As an expert in everything from Wildwood homes for sale to Avalon luxury homes, Christen will ensure your next real estate transaction is a success.
