Day Trips from the Shore
Explore beyond the beach. Wineries, wilderness, historic sites, and cities within easy reach.
Why Take a Day Trip?
The Jersey Shore is surrounded by incredible destinations. Whether it's a rainy day, you want a break from the beach, or you're on an extended vacation, day trips offer a completely different experience. From the wilderness of the Pine Barrens to world-class Philadelphia museums, there's something for everyone.
Rainy Days
Perfect backup when beach weather fails. Most day trip destinations have indoor options.
Mid-Week Break
Fewer crowds at attractions while beaches recover from weekend visitors.
Extended Stays
Add variety to week-long or longer shore vacations.
Shoulder Season
Spring and fall offer perfect day trip weather when beaches are cool.
Day Trip Destinations
Pine Barrens
30-60 min from most shore townsA 1.1 million-acre wilderness preserve with unique ecosystems, tea-colored rivers, and legendary Jersey Devil stories. Kayak through cedar swamps, hike pine forests, or visit blueberry farms.
Highlights
- •Kayaking on the Mullica, Batsto, or Wading Rivers
- •Batsto Historic Village
- •Blueberry picking in summer
- •Cranberry bogs in fall
- •Jersey Devil lore and ghost tours
Best Time
Spring through fall for kayaking; any season for hiking
Cost
Kayak rentals $40-60/person, park entry free
Pro Tip
Book kayak rentals ahead on weekends. Mick's Canoe Rental and Pine Barrens Canoe Rental are popular outfitters.
Cape May-Lewes Ferry
85-minute crossingScenic ferry crossing to Delaware. Arrive in historic Lewes with easy access to Rehoboth Beach, tax-free outlet shopping, and charming downtown areas.
Highlights
- •Tax-free shopping at Tanger Outlets
- •Rehoboth Beach boardwalk
- •Historic Lewes with shops and restaurants
- •Dolphin sightings on the ferry
- •Unique cross-bay perspective
Best Time
Year-round; book vehicle reservations ahead in summer
Cost
Walk-on $12 one-way; vehicles $50-65 depending on season
Pro Tip
Consider walking on and renting bikes in Lewes. Reserve vehicle spots 1-2 weeks ahead in summer.
Cape May Wineries
15-45 min from shore townsThe Cape May wine region features 20+ wineries with tastings, vineyard tours, and beautiful outdoor settings. Many are on the "Cape May Wine Trail" for easy multi-stop visits.
Highlights
- •Cape May Winery (largest, music events)
- •Willow Creek Winery (Mediterranean style)
- •Hawk Haven Vineyard (farm setting)
- •Natali Vineyards (organic focus)
- •Vineyard tours and sunset tastings
Best Time
Year-round; fall harvest is especially scenic
Cost
Tastings $10-20 per person; most wines $15-35/bottle
Pro Tip
Plan a designated driver or use the Cape May Trolley tours that include winery stops.
Smithville Village
15-30 min from Atlantic City areaHistoric village with 60+ specialty shops and restaurants. Victorian-era buildings, train rides, paddle boats, and carousel. Great for families and rainy days.
Highlights
- •60+ unique shops and boutiques
- •Fred's Diner and other restaurants
- •Train rides and carousel
- •Paddle boats on the lake
- •Holiday events and festivals
Best Time
Year-round; weekdays less crowded
Cost
Free entry; activities $3-8 each
Pro Tip
Visit during Christmas season for holiday lights. Weekday visits are much less crowded.
Tuckerton Seaport
30-45 min from most shore townsMaritime heritage museum on Tuckerton Creek. Historic buildings, baymen exhibits, and the Tucker's Island Lighthouse replica. Peaceful setting celebrating bay life.
Highlights
- •Historic buildings and exhibits
- •Tucker's Island Lighthouse replica
- •Decoy carving demonstrations
- •Baymen life and culture
- •Beautiful waterfront setting
Best Time
Spring through fall; check hours in winter
Cost
Adults $10, kids $5, under 6 free
Pro Tip
Combine with a visit to the Lighthouse Marsh Nature Trail nearby.
Philadelphia
60-90 min from shoreWorld-class museums, American history, and legendary food. The Philadelphia Museum of Art, Independence Hall, and Reading Terminal Market make for an excellent day trip.
Highlights
- •Philadelphia Museum of Art (Rocky steps!)
- •Independence Hall and Liberty Bell
- •Reading Terminal Market
- •Cheesesteaks at Pat's or Geno's
- •Eastern State Penitentiary
Best Time
Year-round; weekdays for fewer crowds at museums
Cost
Museum admission $20-30; Independence Hall free
Pro Tip
Park at a SEPTA regional rail station and take the train into the city to avoid downtown parking hassles.
Lighthouse Trail
Various - plan a routeNew Jersey has 11 historic lighthouses, many open for climbing. Create your own lighthouse trail visiting these iconic beacons from Sandy Hook to Cape May.
Highlights
- •Cape May Lighthouse (199 steps)
- •Barnegat Lighthouse "Old Barney" (217 steps)
- •Absecon Lighthouse in Atlantic City
- •Sandy Hook (oldest working US lighthouse)
- •Twin Lights in the Highlands
Best Time
Spring and fall for best climbing weather; check seasonal hours
Cost
$5-15 per lighthouse admission
Pro Tip
Start with Cape May or Barnegat - the most iconic and accessible. Get the NJ Lighthouse Challenge passport.
Sample Day Trip Itineraries
Wine Country Day
4-6 hoursTour Cape May wineries with tastings and vineyard views
Tip: Designate a driver or book a trolley tour. Many wineries have food options.
Pine Barrens Adventure
5-7 hoursKayaking and exploring the unique Pinelands wilderness
Tip: Bring water, snacks, and sunscreen. Book kayaks in advance for weekends.
Delaware Shopping Escape
6-8 hoursFerry ride plus tax-free outlet shopping
Tip: Walk-on passengers can rent bikes in Lewes. Book vehicle reservations ahead.
Philly Culture Day
7-9 hoursMuseums, history, and iconic Philly food
Tip: Park at a SEPTA station and take the train in. Reserve Independence Hall tickets online (free).
Drive Times from Shore Towns
| Destination | Atlantic City | Ocean City | LBI | Cape May |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pine Barrens | 30 min | 45 min | 40 min | 60 min |
| Philadelphia | 60 min | 70 min | 75 min | 90 min |
| Cape May Wineries | 45 min | 35 min | 60 min | 15 min |
| Smithville | 15 min | 30 min | 45 min | 60 min |
| Ferry to Delaware | 50 min | 40 min | 75 min | 10 min |
* Drive times are approximate and may vary with traffic. Summer weekends may add 15-30 minutes.
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More Ways to Explore
Check out our rainy day guide and lighthouse trail for more ideas.