I just returned from a week at Celebrity Resorts on Brigantine island (a timeshare). The beach is wonderful. It has smooth clean sand, lifeguards on duty, and the waves are constant but generally not too strong, making it enjoyable and safe for children. There are plenty of children and teens on the beach, usually as part of a family group. They have fun without being rowdy or unruly. Because the beach is so long and wide, no matter how many people are there, there is plenty of room to spread out and not be on top of other sunbathers. There is always a cool breeze blowing, making it about 10 degrees cooler than nearby areas.
In the summer, you are required to purchase beach passes. I think it costs about $10. a person. You can get them at the town hall or pay on the beach (if the town employee who partols the beach sees you without one on).
A visit to the Marine Mammal Stranding Center on Brigantine Blvd. in the center of this small town should be a very memorable experience.
http://www.capemay.com/Editorial/august05/mammalstrandingcenter.html
Most of the homes on the island are meticulously well-kept with manicured lawns and elaborate flower displays. I sometimes feel as if I am driving through a movie-set. The town has an old fashioned ambiance with small stores and restaurants, including pizza and ice cream shops and a bakery with outdoor tables and chairs to have an inexpensive lunch or snack. There's a few Chinese restaurants, a diner, and a Burger King too.
The easiest way to get to Brigantine is to turn right as you exit the Seaview and proceed to Route 30. (I hope you have already found your way there to stock up on groceries at the Shoprite supermarket). As soon as you reach Rt. 30 turn left onto it and follow it for about 7 miles (?) until you see signs to turn left onto 187 (known as the Brigantine Connector) to Harrah's and Trump Marina casinos. Once on 187 stay in the left lane. At the traffic light, when Trump Marina casino is right in front of you, you bear left at the sign that says "Brigantine only." A ramp will lead you up to a bridge which will take you right onto Brigantine island. Stay on Brigantine Blvd. until you see LaSomana Hotel (about 2 miles) on your right--at 14th street. Turn right and you will see the beach along the next block. There's plenty of free parking. There are many different enrty points to the beach. You can PM me for a few "secrets." It shouldn't take more than about 15 minutes to get to Brigantine from the M. Seaview.
Last summer when I was at the beach, there were about 20 dolphins way out in the ocean frollicking for hours. It was a joy to watch them.
If you are looking for a great beach experience, this is it. If you want to go to a place with a busy boardwalk and lots of amusement park rides, then the Wildwoods would be a better choice.
Have a great time, whatever you decide.
