Things To Do
in Toms River

Toms River is a township located in Ocean County, New Jersey, United States. It is known for its picturesque beaches along the Jersey Shore and vibrant boardwalk culture. The town offers a mix of residential neighborhoods, shopping districts, and outdoor recreational activities.

Toms River is also home to various cultural attractions, including museums, theaters, and annual events.

Prices

  • 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $100 - $200
  • 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $30
  • Coffee: $3 - $5
  • 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
  • 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $80 - $150
  • 🏋️‍♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Beach Day at Toms River
morning
:

Start your day early with a fresh breakfast at a local café. Head to the nearby beach for sunbathing and swimming.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a picnic lunch on the shore while watching the waves. Consider renting some equipment for water sports like paddleboarding or kayaking.

evening
:

Wrap up your day with a sunset walk along the beach. Dine at a seafood restaurant with views of the ocean.

day 2
Cycling Adventure
morning
:

Rent a bicycle and explore the scenic paths around Toms River. Stop by the local farmer's market to pick up some fresh snacks.

afternoon
:

Continue your ride towards the Toms River waterfront and enjoy a leisurely lunch at a nearby café. Take in the local sights and sounds.

evening
:

Return to the town center for dinner at a popular grill. Stroll through the historic district to admire the architecture.

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful waterfront area with access to beaches and waterways.
  • Family-friendly community with numerous parks and recreational facilities.
  • Strong sense of community with various local events and activities.
  • Good school systems and educational opportunities for children.
  • Proximity to larger urban areas like New York City and Philadelphia.
  • Higher cost of living compared to some other areas in New Jersey.
  • Traffic congestion during peak tourist seasons.
  • Limited nightlife and entertainment options compared to metropolitan areas.
  • Vulnerability to flooding and hurricanes due to coastal location.
  • Seasonal population fluctuations can affect local businesses.

Best Activities in Toms River

Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!

Island Beach State Park

Offers swimming, fishing, birdwatching, and nature trails.

Cattus Island County Park

Features hiking trails, wildlife viewing, and birdwatching.

River Lady Cruise

Enjoy a scenic cruise on the Toms River.

Bay Lea Park

Perfect for picnicking, kayaking, and enjoying the waterfront.

Tours

Uncover the best of Toms River with these unforgettable tours.

Places to Visit in Toms River

Visit one of these nice places.

Cattus Island County Park

Offers scenic views of the Barnegat Bay and opportunities for wildlife photography.

Bay Avenue Beach

Provides a great vantage point for capturing beautiful sunrise and sunset views over the water.

River Lady Cruise

Offers a unique perspective of Toms River from the water, great for capturing photos of the town and surrounding scenery.

Food in Toms River

Toms River, located in the United States, offers a diverse culinary scene that highlights a mix of traditional American fare and international influences. Visitors can explore a wide range of dining options from local diners to elegant seafood restaurants.

Toms River Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Blue Claw Crab

A local delicacy, blue claw crabs are a must-try in Toms River. Look for them at seafood markets and crab shacks along the coast.

Must-Try!

Pork Roll

Indigenous to New Jersey, this flavorful meat often serves as a breakfast staple. Try it at local delis and diners.

Boardwalk Fries

These thick-cut fries are a favorite at the beach and can be found at boardwalk stands and casual eateries.

Saltwater Taffy

A classic Jersey Shore treat, saltwater taffy is available at candy shops and souvenir stores near the ocean.

Taylor Ham and Cheese

A beloved sandwich featuring Taylor ham (pork roll) and cheese, commonly served at delis throughout the area.

Unique Experiences

Get to know Toms River better with these unique experiences.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

JBJ Soul Kitchen

This community restaurant offers a pay-it-forward model that provides meals to those in need. The menu features fresh, locally-sourced ingredients.

Downtown Toms River Farmers' Market

Hosted on Wednesdays, this market showcases a variety of local produce, artisanal products, and food vendors.

Boardwalk Eats

Explore the boardwalk for an array of street food including funnel cakes, fried Oreos, and sausages.

Food Truck Festivals

Throughout the year, Toms River hosts food truck festivals that highlight a diverse selection of cuisines.

Aztec Mexican Food Truck

This popular food truck serves up delicious Mexican street food including tacos, burritos, and tamales.

