Stroll Then Swim on This Beach Hike in New Jersey That’s Perfect for Summer

I spend a lot of time on the Jersey Shore every summer and never run out of things to do. While I'll always love the bustling boardwalk towns, there are also days when I want to beat the crowds and the heat with a more peaceful excursion. That's when I love to look for beach hiking trails on the Jersey Shore—and there are a lot of amazing ones in the less-crowded stretch of the shore before you hit Atlantic City. One of my favorites is the Bayshore Trail in Atlantic Highlands, not far from Sandy Hook. This 3.6-mile trail takes you along beautiful cliffs, peaceful boardwalk trails, and a beautiful beach at the end, which makes a peaceful place to swim. This trail is suitable for all ages and skill levels, so it's a great family excursion, and it's a great reminder that on those hot summer days, nothing beats a good swim on the shore far away from all the hustle and bustle.

Atlantic Highlands is one of the tiniest towns on the Jersey Shore, and that makes it a peaceful spot to visit when you don't want to deal with the tourist crowds. But while it doesn't have the big attractions, it does have one of the shore's best-kept secrets: a beautiful hiking trail that's a great escape when the sun is beating down.

The Bayshore Trail spans 3.6 miles, which can be navigated in around an hour. It's mostly flat terrain, consisting of paved paths and a boardwalk section. That makes it an ideal beginner hike, where it's not much different from a regular stroll. Along the way, you'll encounter some beautiful scenery of the water and bluffs. That doesn't mean there aren't some nice surprises along the way, though; keep an eye out for swamp areas with wildlife, and some great viewing points that are far less crowded than most beach spots.

This area is especially beautiful as the sun starts to set, and the boardwalk sections of the hike are uniquely peaceful. This area is popular with hikers and bicyclists, but you should still be able to find some solitude. Dogs are also welcome if they're on a leash.

At the end of the hike from Sandy Hook, you'll find Popamora Point Beach, a small and usually uncrowded beach that makes for a great spot to take a dip. From there, the day is yours. Head back to Sandy Hook, or continue exploring this charming area of the Jersey Shore.

Have you gotten to hike on the Bayshore Trail yet? If not, tell a hiking buddy about this article and get ready for a memorable summer outing! You can see more pictures of the trail on the official AllTrails trail listing, and if you're starting from the trailhead near Sandy Hook, why not take a detour to explore the oldest lighthouse in the United States? The Bayshore Trail is a simple and easy hike, but if you're new to hiking, a subscription to AllTrails+ can be a helpful backup to keep you oriented with point-by-point directions as you make your way to the beach.