By Sarah Fertsch
Staff Writer
Summer is almost here, so put away your chunky-knit sweaters and bring out your sun hats. Americans have always glorified the warmth and sunshine of June, July and August. But this year, with the worst of the pandemic finally behind us, it should be more fun than ever.
Kids of all ages will be racing to the end of the school year. Tourists and locals will flock to the beaches. Everything will smell like sea salt and sunscreen. It will be magical.
How best should we spend these precious days? To help you decide, here is Shore Local Newsmagazine’s official 2022 summer bucket list:
Have Fun on the Water
Our homes (or vacation homes) are located in close proximity to the ocean, so take advantage of it. Plenty of spots (like Baycats) allow waterlovers to rent kayaks, Paddleboards and other vessels to explore the big bridges and marshy habitats. For more of a thrill, try a Sea-doo or kiteboard and get some cool shots of you and your family catching waves.
Learn to Garden
It’s the perfect time to grow some greens. Visit places like McNaughton’s and Bob’s Garden Center and purchase some veggies or herbs. When you reap your rewards, they will taste yummy.
Try Some Classic Boardwalk Treats
The Boardwalk has always had delicious, decadent foods, but as times have changed, so have the local menus. Pick up some Johnson’s caramel popcorn, a slice from Manco and Manco, some water ice from Philadelphia Water Ice, or a mouth-watering custard cone from Kohr Brothers.
Shop Downtown
Ocean City’s Asbury Avenue offers tons of options for shoppers. Stainton’s displays handmade artwork from local vendors, and She’z the Boss provides curated looks for everyone. Other stores like Ta-Dah, Island Gypsy, and Kay Jay’s Doll Shoppe have tons of items worth exploring. And don’t forget to grab a cookie from Wards Pastry.
Connect with Animals
Atlantic and Cape May counties are the homes of some unique animals. The Marine Mammal Stranding Center in Brigantine allows visitors to learn more about ocean life and caring for our undersea neighbors. The Cape May County Zoo in Cape May Court House is a wonderful spot to befriend an otter or enjoy a picnic. The Funny Farm in Mays Landing will make you giggle when you meet silly chickens, friendly donkeys, and adorable cats.
Channel Your Inner Artist
Interested in expressing your creative side? Check out Glazed Over Studio in Ocean City and paint your own piggy banks, mugs or plant pots. Peace of Wood offers a similar experience, but with surfer vibes and natural wood materials. Take a class at the Cygnus Arts Center and you’ll find yourself dancing, sketching or even playing an instrument.
See a Show
Atlantic City has plenty of nightlife experiences, so be sure to enjoy at least a few. Nationally recognized performers like John Mulaney, Mandy Moore, Fergie, Barry Manilow, and Lionel Richie and many more will be taking the stage this summer, and you won’t want to miss them.
Soak Up the Sun on the Beach
Summer isn’t summer without the beach. Pack a beach bag, chair and sunglasses and hit the sand. Surf some waves, enjoy a delicious lunch (I love acai bowls on the beach personally), take a leisurely walk along the strand and kick a soccer ball with your kids. Just don’t forget your beach tag or quarters for the meter.
Take a Road Trip
South Jersey has so much to do nearby, so spare some time to explore Philadelphia, Baltimore and beyond. Cape May’s Washington Street Mall, Promenade and the Cape May Point Lighthouse make great memories, and Wildwood offers huge water parks, the Seaport Aquarium, haunted houses, and a very cool retro vibe. Take photos and capture the candid smiles.
Honor Tradition
Lots of people come to the Jersey Shore because that’s where their parents took them when they were kids. Ensure that your children and grandchildren enjoy the experiences that you remember. Take them fishing or crabbing, enter your boat in Night in Venice, see a show at the Ocean City Music Pier, snack on saltwater taffy, or ride a giant Ferris wheel. Share your memories with the next generation.
Roam Through the Great Outdoors
Summer is the perfect time to celebrate nature, so try some new activities. Birch Grove Park in Northfield offers plenty of family-friendly trails and fishing spots, Corson’s Inlet is a cool little spot for future bird watchers and beach lovers. Book a fishing charter with your parents, organize a 5k race, walk your dog along the EHT Nature Reserve, or pick sunflowers at the many farms in Upper Township.
Eat Well
South Jersey offers specialty gourmet food for every occasion. Spadafora’s makes delicious, fresh seafood. The Grilled Cheese & Crab Cake Co. in Somers Point has been featured on the Food Network and cooks up mouthwatering creations. The Irish Pub in Atlantic City will make you feel jolly and bubbly and full in the best way. Locals know that Atlantic County and Cape May counties have the best eats in New Jersey.
Buckle Up on a Fun Amusement Ride
Whether you’re a kid or kid-at-heart, summer always means roller coasters, spinning teacups, drop towers and carousels. Purchase some tickets at Playland’s Castaway Cove and scream on the log flume, smile on the swings, or kiss your lover on the Ferris wheel. Storybook Land in Egg Harbor Township also has fun attractions specially designed for little ones. You’ll love meeting Mother Goose, Sleeping Beauty, and Humpty Dumpty.
Attend a Local Festival
Browse artists, vendors and food trucks at one of the many festivals in Atlantic County. Linwood will be hosting food and craft vendors on Monday, May 30 at All Wars Memorial Park after the annual Memorial Day Parade. In Ocean City, mark the Art of Surfing Festival and the Boardwalk Art Show on your calendar and consider supporting one of the artists by purchasing some of their work.
Learn a New Skill
There are plenty of opportunities to learn new things, even when school is on break. Sign up for surf lessons through 7th Street Surf Shop or Heritage Surf, or enjoy a yoga class on the beach before dawn. Practice photography and use your friends as subjects, test out a homemade ice-cream recipe, or gain some golf skills to impress your relatives in future years.
Rest, Rest, Rest
Summer is all about having fun and chilling out. Grab a good book and a hammock and let the hours pass by blissfully. Sign your kids up for camp and prioritize special time with your partner or pet. Whether you are lounging by a pool, the beach, or at the park, you’ll find a smile slowly unfolding on your face.