Weather

Located in coastal New Jersey, this area experiences a humid subtropical climate characterized by four distinct seasons. Summers tend to be warm and humid, with average high temperatures in the upper 80s°F (around 30°C) in July, often accompanied by occasional thunderstorms. Winters are typically cold, with average lows in the 20s°F (around -6°C) in January, and snowfall can occur but is usually moderate. Spring and fall are transitional seasons, bringing mild temperatures and lower humidity. Spring sees a gradual warming with blooming flowers and increasing precipitation, while fall often features vibrant foliage and crisp air. Annual rainfall is fairly evenly distributed throughout the year, with an average of about 40 inches. Being near the Atlantic Ocean, this region can also experience the effects of coastal weather patterns, including the potential for hurricanes or tropical storms during the late summer and early fall months. Overall, the climate is influenced by both its coastal position and its mid-Atlantic location, leading to varied weather conditions throughout the year.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect personal space

In Toms River, it's important to be mindful of personal space and maintain a comfortable distance when interacting with others.

Polite communication

Using polite language and gestures, such as saying 'please' and 'thank you', is a key cultural norm in Toms River for showing respect.

Respect for diversity

Toms River values diversity, so being open-minded and showing respect for people from all backgrounds is an important cultural norm.

Hidden Gems

Discover the hidden gems of Toms River with these exclusive activities.

Safety

Safety in this town, located in New Jersey, is generally considered to be good, with various community efforts aimed at enhancing the well-being of residents. Crime rates vary by neighborhood, but overall statistics suggest a lower incidence of violent crime compared to urban areas. Property crime, including burglaries and thefts, may occur, but local law enforcement actively works to maintain safety through community policing initiatives and neighborhood watch programs. Residents often highlight the importance of community involvement and vigilance in promoting safety. Town events and outreach programs foster a strong community spirit, further contributing to a safe environment. Schools and local organizations also emphasize teaching safety awareness to children and families. However, as in any community, it is advisable for residents and visitors alike to remain aware of their surroundings and take common-sense precautions to ensure personal safety and security. Overall, the combination of an involved community and responsive law enforcement contributes to the town's reputation for safety.

Tipping in Toms River

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

Tipping is common in Toms River, United States, especially in the service industry such as restaurants, bars, and hotels. It is customary to tip around 15-20% of the total bill for good service.

Payment

Payment practices in Toms River are similar to those in the rest of the United States, with credit and debit cards being widely accepted. Cash is also commonly used for transactions, and contactless payment methods are increasingly popular.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Best time to visit Toms River with mild temperatures, blooming flowers, and outdoor activities.

Summer

Ideal for beach trips, water activities, and outdoor events with warm and sunny weather.

Fall

Great for fall foliage, harvest festivals, and comfortable temperatures for outdoor adventures.

Winter

Winter brings colder temperatures, the possibility of snow, and holiday events and festivities.

Toms River at Night

Nightlife in Toms River offers a mix of cozy local bars, lively pubs, and unique entertainment venues, making it a vibrant spot for evening activities. You'll find plenty of options along the waterfront and downtown, where you can enjoy a relaxed dinner at a local restaurant before heading to a bar for some drinks and live music. Many establishments feature local bands, DJs, or karaoke nights, creating an engaging atmosphere for both residents and visitors. Craft beer enthusiasts can explore the burgeoning local brewery scene, which often features tasting rooms that stay open late. For those who prefer a quieter evening, there are coffee shops and dessert cafes that stay open into the night, providing a cozy ambiance. The seasonal nature of Toms River means that certain times of the year, such as summer, see a significant uptick in nightlife activities, including outdoor events, festivals, and beach parties. Whether you're looking for a lively night out or a more laid-back evening, the nightlife in Toms River has something to offer.

Hiking in Toms River

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Double Trouble State Park

A scenic park that features a network of trails through pine forests and wetlands. Great for hiking and birdwatching.

Island Beach State Park

A coastal park that offers hiking trails with stunning views of the beach and coastal ecosystems.

Cattus Island County Park

A popular park with trails that wind through forests and marshes, providing a variety of landscapes and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Pinelands Preserve

This vast area offers numerous trails for hiking through the unique Pine Barrens ecosystem, featuring diverse flora and fauna.

Allaire State Park

A historic park with trails that take you through the woods and along the river, featuring a recreated village from the 19th century.

Aiports

How to reach Toms River by plane.

John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK)

Located in Queens, New York, JFK is one of the busiest international airports in the United States, providing a major gateway for international travelers.

Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR)

Situated in Newark, New Jersey, EWR is the oldest international airport in the U.S. and serves as a major hub for international flights.

Philadelphia International Airport (PHL)

Located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, PHL is a major airport that serves as a hub for American Airlines and offers numerous international destinations.

LaGuardia Airport (LGA)

Also located in Queens, New York, LGA primarily handles domestic flights but has some international services and is notable for its proximity to Manhattan.

Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI)

Located in Baltimore, Maryland, BWI serves the Baltimore and Washington D.C. metropolitan areas and provides various international routes.

Walkability

Walkability refers to the ease with which residents and visitors can navigate through an area on foot, considering factors such as distance to amenities, pedestrian infrastructure, and overall urban design. In Toms River, various features contribute to its level of walkability. The downtown area offers a mix of shops, restaurants, and services that encourage pedestrian activity. Sidewalks are present in many parts of the town, allowing for safe foot traffic. However, some neighborhoods may lack connectivity, making it challenging for residents to walk to essential services or public transportation. Greene spaces, such as parks and recreational areas, provide additional opportunities for walking and outdoor activities. The presence of water bodies, like the Toms River itself, can enhance the walking experience but may also create barriers depending on the layout of streets and paths. While Toms River has some walkable elements, many parts of the community are designed around vehicle traffic, which can limit walkability. Public transportation options are available, but their frequency and accessibility can affect how walkable the area feels to residents without access to a car. Overall, Toms River presents a blend of walkable and less walkable environments, influenced by its suburban design and infrastructure. Improvements to pedestrian pathways and greater connectivity could enhance the overall walkability of the area.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

White

The largest demographic group in Toms River, comprising a significant percentage of the population.

Black or African American

A notable minority group in Toms River, contributing to the cultural diversity of the area.

Hispanic or Latino

A growing demographic group in Toms River, reflecting broader trends in the region.

Asian

A smaller, yet increasing group in Toms River, contributing to the community's diversity.

Two or more races

Individuals identifying with multiple racial backgrounds, reflecting diversity among residents.

Native American

A very small percentage of the population, representing indigenous heritage.

Pacific Islander

A minor demographic group in Toms River, with limited representation.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

Baseball is a popular sport in Toms River, with local little leagues and high school teams competing at a high level. The community often participates in baseball tournaments and events.

Basketball

Basketball is widely played in Toms River, both at the school level and recreational leagues. The sport has a strong following, with many local teams and summer camps.

Soccer

Soccer has grown in popularity in Toms River, with a variety of youth leagues and recreational programs available for kids and adults alike.

Football

American football is a traditional sport in Toms River, especially at the high school level, where the local teams have significant community support.

Ice Hockey

Ice hockey has a niche following in Toms River, with local rinks providing opportunities for both youth and adult players to engage in the sport.

Swimming

Given its coastal location, swimming is a popular activity in Toms River, both in competitive settings and as a recreational pursuit at the beach.

Traffic

Traffic in this area can vary significantly, influenced by factors such as time of day, weather conditions, and season. During peak commuting hours, especially in the morning and late afternoon, roads may experience congestion, particularly on major routes like Route 9 and the Garden State Parkway. Residential neighborhoods tend to have lighter traffic, but localized delays can occur due to school drop-offs and pickups. Seasonal changes, especially in the summer when tourists flock to the nearby beaches, can also lead to increased volumes on roads. Traffic management is aided by local law enforcement and public services, which help to maintain flow and safety during busy times. Road work and construction projects can occasionally contribute to delays as well. Overall, while some times may present challenges, the area generally has a manageable traffic flow.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Toms River.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Toms River boasts numerous eateries with dedicated vegetarian menus or options.

Vegan

Several restaurants in Toms River provide specifically tailored vegan dishes and substitute ingredients.

Gluten-free

Visitors with gluten intolerance can find accommodating menus at various dining establishments throughout the city.

Healthcare

The healthcare landscape in this coastal community in New Jersey is characterized by a range of services aimed at meeting the needs of its residents. Local hospitals, clinics, and specialized facilities provide various medical services, including emergency care, primary care, and specialized treatments. In particular, Ocean Medical Center is a key healthcare facility in the area, offering comprehensive services such as emergency medicine, surgical services, maternity care, and specialized medical care. The community benefits from a network of primary care physicians, specialists, and outpatient services that complement the acute care provided by the medical center. Access to healthcare is supported by several urgent care centers and outpatient clinics in the vicinity, which help alleviate pressure on hospital emergency departments by providing immediate care for non-life-threatening conditions. Additionally, a variety of health and wellness programs are available, focusing on preventative care and chronic disease management. These programs are often offered by community organizations and healthcare providers, aiming to improve the overall health of the local population. The area also benefits from a growing emphasis on telehealth services, which have become increasingly important in providing care, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Overall, the healthcare facilities in this region work collaboratively to offer a range of services that support the community's well-being, despite the challenges faced in healthcare delivery.

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