
Walking Tour of Downtown Toms River- This half-hour walk will visit the local historical sites as well as museums and hall-of-fames dedicated to them. The walk includes visits sites such as Huddy Park, a Revolutionary War site, The Toms River Seaport Society Maritime Museum, and the 1850 courthouse. Be sure to visit the many local cafes and shops as well as the newly renovated Ocean County Library. Directions to all these locations can be found on tomsriveronline.com.
Cattus Island Park- 500 acres and many miles of trails with unspoiled views of Silver Bay. Visit the Cooper Environmental Center to learn about local animals, including the many species of snakes, fish, and turtles which the center houses. In the park, there are places to fish, crab, bike ride and BBQ. Admission and parking is free! Directions: Garden State Parkway to Exit 82 - Route 37 EAST/Seaside Heights. Take jughandle to Fischer Blvd., then approx. 3 miles to Cattus Island Blvd. Turn right at light, and left at Park entrance.
In the summer months, take the Rt. 37 bridge to the seaside towns only 5 minutes away. People from Toms River frequent the beaches in Ortley, Seaside, Normandy, and Point Pleasant. Daily and weekly badges must be purchased. The beaches are beautiful and all have lifeguards. Arrive early to get a prime spot on the sand and a parking space. Seaside you have to pay for parking whether it is in a lot or a meter. Parking is free in Ortley, but gets harder to find a spot later in the day. For a more secluded beach experience, go to Island Beach State Park.