Gateway Travel Guide
Plan your trip to Gateway in New Jersey with this informative travel guide covering top places to visit, things to do, where to stay, local culture and customs, and more.
- Introduction to Gateway
- List of Places to Visit in Gateway
- Hiking/Biking Routes of Gateway
- Best Things to Do in Gateway: Activities and Tours
- Week-Long Itinerary for Gateway
- Food and Drink Scene of Gateway
- Where to Stay in Gateway: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- What to Buy in Gateway: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Local Culture and Customs of Gateway
- Best Time to Visit Gateway
- Safety and Health
- Getting to Gateway: Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in Gateway
- Where to Go Next from Gateway: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Conclusion
Introduction to Gateway
Gateway is a beautiful coastal town in New Jersey, famous for its natural scenery, outdoor adventures, and culturally rich attractions. It is located in Mid-Atlantic, in the United States of America, and is a perfect tourist destination for those who love to explore nature and history.
From the Gateway National Recreation Area to Sandy Hook Lighthouse, Gateway offers numerous opportunities for visitors to enjoy and experience the best of what New Jersey has to offer.
In this guide, we have covered all the essential information to plan your trip to Gateway with ease.
List of Places to Visit in Gateway
Gateway boasts a wide range of attractions that cater to the interests of diverse travelers. Here are some of the top places to add to your itinerary:
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
- Sandy Hook Lighthouse
- Fort Hancock
- Monmouth Battlefield State Park
- Twin Lights Historic Site
- Naval Weapons Station Earle
Natural Attractions of Gateway: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
- Gateway National Recreation Area
- Sandy Hook Beach
- Hartshorne Woods Park
- Mount Mitchill Scenic Overlook
- Allaire State Park
Hiking/Biking Routes of Gateway
Gateway is a hiker’s and biker’s paradise, with several routes offering breathtaking views of the ocean and lush greenery. Here are some of the most popular routes:
- Sandy Hook Multi-Use Pathway
- Henry Hudson Trail
- Greenway Trail at Holmdel Park
- Rocky Point Trail Loop
- Manasquan Reservoir Loop
Best Things to Do in Gateway: Activities and Tours
Gateway offers a wide range of exciting activities and tours that cater to the interests of diverse travelers. Here are some must-do things in the town:
- Dolphin watching tours
- Surfing lessons at Sandy Hook Beach
- Sunset sailboat cruises
- Kayaking in Sandy Hook Bay
- Fishing charters
Week-Long Itinerary for Gateway
If you’re planning a week-long trip to Gateway, here is a suggested itinerary:
| Day | Activity |
|---|---|
| Day 1 | Visit Sandy Hook Lighthouse and spend the afternoon at Sandy Hook Beach |
| Day 2 | Explore Monmouth Battlefield State Park and Twin Lights Historic Site |
| Day 3 | Take a dolphin watching tour in the morning and head to Hartshorne Woods Park in the afternoon |
| Day 4 | Go on a kayaking tour in Sandy Hook Bay and take a sunset sailboat cruise in the evening |
| Day 5 | Visit Gateway National Recreation Area and hike the Sandy Hook Multi-Use Pathway |
| Day 6 | Learn to surf at Sandy Hook Beach and take a fishing charter in the afternoon |
| Day 7 | Spend the day at Allaire State Park and attend a local food festival in the evening |
Food and Drink Scene of Gateway
Gateway is a foodie’s delight, with several restaurants offering delicious local cuisine. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:
Must-Try Dishes
- Taylor Pork Roll
- Clam chowder
- Saltwater taffy
- Apple cider donuts
- Tomato pie
Local Beverages
- Jersey Devil IPA
- Cape May Brewing Company beers
- Clayton Distillery spirits
- Sourland Mountain spirits
- Sharrott Winery wines
Where to Stay in Gateway: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
Gateway has an array of accommodation options to fit every budget and taste. Here are some top picks:
- Oyster Point Hotel
- The Hewitt Wellington Hotel
- Blue Bay Inn
- Comfort Inn Middletown
- Holiday Inn Express & Suites West Long Branch
What to Buy in Gateway: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
Gateway offers unique souvenirs and locally made products that make perfect gifts for loved ones back home. Here are some items to consider:
- Saltwater taffy
- A bottle of Jersey Devil IPA
- Taylor Pork Roll
- Jersey Shore-themed art prints
- Homemade preserves
Local Culture and Customs of Gateway
Gateway is a friendly and welcoming community, and it is important to respect the local culture and customs. Here are some dos and don’ts to keep in mind:
Do:
- Tip your waiter/waitress generously
- Greet people with a smile and say “hello”
- Follow the local traffic laws and regulations
- Be respectful of the environment and pick up your trash
Don’t:
- Leave your valuable belongings unattended in public places
- Litter in the parks and on the beaches
- Take photos of people without their permission
- Smoke in non-designated areas
Best Time to Visit Gateway
The best time to visit Gateway is during the summer months, from June to September, when the weather is warm and the town is bustling with tourists. However, if you prefer to avoid the crowds, visit in the shoulder seasons of spring and fall.
Safety and Health
Gateway is a safe destination for tourists, but it is always important to take necessary precautions and be aware of your surroundings.
Safety in Gateway
- Keep valuables and passports in a safe place
- Follow the local traffic laws and regulations
- Take caution while swimming in the ocean and be aware of rip currents
- Carry a charged mobile phone with you at all times
- Stay in well-lit areas at night
Health in Gateway
- Stay hydrated during the hot summer months
- Use sunscreen to protect your skin from the harmful UV rays
- Bring bug spray to protect yourself from ticks and mosquitos
- Seek medical attention if you experience any health issues
Getting to Gateway: Transportation Options and Logistics
Gateway is easily accessible via several transportation options. Here’s what you need to know:
Airports Near Gateway
- Newark Liberty International Airport
- Trenton-Mercer Airport
- Philadelphia International Airport
Bus Stations Near Gateway
- Academy Bus Terminal, Leonardo
- New York Port Authority Bus Terminal
Other Options
- Train stations in Red Bank, Hazlet, and Long Branch
How to Get Around in Gateway
The best way to get around Gateway is by car. Rental cars are available from the airports and train stations. Alternatively, you can use ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft or take public transportation.
Where to Go Next from Gateway: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
Gateway is conveniently located near several other attractions and destinations. Here are some nearby places to consider visiting:
- Asbury Park Boardwalk
- Six Flags Great Adventure
- Princeton University
- Atlantic City Boardwalk
Conclusion
Gateway offers enchanting scenery, rich cultural experiences, and outdoor adventures that make it an ideal tourist destination for travelers of all ages. Use this guide to plan your perfect trip to Gateway and make unforgettable memories!