Getting to New Jersey’s Bayshore is not like taking a weekend drive to Long Beach Island or Cape May. The latter part of the trip is one of meandering back roads and turns marked by obscure outbuildings instead of street signs. Your GPS will work, but it’s wise to bring a paper map, as many of the back roads do not register on satellite devices. Once you have arrived, here are some key attractions and activities to check out:
ACTIVITIES:
Bird-watching
The entire Bayshore is a bird-watcher’s dream. Try Maurice River Township, an ideal location to spot species from bald eagles to osprey. For information on trails and wildlife preserves, visit mauricerivertwp.org or call 856-785-1120. For information on birding throughout the Bayshore, visit njaudubon.org.
Fishing
Spend the day casting your line in Fortescue or go out on one of the town’s party boats. (fortescue.com)
Hiking and Biking
The Downe Township region (which includes Fortescue) has numerous scenic biking and hiking paths. For maps and information, call 856-447-3100.
Kayaking and Crabbing
Spend the day kayaking or crabbing from rowboats in the secluded tributaries of the Delaware Bay. Boats are available from Beaver Dam Boat Rentals in Newport. (856-447-3633)
DESTINATIONS:
Barbara Jo’s Antiques and Collectables, Port Norris
Housed on the site of an old lumberyard, Barbara Jo’s is a virtual treasure chest. (609-774-7922)
Bayshore Discovery Project,Port Norris
Spend time aboard the A.J. Meerwald, a restored oyster schooner dedicated to maritime education and historic preservation. (856-785-2060, ajmeerwald.org)
Charlesworth Restaurant & Hotel, Fortescue
Have dinner on the bay at Fortescue’s oldest restaurant or spend the night in a bay-front room. (856-447-4928)
East Point Lighthouse, Port Norris
Erected in 1849, this is the last remaining lighthouse on the New Jersey shore of the Delaware Bay and is the second oldest standing lighthouse in the state. (856-327-3714)
Historic Greenwich
In addition to being a charming and tranquil spot to spend the day, this village along the Cohansey River is home to the John DuBois Maritime Museum and the Warren C. Lummis Genealogical and Historical Library. (856-455-4055)
Newport House Bed and Breakfast
This small cottage outside Fortescue is one of a handful of area places offering overnight accommodations. (856-447-5294)
MARINAS
Higbee’s Marina, Fortescue
856-447-4157
Port Norris Marina, Port Norris
856-785-1205
Rusty Joe’s Marina, Money Island
856-447-4974