Just across an inlet from Atlantic City’s bright lights lies Brigantine, a barrier island that has retained its natural beauty through a largely undeveloped shoreline. Beyond its pure sea-sun-sand setting, Brigantine delivers even more blissful experiences—on and off the beach. If you’re heading down the shore this summer, New Jersey Travel & Tourism has the inside track on what to do, how to find your adventure and where to eat in Brigantine.
Can’t-Miss Attractions
Need a break from the blazing sun? Duck into the rigantine History Museum to peruse a collection of late 19th and early 20th century artifacts curated by the town historian. Just across the way is the Marine Mammal Stranding Center, which maintains a 1,000-gallon outdoor observation tank filled with underwater creatures; a Sea Life Museum with a please touch display featuring a sperm whale jawbone, dolphin spinal cord and more; plus a gift shop that helps fund the Center’s important work of saving stranded or injured whales, dolphins, seals and sea turtles.
Buried Treasures
As you relax and gaze upon the ocean, you may catch a glimpse of a shipwreck. That’s not the heat playing tricks on you. Brigantine’s shoals were notorious for taking down ships in the early 1700s through the mid-1800s. Another surprising find that (for the most part) stays hidden? The barrier island red fox. Your best chance to see one of these shy island inhabitants is by walking the beach at dusk or before sunrise. The final buried treasure is exactly that—Captain Kidd’s booty! Brigantine is one of the reputed Xs on the famous pirate’s treasure map.
Find Your Adventure
From quiet discoveries to big thrills, Brigantine is your home for summertime adventure. You can meet endangered shore birds at the North Brigantine Natural Area. Work on your downward-facing dog with a yoga class on the beach. Try your hands (and balance!) at SUP. (If you’re new to the sport, we recommend Brigantine’s back bays for calmer waters.) For a totally tubular challenge, you can learn how to hang 10 with a surfing lesson.
Get Your Foodie Fill
Start your day with a scrumptious breakfast at Brigantine Bistro, Pirates Den or Yianni’s Café. Midday, grab a sandwich at Ernest & Son (which was featured on Food Network’s Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives), one of the biggest pizza pies you’ve ever seen at Bella Luna Pizzeria or a quick bite at pirate-themed Mad Dog Morgans. Need refreshment? Grab a smoothie at Soulberri or ice cream at Aunt B’s. Then end your day with a beachfront dinner and drinks at Laguna Grill and Rum Bar. If you love the official fruit of summer, you’ll want to hit the Brigantine Farmer’s Market for their watermelon eating contest on August 31. Who knows? You could be the sticky-faced winner!
On the Cheap (affordable things to do)
Get the most bang for your Brigantine buck with a seasonal beach tag. You’ll enjoy a full summer of sand castle building, body surfing, kite flying and many more sunny memories. Your social media feeds will reap the rewards too. Think slick AC skyline posts plus shots of the sun rising AND setting over the water. (Remember, Brigantine is an island!) Drizzly day? Kids 5 & under can get their energy drained at The Playroom for a low $2 donation/child.
In New Jersey, every new day brings a brand-new destination…like Brigantine! Plan a day trip or stay over to experience everything the island has to offer. Go to visitnj.org for more ideas and accommodations, or to download a free NJ travel guide and sign up for e-news.
