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Tuckerton

Free Beach

Maritime Heritage Village

Tuckerton is home to one of the Jersey Shore's most unique attractions: the Tuckerton Seaport & Baymen's Museum. This 40-acre working maritime village preserves and celebrates the authentic heritage of Barnegat Bay's watermen - the clammers, oystermen, boat builders, and decoy carvers who shaped this region's culture.

Opened in May 2000, the Seaport features 17 historic and recreated buildings connected by boardwalks, including a replica of the famous Tucker's Island Lighthouse (the original was lost when Tucker's Island washed away in a 1927 storm). Visitors can watch boat builders restore traditional Barnegat Bay sneakboxes and garveys, see decoy carvers at work, and explore exhibits on pound fishing and bay life.

The small borough itself retains a quiet, authentic character that transports visitors to a simpler time. The Seaport offers ferry service to Beach Haven on Long Beach Island, providing a scenic hour-long eco-tour across Barnegat Bay.

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What Makes Tuckerton Special

Maritime Heritage

Known for its historic and authentic atmosphere

Perfect For

history buffs, families with kids, cultural tourists

Free Beach Access

No beach badge required - enjoy the sand for free!

Local Legend

Tucker's Island was once a thriving resort community that literally washed aw...

Where to Stay in Tuckerton

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Nearby Beach Haven Hotels

Hotel • 20 min to Beach Haven

Beach Haven on Long Beach Island (20 min or ferry ride) offers oceanfront hotels and B&Bs. Take the Seaport ferry for a scenic arrival.

oceanfront optionsB&Bs

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Atlantic City Area Hotels

Hotel • 25 min to AC beaches

Atlantic City (25 min south) and Smithville (15 min) offer full-service hotels. Good option for combining Seaport with AC day trip.

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Did You Know?

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Did You Know?

Tucker's Island was once a thriving resort community that literally washed away in storms between 1920-1927. The lighthouse replica at the Seaport honors this lost island.

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Did You Know?

Barnegat Bay decoys carved in this region are prized by collectors and considered folk art. The Seaport maintains an active decoy carving tradition.

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Did You Know?

The "sneakbox" - a uniquely Barnegat Bay hunting and fishing boat - was invented in this area and is still built at the Seaport's Perrine Boatworks.

Beach Badge

FREE

Parking

Free

From NYC

1hr 35min

Transit

Bus

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Don't Miss in Tuckerton

Tuckerton Seaport & Baymen's Museum

Must See

40-acre maritime village with 17 historic buildings, Tucker's Island Lighthouse replica, working boatworks, decoy gallery, and daily demonstrations. Mon-Sat 10am-5pm.

Tucker's Island Lighthouse

Must See

Climb the replica lighthouse for panoramic views. The original stood on Tucker's Island, a resort community that washed away in 1927 storms.

Perrine Boatworks

Must See

Watch craftsmen restore and build traditional Barnegat Bay sneakboxes and garveys. Active boat building demonstrations.

Also Worth Checking Out

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Decoy Carving Demonstrations — Meet master decoy carvers continuing the Barnegat Bay folk art tradition. Decoy gallery showcases historic and contemporary works.

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Beach Haven Ferry — Scenic 30-foot pontoon boat ride to Beach Haven on Long Beach Island. One-hour eco-tour included. Seasonal operation.

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Maritime Forest Nature Trail — Wetlands nature trail through the Seaport property. Excellent birding and wildlife viewing along Tuckerton Creek.