The Best Outdoor Things To Do at the Jersey Shore

Our Local Expert Says:

If you want to explore the entire Boardwalk put on your running shoes. It stretches all the way from from Absecon Channel on the northern edge of town into Ventnor to the south.

Description:

The Boardwalk in Atlantic City is the granddaddy of all boardwalks! Dating from 1870, ForbesTraveler.com rates it among the top of the "Top 10 American Boardwalks." Lined with dining, gambling, nightlife and a wealth of fun family attractions (and some not-so-family friendly), this miles-long deck boasts some of the poshest hotel casinos in the world, including Caesar's and the Trump Taj Mahal, as well as some kitschy tourist draws such as the famed Boardwalk Rolling Chairs.

Our Local Expert Says:

Do you want to know a hummingbird's wingspan? What about how far birds fly each season? Stop in at the headquarters and auditorium (weekdays between 10 am and 3 pm) to learn more about birds.

Description:

The Edwin B. Forsythe Wildlife Refuge consists of about 40,000 acres of coastal wetlands that have been set aside as a refuge that acts as a resting place for migratory birds. Anyone who enjoys birdwatching will love it here. There is a wildlife drive and trails open seven days a week, from sunrise to sunset. To get here, take the White Horse Pike to Route 9 North; you'll find the main vehicular entrance on Route 9 just north of Atlantic City.

Our Local Expert Says:

Why not see Atlantic City from the water? AC Cruises offers a wide variety of marine adventures for those who love the sea.

Description:

Adventure out to sea with the capable seafarers at Atlantic City Cruises, where fun is just the beginning. AC has a variety of offerings to choose from, including the Morning Skyline cruise, the Dolphin Watching cruise, the Happy Hour cruise, the Sightseeing cruise, as well as a smörgåsbord of special occasion cruises. The Dolphin Watching cruise in particular is quite the crowd pleaser, providing marine adventurers plenty of opportunities to capture the graceful water mammals on film.

Description:

Aficionados of golf have several options to choose from in Atlantic City. And Blue Heron Pines Golf is certainly where you must play! Open to the public, this 18 hole golf course has appeared in Golf Magazine's "Top 100 Public Access Course in the United States" and has also received "Quality Service Ratings". First-class golf facilities ensure that visitors go back with a memorable experience and keep coming back for more. You will also find a grille room, banquet hall and a golf shop here together with some expert guidance as well!

Our Local Expert Says:

Kids will love the Terrapin Station, the first exhibit in the world dedicated to the diamondback terrapin.

Description:

The Wetlands Institute promotes conservation and preservation of coastal ecosystems by making every visitor's experience fun and educational. In the winter, visitors can take self-guided tours of all the Institute's facilities. In the summer,complete guided tours are offered, as well as back bay boat rides, kayaking, live animal shows, family entertainment and guided beach and dune walks. The Salt Marsh Trail offers unparalleled views of migratory birds, fiddler crabs and other creatures, depending on the season.

Our Local Expert Says:

The whole family can enjoy a parasailing adventure and no experience is necessary.

Description:

Ocean City Para-sailing offers a bird's eye view of the pristine waters. Their para-sailing excursion is something the whole family can enjoy no matter what the age. Not to worry if you haven't done it before. There is no experience necessary. The flights reach heights of 500 feet (153 meters) and they use updated, safe equipment. Check website for open hours.

Our Local Expert Says:

These boats have a walk-on bow pulpit so you can watch the animals swim right under your feet.

Description:

The Cape May Whale Watcher has been whale and dolphin watching in the Cape May, Wildwood, Stone Harbor, Atlantic City and the rest of the New Jersey Shore area since 1993. Large, fast and comfortable, the Cape May Whale Watcher and Spirit of Cape May -- both 110 feet superships -- have enough speed to allow more time for viewing and less time riding. The boats are specifically built for the purpose of whale, dolphin, bird watching and sightseeing. A snack bar on board serves hot and cold beverages, pizza, hotdogs, ice cream, beer and wine.

Our Local Expert Says:

The Cape May Peninsula is world-renowned for its Autumn bird migrations.

Description:

The Cape May Bird Observatory (CMBO), founded in 1976 by the New Jersey Audubon Society, is a leader in research, environmental education, bird conservation, and recreational birding activities. Weekly walks, programs and boat trips are offered, as are birding workshops, birding maps and kayaking tips.

Description:

Cape May County Park and Zoo is your doorway to the natural world and all it has to offer. Consisting of over 200 acres of natural land, this is a great site for families to enjoy the great outdoors. The park area features picnic tables, biking paths, kids playgrounds and fishing areas. About 80 acres is dedicated to the Zoo that has about 550 different types of birds, reptiles and mammals. The hours depend on the season; during the winter the park is open from 10a to 3:45p and the summer hours are 10a to 4:45p. Come and see your favorite animals almost any day of the year (the park is closed only on Christmas) and for free!