The Best Ways to Get from Bridgewater Township to Ship Bottom: A Travel Guide
Heading from Bridgewater Township, NJ to Ship Bottom, NJ? Whether you're headed to the beach, the boardwalk, or just exploring the Jersey Shore, travel between these two locales doesn't have to be a hassle. Here's a guide to the pros and cons of different routes, distances, driving times, and recommendations for pit stops along the way.
Route 1: The Most Direct Route - Taking NJ-18 S and the Garden State Parkway South (67 miles, 1 hour and 15 minutes without traffic)
If you want to get from Bridgewater Township to Ship Bottom with the least amount of fuss, this is the way to go. The route is quite direct, taking you down the scenic Garden State Parkway with its beautiful views and roadside attractions. You'll need to take NJ-18 S for a bit before hopping onto the Parkway, but the journey is fast, well-marked, and scenic.
The downside? You'll be on the Parkway, which can get busy in the summer months. Unless you're driving at off-peak times, you'll likely hit some traffic and may need to pay tolls. But overall, this is a solid choice for a direct and efficient route.
Recommendations for pit stops: If you're looking for a snack or bathroom break, check out the Cheesequake Service Area on the Parkway. It's a great place to stretch your legs and grab a bite, with plenty of fast food options and restrooms.
Route 2: Taking 95 S to NJ-138 E to the Garden State Parkway South (70 miles, 1 hour and 30 minutes without traffic)
Another option for the more adventurous drivers is to take 95 S towards the coast, then hop on NJ-138 E, which merges with the Garden State Parkway South. This route will take you on a couple of smaller, winding roads before you hit the Parkway, but it also gives you the chance to explore different parts of New Jersey.
The downside? It's a slightly longer journey, with a few more turns and twists as you get off the major highways. But if you're looking for something a bit more scenic, this could be the perfect route for you.
Recommendations for pit stops: Make a detour off NJ-138 to visit Allaire State Park, a beautiful green space that's perfect for hiking, picnicking, and exploring the historic village.
Route 3: The Northern Route - Taking I-287 S to the Garden State Parkway South (75 miles, 1 hour and 30 minutes without traffic)
If you don't mind going a little further north before heading down to Ship Bottom, this route could be a good alternative. Take I-287 S to connect with the Garden State Parkway South, and enjoy the beautiful views along the way.
The downside? This route takes you quite far north before looping back down to the Shore, so you'll need to be prepared for a slightly longer journey. But it could be worth it to avoid some of the Parkway traffic.
Recommendations for pit stops: Check out the Watchung Reservation, a beautiful park in the middle of Union County with miles of hiking trails, picnic areas, and scenic overlooks.
Bonus Recommendations
No matter which route you decide to take, be sure to leave early and plan for traffic if you're traveling during the peak summer months. Traffic can get especially heavy on the weekends, so consider traveling during the week if you can. And once you arrive in Ship Bottom, be sure to check out local favorites like the Beach Haven Fishery or the Fantasy Island Amusement Park.
So there you have it – three different routes to get from Bridgewater Township to Ship Bottom. Choose the one that works best for you, and have a great time exploring all that the Jersey Shore has to offer!