Growing up in Atlantic County, just minutes from our beautiful beaches, meant unlimited beach days, ice cream dates and trips to the boardwalk with friends. It also meant that we knew all the perfect ways to take full advantage of every single summer day, making the season seem like it would last forever. If you’re looking at the calendar wondering how it is already July, this one’s for you.
Here is a local’s guide to a picture-perfect South Jersey summer day:
Wake up for sunrise
OK, all you night owls, I know this may seem challenging, but I swear it is one of the best times of the day, especially on the beach. Set a few alarms and shake off the sleep, because watching the sunrise come up over the water is truly the perfect start to any day. During the summer, the air is warm, the ocean is calm and you can sit on a quiet beach and take in the place before the rest of the world wakes up.
Walk the Boardwalk
Now that you’re up before the masses, take the opportunity for a nice long walk on the boardwalk. Cruise along with the sun low in the sky and fewer people milling around, then hear the ocean as it begins to pick up for the day. It’s a great way to add a little movement to your morning as well.
Grab breakfast
OK, since you’ve been up before the sun, the only reasonable next stop would be coffee and breakfast too. There are so many great breakfast spots right on the island or off. Hop over to Gilchrist in Atlantic City and Margate or pop over the bridge to CJ’s in Somers Point. So many options, so many good food choices.
Head to the beach
Now for a good old classic beach day. The tip is to get there early, before the crowds, so you can scope out the best spot. Make sure to check the tide schedules and then sit where you feel the best. Pack your cooler beforehand with all the drinks and snacks you need, and then sink into the sand. Bonus points if you’ve got a good summer read by Emily Henry to tackle while you’re down there.
Happy hour
A local favorite is definitely a no-shower happy hour. Grab your cute cover-up, dust off the sand, then head off the beach as it starts to get busy. The goal is to be at your first stop between 3 and 4 p.m., the perfect time to slowly ease into the night by having a quick drink and a late lunch bite. May we suggest Ventura’s Greenhouse or Sunrise Tequila Bar?
Dinnertime
After your quick post-beach stop, it’s time to head home and freshen up. Take a shower and throw on your cutest summer fit because now is the time for the fun to really start. The dinner options around here are always incredible. If you’re looking to head over to Atlantic City and stop in Ocean Casino, the dinner options and nightlife are plentiful. Alternatively, pop over to Margate, where the younger crowd tends to hang out. From Tideline to Lambert’s, the whole strip on Amherst Ave provides good food that translates into a great night out.
Head home
After you’ve eaten and drunk your share, it’s time to head home and do it all over again the next day because it’s summer. It’s the time to be alive.
Delaney Crawford is a dynamic entrepreneur with a passion for storytelling and digital marketing. Driven by a desire to empower local businesses, Delaney founded DLC Media, a company dedicated to helping businesses enhance their brand image and thrive online.
