New Jersey

It’s true that New Jersey’s Shore Region has more than 90 miles of white-sand beaches. But with lighthouses, roadside produce stands and more, a beach day here is anything but ordinary. Beaches as far as the eye can see, with water activities and other things to do, are the hallmark of the Shore Region. Fishing and bird watching are available at Island Beach State Park in Seaside Heights. Long Beach Island alone has 16 dedicated surfing beaches. Sandy Hook Lighthouse, the nation’s oldest working lighthouse, stands tall in Highlands. And of course, there’s the opportunity to relax with nothing but a towel between yourself and the white sand. For more excitement, go from zero to 128 mph on one of the thrill rides at Six Flags Great Adventure & Safari in Jackson. Water parks in the area let you slip and slide your way to fun and the Silverball Museum Arcade in Asbury Park can’t be beat for pinball lovers.

The Shore Region is where you can find Jersey-fresh fruits and vegetables at rustic roadside stands and much of it is being cooked up at farm-to-table restaurants, too. Harvest in Farmingdale prepares dishes with locally grown ingredients; try the quinoa risotto or a garden sandwich. On the other side of the spectrum is Joe Joe’s Italian Hot Dogs, where Italian franks are piled high with fried onions, peppers, and potatoes.