You wait for it all year: that moment when you can escape to the beach. Maybe it’s just a day trip, maybe it’s for the whole season, but family time at the Shore is precious, full of memorable moments, big and small.
We want to help you make the most of the time you do have. That’s why we put together this list of must-do activities — a bucket list, of sorts — that’s full of fun places. We combed through our staff’s favorites, and suggestions from our readers, to pick out the very best stops along the shore, from Barnegat Light to Bethany Beach. Most things are open again, but please be sure to check each spot before you head out just in case their operating days and times have changed due to the pandemic. Also be sure to check to see what they are requiring their guests to do- make reservations in advance, wear a mask, etc. So much has changed in how we do things, and while we are almost back to normal we aren’t 100% there yet but with this guide and some advance planning we hope that you are still able to enjoy your time at the shore with your family, and make amazing new memories.
So when you pack up, take our list with you. And don’t forget the sunscreen.
Food
Eating is a huge part of vacation. If you’ve rented a house, you’ll eat more often at home, but if not, having a variety of restaurants is key. Clip this list and you’ll never go hungry!
Kid-Friendly- Call ahead, many restaurants are requiring a reservation due to staffing issues or you may even want to try take-out!
Sure, you’re at the beach. But sometimes you want to do something else — especially if it’s raining. And if you’re down the Shore for a longer period, your kids might enjoy a camp or other drop-off activity. Many places are back in business this year, and some are offering an alternate option for entertainment like virtual classes or camps, a take-home kit, an outdoor option, etc. So again, we remind you, to check their website, social media, or call for their real-time plans (I was really hoping I didn’t have to say that in 2021 when I was writing this guide last year!).
Wetlands Institute, Stone Harbor Crafty Chef Academy, Stone Harbor (reader report: Friday night cooking workshops for the kids = date night for the parents! They are Chester County based, so be sure to bookmark them for off-season, too!) Nature Center of Cape May,Cape May (reader report: “At the lighthouse on Saturdays there is a presentation on animals and the kids get to touch all the animals!”) Camp By the Sea, Margate Sea Isle City Recreation Camp, Sea Isle City Stone Harbor Recreation, Stone Harbor (staff tip: there’s a huge variety of camps for kids of all ages, from surfing to crafts, plus weekly family fun nights!) Stacy’s Surf Camp, Margate
Ocean City and Wildwood Boardwalks: Stroll, snack on french fries, grab some pizza, treat yourself to some ice cream, and take in the family-friendly activities that happen almost every night, including magicians and music. Similar activities, different vibe!
Outdoor Events: Check the websites of Avalon,Stone Harbor, and Sea Isle City for their schedules of concerts, movies, family nights, and more.
Especially if you’re on a longer trip, getting help with some of the comforts of home can be a huge boon. Here are some ways to ease the stress of travel — and maybe keep you from having to come home for fresh supplies.
Download the App Beach Caddy from the App Store or Google Play to order your caddy, or call 1-844-4CADDYS
Beach Caddies provide a luxury services to beachgoers in Ocean City, Sea Isle City, Avalon, and Stone Harbor New Jersey- delivering your beach gear from your rental to your preferred spot on the beach, and then back again (if you want!). Not only can they transport all your beach equipment on and off the beach, but they also help you check in. Upon arrival at home or rental, they will meet you at your vehicle and unload your luggage, provisions, and contents directly into your home. Then they’ll come back to move you out, too!
232 West Ave., Ocean City Serving Ocean City, Avalon, Sea Isle City, Stone Harbor, Long Beach Island (all towns in Zip Code 08008), Strathmere, Longport, Margate and more, this company will rent you (and deliver to your house) essentials like beach wagons, chairs, clean linens, cribs, and even games for the kids. Want groceries when you arrive? Consider it done.
802 Central Ave., Barnegat Light You can get groceries, linens, chairs, and other supplies here. Or you can splurge a bit more and rent a hot tub or book a personal chef.
Want to try out one of our date night restaurants, but don’t have a sitter? This branch of a national network will send a sitter with CPR certification and state and local clearances, so you’re not spending the appetizer course worrying.
411 N. Route 9, Cape May Court House One of the biggest beach vacation bummers is spending your sunny days in the laundromat. Skip that step and just drop off your dirty clothes, then pick them up once they’re washed and folded! You’ll wish you had this service at home.
Points South
Do you love Delaware? The First State is home to some great family-friendly beach towns, and several have developed a reputation for being especially welcoming to LGBTQ families. Here are some highlights from Rehoboth, Dewey, and Bethany.
Shell We Golf, Rehoboth Kids Cottage, Drop-in play and learning center, Rehoboth ** Note- the arcades named here may now be called Zelky’s as they have new ownership, locals and long time vacation goers will likely still refer to them by their old names!
Evening Activities (Date Night/Adult Only Concerts)
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