New Jersey is well-known for its coastline of beaches, most of which are heavily populated and commercialized. The Jersey Shore is one of the major tourist attractions in the entire region. However, there are also some lesser-known and secluded locations which provide a break from the hustle and bustle of the mostly densely populated state in the entire nation.
Cape May is perhaps the most secluded and naturally beautifully beach on the entire New Jersey coastline. Located at the extreme southern tip of the state, on a latitude roughly equal with Washington, D.C., Cape May is home to a variety of small town local shops, narrow, winding streets, and long stretches of virgin beaches. It is particularly noted for its startling sunsets. Until the turn of the century, the ruins of an ancient cement ship were still visible from the coastline. "Cape May diamonds", bits of shiny quartz that wash up on the shore, are another distinctive feature.
Island Beach, located on the central of the southern coastline of New Jersey, is part of its own state park, Island Beach State Park. It lies on a preserved barrier island and is over 10 miles in length. Because it is a park, there is no development, and its seclusion is very real: Seaside Heights, the nearest major town, is 8 miles away from park headquarters. The famous and historic Barnegat Lighthouse lies at the southern tip of the park.
Located at the tip of Stone Harbor, the coastal community famed for its pleasant quietude and humility, Stone Harbor Point is a beautiful natural preserve of 200 acres. Observation platforms and nature-oriented displays can be found throughout the beach. The Point is extremely popular among bird aficionados, as several of New Jersey's rare species can be seen in their element, an infrequent occurrence along the highly developed shoreline. Some of these migrating species include the American Oystercatcher, the Common Tern, and the Red Knot.
Largely owned by the National Parks Service as part of the Gateway National Recreation Area, Sandy Hook is a barrier island located just south of New York City, at the bottom of New York Bay. Spectacular views of the metropolis of New York City to the north are offered on clear days, directly juxtaposed with the expanse of the ocean to the east. Sandy Hook Lighthouse is a major attraction. Though Sandy Hook does get tourist traffic, there is little to no development, and it is very easy to discover a remote, secluded spot to yourself along the coast.
