Thursday, December 24, 2009

Hot Jersey Shore Winter Getaways in Sea Isle City

By Stephen Daniels

A beach bound winter getaway may seem backward, but it can also be one of the best times to hit the shore. While areas known for snow and slopes pack in the crowds, the off season at Sea Isle City, New Jersey promises a truly relaxing vacation. It's not the usual cold-weather tourist spot, but that's also what makes a trip to this unique community so enjoyable.

A tiny fishing village founded well over 100 years ago, this town is now one of the top resort cities on the Atlantic coast. Located in Cape May County, Sea Isle City sits on a barrier island known as Ludlam Island in South Jersey. The city itself was started by Charles K. Landis in 1882. His dream of turning the town into "America's Venice" didn't ever quite come into fruition, but that has not kept the city from becoming a tremendous success in other aspects. With a population of more than 100,000 during the summer tourist season, this little town has become an extremely popular destination on the Jersey shoreline.

Its year-round population, however, is only around 3,000. This may partly explain why Sea Isle is known for its hometown feel. Compared to the hustle and bustle of the peak season, life becomes very calm and serene during the winter months. For couples or families looking for some R & R, this change of pace proves to be very inviting.

While business in the local shops and restaurants at the center of town slows down considerably, the city still manages to feature a variety of off-season activities. Winter guests can take part in events such as the Polar Bear Plunge every February, where tens of thousands of people willingly run into the frigid ocean water. Those who don't wish to immerse themselves in icy-cold waves can participate in the Polar Bear Run / Walk for Autism the next Sunday. The St. Patrick's Day Parade and Ocean Drive Marathon are popular events for both tourists and residents which occur every March. Deep sea fishing is also offered year-round. Starfish Boats offers trips for both adults and children right out of the city.

Anyone who has ever vacationed there during the summer can tell you that Sea Isle City offers many outstanding food establishments. Fortunately, this is not lost on winter guests. Many excellent local restaurants, such as Cafe LaRosa, Mrs. Brizzles, and Valeries Place, remain open during the off-season. Many others offer dining hours during select days of the week, so it's good to check times before heading to dinner.

Without losing its hometown ambiance, Sea Isle City offers many reasons why it's becoming a desirable off-season destination. City leaders have recently founded several enjoyable fall festivals, such as Harborfest, Irish Weekend, and Fall Family. Holiday celebrations, like the lighting of the Sea Isle City Christmas Tree and the House Lighting Program, also aim to make winter-time visitors feel like a part of the community. Thanks to the small-town feeling these events create, the laid-back atmosphere, and (of course!) the stunning beaches, visitors will find that this summer destination "peaks" in the winter as well.

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