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For many denizens of the East Coast, mentioning the Jersey Shore will evoke images of glittering Atlantic City, with its huge casino resorts and the boardwalk that once inspired the popular game of Monopoly. However, there is much more to the Jersey Shore. There are many towns along the coast that afford lovely views and access to beautiful beaches as well as plenty of things to do, coupled with the small-town appeal that many people long for.

One such town is Sea Isle City. Located in Cape May County, the southernmost county in New Jersey, Sea Isle features five miles of beautiful beaches. With about 3,000 year round residents, this city is widely known for its European charm and fine dining opportunities. Water sports, deep sea fishing, boutique shopping, a boardwalk with lots of family activities and a thriving nightlife with plenty of live music make this city a popular summer vacation destination. It also features many unique festivals throughout the year that are fun for residents and visitors alike. The vibrant summer activities and the tranquility and relaxation of the off-season make this a great place to live or own a vacation home.

If you really want to get away from it all, the tiny Jersey Shore town of Barnegat Light might be just what you are looking for. Located at the tip of Long Beach Island in Ocean County, this village has only 800 year round residents, including vacation operators and some retirees. It is home to Barnegat Lighthouse State Park, featuring the second tallest lighthouse in the United States as well as a protected region that is one of the last remaining maritime forest areas on Long Beach Island. Fishing is a popular draw to this little burg, with a wide variety of saltwater fish that can be caught from the shore or from one of the charter boats that serve the area. Bird watching, boating, tennis and just lounging on the beach are other enjoyable activities for residents and visitors alike.

If you'd prefer to make your home in a small Jersey Shore town but still work in the big city, Highlands in northern Monmouth County might be a good fit. Only a 40 minute ferry ride from Wall Street makes it a great option for commuters. It's located right across the bay from Sandy Hook Beach, which features seven miles of coastline. The town has about 5,000 year round residents, and offers a vibrant nightlife and lots of options for lovers of the outdoors. It also boasts several resorts, hotels, and fine seafood restaurants, a unique maritime museum, and the first twin lighthouse ever built - aptly named Twin Lights.

Longport, New Jersey is a small residential hometown with city convenience nearby. On the southernmost point of Absecon Island, this quiet village has about 1,100 residents and no hotels. It features a tranquil atmosphere and relaxing beaches, yet is merely fifteen minutes from Atlantic City and five minutes from shopping at Somer's Point and the attractions of Ocean City.

These charming small towns afford many excellent options for either vacation homes or permanent relocation. Once you've decided which area suits you best, contact a local real estate agent for expert assistance in finding the Jersey Shore home of your dreams.