Tuckerton

A Hidden Family Destination: Tuckerton Seaport

A few weeks ago, I had the pleasure of going away with five other women. Five RealityMoms that I didn’t know. Five women that I am now friends with. Five other women that inspired me, lifted me up, and made my heart full. Five other women who experience the amazingness of Tuckerton Seaport in New Jersey with me!

Tuckerton Seaport is seriously a hidden Gem, that has soared from very little, to an amazing travel destination! And it’s not just a family destination—our pack of five adult women spent two full fun-packed days.

Where is this fantastic place?

If you haven’t heard of Tuckerton before, this historic site is located in the center of the Jersey Shore directly on Tuckerton Creek. They focus on community programs and high impact educational opportunities. The seaport includes 15 buildings with hands-on exhibits, a boardwalk, lighthouse, café, and more!

What to do?

Water Ferry

This year, Tuckerton launched the Water Ferry for its first full season! The trip across the bay takes about one hour, and you get an eco-tour while in transit. The pontoon seats 24 passengers and is free of charge; however, you can reserve your seat in advance for a  $5 nonrefundable fee.

I had the absolute pleasure of going on a sunset cruise. The RealityMoms crew and I enjoyed a fabulous dinner (oh, so fabulous), before heading out into the sunset. It was a full harvest moon, and it was stunning!

Breakfast on the Bay

Breakfast on the Bay was educational and delicious. The Ferry (with your tour guide) brings you to a wonderful spot called The Dockside and then takes you back to Tuckerton all while learning about the local eco-system. Kids of all ages would enjoy this short ferry ride! All kids under the age of 12 are secured with a life vest.

Education Center

Following our amazing breakfast, we got to explore a bit. The seaport hosts an awesome education center sponsored by Rutgers. Schools and kids alike go there to learn about the local natural environment. The current “Life on the Edge exhibit” is featured at Jacques Cousteau National Estuarine Research Reserve within the visitor center. This completely interactive room introduces you to the Pinelands, Great Bay, Barrier Island and open Ocean EcoSystems.

Downstairs is the “Walk on the Wild Side” exhibit which highlights the local wildlife! You also can explore the world of the Lenape Indians and the early Whaling industry. Dress up like a pirate all while learning about the pirates and privateers along the Jersey Shore.

Lady Magpie’s Tearoom

Another fantastic “hidden” spot on Tuckerton’s property is the amazing Lady Magpie’s Tearoom.

The entire historic building is Steampunk-themed with three separate spaces, including two tea rooms and a little shop. We enjoyed the tea menu’s scones and dessert and got to choose our own tea! I chose the Chai, and oh my, it was amazing! The scones were to die for (I had the toffee scone) and I am still dreaming about the desserts!

So much to do!

There is so much more to do then meets the eye! From museums, to kayaking, to weddings (yes, we witnessed a wedding!), to a delicious café (their Bikini Buster is a MUST)…Tuckerton is fantastic!  If you vacation on Long Beach Island, take your best girlfriends, hop off the Ferry and see what it’s all about. I know I will absolutely be bringing my family back. It’s seriously just a hop, skip, jump away from New York!

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