Occupying an island off the coast of New Jersey, Brigantine is a lively beachside destination on the doorstep of Atlantic City. It is named after the many brigantine sailing vessels that were shipwrecked in the area before its establishment as the “Brigantine Beach Borough” in 1890.
Things to do in Brigantine
In the summer months, you can spend your days relaxing on Brigantine Beach, a wide expanse of golden sand that extends to the North Brigantine Natural Area. Its tidal pools provide a habitat for a diverse array of marine life while diving ducks, piping plovers and Bonaparte’s gulls can be spotted throughout the year. Elevated views across the dunes and wetlands can be enjoyed from the Brigantine Inlet Outlook.
One of the city’s most iconic landmarks is the Brigantine Lighthouse, which was constructed in 1926 in a bid to attract residents to the island. Although it never functioned as a lighthouse, it has served as a police station, a gift shop and a museum throughout its past. On the nearby waterfront is the Brigantine Beach Historical Museum where artefacts and old photographs are on display.
Adjacent to the Brigantine Beach Historical Museum is the Marine Mammal Stranding Center, which was established in 1978 to rehabilitate whales, dolphins, seals and sea turtles. At its Sea Life Museum, you can learn about the centre's efforts to release animals back into the wild while exploring the hands-on exhibits. A highlight of any visit is watching the live video streams of animals currently undergoing rehabilitation.
Getting around Brigantine
Brigantine is around 10 minutes’ drive from Atlantic City and 30 minutes from Atlantic City International Airport, which has flights to destinations across the United States. Renting a car is the most convenient way of getting to Brigantine and exploring the area.