I’ve had the good fortune over the years to visit some terrific beaches along the East Coast; each one is unique, offering different amenities, different scenery, and different accommodation options. Of course you can swim and take part in most other water-related activities at virtually all of these places, but their descriptions vary immensely and beachcombers may want to choose a beach that reflects specific vacation plans.
The Beauty of Wildwood
Wildwood, New Jersey, is home to a fantastic boardwalk. Though it’s not located directly on the water (tourists drive up to the elevated shopping section) there is so much to see and do that it’s like a little town in itself. While walking the beautiful boardwalk you’ll find restaurants and all kinds of specialty stores to suit any shopper’s fancy.
Unfortunately there is a time table; for those visiting between March/April and early October you can walk the boardwalk whenever you like, but many of the months only allow visitors on the weekend. Check ahead to avoid disappointment.
Hopefully you’ll be lucky enough to be there when a special event is happening (when I visited in 1996, I saw not only a famous monster truck, Gravedigger, on the beach, but also witnessed a parade on the boards.) Check Wildwood’s visitor information to see when any special events will be occurring.
Wildwood is also famous for its collection of rides for all ages. Don’t miss the ferris wheel and coasters that soar from the pier. This is an especially good thing for families with children who aren’t into the whole ‘sand and sun’ routine and actually want something to do to pass the time.
Victorian Fun
While visiting Wildwood, trek out to the little place once known as Anglesea to find the Hereford Inlet Lighthouse. This is a beautiful Victorian lighthouse that looks a lot more like a house than the typical vision of an East Coast lighthouse. Walk the narrow iron steps to the top and look out over the ocean. Outside Hereford are walking paths, beautiful flowers, and a stunning mini-cliff with markers along the way.
Cape May is also located near Wildwood. Their lighthouse, tall and white and stretching to the sky, may be more what people think of when they envision a lighthouse. The lighthouse *is* open to visitors but be warned; it’s not an easy climb. There are small museums in Cape May, terrific architecture, and a nice little place known as Cold Spring Village.
Cold Spring transports young and old back to the 1800s with old restored buildings, craft demonstrations, period clothing, and much more. When I visited last, I took a relaxing carriage ride behind a gentle dark house. Nothing puts you in the Victorian spirit more than a good old horse-and-carriage. If you have small children this is an especially good attraction to visit because of the combination of entertainment and learning.
Why I Love Ocean City
Moving on down the coast; my favorite East Coast beach so far is Ocean City, Maryland. Unlike Wildwood’s boardwalk, Ocean City’s boardwalk is built flat on the sand so the ocean is directly beside it. Watch out for the bikes, skateboards, and other forms of travel while taking your leisurely time. To pass the day in a wonderfully relaxing way, journey down to the end of the boardwalk and plop down in one of the chairs. From here there is a great view of the inlet, which is rockier and often appears choppier than the rest of the shore.
Family attractions include Jolly Roger Amusement Park, Baja Amusements, various museums such as the Ocean City Life-saving Station Museum, fantastic shopping, and the enticing arcade found on the boardwalk. As a child I begged to go into the arcades, just to see what I could win. Need a peaceful few hours without bored children tugging at your arms and legs? This is the place to go. Trimper’s Rides is just a few paces from the beach so there will be an easy transition.
A Unique Little Museum
The Life-saving Station Museum is small but informative; exhibits range from natural history to the earliest records of rescue operations in the city. The building is a charming late 19th century gem. Another museum you’ll want to check out is Wheels of Yesterday, located outside the city. If someone in the family is completely obsessed with antique cars, this museum and gift shop will be a dream come true.
Dining and Eating – It’s Easy at Ocean City
Ocean City’s boardwalk has many offerings. Some of the restaurants include Shenaningan’s Irish Pub (coincidentally, pubs offer the best food), Phillips By the Sea (on the expensive side but a must if you love seafood) and Bull on the Beach (see if they offer breakfast when you’ll be going; I still remember that delicious plate of scrambled eggs!).
If you can’t find the shopping selection you’re looking for, check out nearby Coastal Highway; malls and shops, as well as restaurants, churches, and many other services, are located here. The view of the skyscraper hotels should be enough to entice you as you travel down this popular resort highway. Consider deciding what you are looking for, then picking the place best suited to your needs.
Florida – Popular Beach Meets Secluded Shoreline
The next beach I have visited is located much further down the coast; it’s the St. Augustine Beach, on Anastasia Island next to St. Augustine, Florida. Though located in a more crowded, more commercial part of the town, the views are well worth it. If you want secluded shoreline, go down to Anastasia State Park. The further down the coast, the less people and fewer buildings can be found. The island becomes untamed.
For those who choose to visit in the early morning (or better yet, when storm clouds are brewing over the water) there probably will not be a crowd. The beach is of course similar to others, but the nearby view is very different; scrub brush, palm trees, and other native plants contrast sharply with the boardwalks and attractions that accompany so many other beaches. Also make sure to see the beautiful St. Augustine Lighthouse while visiting the island.
Ponte Vedra Beach and Vilano Beach are two other St. Augustine beaches I’ve not yet gotten the chance to visit. If you’re traveling to Florida, do your research and determine which place best meets your needs.
Reference:
- www.wildwoodnj.org/ (Wildwood, New Jersey)
