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Toms River is the seat of Ocean County on the Jersey Shore, a large township of about 95,000 people stretching from the pinelands to Barnegat Bay and across to Ortley Beach on the barrier island. The town grew around a busy colonial port on the river, and during the Revolutionary War it was the site of a blockhouse defended by Captain Joshua Huddy.
The compact downtown along Washington Street and Water Street has local restaurants, shops, Huddy Park on the riverfront and the Toms River Seaport Society Maritime Museum, which displays historic Barnegat Bay boats. The Ocean County Historical Society keeps a museum in a 19th-century house nearby.
Nature lovers head to Cattus Island County Park for bayside trails and Winding River Park for riverside walks, while Ortley Beach offers sand and Atlantic surf. Each October, the town hosts one of the largest Halloween parades in the country. Island Beach State Park and Seaside Heights are a short drive away.
An Ocean County park on a peninsula in Barnegat Bay with hiking trails through pine forest, salt marsh and holly groves, plus the Cooper Environmental Center with nature exhibits and programs. Ospreys nest here in spring and summer. Bring insect repellent in warm months, as the marsh can be buggy.
A large township park along the Toms River with walking and biking paths, boardwalks, picnic areas, a playground, fishing spots and open lawns for games and relaxing. It is a pleasant place for a quiet walk or an easy bike ride with children.
A small riverfront park downtown with a gazebo, benches and a monument to Captain Joshua Huddy, who defended Toms River during the Revolutionary War. It is a good starting point for exploring Water Street and Washington Street. Summer concerts are sometimes held here.
A volunteer-run museum on the river with historic wooden sailboats, including classic Barnegat Bay sneakboxes, plus models, tools and photographs of the area's sailing and boatbuilding traditions. It is small but full of character. Opening days are limited, so check before visiting.
The historical society's museum in a 19th-century home near downtown, with furnished period rooms, exhibits on local history and industries, and a research library for genealogy. Volunteers lead tours. Check the opening hours, as it keeps a limited schedule.
Toms River's own ocean beach on the barrier island, a quieter stretch of sand next to busier Seaside Heights, rebuilt after Hurricane Sandy. Lifeguards are on duty in summer, and beach badges are required. Arrive early on hot weekends, as street parking fills quickly.
The walkable historic downtown along Washington Street and Main Street, with the county courthouse, independent shops, cafes and restaurants, and a few bars with live music. It is close to the river and Huddy Park. Street parking and municipal lots are available.
A local tradition since the 1930s and one of the largest Halloween parades in the United States, with thousands of costumed marchers, floats and bands filling downtown streets in late October. Bring a folding chair and arrive early to claim a good spot along the route.
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