The Jersey Shore
The Jersey Shore offers ample activities for families, a couple or an individual. From amusement parks to food to entertainment, the Jersey Shore offers a smorgasbord for every taste. ìThe Shoreî is an unofficial nickname for an area along the coast which stretches from the Atlantic Highlands down to the southern tip of New Jersey. It is not called the beach, or the ocean, but ìthe shoreî and encompasses the businesses on the boardwalk or the edge of the beaches.
The Boardwalk in Atlantic City was built in 1870 as a way to keep sand out of the coastal hotels. Today it is home to food vendors, amusement rides, crafts and games along its five mile length. It is the longest boardwalk in the world. Salt Water Taffy originated in 1883 during a bad storm in Atlantic City. A candy store owner along the boardwalk thought his candy was ruined after the salty ocean water flooded his store. He was pleasantly surprised when someone sampled his candy, and liked the enhancement. He made it on purpose the next time, and the craze caught on.
Atlantic City is also famous for its gaming and casinos. People from all over the world visit Atlantic City to see the shows, gamble and enjoy the Atlantic Ocean beachfront.
Point Pleasant is home to another long boardwalk on the shore. Many stores and restaurants line the sandy beach, along with an aquarium which houses penguins, crocodiles, fish and sea creatures.
The cities in southern New Jersey are known for their seaside resorts for human and non-human travelers. The marshes and protected wetlands house many species of waterfowl during the winter months. The temperate climate keeps some birds all winter, while others use it as a resting spot on their way to South America or Mexico. Naturalists come from around the world to watch the migrations every year.
The seaside cities in central New Jersey offer ferry service for those who commute everyday or just visit once in a while. Special cruises set sail for Yankeeís baseball games and other cruise for dinner around the Statue of Liberty from the Atlantic Highlands and Keansport.
With so many miles of beaches, New Jersey needs a large number of well trained Life Guards to protect the public. Each year, there is a competition between Life Guards from places such as Australia, California, Florida, Greece, Texas, North Carolina and Italy. They all compete in races, life saving skills and other water events for a coveted title of Best Life Guard.
With so much action going on along the beach, Real Estate on the Shore is prime and doesnít stay up for sale long. The popularity of the shore is growing and drawing more people away from the city every year. Houses along the shore include bungalows, cabins and stately mansions.
