What’s your favorite activity when at the shore?

When vacations seem too long or the beach is just too hot, there are plenty of other things to do with or without the kids!
What’s your favorite activity when at the shore?
Biking–Plenty of places rent bikes, all sorts of bikes, some will hold a whole family. Get out and explore the town. It’s good exercise too and may even tire the kids out. For bike rentals Click Here
Cape May County Park and Zoo–A great place to spend a whole day. Besides the wonderful zoo, there is a large playground, picnic area, and gift shops. Some days the county schedules special events there. Located on Route 9, there’s plenty of parking and admission is free. 465-5271, For the Zoo’s website Click Here
Lighthouses–Take a trip to the Hereford Lighthouse at Central and First avenues in North Wildwood and then compare that to the lighthouse in Cape May at 605 Pearl Ave., Cape May Point. They are very different styles and each is worth the trip.
Victorian Cape May–Explore this wonderful city on foot, on bikes, on the trolley or in a horse-drawn cab. Victorian architecture, antiques, restaurants and shopping are not to be missed. Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts (MAC) offers a Family Treasure Hunt Tour for the whole family. Wander the streets of Victorian Cape May on this educational scavenger hunt. Pick up your Treasure Hunt Packet at the Washington Street Mall Information Booth, and you’ll get a clue sheet, map, and answer sheet. There is also a self-guided experience. Using the hand-held Acoustiguide units, you’ll hear about the history and architecture of 96 Cape May landmarks. Set your own pace, and visit them in any order you choose. Rental fee $10 per unit. Available daily from 9 am to 2:30 pm in the Hill House office at the Physick Estate, 1048 Washington St. For more information Click Here
The Wetlands Institute–Stone Harbor Boulevard in Stone Harbor. Discover why this is “The Natural Place to Have Fun!” Learn about coastal ecosystems in a fun and educational experience for families. Kids can feed the terrapin turtles, explore the salt marsh trail, and climb the observation tower. Special activities are always going on. Good on a rainy day, too. 368-1211. For the Wetlands Institute website Click Here
Playground–Every town has a municipal playground and some have skateboard parks, tennis courts, and bocce courts, as well.
Library–Reading is a classic way to spend time on vacation. The libraries of Cape May County often feature special events such as puppet shows, guest speakers, and other child-oriented activities. Great for a rainy day. CMC Main Library 463-6350, http://www.cmclibrary.org/
Amusement & Water Parks–Ocean City and Wildwood have great water parks on their boardwalks. Additionally, Cape May and other towns have arcades and other amusements. Great for the whole family. For amusements Click Here. For water parks Click Here
Boating & Fishing–There are many water-related activities besides body-surfing. Fishing or crabbing is a perfect way to spend the day while at the shore. Many marinas rent boats or if your not comfortable running one yourself, go out on a party or charter boat. Kids are always welcome. The more adventurous may want to parasail. For boat rentals Click Here. For fishing regulations Click Here. For fishing reports Click Here. For other waterborne activities Click Here
Kayaking–Check the local directory or marina for kayak rentals. Many offer lessons as well. For kayaking rentals Click Here
Whale & Dolphin Watching–Check the local phone books for boats that go out specifically to find these magnificent creatures. For charters Click Here
Historic Cold Spring Village–an Early American open-air living history museum brings to life the day-to-day activities of villagers living in South Jersey during the “age of homespun,” 1790-1840. Interactive, educational, and hands-on family activities take place along our 22 acres of shaded lanes, gardens and farm. Visit 26 restored antique buildings housing historically-clothed interpreters, who educate and entertain visitors about the lifestyles, issues, trades and crafts of yesteryear. Children enjoy playing at the activity area where they take part in a variety of projects such as trying on costumes, participating in hands-on crafts and playing games. The Village is located just north of Cape May City. 898-2300. For more information Click Here
This is just a small sample of what Cape May County has to offer in the summer. Perhaps you have a favorite recreational activity—alone or with others—that you would like to let others know about.
To share your suggestions, please post a comment to this article or drop us an e-mail: ondeck@cmcherald.com, and we’ll include them in a future recreation column.
We’ll be glad to receive your photos too!