The Jersey Shore

Elsewhere in America, people just go to the beach. In Philadelphia, we go “down the shore” – or, as pronounced with a proper Philly accent, “daywn a shwoor”.

The Jersey Shore is Philadelphia’s summer playground and a world unto itself. From May to September, Philadelphians of all ages and economic classes joyfully flock to this narrow chain of barrier islands and beachfront communities that make up the southern New Jersey coast.

And a most magical playground it is, at least once you get through the traffic jam and over the bridge or causeway. Beautiful sandy beaches. Frothy ocean waves, perfect for body-surfing. Old biplanes pulling suntan lotion ad banners a few hundred feet above the shoreline. Lighthouses. Boardwalks. Fine dining, shellfish shacks, junk food, ice cream, fudge and salt water taffy. Stately Victorian houses, gaudy casinos, cheap motels, high-rise condos, tiny ranch houses and multimillion-dollar beachfront sand castles. Parties, concerts, night clubs, festivals and parades. Fishing, sailing, amusement parks, skee-ball and miniature golf.

Every place at the Jersey Shore has its own unique flavor. Here’s a representative (but by no means complete) sampling, along with comments from our Whiz Kids:

(Click thumbnail or town name to go to detail page.)

	ATLANTIC CITY
	CAPE MAY
	LONG BEACH ISLAND
	OCEAN CITY
	WILDWOOD