Labor Day weekend is here at the Jersey Shore. This weekend marks the unofficial end of summer, and while that may seem like a sad thing, there’s also something magical about the weekend and the good vibes it brings. It’s the perfect time to soak up every last bit of sunshine, fun, and relaxation.
Whether you’re planning to spend the long weekend on the beach, enjoy live music, indulge in local food, or make new memories with family and friends, there are countless ways to celebrate and make the most of the last weekend here at the shore. To help make your weekend unforgettable, we’ve rounded up 10 great ways to spend Labor Day weekend by the sea.
Soak up the sun on the beach
A must-do for Labor Day weekend is to spend as much time as possible on the beach. Whatever street, in whatever shore town you prefer, grab your sunscreen and towel, and claim your spot in the sand. Savor one last summer beach day with the sun on your skin, the sand beneath your toes, and the saltwater calling your name for a refreshing dip.
Catch a sunrise
There’s nothing quite like waking up early to watch the sunrise over the ocean. It brings the promise of a beautiful day, with warm breezes and pink skies stretching across the horizon. Labor Day weekend is the perfect time for a peaceful sunrise stroll on the boardwalk to really capture the magic of summer.
Seafood sesh
One thing about our area: The seafood is always fresh, always delicious, and always calling your name. Take this weekend to indulge and maybe even try something new. From Dock’s Oyster House in Atlantic City to The Lobster House in Cape May, there’s no shortage of spots to enjoy one last seafood feast of the season.
Boardwalk nights
Nothing says summer like a nighttime stroll on the boardwalk. Whether you’re going for the rides, the food, or simply the views, the boardwalk is alive with energy. Atlantic City and Ocean City offer plenty of shops, treats, and excitement to explore as you breathe in the salty air and stroll down the boards.
Take a boat ride
Boating and summer just go hand in hand. Whether you have your own or not, South Jersey has plenty of options. Book a dolphin-watching cruise in Cape May, hop on a Tiki boat in Atlantic City, or set sail from Somers Point at sunset. All are perfect ways to see the shore from the water and feel the magic of summer.
Shop at a farmers market
Summertime means weekly farmers markets, and if you haven’t visited one yet, this weekend is your last chance. Stroll through your favorite town’s market and enjoy fresh Jersey corn, tomatoes, peaches, flowers, baked goods, and more. It’s the perfect way to get produce for the week or a fun knickknack to remember the summer by.
Enjoy outdoor dining
End summer with bayside or beachside dining. There’s nothing better than hearing the waves crash or watching the sunset over the bay while enjoying craft cocktails and fresh food. A summer at the Jersey Shore isn’t complete until you’ve checked off your favorite waterfront dining spots, so now is your chance!
Attend local events and live music
From beach bars in AC to concerts in Sea Isle, live music is everywhere this weekend. Ventnor and Somers Point both host weekly concerts, while local bars keep the music going all night long. It’s the perfect way to spend one of your final summer nights.
Water adventures
Summer isn’t complete without a little adventure on the water. Try paddleboarding in Ventnor, jet skiing in Wildwood, or kayaking through the back bays. It’s a fun way to stay active while seeing the shore from a whole new perspective and getting in the water one last time.
Beach nights
One of the best ways to close out summer is with a day-to-night beach experience. Arrive early to soak in the sun or come back around sunset when the crowds leave and the beach feels like your own slice of paradise. Order some pizza, spread out a blanket, and enjoy the simple magic of the beach at night.
Labor Day weekend may mark the unofficial end of summer, but here at the Jersey Shore, it’s more about celebrating everything the season gave us. Soaking in all the long beach days, the sunsets, the laughs with friends, and the memories made by the water. Whether you’re chasing adventure, savoring great food, or simply soaking in the views, this weekend is your chance to send summer off in the best way possible. Here’s to one more unforgettable weekend at the shore and to the promise that next summer will be here before we know it.
Delaney Crawford is a dynamic entrepreneur with a passion for storytelling and digital marketing. After earning a BA in Communications, Delaney built a successful career in the newspaper industry, honing skills in, news writing, media, and content creation. Driven by a desire to empower local businesses, Delaney founded DC’s Social Media & Content Creation, a company dedicated to helping businesses enhance their brand image and thrive online.
