Here's The Most Scenic Drive You Can Possibly Take In New Jersey This Winter

All of New Jersey shines when covered in snow, but the season brings with it a unique experience. It turns out winter hikes aren’t the only way to enjoy the great outdoors during the chilly season. While many enjoy our beautiful beaches during the summer, several shore spots allow cars on the sand during the off-season. There’s no drive more scenic than a New Jersey beach drive along our coast in the snow. Find out below if your favorite beach offers winter rides on the water.

Flickr/Michael Vadon

Both Seaside Heights and Seaside Park offer permits allowing you to make tracks in the sand. Cars are permitted in Seaside Park, with a permit fee of $42 for residents and $50 for non-residents. Cars and buggies are allowed in Seaside Heights with a permit fee of just $15. Area attractions open for the winter include Sonny's & Rickey's Arcade - enjoy boardwalk fun indoors. But you may not even need an electronic distraction with such beautiful views to take in.

Flickr/Will Richardson

Cars can drive up to 10MPH on the sand. While in town, don't miss The Music Man, a singing ice cream shop. The ice cream is delicious and the vaudeville-style show is always a treat. We can't think of a better way to end a day of beach driving than with an ice cream performance.

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Flickr/Jill

Cars and buggies can access the beach 24 hours a day at 15th Street and Seaside Road. Visit the Marine Mammal Stranding Center on Saturdays in the winter. One of the many perks of beach driving in the winter is you don't have to compete with crowds for the stunning views.

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Facebook/Ocean City NJ

Just 300 car permits are sold each year at $125 a piece. You'll want to scoop yours up early to ensure a drive down this gorgeous winter beach. The beach is accessible from 23rd and 57th Street. While certain eateries are seasonal, visit Jon & Patty's year-round for coffee or a good meal. Manco & Manco is another amazing option, if you're in the mood for pizza.

Flickr/Shawn Perez

Permits are $35 and access is allowed north of 5th Avenue, from Normandy Beach to Mantoloking. Visitors can fish, crab, play horseshoes and more. The long time period of these permits is great, because you can enjoy the views and stillness of the beach off season without necessarily going in the middle of frigid February.

Flickr/Clarke Thomas

Head to Cresse Avenue from October 1 - May 1. Wildwood attractions open for the winter season include Dragon's Lair (glow in the dark) Mini Golf and Dogtooth Bar & Grill. The Wildwood boardwalk is so packed in the summer, it's fascinating to see the bumping seasonal destination from a quieter winter lens.

Other beaches in New Jersey which offer vehicle access in the winter include Ocean Beach in Dover Township, Ortley Beach, Berkeley Township Beach, Harvey Cedars, Surf City, Ship Bottom (which also offers surfing), 7 different beaches in Long Beach, Corson’s Inlet State Park, Sea Isle City, Avalon and Stone Harbor.

The mix of snow, sand, surf and seclusion is truly spectacular. Without the hustle and bustle of summertime traffic, volleyball games, and sunbathers seeking the best spot, you’ll be able to appreciate the natural beauty of the beach in a whole new way. Drive slowly, take in the sights and don’t forget to stop and relax – few other drives allow for this. No traffic to content with except the seagulls! For more winter fun in New Jersey, check out Cape May or Bergen County’s Winter Wonderland.