Summer is finally here and it’s time to plan weekend getaways and beach days. Jersey City is perfectly located for just these kinds of adventures. So grab your sunscreen and devote some long weekends and lazy days to yourself this season.
The Best Beaches Near Jersey City
Restore your soul at the water’s edge. Whether you’re going for solitude and relaxation or for an action-packed day with the littles, we all need beach days. Here’s a handy list of the best.
- Belmar Beach – Enjoy beautiful views of the Atlantic at this white, sandy beach. Belmar is only a 90 minutes away from Jersey City by car, so it’s the perfect last-minute adventure. The beloved boardwalk is well-kept and a favorite for walkers and runners. Take a snooze in the sand then try your hand at Boogie boarding, fishing or kayaking.
- Island Beach State Park – Island Beach is the perfect spot for an all-day beach day. You can bring your coolers and even your grill and choose how close to other beachgoers you’d like to be. A short hike brings you to remote beach areas with ample parking along the main road. You’ll observe wildlife and almost 10 miles of beach to enjoy on this day trip.
- Asbury Park – Spend the day enjoying the sun and surf and then your fun continues into the night at Asbury Park. The beaches are spacious and always carefully watched by lifeguards. You can count on a great night scene, too. Watch the fireworks or see a show at the famous Stone Pony or grab a beachy dinner.
- Point Pleasant Beach – Great for families, Point Pleasant Beach is about a 60-90 minute drive south of Jersey City and has something for everyone. The beaches are well-kept and spacious so you can enjoy lots of elbow room with your whole family.
- Sandy Hook National Seashore – Another New Jersey beach favorite and an hour’s drive from Jersey City, this park is ideal for weekend getaways packed to the brim with outdoor adventures. It’s pet-friendly too! Enjoy a tour of the 250-year-old Sandy Hook Lighthouse or spend a day on one of their idyllic beaches. Go fishing, biking, hiking or even birdwatching in this terrific park.
Weekend Getaways from Jersey City
And sometimes you need to get away for more than just an afternoon. These short trips are close enough to get there in a hurry and recharge your batteries. You can go on a little exploration and find a hidden gem of a town to explore and enjoy.
- Lambertville, New Jersey – This cute village lies on the border of New Jersey and Pennsylvania, right next to the Delaware River. You’ll find everything from vintage clothing and antique stores to eclectic cafes and breweries. There’s a vibrant arts scene and a creamery to die for. Take a long walk along the canal and kick off your shoes at the Lambertville Station Restaurant and Inn.
- Woodstock, New York – This quaint village in the Catskill mountains is a lovely retreat for a weekend. The famous festival actually took place about an hour west in what is today Bethel Woods Center for the Arts, but the spirit of peace and music lives on in Woodstock. The shops and restaurants are unique and there’s so much more to do like bike riding and hiking.
- Old City Philadelphia – Discover historic sites, visit boutiques and art galleries, and enjoy fine dining in the City of Brotherly Love. You can also try out a kayak excursion on the Delaware River or take a bike tour. Dining outdoors is wide open, and while Covid restrictions have been lifted in large measure, there are still seating limitations in certain establishments.
- Hudson, New York – Stay for a long weekend at The Hudson Milliner, an industrial-inspired boutique hotel. The suites are luxurious and historic, giving you an old world yet modern experience. Then stroll down Warren Street, in the heart of the historic district to one of the town’s amazing restaurants like Backbar. Catch a live show at Hudson Hall, or get tickets now for the Hudson Jazz Festival in August.
- Montclair, New Jersey – Known as the Williamsburg of The Garden State, you’ll find many small and upscale inns and diverse shops. Make reservations at The George and see the famous inn’s fabulous new renovations. Grab brunch or drinks at one of the town’s acclaimed restaurants, and make sure you get a hike in at Eagle Rock Reservation.
Take Time for You
It’s been a challenging year. No matter what your profession, summertime offers opportunities to take a break and recharge. So many of us have been working from home, hopping in the car for a day trip or weekend away is exactly what we need. So, pack your bags and enjoy the trip!
