Having grown up in southern New Jersey, and now attending school in Maine, I am often faced with a choice of whether to return home for the whole summer, or to continue work and stay in my apartment at school. The decision is often a hard one to make. When I return home, I am always greeted by my amazing friends and family. When I am at school, I have the freedom to be myself and organize my days how I'd like. Plus the scenery in central Maine during the middle of summer is absolutely beautiful. However, I always make the decision to head back down to the Jersey Shore area at the end of the semester. The main reason why I return home is because, to be quite honest, nothing else compares to the memories that are made during a summer in South Jersey. If you haven't experienced a South Jersey summer, I highly suggest you try it at least once, and here are a couple of reasons why.
The Beautiful Beaches
Brigantine Beach, New Jersey-Sunset
The main reason why people migrate to South Jersey for the summer is for the beautiful beaches that we have. New Jersey has miles of coastline and chances are, if you have grown up in the area, you have spent most of your summers on of the many beaches located here. The beach is a great way to spend time and make memories regardless of what time of day it is. In the morning you can wake up and go for a light jog. During the middle of the day, you can enjoy the water to cool off. Sunset is the perfect time to enjoy beautiful sunsets such as the one pictured above. I have even ventured onto the beach at night and admired the moonlight hovering over the ocean. The beaches are always an excellent way to unwind and relax after a stressful school year or work week.
Scenic Mainland
Patriot Lake, Galloway NJ
If the beach really isn't your thing, don't worry. People often confuse South Jersey with North Jersey. Most people think that all of New Jersey is city-like and burns fossil fuels. What most people forget is that South Jersey has a very scenic mainland as well. All over the region you can find beautiful parks to walk around filled with blooming flowers. Or you can even head out to the farmland regions and stop at one of the many flea/farmer's markets to pick up fresh produce. Most of my summer memories were made going to the Cowtown flea/farmer's market during the day and then sticking around to watch the rodeo there at night.
Visiting Historic Landmarks
Batsto Village, Washington Twp. NJ
South Jersey is actually filled with a lot of history. With that being said, there are historic landmarks located all over the area. Many of these landmarks are located less than an hour away. Majority of them are also open to the public daily. Visiting historic landmarks are always a favorite memory of mine because it is as if I'm stepping back in time. Since these historic landmarks are often part of a state park, they usually have a picnic area located within them so you could pack a lunch and enjoy the whole day there if you'd like. Pictured above is from when I visited Batsto Village. It was hard to believe that this mansion has been standing there for centuries. Visiting these historic landmarks also are a great opportunity to practice my photography.
The Nightlife
A Dam Good Sports Bar, Atlantic City, NJ
Living only 15 minutes away from Atlantic City does have its perks. There is an amazing nightlife scene in Atlantic City, especially in the summer. If you are 21 or over, there is almost an endless amount of bars that you can visit, such as Maynard's on Wednesday night where there are great deals on drinks. Or you can head to Charlie's in Somers Point for some of the best wings and a beer tower to split among close friends for a more casual setting. Feeling a little more adventurous? Atlantic City has a number of nightclubs where you can dance the night away till the early morning. You can choose any night of the week in the summer, and there will be at least one club that is open. If you are under 21, you can still enjoy your night by playing mini-golf, shopping, or riding amusement park rides on any of the three boardwalks nearby. Personally, I think Ocean City is the best for shopping with all the local merchandise available at the shore stores there, and Wildwood has the best rides among its three amusement piers.
The Delicious Food
Pheonix Diner, Absecon, NJ
One thing that can't be comparable to New Jersey is the food. The food is so out of this world. The fact that there is a diverse amount of culture and heritage among the families that live here, it helps provide a sense of authenticity to the food dishes that are made here. Whether I am heading to a local diner for a cup of French Onion soup, or grabbing a slice of pizza for $1 on the boardwalk, I will always enjoy my meal whenever I am home in South Jersey.
Ongoing Festivals
Food Truck Festival, Atlantic City, NJ
In the summer, South Jersey seems to offer plenty of festivals for people from all over to enjoy. Pictured here was the Atlantic City Food Truck Festival from earlier this summer in June. They offered great food from local vendors. I was even able to grab the new sushi burrito that is starting to become very popular. There are other festivals that occur in the area as well, such as the Atlantic City Beer Festival, or the Galloway Township Carnival that happens in early August.
The Love from Home
Sunset Beach, Cape May, NJ
Finally, what makes a summer spent in South Jersey so special is the love you feel when you are here. During the summer you'll witness many moments of happiness and so many smiles on your face, as well as on the faces of strangers. Whether you are down at Sunset Beach in Cape May gazing at the colorful sunset, receiving a kiss from the love of your life on the boardwalk, or sitting around a campfire with your closest friends, you'll see the many positive aspects of life. You will feel great from the memories you make here, and you will be sure to reminisce about them for many years to come.
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