Toms River is the vibrant heart of Ocean County and the largest municipality on the Jersey Shore. While not directly on the ocean, this bayside community serves as the cultural and commercial center of the region, offering world-class parks, unique attractions, and easy access to the barrier island beaches just minutes away.
The downtown district has experienced a renaissance in recent years, with antique shops, boutiques, outdoor bistros, and a growing arts scene. The historic waterfront along the Toms River offers dining with views and the famous River Lady paddle wheeler cruises. Cattus Island County Park provides 500+ acres of pristine bayfront nature trails.
Toms River's location on Barnegat Bay makes it a hub for bay fishing, kayaking, and crabbing. The Toms River flows directly into Barnegat Bay, offering excellent access for boaters and anglers. Cattus Island's calm waters are perfect for kayaking through salt marshes and spotting shorebirds, while the bay provides some of the best crabbing on the Jersey Shore. Several marinas offer boat rentals, fishing charters, and kayak launches for exploring the bay.
For families, Toms River is home to Insectropolis (the Bugseum of New Jersey), the Robert J. Novins Planetarium at Ocean County College, and the Grunin Center for the Arts. The town hosts year-round events including the Downtown Farmers Market, Cruisin' Downtown car shows, and Shakespeare in the Park.